Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of things to take into consideration when choosing the perfect double buggy from birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her advice on everything ranging from seating options and age groups to folding mechanisms and storage.

A must-have investment for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight, has great maneuverability and is able to handle uneven terrain easily.

What style of buggy do want?

A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also be used as prams. Each seat has a reclining mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They are often lightweight, fold easily, and compact enough to fit into your car's boot. If you travel a significant deal, it's important to check that the buggy can be easily maneuvered with the folded wheels in your car boot, and then removed.

The most popular type of double buggy is the side by side that you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a child yourself. They are ideal for older siblings who wish to keep up with you or for twins and typically have many seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your toddlers to choose from. These are usually easy to control, and if choose a model with a soft suspension, they can easily navigate kerbs.

Tandem buggies are another popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. This is due to the fact that the second seat is positioned behind the first, instead of sitting over it. They're typically bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, so it's important to check they'll fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used for twins, a baby and toddler or three kids with the addition of a buggy.

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 or side-by-side buggies, however they provide plenty of flexibility and have a high selling price. They are easy to steer and feature a large storage basket. They also have the ability to 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 best way to transport your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary kinds of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children sit in a row, side-by-side or tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However, side-by-side buggies are 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 seats.

Do you have one?

At first, having a younger sibling can seem like a lot of responsibility, particularly if you're also taking care of the baby. They might also feel left out if they are placed in a baby carrier as you push the older sibling along and having a double buggy right from the beginning can make things easier. It can also help your child get into their new role as big brother or sister'.

Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered the best option for twins since they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be heavy and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc with its innovative frame that opens the width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, such as the second seat being used as a bassinet or infant carrier.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are keen to explore. This nifty buggy is a single pushchair double which can be made a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it features numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone content.

Do you require a business travel system?

Double buggies can be an excellent way to transport your children in comfort. However they aren't required for every family. Depending on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids, you may be able to do using a single stroller with certain attachments such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that let you carry your child on their back or in front of you.

If you do opt for a double buggy, there are three types to choose from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats positioned next to each other, meaning that your children will be able see each one another. However, these tend to be wider than a single pushchair and can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are an easier way to travel with a seat in the front and a second in the rear, however they are still long and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to convert one stroller into double buggy by attaching an infant car seat to the frame. This will allow you to keep your infant snuggled 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 for twins or a toddler, one or more children with 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 bike rides or other day excursions where they prefer walking. It is important to keep in mind that your children might not always like to be in a stroller and could get tired and angry on longer outings.

Before you invest in a double stroller, consider the above factors and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable Stokke Double stroller stroller will simplify your life, especially if you need to navigate busy streets or bustling shopping centres.