Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are plenty of aspects to consider. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her suggestions 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 difficult terrain with ease.

What style of buggy do you want?

Double buggys are great for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not the same age. They can also be used as prams. Each seat has an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can sit or lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. Often they're lightweight, fold up easily and are small enough to fit into the car boot. If you travel a lot amount, you should ensure that the buggy can be easily moved with the folded wheels in your boot and taken out.

You may have seen this type of double twin buggy from birth on other mothers' strollers or even ridden in one as a child. These are great for older siblings that want to keep up with you or for twins and typically have many seating configurations (including "cinema" seats) for your toddlers to choose from. They are usually simple to navigate, and if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, they are able to effortlessly handle kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by-sides, are also popular. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first, instead of sitting on top of it. They're generally wider than a side-by-side and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's crucial to ensure they be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a baby and toddler or three children 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, www.mecosys.com`s statement on its official blog carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're generally more expensive than side by sides or tandem buggies but offer lots of versatility and a good price for resales. They are easy to steer and have an ample storage basket. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.

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 buggies: tandem buggies, where one child is seated over the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.

Do you have a child?

At first, having a younger sibling may feel like a lot of responsibility especially if you are also taking care of the baby. A double pushchair buggy may help them to feel included if you put them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It can also help your child settle into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.

Side-by-side double buggies are usually considered to be the best choice for twins as they let both children enjoy the same view, however they can be bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy that features an innovative frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also provides a variety of configuration options including using the second seat for a bassinet.

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

Do you require a traveling system?

Double buggies are ideal for transporting your children around in comfort however they're not essential for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your children you may be able to do using a single stroller with some attachments, such as baby carriers and double buggy that converts to single toddler harnesses that allow you to ferry your child on their backs or in front of you.

If you do opt for a double buggy, there are three types to choose from: side by side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats close to each other, so your children will be able see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller, and may be difficult to navigate around the kerbs. Tandem buggies offer an alternative that is smaller, with a seat in the front and a second in the rear, but they can still be long and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to convert one stroller into double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This will allow you to keep your infant snuggled in their car seat until they're ready to move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic example of this. It's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three kids with the addition of the optional 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 trips where they might prefer to walk. It's important to remember that your children may not always like to be in a stroller, and may become tired and disgruntled during longer trips.

Before you purchase a double stroller, consider the above factors and your family's unique situation. A solid and reliable double stroller can simplify your life particularly if you have to travel through busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.