Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

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

A must-have purchase for active families, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight with great maneuverability and is able to handle uneven terrain with ease.

What style of buggy do want?

Double buggys are perfect for transporting up to two children at a time even if they're not the same age. They can also serve as prams, and they have a reclining mechanism within each seat, allowing your children can lie down in different positions. They also come with plenty of storage for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. Often they're lightweight, fold easily and small enough to fit into your car boot. If you drive a great amount, it's essential to ensure that the buggy can be easily maneuvered by folding the wheels into your car boot and removed.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-by-side that you've probably seen on other mums' pushchairs or even rode in as a child. They are perfect for older siblings or twins who want to keep up with you. They are also available in various seating options such as 'cinema seats'. They are usually simple to navigate, and if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, they are able to easily navigate kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by sides, are also popular. The second seat is placed behind the first rather than on top. They're typically larger than a side-by-side, and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's essential to make sure they be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and an infant or three children with 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're generally more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and have a great resale value. They are easy to steer and have large storage bins. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema seats'.

Do you have twins?

Double Seat Stroller buggys are the most efficient method to transport your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, which have one child sitting above 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 are typically wider overall. They can also accommodate both an infant seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a child?

Having a younger sibling can be a big responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the infant. A double buggy can allow them to feel included if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also give your child a sense of pride as they become a 'big brother or sister' and help them settle into their role.

Side-by-side double buggies are often considered to be the best choice for twins because they let both children enjoy the same view, however they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a streamlined double buggy with a unique frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also provides a variety of configuration options, including the second seat as the bassinet.

Alternatively, we recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This clever buggy is a single twin pushchair from birth that can be converted into a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with a variety of thoughtful features to keep everyone happy.

Do you require an effective travel system for your business?

Double buggies are a great way to transport your children safely. However they aren't required for every family. Depending on your lifestyle and the age gap between your children you might be able to get by using a single stroller with some attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses which allow you to transport your child on their back or in front of you.

If you choose to purchase a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. The two seats are positioned in a row, so that your children can see each other. They are wider than a single stroller and can be difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies offer an alternative that is smaller, with one seat in the front and a second in the rear, but they are still long and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to transform a single stroller into a double buggy side by side buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your baby comfortably in their car seat until they're ready to move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example - it can be used with twins as well as a toddler and an infant, or even three children using 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 trips where they might prefer to walk. But, it's important to remember that they might not always want to be in a buggy and could easily become disgruntled and tired when they are on longer excursions.

Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, take into consideration the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A sturdy and reliable double stroller will make life much easier, especially if you need to navigate busy streets or bustling shopping centres.