Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are plenty of things to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy right 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 a must-have for active families. It will grow with you and your family from toddlers to twins. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and can tackle difficult terrain with ease.
What type of buggy do you prefer?
A double buggy is perfect for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can also be used as prams. Each seat comes with an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can lie down or sit in different positions. They also come with plenty of storage for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight, fold up easily and are compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's important to make sure the buggy's ease of use with the wheels folded as well as to get it out and back into your car boot.
The most popular type of double buggy is the side-by-side that you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. They are perfect for older siblings or twins who want to keep up with you. They are also available in various seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. These are usually easy to steer, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they can easily handle kerbs.
Tandem buggies are another popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. The second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on top. They're generally bigger than a side-byside and can be bulky when folded, which is why it's crucial to ensure they be able to pass through doors and public transport. double pushchair can be used to transport twins, a toddler, a baby or three children by 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're generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of versatility and a good price for resales. They are easy to steer and feature an ample storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema seats'.
Do you have twins?
If your children are twins or siblings of different age groups, a double buggie is the best option to move them around. There are two main kinds of double buggy - side-by-side buggies in which your children sit side by side or tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems are typically more spacious overall. They can also accommodate both a toddler seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a toddler?
Having a younger sibling can be a big responsibility initially, particularly when you have to tend to the infant. They may be a bit irritated if they are placed in a baby carrier as you push the older one ahead and so having a double buggy from the start can make everything easier. It can also provide your child with the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they become a 'big brother or sister' and help them get used to their role.
Side-by-side double buggies are often considered the best option for twins since they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with a unique frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also offers different configuration options such as using the second seat as a bassinet.
We also recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This clever buggy can start off as a single pushchair but can be converted into a double, which can include the place of a second 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 clever features that will ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require an effective business travel system?
double pram pushchair are an ideal way to move your children in comfort. However they aren't required for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids you may be able to make do with just 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 kinds of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats positioned near each other, meaning that your children will be able to see each one another. They are wider than a single stroller, and can be difficult to navigate around the kerbs. Tandem buggies provide a more compact alternative, with a seat in the front and a second in the rear, but they can be still quite heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to convert a single stroller into a double buggy by securing the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until she is ready to move to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic example of this. It's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three kids with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.
Once your children are older and have more stamina, a double buggy can also be used to accompany them on bike rides or other day trips where they might prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that your children may not always be comfortable in a stroller and could be tired and irritable on longer outings.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's specific circumstances. A reliable and sturdy double buggy can make life easier, especially when you need to navigate through busy streets or crowded malls.