Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When you are deciding on the perfect 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 and age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.
This buggy is essential for active families. It grows with you and your family, from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and can handle difficult terrain with ease.
What kind of buggy do you want?
Double buggys are great for transporting two children at the same time even if they're not of the same age. They can also function as prams. Each seat is equipped with a reclining mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in different positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They're typically lightweight, fold easily and compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's important to make sure the buggy's ease of use with the wheels folded and to take out and back into your boot.
The most popular type of double buggy is the side-by-side, which you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. They are ideal for older siblings who wish to keep up with you, or for twins. They typically come with many seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your toddlers to pick from. These are usually easy to control, and if choose a model with a soft suspension, they can easily navigate kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by-sides are also very popular. The second seat is placed behind the first rather than on the 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 fit through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, an infant or three children with the addition of a 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 and side-by-side buggies, however they provide the flexibility of a single buggie and a very high resale price. They are easy to steer and feature large storage bins. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some even have a built-in ride-on board and "cinema seating" for your older child.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the best method of transporting your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child is seated over the other, and side-byside buggies. Both buggies can accommodate two seats fixed. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate both an infant seat and a carrycot.
Do you have children?
At beginning the idea of having a younger sibling may feel like a lot of responsibility, especially if you're taking care of the baby. They may be feeling a little secluded when they are in a baby carrier while you push the older one to the side, so having a double buggy right from the beginning will make life simpler. It will also help your child get into their new role as a 'big sister or brother'.
Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered the best option for twins because they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be hefty and heavy. We love the streamlined B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc with its innovative frame that expands the width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, including the second seat being used as baby carrier or a bassinet.
If you prefer, we suggest an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This innovative buggy is a single-pushchair which can be made a double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that will ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require a business travel system?
Double buggies can be an ideal way to move your children in a comfortable way. However, they are not necessary for every family. You might be able to get by with just a single stroller, with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow your child and you to ride on their backs or in the front.
If double pushchair sale decide to go with a double buggy there are three kinds to choose from: side-by-side as well as convertible. The two seats are placed parallel to each other, so your children will be able to be able to see each other. However, they are generally larger than a single pushchair and can be tricky to maneuver between kerbs. Tandem buggies are a more compact alternative, with one seat in the front and one in the rear, however they are still long and heavy to push.
Convertible double buggies permit you to convert a single stroller into a double buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your baby in the car seat until is able to climb up into the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great illustration - it could be used for twins, a toddler and a baby or even three children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.
Once your children are older and have more stamina, a double buggy can be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day excursions where they prefer walking. It is important to keep in mind that your kids may not always enjoy being in a stroller and could be tired and irritable on longer outings.
Before best twin buggy invest in a double stroller, consider the factors above and your family's specific circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller can simplify your life particularly if you have to navigate busy streets or crowded shopping centres.