Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of things to take into consideration when choosing the ideal double buggy right from the time of birth. 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 investment for active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight with great maneuverability and can maneuver through uneven terrain easily.

What kind of buggy would you like?

Double buggys are great for transporting up to two children at a time, even if they are not the same age. They can also be used as prams, and they have a reclining mechanism in each seat, so your children can lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light, fold easily, and compact enough to fit into your car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's worth checking that the buggy's maneuverability with the folded wheels as well as to get it in and out of your boot.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-by-side one, which you've likely seen on other moms' pushchairs or even rode in as a child yourself. They are perfect for twins who are older or who want to keep pace with you. They also come in various seating configurations such as 'cinema seats'. They're generally easy to steer and, if you opt for a model with soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular option because they're easier to turn than side-by-side. The second seat is placed behind the first and not on top. The seats are usually bigger and bulkier than a side-by-side however, so make sure whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, three children, with 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 infant strollers by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're more expensive than tandem buggies or side-by-side buggies, however they provide a lot of flexibility and have a high cost of resale. They are easy to steer and have a large storage basket. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema seats'.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings of different age groups, a double buggie is the most efficient way to move them around. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies, which have one child sitting above the other, and side by side buggies. Both buggies can accommodate two seats fixed. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also be able to accommodate an infant seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a child?

Having a younger sibling can feel like an overwhelming responsibility initially, particularly when you need to be attentive to the baby. They might be feeling a little secluded if they are placed in a baby carrier while you push the older one along, so having a double buggy from birth will make life simpler. It can also help your child settle into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.

Side-by-side double buggies are often considered to be the best double buggy choice for twins since they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options, including the second seat as a bassinet.

If you prefer, we suggest alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This innovative buggy is a single pushchair which can be made a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it has lots of thoughtful features to ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you require an automated system of travel for your business?

Double buggies are ideal for transporting your children around in comfort, but they're not a necessary purchase for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids, you may be able to get by with a single twin umbrella stroller and some attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that let you carry your child on their back or in front of you.

If you do opt for a double buggy converts to single buggy there are three types to choose from: side by side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats close to each other, which means your children can see each other. They are larger than a single stroller, and can be difficult to navigate around the kerbs. Tandem buggies are small that has one seat at the front and a back seat. However they can be heavy and lengthy to push.

Convertible double buggies are great because they let you convert your stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. This will allow you to keep your baby safely in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example of this - it can be used for twins or a toddler, an infant, or even three children with the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children become older and more able to walk, you can opt for double buggys to accompany them to bike rides or day excursions where they may prefer walking. It's important to remember that your kids may not always be comfortable in a stroller and could be tired and irritable when they are on longer excursions.

Before you decide to purchase a double stroller from the beginning be sure to consider the above factors and the specific circumstances of your family. A solid and reliable double stroller will simplify life particularly if you have to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.