Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are plenty of things to consider when selecting the perfect double buggy from the moment of 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.
A must-have investment for active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It is lightweight, has great maneuverability and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.
What type of buggy would you prefer?
Double buggys are great for transporting two children at the same time, even if they are not of the same age. They can also be used as prams. Each seat has a reclining mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in various positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They are often lightweight they fold easily and are compact enough to fit into your car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's important to make sure the buggy's maneuverability using the folded wheels, and also to get out and into your boot.
You may have seen this kind of double buggy on other mothers strollers, or even in one as a kid. They are perfect for twins who are older or who want to keep up with you. They are also available in a variety of seating configurations such as 'cinema seats'. These are usually easy to navigate, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they will easily handle kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by-sides, are also very popular. This is due to the fact that the second seat sits behind the first rather than over it. The seats are usually wider and bulkier than a side-by-side, so you should check whether they are able to pass through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and an infant 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 are generally more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem buggies but offer lots of flexibility and a high price for resales. They're generally easy to steer, come with a huge storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some even have an integrated ride-on board that can be used as cinema seating for your child's older.
Do you have twins?
If your children are twins or siblings with different ages, a double buggy is the best way to transport them around. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child sits over the other, and side by side buggies. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower in size to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also be able to accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.
Do you have children?
double pushchair can feel like quite an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you have to tend to the infant. A double buggy can allow children to feel included when you place them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It can aid your child in settling into their new role as a 'big sister or brother'.
Side-by-side double buggies are often considered the best option for twins because they allow both children to have the same view, however they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a streamlined double buggy that features an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also provides a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat as the bassinet.
We also recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This innovative buggy is a single-pushchair that can be transformed into double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with numerous thoughtful features that will ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require an effective business travel system?
Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children safely. However they aren't necessary for every family. You may be able use a single stroller, and some attachments such as baby straps and toddler carriers that permit your child and you to travel on their backs or in front.
There are three types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side, and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats close to each other, so your children will be able see each one another. However, these tend to be wider than a single pushchair, and can be tricky to maneuver between kerbs. Tandem buggies are small with a seat in the front and a second one at the back. However they can be heavy and lengthy to push.
Convertible double buggies are great as they allow you to transform your stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. You can keep your child in the car seat until he/she is able to climb up into the buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent illustration - it could be used for twins or a toddler, a baby or even three children with the optional PiggyBack Board.
When your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can also be used to accompany them on bike rides or day excursions where they prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that your children might not always be comfortable in a stroller and could be tired and irritable during longer trips.
So, before you decide to purchase a double stroller from the beginning make sure you consider the above factors and the particular circumstances of your family. Having a solid and reliable double stroller will make life much easier especially if you need to navigate busy streets or bustling shopping centres.