Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When choosing the perfect double buggy, there are plenty of 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.
This buggy is essential for active families. It will grow with you and your family from toddlers to twins. It is light with great maneuverability and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.
What type of buggy would you prefer?
Double buggys are great for transporting up to two children at the same time, even if they are not of the same age. They can also be used as prams and have recline mechanisms in each seat, so your children can lay down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're typically lightweight, fold up easily and are small enough to fit into your car boot. If you travel a significant deal, it's important to make sure that the buggy be easily moved with the wheels folded in your boot and taken out.
You may have seen this type of double buggy on other mothers' strollers or even ridden in one as a child. They're great for twins who are older or who want to keep up with you. They also come in various seating options and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They're usually easy to drive and, if you opt for a model with soft suspension, you can make light work of kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by-sides are also popular. The second seat is placed behind the first, rather than on top. They're generally larger than a side-by-side, and can be bulky when folded, so it's important to check they'll fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used for twins, a baby and toddler 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're more expensive than tandem buggies or side-byside buggies, but they offer the flexibility of a single buggie and come with a premium cost of resale. They are easy to steer and feature large storage bins. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with a built-in ride-on board and cinema seating for your child's older.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the best method of transporting your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies which have one child sitting over the other, and side by side buggies. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in width for getting through doors. Tandems tend to be more spacious overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot as well as a toddler seats.
Do you have a baby?
Being a parent to a child can feel like a big responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the baby. A double buggy can also help children to feel included when you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It can also provide your child with an immense sense of pride when they are able to be 'big brother or sister' and help them settle into their role.
The side-by-side double buggies can be a good option for twins, since both children will have the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. We love the streamlined B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc that features an innovative frame that expands in width to accommodate two fixed seats and offers various configuration options, including using the second seat as an infant carrier or bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and like to explore. This innovative buggy is a single-pushchair that can be converted into a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone content.
Do you require a travel system?
Double buggies are a great way to transport your children in comfort. However, they are not necessary for every family. You could use a single stroller, and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler straps that permit your child and you to travel on their backs or in front.
There are three kinds of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. The two seats are positioned in a row, so that your children can be able to see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller and may be difficult to maneuver over the kerbs. Tandem buggies offer a more compact alternative, with a single seat in the front and another in the rear, however they can still be long and heavy to push.
Convertible double buggies permit you to convert one stroller into double buggy by attaching an infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until he/she is able to climb to the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example of this - it can be used for twins as well as a toddler and an infant, or even three children using the option of a PiggyBack Board.
Once your children are older and have more stamina, a double buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or other day trips where they might prefer walking. It is important to keep in mind that your children may not always enjoy being in a stroller and might get tired and angry during longer trips.
Before you purchase a double stroller , take into consideration the above factors and your family's unique circumstances. A durable and reliable double buggy can make your life simpler, especially when you are required to navigate through busy streets or crowded malls.