Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of things to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy right from the moment of birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her tips on everything from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.

A must-have investment for families with active children This buggy will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and can tackle uneven terrain easily.

What type of buggy do you want?

small double buggy buggys are perfect for transporting up to two children at the same time even if they're not of the same age. They can also be used as prams. Each seat comes with a reclining mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. Often they're lightweight, fold easily and are compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking that the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the wheels folded and to take out and back into your boot.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-by-side one, which you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. They're great for older siblings or twins who want to keep up with you. They are also available in various seating configurations, including 'cinema seats'. They're usually pretty easy to drive and, if you go for a model with a soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by-sides, are also very popular. The second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on the top. They're generally wider than a side-by-side and can be heavy when folded, which is why it's crucial to ensure they fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, a baby or three children by the addition of a buggy board.

Lastly there are the'single-to-double push chair (click)' 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 or tandem buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and have a great resale value. They're generally easy to steer, have a huge storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as "cinema seating" for your older child.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the ideal method to transport your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggy: side-by-side buggies where your children sit side by side, and tandem buggies where one child is placed above the other. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower in width to allow for access through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a child?

At beginning having a younger sibling may feel like a lot of responsibility especially if you're caring for the infant. A double buggy can also allow children to feel included when you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also provide your child with an immense sense of pride when they get to be 'big brother or sister' and help them adjust to their new role.

Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered the best option for twins because they allow both children to enjoy the same view, however they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy that features an innovative frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also comes with a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat to create an infant bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and are keen to explore. This nifty buggy is a single pushchair that can be converted into double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough all terrain double stroller and includes a number of thoughtful features to keep everyone comfortable.

Do you need a travel system?

double stroller with car seat buggies are great for transporting your children around in comfort but they're not essential for every family. You might be able to get by with just one stroller with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that permit 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 side-by-side, so your children will be able to see each other. They are larger than a single stroller, and may be difficult to maneuver around the kerbs. Tandem buggies provide a more compact alternative, with one seat in the front and one in the rear, however they can be still quite long and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies are fantastic because they allow you to convert your single stroller into an additional buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. This will allow you to keep your infant snuggled comfortably in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent example - it can be used for twins, a toddler and a baby or even three children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.

When your children become older and more mobile to walk, you can opt for a double buggy to take them to cycling trips or other day trips where they may prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that they may not desire to be in a buggy and can easily be tired and disgruntled on longer outings.

So, before you decide to purchase a double stroller from the beginning make sure you think about the above points and the particular circumstances of your family. A reliable and sturdy double buggy can make your life easier, particularly when you are required to navigate through busy streets or crowded malls.