Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of things to take into consideration when choosing the perfect double buggy from the time of birth. 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 for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can handle uneven terrain easily.

What type of buggy would you prefer?

A double buggy is perfect for transporting two kids, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also serve as prams and have a reclining mechanism in each seat, so your children can lie down in various positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light that folds easily and are small enough to fit in the car boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking that the buggy is easy to manoeuvre using the folded wheels, and also to get out and back into your boot.

You may have seen this type of double buggy on other moms strollers, or even in one as a child. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins and typically have a large number of seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your little ones to choose from. They are generally easy to steer, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they can easily handle the kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by-sides are also very popular. The second seat is located behind the first, rather than on the top. They're typically wider than a side-by-side and can be bulky when folded, so 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 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 and side-by-side buggies, however they provide plenty of flexibility and a very high resale price. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the most efficient method of transporting your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two main types of double buggy: side-byside buggies that let your children are seated in a row, side-by-side and tandem buggies in which one baby is above the other. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies are typically narrower in size to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot as well as a toddler seats.

Do you have a baby?

At first, having a younger sibling can feel like a lot of responsibility especially if you are also caring for the infant. A double buggy can allow them to feel a sense of belonging if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also help your child get into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.

Side-by-side buggies can be a good option for twins, since both children will have the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy that features an innovative frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also offers different configuration options, including the second seat for the bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy double pram buggy Trailblazer to families who are active and love to explore. This innovative buggy starts with a single pushchair but is then convertible into a double buggy travel system, taking the place of a second seat, carrycot or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it has lots of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.

Do you need a travel system?

Double buggies are a great way to transport your children safely. However, they are not necessary for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids you may be able to get by using a single stroller with certain attachments such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers that let you carry your child around on their backs or in front of you.

If you choose to purchase a double buggy there are three kinds to choose from: side by side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats positioned next to each other, so your children can see each one another. However, these are generally larger than a single pushchair and can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are compact that has one seat in the front and a back seat. However, they can be heavy and lengthy to push.

Convertible double stroller sale buggies are great because they let you convert 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 is able to climb to the buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent example - it can be used for twins as well as a toddler and an infant, or even three children with the optional PiggyBack Board.

As your children grow older and more mobile to walk, you can opt for a double buggy to take them on cycling trips or other day trips in which they prefer to walk. It's important to remember that your children might not always enjoy being in a stroller, and may be tired and irritable during longer trips.

Before you purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's specific circumstances. A reliable and sturdy double buggy will make life easier, especially when you have to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded malls.