Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When choosing the perfect double buggy, there are many things to take into consideration. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.
A must-have purchase for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and can tackle uneven terrain easily.
What kind of buggy do you want?
Double buggys are perfect for transporting two children at the same time, even if they are not of the same age. They can also be used as prams. Each seat has an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can lie down or sit in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They are often lightweight, fold easily, and compact enough to fit into your car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's worth checking that the buggy's maneuverability using the folded wheels, and also to get out and into your car boot.
You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other moms strollers or even in one as a kid. They are ideal for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins. They typically come with many seating configurations (including "cinema" seats) for your children to pick from. They're generally easy to steer and, if you opt for a model with soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by-sides, are also popular. This is due to the fact that the second seat is placed behind the first one, instead of on top of it. The seats are typically wider and bulkier than a side by side, so you should check that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and 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 or tandem buggies but offer lots of versatility and a good resale value. They are easy to steer and come with large storage bins. They also have the ability to handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the ideal method of transporting your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies where one child is seated above the other, and side-byside buggies. Both buggies can accommodate two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also accommodate both an infant seat and a carrycot.
Do you have one?
At first the idea of having a younger sibling may seem like a lot of responsibility, especially if you're taking care of the baby. A double buggy can make it easier for children to feel included when you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also provide your child with an immense sense of pride when 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 as they let both children enjoy the same view, but they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy that features an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also provides a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat as an infant bassinet.
If you prefer, we suggest the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This clever buggy is a single-pushchair that can be transformed into double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.
Do you require a travel system?
Double buggies are great for transporting your children around in comfort, but they're not a necessary purchase for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids, you may be able to get by with a single stroller and certain attachments such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that allow you to ferry your child around on their backs or in front of you.
There are three types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats that are close to each other, meaning that your children will be able to see each one another. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are a more compact alternative, with a seat in the front and a second in the rear, but they are still long and heavy to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to transform a single stroller into double buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This way, you can keep your newborn snuggled up in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. Going At this website is a great example of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three children with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.
If your children have grown older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day excursions where they prefer to walk. It is important to keep in mind that your children might not always be comfortable in a stroller, and may get tired and angry when they are on longer excursions.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller , consider the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A sturdy and reliable double buggy will make life easier, especially when you have to navigate through busy streets or crowded malls.