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. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her suggestions on everything from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.
A must-have purchase for families with active children This buggy will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle uneven terrain with ease.
What style of buggy do you want?
Double buggys are perfect for transporting up to two children at a time even if they're not of the same age. They can also function as prams. Each seat comes with a reclining mechanism so that your children can lie down or sit in different positions. They also come with plenty of storage space to store everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight they fold easily and are compact enough to fit into the car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking that the buggy's maneuverability using the folded wheels, and to take out and back into your car boot.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-by-side that you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. They're ideal for older siblings or twins who want to keep up with you. They also come in various seating options, including 'cinema seats'. They're usually easy to drive and, if you opt for a model that has soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by-sides, are also popular. This is because the second seat is placed behind the first rather than on top of it. They're typically larger than a side-by-side, and can be heavy when folded, so it's crucial to ensure they be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a baby and toddler or three kids with the inclusion 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're generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and have a great return on investment. They are easy to steer and have an ample storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema seats'.
Do you have twins?
Whether your children are twins or siblings of different ages, a double buggy is the best option to move them around. There are two primary types of double buggy - side-by-side buggies where your children are seated together, and tandem buggies where one baby is above the other. Both buggies can be fitted with two seats fixed. However, double single pushchair -by-side buggies are narrower to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot as well as a toddler seat.
Do you have a baby?
At beginning the idea of having a younger sibling may seem like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, particularly if you're also caring for the infant. They might be a bit irritated if they are placed in a baby carrier while you push the older one ahead and having a double buggy right from the beginning can make things easier. It can also help your child get into their new role as a 'big sister or brother'.
Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered the best option for twins as they allow both children to enjoy the same view, however they can be hefty and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc which has an innovative frame that expands widthways to take two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, including using the second seat as a bassinet or infant carrier.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to active families who like to explore. This innovative buggy is a single pushchair which can be made a double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it features many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone content.
Do you require a travel system?
Double buggies are a great way to transport your children in a comfortable way. However they aren't required for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your kids, you may be able to make do with a single stroller and certain attachments such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers that let you carry your child around on their back or in front of you.
There are three different types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats that are close to each other, meaning that your children will be able see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller, and may be difficult to maneuver around the kerbs. Tandem buggies provide an alternative that is smaller, with a single seat in the front and a second in the rear, however they are still heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies are wonderful as they allow you to transform your stroller to double buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. This way, you can keep your newborn snuggled up safely 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 children with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.
Once your children are older and have more endurance, a double buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or day trips where they might prefer walking. But, it's important to remember that they might not always desire to be in a buggy and could easily be tired and disgruntled during longer trips.
Before you purchase a double stroller, think about the above factors and your family's unique situation. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller will simplify your life particularly if you have to navigate busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.