Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are many 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.

A must-have purchase for families with active children This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It is lightweight with great maneuverability and can handle uneven terrain with ease.

What kind of buggy do want?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting two children at the same time even if they're not of the same age. They can also be used as prams, and they have a reclining mechanism within each seat, allowing your children can sit or lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space to store everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're typically lightweight, fold up easily and small enough to fit into the car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's worth checking that the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the folded wheels and to take in and out of your car boot.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side by side one, which you've probably seen on other mums' pushchairs or even rode in as a child. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins. They usually have many seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your toddlers to choose from. These are usually easy to control, and if choose a model with a soft suspension, they can easily handle kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular option since they're easier to turn than side-by-side. This is due to the fact that the second seat is positioned behind the first one, instead of over it. They're typically larger than a side-by-side, and can be a bit bulky when folded, so it's essential to make sure they fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and a baby or three children with the inclusion of a buggy board.

Lastly there are the'single-to-double to single buggy' convertibles which can be used as a single twin pushchair from birth then convert to a double by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They are more expensive than tandem buggies or side-byside buggies, however they provide the flexibility of a single buggie and come with a premium selling price. They're generally easy to steer, come with a huge storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as "cinema seating" for your child's older.

Do you have twins?

Whether your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggy is the most efficient way to transport them around. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child sits above the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both buggies can be fitted with two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a child?

At first having a younger sibling could seem like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, particularly if you're also taking care of the baby. A double single pushchair buggy can also help them to feel a sense of belonging if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also provide your child with the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they get to be "big brother or sister" and help them get used to their role.

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 bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a streamlined double buggy with an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also comes with a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat for the bassinet.

If you prefer, we suggest the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This buggy is clever and can start off as an individual twin pushchair, but is then convertible into a double, which can include a second seat, carrycot or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it comes with many thoughtful features that will ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you require an effective business travel system?

Double buggies are excellent for bringing your kids around in comfort but they're not a necessary purchase for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your kids you may be able to make do using a single stroller with certain attachments such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers that allow you to ferry your child around on their backs or in front of you.

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

Convertible double buggies are great because they allow you to convert your stroller to an additional buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. This way, you can keep your infant snuggled in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example - it can be used with twins as well as a toddler and an infant, or even three children using the option of a PiggyBack Board.

When your children are older and have more endurance, a double buggy can also be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day trips where they'd prefer walking. It's important to remember that your children may not always be comfortable in a stroller and could become tired and disgruntled on longer outings.

So, before you decide to invest in a double stroller from the beginning, take some time to take a look at the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A durable and reliable double buggy can make your life easier, especially when you have to navigate busy streets or busy malls.