Nine Things That Your Parent Teach You About Double Buggy From Birth

Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting the perfect double buggy from the moment of birth. We spoke to 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 investment for active families, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle difficult terrain with ease.

What kind of buggy do you prefer?

A double buggy is great for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also serve as prams. Each seat comes with an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can lie down or sit in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They are often lightweight they fold easily and are compact enough to fit into your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking the buggy's maneuverability with the folded wheels as well as to get it in and out of your car boot.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-byside, which you've probably seen on other mums' pushchairs or even rode in as a child yourself. They're ideal for twins or older siblings who want to keep up with you. They also come in various seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They are generally easy to control, and if choose a model with a soft suspension, they can easily handle the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first instead of sitting on top of it. The seats are typically wider 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 for twins, a baby and toddler 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 more expensive than tandem buggies or side-byside buggies, but they offer plenty of flexibility and a very high resale price. They are easy to steer and come with an ample storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggy is the best lightweight double stroller option to move them around. There are two main types of stokke double stroller buggy: side-by-side buggies where your children are seated in a row, side-by-side and tandem buggies in which one baby is above the other. Both buggies can be fitted with two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a baby?

Having a younger sibling can feel like quite a big responsibility initially, particularly when you have to tend to the infant. A double buggy may help them to feel included if you put them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It can also help your child settle into their new role as a 'big sister or brother'.

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

If you prefer, we suggest alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This innovative buggy is a single pushchair that can be transformed into double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it comes with many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone content.

Do you require a travel system?

Double buggies are excellent for transporting your children around in comfort however they're not essential for every family. You might be able to get by with just one stroller and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that allow you and your child to be able to travel on their backs, or in front.

If you choose to purchase a double buggy, there are three types to choose from: side by side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats that are next to each other, meaning that your children will be able see each one another. They are wider than a single stroller, and can be difficult to navigate over kerbs. Tandem buggies are a more compact alternative, with a single seat in the front and another in the rear, however they can be still quite heavy and long to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to convert one stroller into double buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This way, you can keep your infant snuggled safely in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good illustration - it could be used for twins as well as a toddler and a baby or even three children using the option of a PiggyBack Board.

Once your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day excursions where they prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that they may not prefer to ride in a buggy and can easily get tired and angry during longer trips.

Before you purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's specific circumstances. Having a solid and reliable double stroller will make life much easier especially if you need to navigate busy streets or bustling shopping centres.