Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are plenty of things to take into consideration. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options and age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

A must-have purchase for active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and can handle uneven terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do you want?

Double buggys are great for transporting up to two children at a time even if they're not of the same age. They can also serve as prams, and they have the ability to recline in each seat so your children can sit or lay down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. Often they're lightweight double pushchair, easy to fold and compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you drive a great amount, you should check that the buggy can be easily maneuvered by folding the wheels into your car boot and removed.

The most popular type of double buggy is the side by side, which you've probably seen on other mums' pushchairs or even rode in as a child yourself. They are perfect for twins or older siblings who want to keep up with you. They are also available in a variety of seating configurations such as 'cinema seats'. They're usually easy to drive and, if you go for a model with a soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are another popular choice as they're typically more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on the top. They're typically bigger than a side-byside and can be bulky when folded, which is why it's essential to make sure they fit through doors and public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and a baby 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 double 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-by-side buggies, however they provide the flexibility of a single buggie and have a high cost of resale. They're generally easy to steer, have large storage bins and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some models even come with built-in ride-on boards 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 buggy: side-by-side buggies in which your children are seated side by side, and tandem buggies where one child is placed above the other. Both buggies are able to accommodate two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be larger overall. They can also accommodate both seats for toddlers and a carrycot.

Do you have a child?

Having a younger sibling can be a big responsibility initially, particularly when you have to tend to the infant. They might be feeling a little secluded when they are in an infant carrier while you push the older one along, so having a double buggy side by side buggy from the start can make things easier. It will also give your child an immense sense of pride when they are able to be "big brother or sister" and help them settle into their new role.

Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered to be the best choice for twins as 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 with a unique frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also provides a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat for the bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who love to explore. This buggy is clever and can start as a single pushchair and can be converted into a double by adding an additional seat, carrycot or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that are sure to ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you need a travel system?

Double buggies are excellent for bringing your kids around in comfort but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You might be able to get by with just one stroller, and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that permit your child and you to ride on their backs or in front.

If you decide to go with a double buggy there are three kinds to choose from: side by side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats close to each other, meaning that your children can see each other. They are larger than a single stroller and aren't easy to navigate around kerbs. Tandem buggies are small that has one seat in the front and a back seat. However they can be quite heavy and long to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to transform a single stroller into a Double stroller Lightweight buggy by securing a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your baby 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 as well as a toddler and a baby or even three children using the option of a PiggyBack Board.

When your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can also be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day excursions where they prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that your children might not always be comfortable in a stroller, and may get tired and angry during longer trips.

Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, consider the factors above and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable double buggy will make life simpler, especially when you are required to navigate through busy streets or busy malls.