Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are many things to take into consideration. 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 a must-have for active families. It will grow with you and your family, from twins to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle difficult terrain with ease.
What type of buggy would you prefer?
Double buggys are ideal for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not of the same age. They can also function 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. They're usually lightweight, fold easily, and small enough to fit in your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking the buggy is easy to manoeuvre using the folded wheels, as well as to get it out and back into your boot.
The most common type of double buggy is the side-byside, which you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs or even ridden in as a kid. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins and typically have numerous seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your children to choose from. They are usually simple to steer, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they will effortlessly handle the kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by sides, are also popular. The second seat is positioned behind the first and not on the top. They're typically larger than a side-by-side, and can be bulky when folded, which is why 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 and 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 or tandem buggies but offer lots of flexibility and a high resale value. They are easy to steer and feature large storage bins. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema seats'.
Do you have twins?
If your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggie is the best option to transport them around. There are two primary types of double buggy - side-by-side buggies where your children sit side by side and tandem buggies in which one child is placed above the other. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, but side-byside buggies tend to be narrower in width to allow for access through doors. Tandems tend to be more spacious overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.
Do you have one?
A younger sibling can be a big responsibility initially, particularly when you have to tend to the baby. They may also feel left out if they are placed in an infant carrier while you push the older one to the side and so having a double buggy from the start will make life simpler. It can also give your child the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they are able to be "big brother or sister" and help them adjust to their new role.
twin pushchair from birth -by-side double buggies can be a good option for twins, since each child will get the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc that features an innovative frame that expands the width to accommodate two fixed seats and offers various configuration options, such as using the second seat as baby carrier or a bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are keen to explore. This innovative buggy starts with a single pushchair and it can then be converted into a double, which can include an additional seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it includes a number of thoughtful features to keep everyone 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 necessary for every family. Depending 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 toddler harnesses and baby carriers which allow you to transport your child on their backs or in front of you.
If you do opt for a double buggy there are three kinds to pick from: side-by-side as well as convertible. The two seats are set side-by-side, so your children can see each other. They are larger than a single stroller, and can be difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies offer a more compact alternative, with a single seat in the front and another in the rear, but they can be still quite long and heavy to push.
Convertible double buggies permit you to transform a single 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/she she is ready to move into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example - it can be used with twins, a toddler and one or more children using the option of a PiggyBack Board.
When your children get older and more able, you can use double buggys to accompany them to cycling trips or other day trips in which they prefer walking. However, it's worth remembering that they may not prefer to ride in a buggy, and they could easily become disgruntled and tired on longer outings.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, take into consideration the above factors and your family's unique situation. A solid and reliable double stroller can simplify life particularly if you have to navigate busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.