Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of factors to consider when selecting 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.

This buggy is essential for active families. It will grow with your family, from twins to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle uneven terrain easily.

What kind of buggy do want?

A double buggy is great for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also be used as prams. Each seat is equipped with an adjustable mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in different positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight, fold up easily and small enough to fit into the car boot. If you travel a lot amount, you should make sure that the buggy be easily pushed around by folding the wheels into your car boot, and then removed.

You might have seen this type of double buggy on other mothers' strollers or even ridden in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings who wish to keep up with you or for twins. They typically come with many seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your toddlers to choose from. They are usually simple to steer, and if you select a model that has a soft suspension, they can easily handle the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are another popular choice as they're typically easier to turn than a side-by-side. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first, instead of on top of it. They're typically larger than a side-by-side, and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's crucial to ensure they fit through doors and public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and baby or 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 by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They tend to be more expensive than side by sides or tandem buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and have a great resale value. They are easy to steer and have a large storage basket. They also have the ability to 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 with different age groups, a double buggie is the most efficient way to transport them around. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies where one child is seated above the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seats.


Do you have a child?

At first having a younger sibling could seem like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you're caring for the baby. They might be feeling a little secluded when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older sibling to the side and having a double buggy from birth will make life easier. It can also help your child settle into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.

The side-by-side double buggies could be a great option for twins, as each child will get the same view. However they're heavy 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.

We also recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This clever buggy can start off as an individual pushchair, but can be converted into a double, which can include the place of a second seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain and it includes a number of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.

Do you require a travel system?

Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children in a comfortable way. However they aren't required for every family. Depending on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids, you may be able to get by with just a single stroller and some attachments, such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers which allow you to transport your child on their back or in front of you.

There are three types of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side, and convertible. The two seats are positioned side-by-side, so your children will be able to be able to see each other. However, double pram pushchair are generally larger than a single pushchair, and can be difficult to maneuver between kerbs. Tandem buggies are compact with a seat at the front and a back seat. However they can be heavy and difficult to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to transform a single stroller into double buggy by attaching an infant car seat to the frame. You can keep your baby in the car seat until he/she she is ready to move into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example - it can be used with twins or a toddler, an infant, or even three children with the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children become older and more mobile to walk, you can opt for double buggys to accompany them on bicycle rides or for day trips in which they prefer to walk. It's important to remember that your children might not always be comfortable in a stroller and might become tired and disgruntled on longer outings.

Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, take into consideration the factors above and your family's specific circumstances. A solid and reliable double stroller can simplify life especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.