Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are a lot of aspects to consider. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her tips on everything from seating options and age groups to folding mechanisms and storage.
A must-have purchase for active families, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It is lightweight and movable, and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.
What kind of buggy do you prefer?
Double buggys are ideal for transporting up to two children at a time, even if they are not of the same age. They can be used as prams, and they have recline mechanisms within each seat, allowing your children can sit or lie down in various positions. They also come with plenty of storage space to store everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're typically lightweight, easy to fold and compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's worth checking the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the folded wheels and to take in and out of your boot.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-byside, which you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. They're ideal for twins or older siblings who want to keep up with you. They are also available in various seating options and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They're generally easy to steer and, if you opt for a model with soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by sides, are also very popular. The second seat is positioned behind the first rather than on the top. The seats are typically wider and bulkier than a side-by-side and you must ensure whether they are able to pass through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and 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. They tend to be more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem buggies but offer lots of flexibility and have a great price for resales. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some even have an integrated ride-on board that can be used as cinema seating for your older child.
Do you have twins?
double pram pushchair are the best method of transporting your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two main types of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children sit together, and tandem buggies where one baby is above the other. Both buggies can be fitted with two seats fixed. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seat.
Do you have a child?
A younger sibling can feel like an enormous responsibility initially, particularly when you have to tend to the infant. They might be a bit irritated when they are in a baby carrier while you push the older sibling along, so having a double buggy right from the beginning will make life easier. It can also provide your child with a sense of pride as they get to be "big brother or sister" and help them settle into their role.
Side-by-side buggies can be a great option for twins, as both children will have the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc which has an innovative frame that opens the width to accommodate two fixed seats and offers various configuration options, including the second seat being used as baby carrier or a bassinet.
If you prefer, we suggest the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This nifty buggy is a single pushchair which can be made double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it features numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.
Do you need a travel system?
Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children safely. However they aren't required for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your children you might be able to get by with just a single stroller and certain attachments such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that let you carry your child around on their backs or in front of you.
If you choose to purchase a double buggy there are three kinds to pick from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. The two seats are set side-by-side, so your children will be able to see one another. They are wider than a single stroller, and aren't easy to maneuver over kerbs. Tandem buggies are small that has one seat at the front and a back seat. However, they can be heavy and difficult to push.
Convertible double buggies are great as they allow you to transform your single stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant car seat or bassinet 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 Vista V2 is a great example of this - it's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.
As your children grow older and more mobile, you can use a double buggy to take them on bike rides or day excursions where they may prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they may not always desire to be in a buggy and could easily get tired and angry when they are on longer excursions.
Before you invest in a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's specific circumstances. A reliable and sturdy double buggy will make life easier, particularly when you are required to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded malls.