Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are a lot of things to consider when selecting the ideal double infant stroller buggy right from birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her tips on everything from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.

A must-have purchase for families with active children This buggy can grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and is able to tackle difficult terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do you want?

Double buggys are great for transporting two children at once even if they're not 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 also come with plenty of storage space to store everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight, fold easily and are compact double buggy enough to fit in the car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking that the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the folded wheels and to take out and into your boot.

You may have seen this type of double buggy on other mothers strollers, or even in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings that want to keep up with you or for twins. They usually have numerous seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your little ones to choose from. They're generally easy to drive and, if you go for a model with soft suspension, make light work of kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular option since they're more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first rather than on the top. The seats are typically wider and bulkier than a side-by-side and you must ensure that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, an infant or three children, with the addition of an additional buggy board.

Lastly there are the'single-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-by-side buggies, however they provide plenty of flexibility and a very high resale price. They're generally easy to steer, come with a huge 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 buggys are the ideal way to transport your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two kinds of double buggy Newborn buggies: tandem buggies where one child sits above the other, and side by side buggies. Both buggies can accommodate two fixed seats. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to fit through doors. Tandems are typically more spacious overall. They can also accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a baby?

At beginning having a younger sibling could seem like a lot of responsibility, especially if you are also taking care of the baby. They might be feeling a little secluded if they are placed in a baby carrier while you push the older sibling to the side and having a double buggy from birth can make everything easier. It can also help your child get into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.

Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered to be the best choice for twins since they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy that features an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also provides a variety of configuration options including using the second seat as a bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are keen to explore. This nifty buggy is a single-pushchair that can be transformed into a double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.

Do you require a travel system?

Double buggies are excellent for bringing your kids around in comfort however they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You may be able use one stroller with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow you and your child to ride on their backs or in the front.

There are three types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats near each other, which means your children will be able see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller and may be difficult to navigate over kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact double stroller option with a seat at the front and another at the back. However they can be heavy and lengthy to push.

Convertible double buggy travel system buggies permit you to transform a single stroller into double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your child in the car seat until is ready to step into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic illustration of this. It's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.

When your children become older and more capable, you can use double buggys to accompany them to cycling trips or other day trips 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 they could easily become disgruntled and tired during longer trips.

Before you invest in a double strollers stroller, think about the factors mentioned above and your family's specific circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller can simplify your life particularly if you have to navigate busy streets or bustling shopping centres.