Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of things to take into consideration when choosing the ideal double single pushchair buggy right from the time 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 investment for families with active children This buggy can grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It is lightweight, has great maneuverability and can maneuver through uneven terrain easily.

What type of buggy would you like?

A double buggy is great for transporting two kids, not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can also serve as prams and have recline mechanisms in each seat, so your children can lie down in various positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage space to store everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight, fold easily and are small enough to fit into your car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's worth checking the buggy's maneuverability with 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-by-side that you've likely seen on other moms pushchairs or even ridden in as a child. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins and typically have a large number of seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your toddlers to choose from. They're generally easy to steer and, if you decide to go for a model with a soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by-sides, are also very popular. This is due to the fact that the second seat is placed behind the first rather than over it. They're typically bigger than a side-byside and can be heavy when folded, which is why it's important to check they'll fit through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and baby or three kids with the inclusion 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 by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're generally more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem double stroller buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and have a great resale value. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with built-in ride-on boards and 'cinema seating' for your older child.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the ideal method of transporting your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two main kinds of double buggy - side-by-side buggies in which your children are seated in a row, side-by-side or tandem buggies where one child is placed above the other. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in width for getting through doors. Tandems are generally wider overall. They can also accommodate both a toddler seat and a carrycot.

Do you have one?

A younger sibling can be a big responsibility at first, especially when you need to be attentive to the baby. They may be a bit irritated when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older sibling to the side, so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make everything easier. It can also provide your child with the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they are able to be 'big brother or sister' and help them get used to their role.

The side-by-side double buggies can be a great choice for twins since both children will have the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy that features an innovative frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options including using the second seat for a bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and like to explore. This innovative buggy starts as a single pushchair and can be converted into a double, taking the place of a second seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that will keep everyone content.

Do you require an effective business travel system?

Double buggies are excellent to transport your children around in comfort, but they're not a necessary purchase for every family. Depending on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids you may be able to do with a single stroller and some attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that let you carry 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 come with two seats that are next to each other, which means your children can see each one another. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair and are difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies provide an easier way to travel with one seat in the front and a second in the rear, however they can still be heavy and long to push.

Convertible double buggies are wonderful because they allow you to convert your stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. This will allow you to keep your infant snuggled safely in their car seat until they're ready to move into the main buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent example of this - it can be used with twins, a toddler and an infant, or even three children with the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children become older and more able, you can use double running stroller buggys to accompany them to bike rides or day excursions where they may prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that they may not always desire to be in a buggy and can easily become disgruntled and tired during longer trips.

So, before you decide to invest in a double twin stroller with car seats from the beginning, take some time to think about the above points and the specific circumstances of your family. A solid and reliable double stroller can make life much easier especially if you need to travel through busy streets or crowded shopping centres.