Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting the perfect double buggy from birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her advice on everything ranging from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.

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

What kind of buggy would you prefer?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting up to two children at a time even if they’re 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 different positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage space to store everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They’re typically lightweight, easy to fold and are small enough to fit into your car boot. If you’re someone who drives a lot, it’s worth checking that the buggy’s ease of use with the folded wheels as well as to get it out and back into your car boot.

You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other mothers strollers, or even in one as a kid. double pram stroller are great for older siblings that want to keep up with you or for twins. They usually have numerous seating options (including ‘cinema’ seats) for your toddlers to pick from. They’re usually pretty easy to drive and, if you opt for a model with soft suspension, make light work of kerbs.

Tandem buggies are another popular choice as they’re typically more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is placed behind the first and not on top. They’re generally bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it’s important to check they’ll be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, a baby or three children, with the addition of an additional 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 and tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of versatility and a good resale value. They are easy to steer and have a large storage basket. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some even have built-in ride-on boards and ‘cinema seating’ for your older child.

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 types of double buggies: tandem buggies where one child is seated over the other, and side-byside buggies. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seats.

Do you have a baby?

A younger sibling can feel like quite a big responsibility at first, especially when you need to be attentive to the infant. They might be a bit irritated when they are in an infant carrier while you push the older sibling ahead, so having a double buggy from the start can make everything easier. It can also help your child settle into their new role as a ‘big brother or sister’.

Side-by-side double buggies are often considered the best option for twins as 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 that features an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also comes with a variety of configuration options including using the second seat for an infant bassinet.

Alternatively, we recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This buggy is clever and can start as a single pushchair but it can then be converted into a double, taking an additional seat, carrycot or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it features numerous thoughtful features that will ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you require a travel system?

Double buggies can be an excellent way to transport your children safely. However, they are not necessary for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids you may be able to do using a single stroller with certain attachments such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that let you carry your child on their back or in front of you.

If you choose to purchase a double buggy, there are three types to pick from: side-by-side, tandem and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats that are close to each other, so your children will be able to see each one another. They are wider than a single stroller and can be difficult to navigate over the kerbs. Tandem buggies are an alternative that is smaller, with a single seat in the front and another in the rear, however they are still large and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to transform one stroller into a double buggy by attaching an infant car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your baby in the car seat until he or she is ready to move up into the buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent illustration – it could be used with twins as well as a toddler and an infant, or even three children using the optional PiggyBack Board.

As your children grow older and more capable and able, you can get a double buggy to take them to cycling trips or other day trips where they might prefer to walk. It’s important to keep in mind that they might not always want to be in a buggy and could easily become disgruntled and tired when they are on longer excursions.

Before you invest in a double stroller, take into consideration the factors above and your family’s unique situation. A durable and reliable double buggy can make life simpler, especially when you have to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded malls.