Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are plenty of factors to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy from the time of birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her suggestions on everything from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.
This buggy is an essential item for active families. It will grow with you and your family, from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight with great maneuverability and can handle uneven terrain with ease.
What type of buggy would you prefer?
pushchair twin is great for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can also serve as prams, and they have a reclining mechanism in each seat, so your children can sit or lie down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space to store everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight, fold easily and are small enough to fit into the car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's worth checking the buggy's maneuverability with the folded wheels and to take out and into your boot.
You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other mothers strollers, or even in one as a kid. They are perfect for twins who are older or who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in various seating options such as 'cinema seats'. These are usually easy to steer, and if you select a model that has a soft suspension, they will easily navigate the kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by-sides are also popular. This is because the second seat is placed behind the first one, instead of sitting on top of it. The seats are generally 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 for twins, a baby and toddler or three kids with the inclusion 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 offer lots of flexibility and a high return on investment. They are easy to steer and come with a large storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some even have a built-in ride-on board and 'cinema seating' for your older child.
Do you have twins?
Whether your children are twins or siblings of different ages, a double buggy is the best way to transport them around. There are two primary kinds of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children sit together or tandem buggies where one baby is above the other. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems tend to be more spacious overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seats.
Do you have a baby?
At first, having a younger sibling can feel like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you're caring for the baby. A double buggy can make it easier for them to feel a sense of belonging if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also help your child settle into their new role as a 'big brother or sister'.
The side-by-side double buggies can be a great option for twins, since both children will have the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. We love the streamlined B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc that features an innovative frame that opens the width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, including using the second seat as an infant carrier or bassinet.
Alternatively, we recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This clever buggy can start off as an individual pushchair, but can be converted into a double, taking the place of a second seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain and has lots of thoughtful features to keep everyone happy.
Do you require an effective business travel system?
Double buggies are ideal for transporting your children around in comfort, but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You could use a single stroller, and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler straps that allow you and your child to travel on their backs or in front.
There are three different types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. The two seats are set parallel to each other, so your children can be able to see each other. They are larger than a single stroller and may be difficult to navigate over the kerbs. Tandem buggies are small that has one seat in the front and a second one at the back. However they can be quite heavy and long to push.
double strollers allow you to transform one stroller into a double buggy by securing the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This will allow you to keep your newborn snuggled up comfortably in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example of this - it can be used for twins or a toddler, a baby or even three children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.
If your children have grown older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can also be used to accompany them on bike rides or other day trips where they might prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that they might not always prefer to ride in a buggy and could easily be tired and disgruntled during longer trips.
Before you purchase a double stroller, think about the factors mentioned above and your family's unique circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller can simplify life, especially if you need to travel through busy streets or crowded shopping centres.