Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are many factors to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy from the time 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.
A must-have investment for active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle uneven terrain easily.
What style of buggy do want?
A double buggy is great for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can also serve as prams and come with recline mechanisms within each seat, allowing your children can sit or lie down in different positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight they fold easily and are compact enough to fit into the car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking that the buggy's maneuverability with the wheels folded as well as to get it in and out of your boot.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-by-side one, which you've probably seen on other mothers' pushchairs or even rode in as a child yourself. They are perfect for older siblings or twins who want to keep up with you. They are also available in various seating options, including 'cinema seats'. They're generally easy to drive and, if you go for a model with a soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are a popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first, instead of on top of it. They're usually bigger than a side-byside and can be bulky when folded, which is why it's crucial to ensure they fit through doors and on 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 are more expensive than tandem buggies or side-by-side buggies, however they provide plenty of flexibility and come with a premium resale price. They are easy to steer and feature large storage bins. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema seats'.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the most efficient method to transport your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies which have one child sitting 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 typically wider overall. They can also accommodate both a toddler seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a child?
At first, having a younger sibling can seem like a lot of responsibility particularly if you're also taking care of the baby. They may be feeling a little secluded if they are placed in a baby carrier while you push the older one to the side and so having a double buggy from the start will make life simpler. It will also provide your child with a sense of pride as they become a "big brother or sister" and help them adjust to their role.
Side-by-side double buggies are usually considered the best option for twins since they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with an innovative frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also provides a variety of configuration options, including the second seat to create the bassinet.
cheap double pushchair pushchairsandprams.uk recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who like to explore. This innovative buggy starts as a single pushchair and is then convertible into a double, which can include an additional seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has lots of thoughtful features to ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require a business travel system?
Double buggies are a great way to transport your children in a comfortable way. However, they are not necessary for every family. You could use one stroller, and some attachments such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow your child and you to ride on their backs or in front.
There are three types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side, and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats that are next to each other, meaning that your children can see each one another. However, they are typically larger than a single pushchair and can be difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies provide a more compact alternative, with a single seat in the front and another 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 securing a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This way, you can keep your newborn snuggled up safely in their car seat until they're ready to move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is an excellent example of this - it's suitable for twins or a toddler and baby or even three children with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children become older and more able, you can use a double buggy to take them on cycling trips or other day trips where they may prefer walking. It is important to keep in mind that your kids may not always be comfortable in a stroller and could become tired and disgruntled when they are on longer excursions.
Before you purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's specific circumstances. A sturdy and reliable double stroller can make life much easier, especially if you need to navigate busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.