Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are plenty of things to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy from birth. 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 active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It is lightweight and movable, and can maneuver through uneven terrain easily.
What kind of buggy would you prefer?
Double buggys are ideal for transporting up to two children at a time, even if they are not of the same age. They can also function as prams. Each seat comes with a reclining mechanism so that your children can lie down or sit in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They are often lightweight they fold easily and are small enough to fit in your car's boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking that the buggy's ease of use with the folded wheels and also to get out and back into your car boot.
The most common type of double buggy is the side-by-side that you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs or even ridden in as a child yourself. They're great for older siblings or twins who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in various seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They're usually pretty easy to steer and, if you opt for a model with soft suspension, make light work of the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are another popular option because they're easier to turn than side-by-side. The second seat is positioned behind the first and not on top. The seats are typically wider and bulkier than a side-by-side however, so make sure that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and three children by 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're more expensive than tandem buggies or side-byside buggies, but they offer plenty of flexibility and a very high selling price. They're generally simple to steer, feature an enormous storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema seats'.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the ideal way to transport your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child is seated over the other, and side by side buggies. Both buggies can accommodate two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot as well as a toddler seats.
Do you have a child?
A younger sibling can feel like quite an enormous responsibility initially, particularly when you need to be attentive to the infant. They might be a bit irritated if they are placed in a baby carrier as you push the older sibling to the side and having a double buggy from the start will make life simpler. It can also help your child get into their new role of big brother or sister'.
Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered the best option for twins as they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be bulky 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 comes with a variety of configuration options including using the second seat as a bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and love to explore. This clever buggy is a single pushchair that can be converted into double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it comes with many thoughtful features that are sure to ensure that everyone is happy.
Do twin buggy require an effective business travel system?
Double buggies can be an ideal way to move your children in comfort. However they aren't necessary for every family. You may be able use one stroller, with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow your child and you to ride on their backs or in the front.
There are three types of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side, and convertible. The two seats are set side-by-side, so your children can see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller, and may be difficult to navigate through kerbs. Tandem buggies are small, with one seat at the front and a back seat. However they can be quite heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to transform one stroller into a double buggy by securing the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your child in the car seat until he or is ready to step to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great example of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three children with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children are older and have more stamina, a double buggy can also be used to accompany them on bike rides or day trips where they'd prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they may not want to be in a buggy and could easily become disgruntled and tired when they are on longer excursions.
So, before you decide to invest in a double buggy at the time of birth make sure you think about the above points and your family's specific circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller will simplify your life especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or crowded shopping centres.