Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of factors to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy from the moment 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 purchase for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle uneven terrain with ease.

What kind of buggy would you prefer?

smallest double buggy buggys are ideal for transporting up to two children at once, even if they are not the same age. They can also be used as prams and come with the ability to recline in each seat, so your children can lie down in various positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're typically lightweight, easy to fold and compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking the buggy's maneuverability with the wheels folded and also to get out and back into your car boot.

You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other mothers' strollers or even ridden in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins and typically have many seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your little ones to pick from. They're usually easy to drive and, if you go for a model with a soft suspension, make light work of kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by sides, are also popular. This is because the second seat sits behind the first one, rather than over it. They're usually bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, so it's important to check they'll fit through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and an infant or three children by 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 and side-by-side buggies, however they provide the flexibility of a single buggie and a very high resale price. They are easy to steer and have a large storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema seats'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the best method of transporting your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double running buggy buggies: tandem buggies, which have one child sitting above the other, and side by side buggies. Both buggies are able to accommodate two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to fit through doors. Tandems are typically larger overall. They can also be able to accommodate an infant seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a child?

At beginning the idea of having a younger sibling could feel like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you are also caring for the infant. A double buggy can make it easier for them to feel a sense of belonging if you put them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It will aid your child in settling into their new role as big brother or sister'.

The side-by-side Double prams with Shock-absorbing suspension buggies can be a great option for twins, as both children will share the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a streamlined double buggy with an innovative frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also provides a variety of configuration options including using the second seat for an infant bassinet.

Alternatively, we recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This innovative buggy starts with an individual pushchair, but is then convertible into a double by adding an additional seat, carrycot or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it comes with a variety of clever features that will keep everyone happy.

Do you require a travel system?

Double buggies can be a great way to transport your children in a comfortable way. However, they are not necessary for every family. You might be able to get by with just a single to double pushchair stroller, and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler straps that permit your child and you to ride on their backs or in front.

There are three kinds of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side and convertible. The two seats are set in a row, so that your children can be able to see each other. They are larger than a single stroller and can be difficult to navigate through the kerbs. Tandem buggies provide a more compact alternative, with a seat in the front and another in the rear, but they can be still quite long and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies are fantastic as they allow you to transform your stroller to an additional buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. You can keep your baby in the car seat until he or is able to climb into the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example - it can be used with twins as well as a toddler and one or more children with the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children become older and more capable and able, you can get a double buggy to accompany them on bike rides or day excursions where they might prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that your kids may not always be comfortable in a stroller and might be tired and irritable on longer outings.

Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, take into consideration the above factors and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable double stroller can make life much easier especially if you need to navigate busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.