10 Things That Your Family Teach You About Double Buggy From Birth

Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are a lot of things to take into consideration when choosing the ideal 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, age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

This buggy is an essential item for active families. It will grow with you and your family from toddlers to twins. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and can handle difficult terrain with ease.

What style of buggy do you want?

A double buggy is ideal for transporting two kids, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also serve as prams. Each seat comes with a reclining mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight double stroller, easy to fold and are compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you travel a significant amount, it's essential to check that the buggy can be easily moved with the wheels folded in your car boot and removed.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-by-side one, which you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs or even ridden in as a kid. They are ideal for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins and typically have numerous seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your toddlers to choose from. These are usually easy to control, and if opt for a model with a soft suspension, they will easily handle kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by sides, are also very popular. The second seat is placed behind the first, rather than on top. They're generally larger than a side-by-side, and can be bulky when folded, so it's essential to make sure they be able to pass through doors and 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-smallest double buggy' 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 have a high cost of resale. They're generally simple to steer, feature a huge storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the most efficient method of transporting your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two main types of double buggy: side-byside buggies that let your children sit side by side, and tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot as well as a toddler seats.

Do you have a child?

Having a younger sibling can feel like quite a big responsibility initially, particularly when you need to be attentive to the infant. A double buggy can also make it easier for them to feel included if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also provide your child with the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they get to be "big brother or sister" and help them get used to their role.

The side-by-side double buggies could be a good option for twins, since both children will share the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc with its innovative frame that expands widthways to take two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, such as using the second seat as an infant carrier or bassinet.

If you prefer, we suggest the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This clever buggy is a single-pushchair that can be converted into a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone happy.

Do you require a travel system?

Double buggies can be a great way to transport your children safely. However, they are not necessary for every family. You might be able to make do with one stroller and some attachments such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow your child and you to ride on their backs or in front.

There are three kinds of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats that are close to each other, meaning that your children will be able see each other. They are wider than a single stroller, and aren't easy to maneuver through kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option with a seat in the front and a second one at the back. However they can be heavy and long to push.

Convertible double buggies are fantastic because they allow you to convert your single stroller into 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 is able to climb to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic example of this - it's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three kids with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.

When your children get older and more mobile 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 keep in mind that they may not prefer to ride in a buggy, and they could easily be tired and disgruntled on longer outings.

Before you invest in a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique circumstances. A sturdy and reliable double travel stroller buggy can make your life easier, especially when you have to navigate busy streets or crowded malls.