Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are a lot of things to consider when selecting the perfect 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 to age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.
A must-have purchase for active families, this buggy grows 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 perfect for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not the same age. They can also be used as prams, and they have the ability to recline in each seat, so your children can lie down in various positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They are often lightweight that folds easily and are compact enough to fit into your car's boot. If you drive a great amount, you should check that the buggy can be easily moved with the wheels folded in your boot and taken out.
You may have seen this type of double buggy on other mums strollers, or even in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins. They usually have numerous seating configurations (including "cinema" seats) for your children to choose from. They're usually easy to drive and, if you opt for a model with soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by sides, are also very popular. The second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on top. The seats are generally 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 or a toddler and a baby or three children with the addition of a buggy.
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-by-side buggies, but they offer the flexibility of a single buggie and have a high selling price. They're generally simple to steer, feature a huge storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as cinema seating for your older child.
Do you have twins?
If your children are twins or siblings with different ages, a double buggy is the most efficient way to move them around. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child sits above the other, and side by side buggies. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to fit through doors. Tandems are typically larger overall. They can also accommodate an infant seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a toddler?
Having a younger sibling can be an overwhelming responsibility initially, particularly when you must tend to the infant. They may be feeling a little secluded when they are in an infant carrier while you push the older sibling along, so having a double buggy from the start will make life easier. It will also provide your child with a sense of pride as they are able to be "big brother or sister" and help them get used to their new role.
The side-by-side double buggies could be a great choice for twins, since both children will have the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy that features an innovative frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also comes with a variety of configuration options including using the second seat for an infant bassinet.
If you prefer, we suggest alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This innovative buggy starts with a single pushchair and it can then be converted into a double by adding the place of a second seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has lots of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.
Do you require an effective travel system for your business?
Double buggies are ideal to transport your children around in comfort but they're not a necessary purchase for every family. You may be able make do with one stroller, with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow you and your child to be able to travel on their backs, or in the front.
There are three different types of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side, and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats near each other, so your children will be able to see each other. They are larger than a single stroller, and can be difficult to navigate around the kerbs. Tandem buggies are compact, with one seat at the front and a back seat. However, they can be heavy and long to push.
double pushchair are fantastic because they let you convert your stroller to an additional 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 or she is ready to move up into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example of this - it can be used with twins as well as a toddler and an infant, or even three children with the optional PiggyBack Board.
When your children are older and have more endurance, a double buggy can be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day trips where they'd prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that they may not always desire to be in a buggy and can easily become disgruntled and tired during longer trips.
Before you purchase a double stroller, consider the factors above and your family's unique situation. A reliable and sturdy double buggy will make life simpler, especially when you need to navigate through busy streets or busy malls.