Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.
A must-have purchase for active families This buggy can grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight with great maneuverability and is able to handle uneven terrain easily.
What kind of buggy do want?
A double buggy is great for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also be used as prams and have the ability to recline in each seat so your children can sit or lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. Often they're lightweight, easy to fold and small enough to fit into your car boot. If you travel a significant amount, it's essential to ensure that the buggy can be easily maneuvered with the wheels folded in your boot and taken out.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-by-side, which you've probably seen on other mothers' pushchairs or even rode in as a child. They are ideal for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have many seating configurations (including "cinema" seats) for your children to choose from. They're usually easy to drive and, if you go for a model with soft suspension, you can make light work of kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. This is because the second seat sits behind the first, instead of sitting on top of it. The seats are generally bigger and bulkier than a side-by-side however, so make sure that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and three children with the addition of an additional 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 generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and have a great price for resales. They're generally easy to steer, come with large storage bins 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 of transporting your children, regardless of 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 buggies can accommodate two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.
Do you have one?
At first having a younger sibling may seem like a lot of responsibility, especially if you're caring for the infant. They might also feel left out when they are in a baby carrier while you push the older sibling along and having a double buggy right from the beginning can make everything easier. It will aid your child in settling into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.
Side-by-side double buggies are usually considered the best option for twins as they allow both children to have the same view, however they can be heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also provides a variety of configuration options including using the second seat for a bassinet.
Alternatively, we recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This innovative buggy is a single pushchair that can be converted into a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain and it has lots of thoughtful features to keep everyone comfortable.
Do you require a travel system?
Double buggies can be a great way to transport your children safely. However they aren't necessary for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your children, you may be able to make do using a single stroller with some attachments like toddler harnesses and baby carriers that let you carry your child around on their back or in front of you.
If you choose to purchase a double buggy, there are three types to pick from: side-by-side, tandem and convertible. double pram pushchair are set parallel to each other, so your children will be able to be able to see each other. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair and can be tricky to maneuver between 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 a double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your baby comfortably in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example - it can be used with twins, a toddler and one or more children using the optional PiggyBack Board.
As your children grow older and more able, you can use a double buggy to take them on bike rides or day excursions where they might prefer to walk. It is important to keep in mind that your children may not always be comfortable in a stroller, and may be tired and irritable on longer outings.
Before you decide to invest in a double buggy at the time of birth, take some time to take a look at the above factors and the specific circumstances of your family. Having a solid and reliable double stroller can make life much easier, especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.