Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are a lot of things to take into consideration when choosing the perfect double buggy from the moment of 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 for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and is able to tackle uneven terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do you want?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting two children at once even if they're not the same age. They can also be used as prams. Each seat is equipped with a reclining mechanism so that your children can lie down or sit in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're typically lightweight double buggy, fold easily and small enough to fit into your car boot. If you travel a lot deal, it's important to make sure that the buggy be easily maneuvered by folding the wheels into your boot and taken out.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-byside that you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a child yourself. They're ideal for twins who are older or who want to keep up with you. They are also available in various seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They're usually pretty easy to steer and, if you opt for a model that has soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular choice as they're typically easier to turn than side-by-side. The second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on top. The seats are usually wider and bulkier than a side by side however, so make sure whether they are able to pass through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and 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-byside buggies, but they offer plenty of flexibility and come with a premium selling price. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as "cinema seating" for your child's older.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the ideal method of transporting your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies where one child is seated over the other, and side-byside buggies. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies tend to be smaller in size to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be larger overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seats.

Do you have a toddler?

A younger sibling can be an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the infant. They might be feeling a little secluded when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older one to the side and having a double buggy right from the beginning will make life easier. It can also provide your child with a sense of pride as they are able to be "big brother or sister" and help them get used to their role.

The side-by-side double buggies could be a good option for twins, as each child will get the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc with its innovative frame that expands widthways to take two seats fixed and provides different configuration options, including the second seat being used as an infant carrier or bassinet.

We also recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This innovative buggy is a single pushchair which can be made a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it includes a number of clever features that will keep everyone happy.

Do you require a travel system?

Double buggies are ideal for transporting your children around in comfort however they're not essential for every family. You may be able use one stroller double with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that permit your child and you to travel on their backs or in the front.

If you do opt for a double buggy there are three kinds to pick from: side-by-side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats that are close to each other, so your children will be able see each one another. However, these are generally larger than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver between kerbs. Tandem buggies offer an alternative that is smaller, with a seat in the front and another in the rear, but they can be still quite long and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to convert a single Stroller double into double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until he/she is able to climb up into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great illustration of this. It's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three kids with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.

As your children grow older and more capable, you can use a double running stroller buggy to accompany them on cycling trips or other day trips in which they prefer walking. It's important to remember that your kids may not always like to be in a stroller and might become tired and disgruntled on longer outings.

Before you invest in a double stroller, think about the factors above and your family's unique circumstances. Having a solid and reliable double stroller will make life much easier, especially if you need to navigate busy streets or bustling shopping centres.