Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are a lot of things to consider. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

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

What type of buggy do you want?

A double buggy is perfect for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also function as prams. Each seat is equipped with an adjustable mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in different positions. They also come with plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight, easy to fold and are small enough to fit into your car boot. If you travel a significant amount, it's essential to check that the buggy can be easily moved with the wheels folded in your boot and taken out.

You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other moms strollers or even in one as a child. They are ideal for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins and typically have numerous seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your little ones to choose from. They're generally easy to drive and, if you decide to go for a model that has soft suspension, make light work of the 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. They're generally wider than a side-by-side and can be heavy when folded, so it's important to check they'll fit through doors and public transport. They can be used for twins, a baby and toddler or three kids with the addition of a buggy board.

Lastly there are the'single to double pushchair-to-double' convertibles which can be used as a single pushchair from birth then convert to a double strollers For newborn and toddler by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're generally more expensive than side by sides or tandem buggies but provide plenty of versatility and a good resale value. They're generally easy to steer, come with an enormous storage basket and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the best double stroller method to transport your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary types of double buggy - side-by-side buggies in which your children are seated together or tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to be able to pass through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate both seats for toddlers and a carrycot.

Do you have a baby?

At first, having a younger sibling may seem like a lot of responsibility, especially if you're caring for the infant. They might also feel left out if they are placed in a baby carrier while you push the older one ahead, so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make things easier. It will aid your child in settling into their new role of a 'big sister or brother'.

Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered to be the best choice for twins as they allow both children to enjoy the same view, however they can be hefty 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 including using the second seat as a bassinet.

We also recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This nifty buggy is a single-pushchair that can be converted into a double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.

Do you require a travel system for your business?

Double buggies are ideal to transport your children around in comfort, but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You might be able to make do with one stroller, and some attachments such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow your child and you to travel on their backs or in front.

If you choose to purchase a double buggy there are three kinds to choose from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. The two seats are set side-by-side, so your children will be able to be able to see each other. However, they tend to be wider than a single pushchair and are difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies provide an easier way to travel with one seat in the front and one in the rear, but they can be still quite large and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to convert one stroller into a double buggy by securing the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your newborn snuggled up comfortably in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent illustration - it could be used with twins as well as a toddler and one or more children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.

When your children get older and more capable to walk, you can opt for a double buggy to take them on bike rides or day excursions in which they prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they might not always want to be in a buggy, and they could easily get tired and angry during longer trips.

Before you purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller can make life much easier particularly if you have to navigate through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.