Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of things to consider when selecting the perfect double buggy from birth. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options and age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

A must-have investment for active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It's best lightweight double stroller and movable, and can handle uneven terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do want?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting two children at once, even if they are not the same age. They can also function as prams. Each seat has an adjustable mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in different positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage space to store everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight, easy to fold and small double buggy enough to fit into your car boot. If you drive a great amount, you should ensure that the buggy can be easily pushed around with the folded wheels in your car boot, and then removed.

The most popular type of double buggy is the side by side, which you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs or even ridden in as a child yourself. They're ideal for twins or older siblings who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in a variety of seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They are generally easy to navigate, and if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, they will easily navigate the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular choice as they're typically easier to turn than a side-by-side. This is because the second seat sits behind the first one, rather than on top of it. 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 public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and baby or three kids with the addition of a 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 travel stroller by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They are generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and a high price for resales. They are easy to steer and come with a large storage basket. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema seats'.

Do you have twins?

Whether your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggie is the most efficient way to transport them around. There are two kinds of double buggy - side-by-side buggies where your children are seated side by side or tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems tend to be larger overall. They can also be able to accommodate an infant seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a toddler?

A younger sibling can feel like an overwhelming responsibility initially, particularly when you need to be attentive to the baby. They might be feeling a little secluded when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older sibling along, so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make everything simpler. It can also provide your child with the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they become a "big brother or sister" and help them get used to their new role.

Side-by-side buggies can be a great choice for twins, as each child will get the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with a unique frame that expands in width and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also comes with a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat to create a bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy off road double buggy Trailblazer to families who love to explore. This innovative buggy starts as a single pushchair but can be converted into a double, taking a second seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it includes a number of thoughtful features to ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you require an effective travel system for your business?

Double buggies are great to transport your children around in comfort, but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your children, you may be able to get by with a single to double buggy stroller and some attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses which allow you to transport your child around on their back or in front of you.

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

Convertible double buggies are great because they allow you to convert your single stroller into an additional buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your child in the car seat until he/she is ready to step into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is an excellent example of this - it's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.

As your children grow older and more capable, you can use double buggys to accompany them on bicycle rides or for day trips where they might prefer to walk. It is important to keep in mind that your children may not always be comfortable in a stroller and might be tired and irritable during longer trips.

Before you purchase a double stroller, think about the factors above and your family's specific circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller can simplify your life especially if you need to travel through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.