Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are plenty of aspects 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.
This buggy is a must-have for active families. It grows with you and your family from toddlers to twins. It's lightweight with great maneuverability and is able to handle uneven terrain easily.
What kind of buggy would you prefer?
A double buggy is perfect for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side by side. double strollers can be used as prams and come with recline mechanisms in each seat so your children can sit or lay down in various positions. They also come with plenty of storage for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight, easy to fold and are small enough to fit into the car boot. If you travel a significant amount, you should ensure that the buggy can be easily maneuvered with the folded wheels in your car boot and removed.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side by side, which you've likely seen on other moms' pushchairs or even rode in as a child yourself. They are perfect for twins or older siblings who want to keep up with you. They also come in various seating configurations, including 'cinema seats'. They are generally easy to control, and if select a model that has a soft suspension, they can easily handle kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular choice as they're typically more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is placed behind the first rather than on the top. The seats are typically bigger and bulkier than a side by side however, so make sure that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and baby or three kids 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 tend to be more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem buggies but offer lots of flexibility and have a great resale value. They are easy to steer and feature a large storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with built-in ride-on boards and 'cinema seating' for your older child.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the most efficient way to transport your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary types of double buggy - side-by-side buggies where your children are seated in a row, side-by-side and tandem buggies in which one child is placed above the other. Both buggies are able to accommodate two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also be able to accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.
Do you have a child?
At beginning the idea of having a younger sibling can seem like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, particularly if you're also taking care of the baby. They might also feel left out if they are placed in a baby carrier as you push the older sibling ahead and so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make things simpler. It can also help your child get into their new role as a 'big sister or brother'.
Side-by-side double buggies are often considered to be the best choice for twins since they allow both children to have the same view, but they can be bulky and heavy. We love the streamlined 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 the second seat being used as an infant carrier or bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and are keen to explore. This nifty buggy is a single-pushchair that can be transformed into a double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.
Do you require a system of travel for your business?
Double buggies are ideal to transport your children around in comfort however they're not essential for every family. You may be able use a single stroller, with a few attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler straps that allow your child and you 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. The two seats are positioned parallel to each other, so your children can see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller, and can be difficult to maneuver through the kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option with a seat at the front and another at the back. However they can be quite heavy and difficult to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to convert one stroller into a double buggy by attaching an infant car seat to the frame. double strollers will allow you to keep your baby comfortably in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example of this - it can be used with twins as well as a toddler and one or more children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.
When your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can also be used to accompany them on bike rides or day excursions where they prefer walking. But, it's important to remember that they might not always desire to be in a buggy, and they could easily become disgruntled and tired during longer trips.
Before you invest in a double stroller, take into consideration the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A durable and reliable double buggy will make life simpler, especially when you have to navigate busy streets or busy malls.