Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When choosing the perfect double buggy, there are many aspects to consider. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.
A must-have for active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can handle uneven terrain with ease.
What kind of buggy would you like?
Double buggys are perfect for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not of the same age. They can also function as prams. Each seat is equipped with a reclining mechanism so that your children can lie down or sit in different positions. Many have ample storage for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight, fold easily and are small enough to fit into the car boot. If you travel a lot deal, it's important to make sure that the buggy be easily moved by folding the wheels into your car boot, and then removed.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side by side, which you've likely seen on other moms' pushchairs or even rode in as a child. They're great for twins or older siblings who want to keep pace with you. They also come in various seating options, including 'cinema seats'. They are generally easy to steer, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they are able to easily navigate kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by-sides are also popular. This is because the second seat sits behind the first instead of over it. The seats are generally larger and heavier than a traditional side by side however, so make sure whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used for 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 more expensive than tandem buggies and side-by-side buggies, but they offer the flexibility of a single buggie and a very high resale price. They're generally easy to steer, come with an enormous storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.
Do you have twins?
If your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggie is the best option to transport them around. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child sits above the other, and side by side buggies. Both buggies are able to accommodate two fixed seats. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to be able to pass through doors. twin pushchairs tend to be wider overall. They can also be able to accommodate an infant seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a baby?
A younger sibling can feel like quite a big responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the infant. They might also feel left out when they are in an infant carrier while you push the older sibling to the side and so having a double buggy from birth can make things simpler. It can also help your child get into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.
Side-by-side double buggies are often considered to be the best choice for twins since they allow both children to have the same view, however they can be bulky and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc that features an innovative frame that can be expanded the width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, such as using the second seat as a bassinet or infant carrier.
If you prefer, we suggest an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This buggy is clever and can start off as a single pushchair and is then convertible into a double, which can include an additional seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has lots of clever features that will ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you need a travel system?
Double buggies can be an excellent way to transport your children in a comfortable way. However, they are not necessary for every family. You could use one stroller, with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow you and your child to ride on their backs or in the front.
There are three types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side, and convertible. The two seats are placed in a row, so that your children can see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller and may be difficult to navigate over kerbs. Tandem buggies are small, with one seat at the front and another at the back. However they can be quite heavy and lengthy to push.
Convertible double buggies are fantastic because they allow you to convert your stroller to a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. This will allow you to keep your infant snuggled in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent example of this - it can be used for twins or a toddler, one or more children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.
As your children grow older and more capable to walk, you can opt for a double buggy to take them to cycling trips or other day trips where they might prefer walking. It's important to remember that your children might not always enjoy being in a stroller and could become tired and disgruntled on longer outings.
Before you invest in a double stroller, consider the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller can simplify life, especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.
