Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are many things to consider. 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.

A must-have investment for active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and can handle difficult terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do you prefer?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting two children at the same time, even if they are not the same age. They can also serve as prams. Each seat is equipped with a reclining mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight, fold easily and are best compact double stroller enough to fit in the car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's important to make sure the buggy's maneuverability using the folded wheels, and to take out and into your car boot.

You may have seen this type of double buggy on other mums strollers double strollers, or even in one as a child. They are perfect for twins who are older or who want to keep up with you. They also come in various seating configurations such as 'cinema seats'. They are usually simple to control, and if select a model that has a soft suspension, they will easily handle the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular option since they're more maneuverable than a side-by-side. This is because the second seat is placed behind the first, instead of over it. The seats are usually bigger and bulkier than a side by side, so you should check whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and three children by the addition of an extra 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 generally more expensive than side by sides or Double stroller tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and have a great return on investment. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the best travel double stroller way to transport your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies where one child is seated above the other, and side-byside buggies. Both buggies can be fitted with two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems are typically larger overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seat.

Do you have a toddler?

Having a younger sibling can feel like an enormous responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the infant. A double buggy may help them to feel a sense of belonging if 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 role.

The side-by-side double buggies could be a great choice for twins, as both children will share the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a streamlined double buggy with a unique frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also offers different configuration options such as using the second seat to create an infant bassinet.

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

Do you require a traveling system?

Double buggies are ideal for bringing your kids around in comfort, but they're not essential for every family. Depending on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids you may be able to make do using a single stroller with some attachments like baby carriers and toddler harnesses that let you carry your child on their back or in front of you.

There are three types of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side and convertible. The two seats are placed side-by-side, so your children will be able to be able to see each other. However, these are generally larger than a single pushchair and can be tricky to maneuver between kerbs. Tandem buggies provide a more compact alternative, with one seat in the front and another in the rear, but they are still large and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies are fantastic because they allow you to convert your stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant bassinet or 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 Vista V2 is an excellent example of this - it's suitable for twins or a toddler and baby or even three children with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.

As your children grow older and more capable and able, you can get double buggys to accompany them to bicycle rides or for day trips where they might prefer to walk. But, it's important to remember that they may not prefer to ride in a buggy, and they could easily become disgruntled and tired on longer outings.

Before you invest in a double stroller, think about the factors mentioned above and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable double buggy will make life simpler, especially when you are required to navigate busy streets or crowded malls.