Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When choosing the perfect double buggy, there are plenty of things to consider. We spoke to 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 for families with active children This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and is able to tackle difficult terrain with ease.
What type of buggy do you want?
Double buggys are ideal for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not the same age. They can also serve as prams. Each seat comes with a reclining mechanism so that your children can lie down or sit in various positions. They also come with plenty of storage space to store everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They're typically lightweight, easy to fold and small enough to fit into the car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking that the buggy's maneuverability using the folded wheels, as well as to get it out and back into your car 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 kid. These are great 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 pick from. They are usually simple to navigate, and if you select a model that has a soft suspension, they are able to easily handle the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular option because they're easier to turn than side-by-side. This is because the second seat sits behind the first one, instead of sitting over it. The seats are generally wider and bulkier than a side by side, so you should check that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and a baby or three children with the addition of a buggy.
Lastly there are single to double buggy -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 a high price for resales. They are easy to steer and come with a large storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some even have a built-in ride-on board and "cinema seating" for your older child.
Do you have twins?
Whether your children are twins or siblings of different age groups, a double buggie is the best way 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 can accommodate two seats fixed. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate both an infant seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a child?
A younger sibling can feel like a big responsibility initially, particularly when you need to be attentive to the infant. They might be a bit irritated when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older one along and so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make everything easier. It can also give your child an immense sense of pride when they become a "big brother or sister" and help them get used to their new role.
Side-by-side buggies can be a great choice for twins, since each child will get the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy that features an innovative frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options, including the second seat to create a bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to active families who are keen to explore. This clever buggy is a single-pushchair which can be made double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it comes with a variety of thoughtful features to ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require an effective business travel system?
Double buggies are a great way to transport your children safely. However they aren't necessary for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your kids you may be able to make do with just a single stroller and some attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses which allow you to transport your child on their back or in front of you.
There are three types of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side, and convertible. The two seats are positioned in a row, so that your children can be able to see each other. However, these tend to be wider than a single pushchair and can be difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are small that has one seat in the front and a back seat. However they can be quite heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies permit you to convert one stroller into double buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until he or is able to climb to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is an excellent example of this - it's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children become older and more able to walk, you can opt for a double buggy to take them to cycling trips or other day trips in which they prefer walking. It is important to keep in mind that your kids may not always like to be in a stroller, and may become tired and disgruntled on longer outings.
Before you purchase a double stroller, think about the above factors and your family's unique circumstances. A reliable and sturdy double buggy will make life easier, particularly when you are required to navigate busy streets or overcrowded malls.