Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are a lot of things to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy right from the moment of birth. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options, age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.
A must-have investment for active families, this buggy grows with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight, has great maneuverability and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.
What type of buggy do you prefer?
A double buggy is great for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can be used as prams and have recline mechanisms within each seat, allowing your children can sit or lay down in various positions. They also come with plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light they fold easily and are compact enough to fit into your car's boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's important to make sure the buggy's ease of use with the wheels folded and also to get in and out of your car boot.
The most popular type of double buggy is the side-by-side one, which you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. ready to grow double stroller are ideal for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins. They usually have a large number of seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your children to choose from. They're generally easy to drive and, if you go for a model with a soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by-sides, are also very popular. The second seat is located behind the first and not on top. The seats are usually larger and heavier than a side-by-side however, so make sure that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and a baby or three children 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 and tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of versatility and a good price for resales. They're generally easy to steer, have a huge storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as 'cinema seating' for your older child.
Do you have twins?
If your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggy is the best option to move them around. There are two types of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children are seated side by side and tandem buggies in which one baby is above the other. Both buggies are able to accommodate two fixed seats. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be wider overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.
Do you have a baby?
A younger sibling can be an enormous responsibility initially, particularly when you must tend to the baby. They might also feel left out if they are placed in a baby carrier while you push the older sibling ahead, so having a double buggy from birth can make everything simpler. It will also help your child get into their new role as a 'big sister or brother'.
The side-by-side double buggies can be a good option for twins, since both children will have the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc with its innovative frame that opens in width to accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers various configuration options, including the second seat being used as an infant carrier or bassinet.
Alternatively, we recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This clever buggy is a single pushchair that can be transformed into double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it includes a number of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.
Do you require a travel system for your business?
Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children in comfort. However they aren't required for every family. Depending on your lifestyle and the age gap between your children you may be able to make do with a single stroller and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler harnesses which allow you to transport your child around on their backs or in front of you.
If you decide to go with a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side by side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats near each other, meaning that your children will be able to see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller, and aren't easy to maneuver through kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option that has one seat in the front and a back seat. However they can be quite heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies are wonderful because they allow you to convert your stroller to double buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. You can leave your child in the car seat until she is ready to move up into the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great illustration - it could be used for twins as well as a toddler and one or more children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.
When your children are older and have more endurance, a double buggy can be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day trips where they'd prefer walking. However, it's worth remembering that they may not prefer to ride in a buggy, and they could easily get tired and angry during longer trips.
Before you invest in a double stroller, consider the factors above and your family's unique situation. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller will simplify your life, especially if you need to travel through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.