Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When choosing the perfect double buggy, there are plenty of aspects to consider. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to 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 twins to toddlers. It is lightweight and movable, and can maneuver through uneven terrain easily.
What kind of buggy do you want?
A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also be used as prams and come with the ability to recline in each seat so your children can sit or lie down in different positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. Often they're lightweight, fold easily and are compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's important to make sure the buggy's maneuverability with the wheels folded and to take in and out of your car boot.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-byside that you've probably seen on other mothers' pushchairs or even rode in as a child. They are ideal for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have many seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your children to choose from. They are usually simple to control, and if opt for a model with a soft suspension, they will easily navigate the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are a popular option since they're more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is placed behind the first, rather than on the top. They're typically bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's crucial to ensure they fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and a baby or three children with the addition of an extra 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 have a high resale price. They are easy to steer and come with a large storage basket. They also have the ability to handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the best method to transport your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary kinds of double buggy - side-by-side buggies where your children are seated together and tandem buggies in which one child is placed above the other. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in width for getting through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also be able to accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.
Do you have a toddler?
Being a parent to a child can be an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you have to tend to the baby. double pram buggy may also feel left out when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older one to the side and having a double buggy from birth can make everything easier. It can also provide your child with a sense of pride as they get to be 'big brother or sister' and help them settle into their new role.
Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered the best option for twins since they allow both children to have the same view, however they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with an innovative frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also provides a variety of configuration options, including the second seat for an infant bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are keen to explore. This clever buggy can start off as an individual pushchair, but is then convertible into a double, which can include the place of a second seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it features numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone content.
Do you require a business travel system?
Double buggies are great to transport your children around in comfort however they're not essential for every family. You may be able use one stroller and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler straps that permit you and your child to travel on their backs or in the front.
There are three types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. The two seats are set parallel to each other, so your children will be able to see each other. However, these tend to be wider than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option, with one seat in the front and another at the back. However they can be quite heavy and difficult to push.
Convertible double buggies are wonderful because they allow you to convert your stroller into an additional buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. This allows you to keep your baby comfortably in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic example of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler and baby or even three kids with the addition of the optional 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 other day trips where they might prefer walking. However, it's worth remembering that they may not always want to be in a buggy, and they could easily get tired and angry on longer outings.
Before you purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique circumstances. A solid and reliable double stroller will simplify your life particularly if you have to navigate busy streets or crowded shopping centres.