Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are plenty of things to take into consideration. 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 an essential item for active families. It will grow with your family from toddlers to twins. It's lightweight with great maneuverability and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.

What type of buggy would you prefer?

A double buggy is great for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can also serve as prams. Each seat is equipped with an adjustable mechanism so that your children can lie down or sit in different positions. They also come with plenty of storage for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light, fold easily, and small enough to fit in your car's boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking the buggy is easy to manoeuvre using the folded wheels, and to take out and back into your boot.

You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other mothers' strollers or even ridden in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have many seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your little ones to choose from. These are usually easy to control, and if opt for a model with a soft suspension, they can effortlessly handle the kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by-sides, are also very popular. The second seat is located behind the first and not on top. The seats are typically bigger and bulkier than a traditional side by side however, so make sure whether they are able to pass through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and a baby or three children by the addition of an additional 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 are more expensive than tandem buggies or side-byside buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and come with a premium cost of resale. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with built-in ride-on boards and 'cinema seating' for your child's older.

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 kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies which have one child sitting over the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both buggies can accommodate two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.

Do you have a child?

At first the idea of having a younger sibling can feel like a lot of responsibility, particularly if you're also taking care of the baby. They might also feel left out when they are in an infant carrier while you push the older one along and so having a best compact double stroller buggy from birth can make everything simpler. It will also give your child the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they are able to be 'big brother or sister' and help them get used to their new role.

The side-by-side by side double stroller double buggies could be a good option for twins since both children will share the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc with its innovative frame that expands the width to accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers various configuration options, such as using the second seat as an infant carrier or bassinet.

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

Do you need a travel system?

Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children in comfort. However, they are not necessary for every family. You might be able to use one stroller and some attachments such as baby carriers and toddler straps that allow you and your child to travel on their backs or in front.

If you do opt for a double stroller with car seat buggy there are three types to choose from: side by side as well as convertible. The two seats are placed parallel to each other, so your children can see one another. They are wider than a single stroller and aren't easy to maneuver through kerbs. Tandem buggies provide an easier way to travel with a single seat in the front and a second in the rear, however they are still large and heavy to push.

Convertible Double buggy converts To single buggies are fantastic because they allow you to convert your stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. This allows you to keep your newborn snuggled up in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example - it can be used for twins as well as a toddler and a baby or even three children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.

When your children get older and more able and able, you can get a double buggy to take them to cycling trips or other day trips in which they prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that your kids may not always be comfortable in a stroller and might be tired and irritable during longer trips.

Before you decide to invest in a double buggy at the time of birth make sure you take a look at the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A sturdy and reliable double stroller will simplify life, especially if you need to navigate busy streets or crowded shopping centres.