Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are many factors to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy right from the moment of birth. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options, age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

This buggy is essential for active families. It grows with you and your family from toddlers to twins. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and is able to tackle uneven terrain easily.

What type of buggy would you prefer?

Double buggys are perfect for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not the same age. They can also function as prams. Each seat comes with a reclining mechanism so that your children can sit n stand double stroller or lie down in various positions. They also come with plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They're typically lightweight, easy to fold and compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking the buggy's maneuverability with the folded wheels and to take in and out of your car boot.

The most common type of double buggy is the side-by-side, which you've probably seen on other mums' pushchairs or even rode in as a kid. They're ideal for twins or older siblings who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in various seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They're usually easy to steer and, if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, make light work of 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 sits behind the first one, rather than over it. The seats are usually wider and bulkier than a side-by-side and you must ensure whether they are able to pass through doors or on public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and a baby or three kids 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're more expensive than tandem buggies or side-byside buggies, however they provide a lot of flexibility and have a high resale price. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema seats'.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggy is the best way to move them around. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child is seated over the other, and side-byside buggies. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in size to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.

Do you have one?

A younger sibling can be an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the infant. They might be feeling a little secluded when they are in an infant carrier while you push the older one ahead and having a double buggy from birth can make things easier. It can also give your child a sense of pride as they get to be 'big brother or sister' and help them get used to their role.

The side-by-side double buggies can be a great option for twins, as each child will get the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy that features an innovative frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also offers different configuration options, including the second seat to create an infant bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who like to explore. This clever buggy can start with a single pushchair and is then convertible into a nipper double buggy, which can include a second seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it comes with a variety of clever features that will keep everyone happy.

Do you require a business travel system?

Double buggies are excellent for transporting your children around in comfort, but they're not a necessary purchase for every family. You could get by with just one stroller, and some attachments such as baby carriers and toddler straps that permit you and your child to ride on their backs or in the front.

If you do opt for a double buggy, there are three types to choose from: side by side, tandem and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats positioned close to each other, meaning that your children will be able to see each other. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair and are difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are compact with a seat at the front and a back seat. However they can be heavy and difficult to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to transform a single stroller into double buggy by attaching an infant car seat to the frame. This way, you can keep your baby in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent example of this - it can be used for twins as well as a toddler and one or more children using the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children are older and have more stamina, a double buggy can also be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day trips where they might prefer walking. However, it's worth remembering that they might not always desire to be in a buggy and can easily be tired and disgruntled on longer outings.

Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, think about the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A durable and reliable double buggy can make your life easier, particularly when you have to navigate busy streets or overcrowded malls.