Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are a lot of aspects to consider. We spoke with 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 essential for active families. It will grow with you and your family from toddlers to twins. It's lightweight and movable, and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.
What type of buggy do you want?
Double buggys are perfect for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not of the same age. They can also be used as prams, and they have the ability to recline in each seat so your children can lay down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight they fold easily and are compact enough to fit into the car boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking the buggy's maneuverability with the folded wheels and also to get out and into your boot.
You may have seen this type of double buggy on other mums strollers, or even in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have a large number of seating configurations (including "cinema" seats) for your children to choose from. They're usually easy to drive and, if you decide to go for a model with a soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular option since they're more maneuverable than a side-by-side. This is due to the fact that the second seat is placed behind the first, instead of over it. They're usually larger than a side-by-side, and can be a bit bulky when folded, so 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 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 generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and a high price for resales. They are easy to steer and have large storage bins. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with built-in ride-on boards and "cinema seating" for your older child.
Do you have twins?
Whether your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggy is the best way to move them around. There are two main types of double buggy: side-byside buggies that let your children are seated together, and tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies tend to be narrower in size to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also accommodate both an infant seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a child?
At beginning having a younger sibling could seem like a lot of responsibility, especially if you are also caring for the baby. A double buggy may help children to feel included when you put them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It can also help your child settle into their new role of big brother or sister'.
The side-by-side double buggies can be a good option for twins, as both children will share the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also provides a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat as an infant bassinet.
We also recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This innovative buggy is a single pushchair that can be transformed into a double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with many thoughtful features that will ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require a system of travel for your business?
Double buggies are excellent to transport your children around in comfort however they're not essential for every family. You could use a single stroller, and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler straps that permit you and your child to be able to travel on their backs, or in front.
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 two seats that are near each other, meaning that your children will be able to see each other. However, these tend to be wider than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies offer an easier way to travel with one seat in the front and another in the rear, however they can be still quite heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to convert one stroller into a double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. double pram pushchair will allow you to keep your infant snuggled in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good illustration - it could be used with twins as well as a toddler and one or more children using the optional PiggyBack Board.
As your children grow older and more capable, you can use a double buggy to take them to bicycle rides or for day trips where they may prefer to walk. It is important to keep in mind that your kids may not always enjoy being in a stroller and might be tired and irritable on longer outings.
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 can make your life simpler, especially when you are required to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded malls.