Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of things to take into consideration when choosing the ideal double buggy from the moment of birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her advice on everything ranging from seating options and age groups to folding mechanisms and storage.

This buggy is an essential item for active families. It grows with your family, from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and is able to tackle difficult terrain with ease.

What kind of buggy would you prefer?

A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can also be used as prams. Each seat has an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can lie down or sit in various positions. They also come with plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight, fold up easily and compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking that the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the folded wheels and also to get in and out of your boot.

You may have seen this kind of double buggy for twins buggy on other moms strollers or even in one as a child. They're great for twins or older siblings who want to keep up with you. They also come in various seating options such as 'cinema seats'. These are usually easy to steer, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they can easily navigate the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are another popular choice as they're typically easier to turn than side-by-side. This is because the second seat is placed behind the first, instead of sitting on top of it. They're usually bigger than a side-byside and can be bulky when folded, so it's crucial to ensure they fit through doors and public transport. They can be used for twins, a baby and toddler or three kids 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 generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of versatility and a good resale value. They are easy to steer and come with a large storage basket. They also have the ability to 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 most efficient method of transporting your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, which have one child sitting above the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in size to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also be able to accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a toddler?

At first having a younger sibling could feel like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you are also caring for the baby. A double buggy side by side buggy may help them to feel included if you put them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It can aid your child in settling into their new role as a 'big brother or sister'.

Side-by-side buggies can be a great option for twins, as each child will get the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc which has an innovative frame that expands the width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides different configuration options, including using the second seat as an infant carrier or bassinet.

If you prefer, we suggest an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This innovative buggy starts with an individual pushchair, but is then convertible into a double, which can include a second seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal 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 can be an ideal way to move your children safely. However, they are not necessary for every family. You may be able make do with a single stroller, with a few attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler straps that permit you and your child to travel on their backs or in the front.

If you decide to go with a double buggy, there are three types to choose from: side-by-side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats positioned next to each other, which means your children will be able see each one another. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair, and can be tricky to maneuver between kerbs. tandem double buggy buggies are a compact option that has one seat in the front and another at the back. However they can be quite heavy and lengthy to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to convert a single stroller into double buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your newborn snuggled up safely in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great example of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.

When your children get older and more able to walk, you can opt for a double buggy to take them on cycling trips or other day trips where they may prefer walking. It is important to keep in mind that your kids may not always like to be in a stroller and might be tired and irritable when they are on longer excursions.

Before you invest in a double twin stroller, consider the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller can simplify life especially if you need to travel through busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.