Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are many 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.
This buggy is essential for active families. It will grow with you and your family from toddlers to twins. It's lightweight with great maneuverability and is able to handle uneven terrain with ease.
What kind of buggy do you want?
Double buggys are perfect for transporting up to two children at once, even if they are not the same age. They can also function as prams. Each seat has a reclining mechanism so that 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 are usually light that folds easily and are compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you drive a great amount, it's essential to check that the buggy can be easily moved with the folded wheels in your car boot and removed.
The most well-known 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 yourself. They're ideal for twins or older siblings who want to keep pace with you. They also come in a variety of seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They are generally easy to navigate, and if you select a model that has a soft suspension, they are able to easily handle the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular option because they're more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first rather than on top. The seats are usually bigger and bulkier than a traditional side by side and you must ensure that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and a baby or three children with the addition of a buggy.
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. double tandem pushchair tend to be more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and have a great return on investment. They are easy to steer and feature an ample storage basket. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.
Do you have twins?
Whether your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggie is the best way to move them around. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child sits over the other, and side-byside buggies. tandem double stroller will accommodate 2 fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower in width to allow for access through doors. Tandems are typically more spacious overall. They can also accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a child?
At beginning, having a younger sibling could feel like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you're caring for the infant. A double buggy can also help them to feel included if you put them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also give your child the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they get to be "big brother or sister" and help them adjust to their new role.
Side-by-side double buggies are often considered to be the best choice for twins as they allow both children to have the same view, however they can be hefty and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc with its innovative frame that can be expanded in width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, such as using the second seat as an infant carrier or bassinet.
Alternatively, we recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This clever buggy is a single pushchair that can be converted into double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it features many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone content.
Do you require an automated business travel system?
Double buggies are an excellent way to transport your children safely. However they aren't required for every family. You may be able make do with one stroller and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that allow you and your child to travel on their backs or in the front.
If you choose to purchase a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side by side, tandem and convertible. The two seats are set parallel to each other, so your children can see each other. However, they are generally larger than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies provide an alternative that is smaller, with a seat in the front and one in the rear, but they can be still quite large and heavy to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to transform a single stroller into double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your baby in the car seat until he/she is ready to step up into the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great illustration - it could be used with twins as well as a toddler and an infant, or even three children using the option of a PiggyBack Board.
Once your children are 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 kids may not always enjoy being in a stroller and might get tired and angry on longer outings.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique situation. A solid and reliable double stroller can simplify your life, especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.