Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are many aspects to consider. We spoke to Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options and 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 is light, has great maneuverability and can handle uneven terrain easily.

What kind of buggy do you want?

A double buggy is great for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also serve as prams and have the ability to recline in each seat so your children can sit or lay down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They are often lightweight double stroller that folds easily and are compact enough to fit into your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the wheels folded and to take in and out of your car boot.

You might have seen this type of double buggy on other mums' strollers or even ridden in one as a child. They are perfect for older siblings or twins who want to keep up with you. They also come in various seating configurations such as 'cinema seats'. They're usually pretty easy to drive and, if you decide to go for a model with soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are also a popular option since they're more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is placed behind the first, rather than on top. They're usually wider than a side-by-side and can be bulky when folded, which is why it's crucial to ensure they fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and three children 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-by-side buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and come with a premium resale price. They are easy to steer and come with large storage bins. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggy is the most efficient way to transport them around. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child sits above the other, and side by side buggies. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower in size to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be wider overall. They can also accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.

Do you have one?

At beginning the idea of having a younger sibling may seem like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, particularly if you're also caring for the baby. A double buggy can allow children to feel included when you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It can also provide your child with a sense of pride as they are able to be "big brother or sister" and help them settle into their new role.

The side-by-side double buggies could be a great option for twins, since each child will get the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc with its innovative frame that expands in width to accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers various configuration options, including the second seat being used as an infant carrier or bassinet.

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

Do you require an automated business travel system?

Double buggies are an excellent way to transport your children in a comfortable way. However they aren't required for every family. You might be able to use 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. The two seats are set side-by-side, so your children will be able to see each other. They are larger than a single stroller and aren't easy to maneuver through the kerbs. Tandem buggies provide an easier way to travel with a seat in the front and another in the rear, but they can be still quite large and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies are wonderful as they allow you to transform your stroller into an additional buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. It is possible to keep your baby in the car seat until he/she is able to climb into the buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent example - it can be used with twins or a toddler, one or more children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.

If your children have grown older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day excursions where they prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that they might not always prefer to ride in a buggy and could easily be tired and disgruntled during longer trips.

Before you make the decision to buy a double buggy at the time of birth be sure to take a look at the above factors and the particular circumstances of your family. A durable and reliable double buggy can make your life easier, particularly when you are required to navigate busy streets or busy malls.