Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are many aspects to consider. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her tips on everything from seating options and age groups to folding mechanisms and storage.
A must-have for active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It is lightweight, has great maneuverability and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.
What kind of buggy would you prefer?
Double buggys are great for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not of the same age. They can also function as prams. Each seat has an adjustable mechanism so that your children can lie down or sit in various positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They are often lightweight they fold easily and are compact enough to fit in your car's boot. If you drive a great deal, it's important to check that the buggy can be easily moved by folding the wheels into your car boot, and then removed.
double pram and pushchair of double buggy is the side-byside one, which you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins and typically have many seating configurations (including "cinema" seats) for your little ones to choose from. They are usually simple to navigate, and if you select a model that has a soft suspension, they can effortlessly handle the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first and not on the top. The seats are typically bigger and bulkier than a side-by-side, so you should check that they will 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 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 or side-byside buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and come with a premium selling price. They're generally simple to steer, feature an enormous storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema chairs'.
Do you have twins?
If your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggy is the best way to transport them around. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies where one child is seated above the other, and side-byside buggies. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies are typically narrower in size to fit through doors. Tandems are typically larger overall. They can also be able to accommodate an infant seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a baby?
At beginning having a younger sibling can feel like a lot of responsibility, particularly if you're also caring for the baby. A double buggy can help them to feel a sense of belonging if you put them in an infant carrier and push the older child. 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 adjust to their new role.
Side-by-side double buggies are usually considered the best option for twins as they allow both children to have the same view, but they can be bulky and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc with its innovative frame that can be expanded the width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides different configuration options, including the second seat being used as a bassinet or infant carrier.
If you prefer, we suggest an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This buggy is clever and can start with an individual pushchair, but it can then be converted into a double, which can include a second seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it has lots of thoughtful features to keep everyone comfortable.
Do you require an automated system of travel for your business?
Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children safely. However they aren't required for every family. You could use one stroller, and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that permit your child and you to be able to travel on their backs, or in the front.
If you do opt for a double buggy, there are three types to choose from: side-by-side, tandem and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats positioned near each other, so your children will be able see each other. They are larger than a single stroller, and may be difficult to maneuver around the kerbs. Tandem buggies are a more compact alternative, with one seat in the front and another in the rear, but they can be still quite large and heavy to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to convert one stroller into double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your child in the car seat until is ready to step to the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example - it can be used for twins as well as a toddler and an infant, or even three children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.
When your children are older and have more stamina, a double buggy can also be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day trips where they'd prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they may not prefer to ride in a buggy, and they could easily get tired and angry on longer outings.
Before you invest in a double stroller, take into consideration the above factors and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable double buggy can make your life simpler, especially when you are required to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded malls.