Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are many factors to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy right from the moment of birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her tips on everything from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.
A must-have for active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and can handle uneven terrain with ease.
What style of buggy do you prefer?
A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also function as prams. Each seat is equipped with an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can sit or lie down in different positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage space to store everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light that folds easily and are compact enough to fit in your car's boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking that the buggy's ease of use with the folded wheels and to take out and into your boot.
You may have seen this type of double buggy on other moms strollers, or even in one as a kid. They are ideal for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins. They usually have numerous seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your little ones to pick from. These are usually easy to navigate, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they will easily navigate kerbs.
Tandem buggies are a popular option since they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. The second seat is placed behind the first rather than on the top. They're usually bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's essential to make sure they be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and an infant or three children with the addition of an additional 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 generally more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and a high resale value. They are easy to steer and come with a large storage basket. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some even have a built-in ride-on board and "cinema seating" for your child's older.
Do you have twins?
If your children are twins or siblings with different ages, a double buggy is the most efficient way to transport them around. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies which have one child sitting over the other, and side-by-side buggies. double pram and pushchair are able to accommodate two fixed seats. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems are generally larger overall. They can also accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a child?
Having a younger sibling can be an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the baby. They might be a bit irritated if they are placed in a baby carrier as you push the older sibling to the side, so having a double buggy right from the beginning will make life easier. It can 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 new role.
The side-by-side double buggies could be a great choice for twins, as both children will share the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc that features an innovative frame that expands the width to accommodate two fixed seats and offers various configuration options, such as using the second seat as baby carrier or a bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and like to explore. This innovative buggy starts with an individual pushchair, but it can then be converted into a double, which can include the place of a second seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.
Do you need a travel system?
Double buggies are great to transport your children around in comfort however they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You might be able to get by with just one stroller, and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that allow your child and you to ride on their backs or in the front.
If you do opt for a double buggy, there are three types to choose from: side-by-side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats close to each other, meaning that your children can see each other. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair, and can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies offer an alternative that is smaller, with one seat in the front and one in the rear, however they can still be heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to transform one stroller into a double buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your infant snuggled safely in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent example of this - it can be used with twins or a toddler, an infant, or even three children with the optional PiggyBack Board.
When your children become older and more capable, you can use a double buggy to accompany them to cycling trips or other day trips where they might prefer walking. However, it's worth remembering that they may not prefer to ride in a buggy and could easily become disgruntled and tired on longer outings.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, consider the above factors and your family's unique circumstances. A sturdy and reliable double buggy can make your life simpler, especially when you need to navigate busy streets or busy malls.