Buying a
Double Buggy From BirthWhen choosing the perfect double buggy, there are plenty of things to take into consideration. 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 can grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and can tackle uneven terrain easily.
What kind of buggy do you prefer?
A double buggy is great for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also serve as prams. Each seat comes with an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can sit or lie down in different positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight that folds easily and are compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking that the buggy's maneuverability with the folded wheels and to take in and out of your boot.
The most popular type of double buggy is the side-by-side that you've likely seen on other moms' pushchairs or even rode in as a child. They're great for twins or older siblings who want to keep up with you. They also come in a variety of seating configurations, including 'cinema seats'. They are generally easy to control, and if opt for a model with a soft suspension, they are able to effortlessly handle the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are another popular option because they're more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is placed behind the first and not on top. They're typically larger than a side-by-side, and can be bulky when folded, so 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 a baby or three children by 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 are more expensive than tandem buggies and side-by-side buggies, but they offer plenty of flexibility and a very high selling price. They are easy to steer and come with large storage bins. They also have the ability to handle uneven surfaces. Some even have built-in ride-on boards and "cinema seating" for your child's older.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the best method to transport your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggy: side-by-side buggies in which your children are seated in a row, side-by-side and tandem buggies in which one child is higher than the other. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in width to allow for access through doors. Tandems are generally wider overall. They can also accommodate both seats for toddlers and a carrycot.
Do you have a baby?
At beginning, having a younger sibling may seem like a lot of responsibility, especially if you're caring for the baby. A double buggy can also allow them to feel included if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It can aid your child in settling into their new role of a 'big sister or brother'.
Side-by-side double buggies are often considered the best option for twins since they allow both children to enjoy the same view, however they can be bulky and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc which has an innovative frame that expands in width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides different configuration options, including the second seat being used as baby carrier or a bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and like to explore. This buggy is clever and can start as a single pushchair but can be converted into a double, which can include an additional seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it features many thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.
Do you require a traveling system?
Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children in comfort. However, they are not necessary for every family. You may be able get by with just one stroller with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow your child and you to be able to travel on their backs, or in front.
If you choose to purchase a double buggy there are three types to pick from: side-by-side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats close to each other, which means your children can see each other. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair and can be difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option that has one seat in the front and a second one at the back. However they can be heavy and lengthy to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to transform one stroller into a double buggy by attaching an infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your newborn snuggled up 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, a baby and toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can also be used to accompany them on bike rides or other day trips where they might prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that your children might not always be comfortable in a stroller, and may be tired and irritable during longer trips.
Before you decide to invest in a double stroller from the beginning make sure you consider the above factors and the particular circumstances of your family. Having a solid and reliable double
twin umbrella stroller will simplify life, especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.