Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

This buggy is essential for active families. It grows with your family from toddlers to twins. It is light, has great maneuverability and is able to handle uneven terrain easily.

What style of buggy do you prefer?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting up to two children at once, even if they are not of the same age. They can also be used as prams and have the ability to recline in each seat, so your children can lie down in different positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They're typically lightweight, fold up easily and are small enough to fit into the car boot. If you travel a significant deal, it's important to check that the buggy can be easily moved with the folded wheels in your boot and taken out.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-by-side, which you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins. They usually have many seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your little ones to choose from. These are usually easy to control, and if opt for a model with a soft suspension, they can effortlessly handle the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are also a popular choice as they're typically easier to turn than side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first and not on top. They're usually larger than a side-by-side, and can be bulky when folded, so it's crucial to ensure they fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used for twins, a baby and toddler or three kids with the addition of a buggy.

Lastly there are the'single double stroller-to-double' convertibles which can be used as a single pushchair from birth then convert to a double by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're more expensive than tandem buggies or side-byside buggies, however they provide a lot of flexibility and come with a premium resale price. They're generally easy to steer, come with an enormous storage basket and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some even have an integrated ride-on board that can be used as cinema seating for your older child.

Do you have twins?

double seat stroller buggys are the ideal way to transport your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child is seated over the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in size to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be wider overall. They can also be able to accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.

Do you have children?

Having a younger sibling can feel like an enormous responsibility initially, particularly when you must tend to the infant. A double buggy can allow them to feel included if you place them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It can also help your child settle into their new role of a 'big sister or brother'.

The side-by-side double buggies could be a great option for twins since both children will share the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with a unique frame that expands in width and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also comes with a variety of configuration options, including the second seat as a bassinet.

If you prefer, we suggest alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This innovative buggy starts with an individual pushchair, but is then convertible into a double by adding a second seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone happy.

Do you require an automated travel system for your business?

Double buggies can be an ideal way to move your children in a comfortable way. However they aren't required for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your kids you might be able to make do with just a single stroller and certain attachments such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers which allow you to transport your child on their backs or in front of you.

If you do opt for a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. The two seats are positioned side-by-side, so your children can see one another. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies offer an alternative that is smaller, with a seat in the front and one in the rear, but they are still large and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to transform a single best twin stroller into a double buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your child in the car seat until she is ready to move to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example of this - it can be used with twins as well as a toddler and a baby or even three children using the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children get older and more mobile to walk, you can opt for a double buggy to accompany them on bike rides or day excursions where they may prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that they may not always want to be in a buggy and could easily get tired and angry on longer outings.

Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, take into consideration the above factors and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable double buggy will make life easier, particularly when you have to navigate busy streets or crowded malls.