Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are plenty of aspects to consider. 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.
This buggy is essential for active families. It grows with your family, from twins to toddlers. It is light with great maneuverability and can handle uneven terrain easily.
What kind of buggy would you like?
A double buggy is perfect for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can be used as prams and come with a reclining mechanism within each seat, allowing your children can lie down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space to store everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light, fold easily, and compact enough to fit into your car boot. If pushchair twin drive a lot it's important to make sure the buggy's maneuverability with the folded wheels as well as to get it in and out of your boot.
The most popular type of double buggy is the side by side that you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs or even ridden in as a kid. They are ideal for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins. They typically come with many seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your children to choose from. They're usually pretty easy to steer and, if you opt for a model that has soft suspension, you can make light work of kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular option since they're easier to turn than side-by-side. The second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on top. The seats are typically bigger 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, a baby or three children by 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 by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They are generally more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and have a great price for resales. They're generally easy to steer, have large storage bins and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema chairs'.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the ideal way to transport your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies where one child is seated above the other, and side-byside buggies. Both buggies are able to accommodate two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.
Do you have a child?
Having a younger sibling can be an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the baby. They might also feel left out if they are placed in a baby carrier as you push the older sibling along and having a double buggy from birth can make everything easier. It can also help your child get into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.
Side-by-side buggies can be a great option for twins, as both children will have the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc with its innovative frame that expands the width to accommodate two fixed seats and offers various configuration options, such as using the second seat as an infant carrier or bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and are keen to explore. This clever buggy is a single-pushchair that can be converted into double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and has lots of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.
Do you require a business travel system?
Double buggies are ideal for transporting your children around in comfort, but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You may be able use one stroller, and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler straps that permit your child and you to be able to travel on their backs, or in front.
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 see each other. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair, and can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are compact with a seat in the front and a back seat. However, they can be heavy and difficult to push.
Convertible double buggies are great as they allow you to transform your stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. It is possible to keep your child in the car seat until he/she is able to climb into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great example of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three children with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can also be used to accompany them on bike rides or day trips where they'd prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that your kids may not always like to be in a stroller and could 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 will simplify life especially if you need to travel through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.