Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are plenty of things to take into consideration when choosing the ideal double buggy from the time of birth. We spoke to Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options and age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.
A must-have for families with active children This buggy can grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and can tackle uneven terrain with ease.
What type of buggy would you prefer?
A double buggy is great for transporting two kids, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can be used as prams and come with the ability to recline in each seat, so your children can lay down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light that folds easily and are compact enough to fit in your car's boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's worth checking the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the wheels folded and to take out and into your boot.
The most popular type of double buggy is the side-byside, which you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs or even ridden in as a kid. They're great for older siblings or twins who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in a variety of seating configurations, including 'cinema seats'. These are usually easy to steer, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they can easily handle kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by-sides, are also very popular. double tandem pushchair is due to the fact that the second seat sits behind the first rather than on top of it. They're usually bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's important to check they'll fit through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, three children, with 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 more expensive than tandem buggies or side-by-side buggies, however they provide a lot of flexibility and come with a premium selling price. They're generally easy to steer, come with large storage bins and can handle uneven surfaces. Some even have an integrated ride-on board that can be used as 'cinema seating' for your older child.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the most efficient method of transporting your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child sits above the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies tend to be smaller in size to fit through doors. Tandems are typically more spacious overall. They can also accommodate an infant seat and a carrycot.
Do you have children?
At beginning the idea of having a younger sibling could feel like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you are also caring for the baby. A double buggy can also make it easier for them to feel included if you place them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It can also give your child the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they are able to be "big brother or sister" and help them get used to their new role.
The side-by-side double buggies can be a good option for twins, as each child will get the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc that features an innovative frame that can be expanded in width to accommodate two fixed seats and offers various configuration options, such as using the second seat as baby carrier or a bassinet.
We also recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This clever buggy can start with a single pushchair but it can then be converted into a double by adding the place of a second seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has lots of thoughtful features to keep everyone comfortable.
Do you require a traveling system?
Double buggies are great to transport your children around in comfort, but they're not essential for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids, you may be able to make do using a single stroller with certain attachments such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers that allow you to ferry your child on their back or in front of you.
There are three kinds of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats next to each other, which means your children will be able to see each one another. They are larger than a single stroller and may be difficult to maneuver through the kerbs. Tandem buggies are an alternative that is smaller, with a single seat in the front and another in the rear, however they can still be heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies are fantastic because they let you convert your stroller to double buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your child in the car seat until he/she she is ready to move into the buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent illustration - it could be used for twins, a toddler and an infant, or even three children using the optional PiggyBack Board.
When your children get older and more capable, you can use double buggys to accompany them on cycling trips or other day trips where they may prefer walking. It is important to keep in mind that your kids may not always be comfortable in a stroller and might get tired and angry during longer trips.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique situation. A solid and reliable double stroller will simplify your life especially if you need to travel through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.