Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are plenty of aspects 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.

This buggy is a must-have for active families. It will grow with your family from toddlers to twins. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle uneven terrain easily.

What type of buggy would you prefer?

A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can be used as prams and come with a reclining mechanism in each seat, so your children can lay down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They're typically lightweight, fold easily and small enough to fit into your car boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking that the buggy's ease of use using the folded wheels, and also to get out and back into your car boot.

The most common type of double buggy is the side-byside one, which you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins. They usually have many seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your toddlers to choose from. These are usually easy to navigate, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they will easily navigate kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by-sides, are also popular. This is because the second seat sits behind the first instead of sitting on top of it. The seats are generally wider and bulkier than a side by side and you must ensure whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, an infant 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 twin pushchair from birth 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 and tandem buggies but offer lots of flexibility and have a great resale value. They're generally easy to steer, come with an enormous storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as "cinema seating" for your child's older.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the best double stroller travel double stroller (visit the next web page) way to transport your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two main types of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children are seated together, and tandem double stroller buggies where one child is placed above the other. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in size to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also be able to accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.

Do you have one?

At first the idea of having a younger sibling could seem like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, particularly if you're also taking care of the baby. A double buggy can make it easier for children to feel included when you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also give your child an immense sense of pride when they become a "big brother or sister" and help them adjust to their new role.

Side-by-side buggies can be a good option for twins, since both children will share the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. We love the streamlined B-AGILE double stroller with bassinet by Leclerc which has an innovative frame that expands in width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides different configuration options, including using the second seat as a bassinet or infant carrier.

If you prefer, we suggest an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This buggy is clever and can start as an individual pushchair, but can be converted into a double by adding a second seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and comes with a variety of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.

Do you require an effective business travel system?

Double buggies are ideal for transporting your children around in comfort, but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You might be able to make do with one stroller and some attachments such as baby straps and toddler carriers that permit you and your child to travel on their backs or in front.

If you do opt for a double buggy there are three types to pick from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. The two seats are placed parallel to each other, so your children can be able to see each other. These buggies are wider than a single stroller, and can be difficult to navigate around kerbs. Tandem buggies are compact double stroller, with one seat in the front and another at the back. However they can be heavy and difficult to push.

Convertible double buggies are wonderful because they let you convert your stroller to an additional buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. This will allow you to keep your baby in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example - it can be used for twins, a toddler and one or more children using the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children become older and more mobile, you can use double buggys to accompany them to bicycle rides or for day trips where they might prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that they might not always desire to be in a buggy, and they could easily be tired and disgruntled when they are on longer excursions.

Before you decide to invest in a double stroller from the beginning make sure you take a look at the above factors and the particular circumstances of your family. A sturdy and reliable double buggy can make your life easier, especially when you need to navigate busy streets or busy malls.