Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are many 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.

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

What type of buggy do want?

A double buggy is perfect for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can also serve as prams. Each seat has an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can lie down or sit in various positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light they fold easily and are compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking the buggy's ease of use using the folded wheels, as well as to get it out and back into your boot.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-byside, which you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs or even ridden in as a kid. They are perfect 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'. These are usually easy to navigate, and if you select a model that has a soft suspension, they can easily handle kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular option since they're easier to turn than side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first, rather than on top. They're typically bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, so it's essential to make sure they be able to pass through doors and 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-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 generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies but offer lots of versatility and a good return on investment. They are easy to steer and come with a large storage basket. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema seats'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the ideal method to transport your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two main types of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children sit in a row, side-by-side and tandem buggies in which one child is higher than the other. Both buggies are able to accommodate two fixed seats. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to fit through doors. Tandems are typically larger overall. They can also accommodate an infant seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a baby?

Being a parent to a child can feel like an overwhelming responsibility initially, particularly when you need to be attentive to the infant. They might also feel left out if they are placed in a baby carrier as you push the older one ahead and having a double buggy right from the beginning can make things simpler. It can also help your child settle into their new role as a 'big brother or sister'.

Side-by-side double buggies are often considered to be the best choice for twins because they allow both children to have the same view, but they can be heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with a unique frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also comes with a variety of configuration options, including the second seat as an infant bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who like to explore. This clever buggy is a single-pushchair which can be made a double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it includes a number of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.

Do you require a travel system?

Double buggies are excellent for bringing your kids around in comfort but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You might be able to make do with one stroller and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that allow your child and you to be able to travel on their backs, or in the front.

If you decide to go with a double buggy there are three types to pick from: side-by-side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats that are next to each other, so your children will be able see each other. However, they tend to be wider than a single pushchair, and can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are compact that has one seat at the front and a second one at the back. However they can be quite heavy and lengthy to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to transform one stroller into double buggy by attaching an 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 Vista V2 is a fantastic example of this - it's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three children with the the optional PiggyBack board.

When your children are older and have more endurance, a double to single buggy-buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or other day trips where they'd prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they may not always want to be in a buggy and can easily get tired and angry during longer trips.

Before you decide to purchase a double stroller from the beginning, take some time to take a look at the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A solid and reliable double twin stroller side by side will simplify your life, especially if you need to navigate busy streets or bustling shopping centres.