Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are plenty of things to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy 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.
This buggy is an essential item for active families. It grows with your family, from twins to toddlers. It is light, has great maneuverability and can handle uneven terrain easily.
What type of buggy do you want?
Double buggys are great for transporting up to two children at once even if they're not the same age. They can also be used as prams and have a reclining mechanism in each seat so your children can sit or lay down in various positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight that folds easily and are compact enough to fit into the car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's important to make sure the buggy's ease of use using the folded wheels, and to take out and into your car boot.
You may have seen this type of double buggy on other moms strollers, or even in one as a kid. They are ideal for older siblings who wish to keep up with you or for twins and typically have a large number of seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your toddlers to pick from. They are usually simple to steer, and if you select a model that has a soft suspension, they will easily handle the kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by-sides, are also very popular. This is due to the fact that the second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on top of it. They're generally bigger than a side-byside and can be heavy when folded, so it's essential to make sure they be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and baby or three kids with the inclusion 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 tend to be more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies but offer lots of flexibility and have a great price for resales. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and can 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 way to transport them around. There are two main types of double buggy - side-by-side buggies in which your children sit together, and tandem buggies where one child is placed above the other. double infant stroller can accommodate two fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seat.
Do you have a child?
Having a younger sibling can feel like quite an enormous responsibility at first, especially when you need to be attentive to the infant. A double buggy can also allow them to feel a sense of belonging if you place them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It will also help your child settle into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.
The side-by-side double buggies could be a good option for twins, as each child will get the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc which has an innovative frame that can be expanded widthways to take two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options, including using the second seat as a bassinet or infant carrier.
We also recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This buggy is clever and can start with a single pushchair and it can then be converted into a double by adding a second seat, carrycot or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that will ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require an automated system of travel for your business?
Double buggies are ideal for transporting your children around in comfort however they're not essential for every family. You could make do with one stroller with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow 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. Side-by-side buggies have two seats positioned near each other, which means your children will be able see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller and aren't easy to maneuver through the kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option with a seat at the front and a back seat. However they can be quite heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to convert one stroller into double buggy by attaching an infant car seat to the frame. You can keep your child in the car seat until he or is ready to step to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great example of this - it's suitable for twins or a toddler and baby or even three kids with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.
As your children grow older and more able, you can use a double buggy to accompany them on bike rides or day excursions in which they prefer walking. But, it's important to remember that they may not always want to be in a buggy, and they could easily be tired and disgruntled on longer outings.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, consider the factors above and your family's specific circumstances. A durable and reliable double buggy can make life easier, especially when you have to navigate busy streets or overcrowded malls.