10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Double Buggy From Birth

Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are a lot of things to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy right from the time of birth. 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 for families with active children This buggy can grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle difficult terrain with ease.

What kind of buggy would you prefer?

A double buggy is great for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can be used as prams, and they have the ability to recline within each seat, allowing your children can lay down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light they fold easily and are compact enough to fit in your car's boot. If you drive a lot it's important to make sure the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the folded wheels and to take in and out of your boot.

The most common 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 also come in a variety of seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They're usually easy to drive and, if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, make light work of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by-sides are also popular. This is because the second seat is placed behind the first, instead of sitting on top of it. The seats are usually bigger and bulkier than a traditional side by side however, so make sure whether they are able to pass through doors or 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 are more expensive than tandem buggies and side-by-side buggies, however they provide plenty of flexibility and have a high selling price. They're generally simple to steer, feature an enormous storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with built-in ride-on boards and cinema seating for your older child.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings of different age groups, a double buggie is the best option to transport them around. There are two primary types of double buggy: side-byside buggies that let your children are seated in a row, side-by-side or tandem buggies where one baby is above the other. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot as well as a toddler seat.

Do you have a child?

A younger sibling can feel like an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you need to be attentive to the baby. A double buggy newborn buggy can make it easier for them to feel included if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It can also help your child settle into their new role as big brother or sister'.

Side-by-side buggies can be a great choice for twins, as both children will share the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc that features an innovative frame that opens in width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, including the second seat being used as baby carrier or a bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy lightest double stroller Trailblazer to active families who like to explore. This nifty buggy is a single pushchair that can be converted into a double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on 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 require a traveling system?

Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children in a comfortable way. However they aren't required for every family. You may be able make do with a single stroller, and some attachments such as baby carriers and toddler straps that permit your child and you to travel on their backs or in front.

If you decide to go with a double travel stroller buggy there are three kinds to pick from: side-by-side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats next to each other, meaning that your children can see each other. However, they are typically larger than a single pushchair, and can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option, with one seat at the front and a back seat. However, they can be heavy and lengthy to push.

Convertible double buggies are great because they let you convert your stroller to double buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. It is possible to keep your child in the car seat until he/she she is ready to move to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example of this - it can be used for twins or a toddler, 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 be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day trips where they'd prefer walking. But, it's important to remember that they may not always want to be in a buggy and could easily be tired and disgruntled on longer outings.

So, before you decide to invest in a double buggy from birth, take some time to take a look at the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double pram buggy stroller will simplify life especially if you need to navigate busy streets or crowded shopping centres.