Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are many things to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy right from the time of birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her advice on everything ranging from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.

A must-have for families with active children This buggy will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It is lightweight and movable, and can maneuver through uneven terrain easily.

What type of buggy do want?

Double buggys are perfect for transporting two children at a time even if they're not the same age. They can be used as prams and come with a reclining mechanism within each seat, allowing your children can sit or lay down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're typically lightweight, fold easily and are compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's important to make sure the buggy's ease of use with the folded wheels and also to get out and into your boot.

You might have seen this type of double buggy on other mothers strollers, or even in one as a kid. They're great for older siblings or twins who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in a variety of seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. These are usually easy to steer, and if you select a model that has a soft suspension, they can easily handle kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by-sides, are also popular. The second seat is positioned behind the first and not on top. The seats are typically bigger and bulkier than a side-by-side and you must ensure whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, three children by 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're more expensive than tandem buggies and side-by-side buggies, however they provide a lot of flexibility and come with a premium cost of resale. They're generally simple to steer, feature large storage bins and can handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with a built-in ride-on board and 'cinema seating' for your older child.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings of different age groups, a double buggy is the best option to transport them around. There are two primary types of double buggy: side-byside buggies that let your children are seated side by side, and tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in width to allow for access through doors. Tandems are generally larger overall. They can also accommodate both an infant seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a baby?

A younger sibling can feel like a big responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the infant. A double buggy can allow them to feel included if you put them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It can also give your child a sense of pride as they get to be "big brother or sister" and help them settle into their role.

Side-by-side double buggies are usually considered to be the best travel double stroller choice for twins since they allow both children to enjoy the same view, however they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with a unique frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also comes with a variety of configuration options including using the second seat for a bassinet.

Alternatively, we recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This clever buggy is a single-pushchair that can be converted into a double running buggy by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it has lots of clever features that will ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you require an effective travel system for your business?

Double buggies can be an excellent way to transport your children in comfort. However, they are not necessary for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your children you may be able to do with a single stroller and some attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses which allow you to transport your child around on their backs or in front of you.

If you decide to go with a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side by side, tandem and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats positioned close to each other, which means your children will be able to see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller and aren't easy to navigate over kerbs. Tandem buggies are an alternative that is smaller, with one seat in the front and another in the rear, but they can still be heavy and long to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to transform one stroller into a double buggy by attaching the 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 for a move into the main buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example - it can be used for twins, a toddler and a baby or even three children with 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 to walk. It's important to keep in mind that they might not always prefer to ride in a buggy, and they could easily get tired and angry when they are on longer excursions.

Before you purchase a double twin umbrella stroller, think about the factors above and your family's unique situation. A reliable and sturdy double buggy converts to single (look at these guys) buggy can make your life simpler, especially when you need to navigate through busy streets or crowded malls.