Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of things to take into consideration when choosing the perfect double buggy from the moment of birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her suggestions on everything from seating options and age groups to folding mechanisms and storage.

This buggy is an essential item for active families. It will grow with you and your family, from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and is able to tackle uneven terrain with ease.

What style of buggy do you want?

Double buggys are perfect for transporting up to two children at once, even if they are not of the same age. They can also serve as prams and come with recline mechanisms in each seat, so your children can lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light that folds easily and are compact enough to fit in your car's boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking that the buggy's ease of use with the wheels folded and also to get in and out of your car boot.

You may have seen this kind of double buggy on other mothers twin strollers for newborns, or even in one as a child. They're ideal for twins who are older or who want to keep pace with you. They also come in various seating options and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. These are usually easy to control, and if opt for a model with a soft suspension, they will effortlessly handle kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by sides, are also very popular. The second seat is located behind the first, rather than on the top. The seats are usually larger and heavier than a side by side, so you should check whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and a baby 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 generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of versatility and a good resale value. They are easy to steer and come with an ample storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

Whether your children are twins or siblings of different age groups, a double buggie is the best way to transport them around. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies where one child is seated over the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in size to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.

Do you have one?

Having a younger sibling can feel like a big responsibility initially, particularly when you have to tend to the baby. They might also feel left out when they are in an infant carrier while you push the older sibling to the side and so having a smallest double buggy buggy right from the beginning will make life simpler. It will also help your child settle into their new role of a 'big sister or brother'.

Side-by-side double buggies are often considered the best option for twins as they let both children enjoy the same view, but they can be bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with a unique frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options including using the second seat for an infant bassinet.

If you prefer, we suggest alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This innovative buggy is a single-twin pushchair that can be converted into double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it comes with a variety of thoughtful features to keep everyone comfortable.

Do you require a traveling system?

Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children in a comfortable way. However they aren't necessary for every family. You might be able to use one twin umbrella stroller and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler straps that allow you and your child to travel on their backs or in the front.

If you decide to go with a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. The two seats are positioned side-by-side, so your children will be able to see each other. However, they tend to be wider than a single pushchair, and can be difficult to maneuver between kerbs. Tandem buggies are an easier way to travel with one seat in the front and a second in the rear, however they can be still quite heavy and long to push.

Convertible double pushchair buggies allow you to convert a single stroller into a double buggy by securing the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until he/she is ready to step to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is an excellent example of this - it's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.

As your children grow older and more mobile and able, you can get a double buggy to take them on bike rides or day excursions where they might prefer walking. However, it's worth remembering that they may not always want to be in a buggy, and they could easily be tired and disgruntled on longer outings.

Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller can simplify your life particularly if you have to navigate through busy streets or crowded shopping centres.