Nine Things That Your Parent Teach You About Double Buggy From Birth

Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are a lot of things 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.

A must-have investment for active families, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and can tackle uneven terrain with ease.

What kind of buggy do you prefer?

A double buggy is ideal for transporting two kids, not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can also serve as prams. Each seat has an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can sit or lie down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. Often they're lightweight, fold up easily and compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you travel a significant deal, it's important to make sure that the buggy be easily moved with the folded wheels in your car boot and removed.

You may have seen this type of Chicco OHlalà Twin Double Stroller: Lightweight Compact Versatile buggy on other mothers strollers, or even in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have a large number of seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your children to choose from. They're usually easy to steer and, if you go for a model with soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are another popular option since they're easier to turn than side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first rather than on the top. They're usually bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit 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, 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 tend to be more expensive than side by sides or tandem buggies but provide plenty of versatility and a good resale value. They're generally simple to steer, feature large storage bins and can handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as 'cinema seating' for your older child.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the most efficient way to transport your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary kinds 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-byside buggies are typically narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seats.

Do you have a baby?

Having a younger sibling can be a big responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the baby. They might also feel left out if they are placed in a baby carrier while you push the older one along and so having a double buggy from the start can make things simpler. 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 have the same view, however they can be bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with a unique frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also provides a variety of configuration options including using the second seat to create an infant bassinet.

We also recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This nifty buggy is a single pushchair that can be converted into double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain and it includes a number of thoughtful features to ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you require a traveling system?

Double buggies can be an ideal way to move your children in a comfortable way. However they aren't required for every family. You may be able use a single stroller, and some attachments such as baby carriers and toddler straps that allow your child and you to ride on their backs or in front.

If you choose to purchase a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side-by-side, tandem and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats that are close to each other, which means your children can see each other. However, these tend to be wider than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies offer a more compact alternative, with one seat in the front and another in the rear, but they are still large and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies are wonderful because they let you convert your single stroller into double buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. It is possible to keep your baby in the car seat until he or she is ready to move to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good illustration - it could be used with twins as well as a toddler and a baby or even three children with the option of a PiggyBack Board.

As your children grow older and more mobile, you can use double buggys to accompany them to bicycle rides or for day trips where they may prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they might not always desire to be in a buggy and could easily be tired and disgruntled during longer trips.

Before you decide to invest in a double buggy from birth, take some time to take a look at the above factors and the specific circumstances of your family. A sturdy and reliable double buggy can make your life easier, particularly when you have to navigate through busy streets or busy malls.