Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When choosing the perfect double buggy, there are a lot of aspects to consider. We spoke to Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options, age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

A must-have purchase for families with active children This buggy can grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and is able to tackle uneven terrain easily.

What kind of buggy would you prefer?

A double buggy is perfect for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can be used as prams, and they have recline mechanisms in each seat so your children can lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space to store everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light that folds easily and are small enough to fit in your car boot. If you travel a significant amount, you should ensure that the buggy can be easily moved by folding the wheels into your car boot, and then removed.

You might have seen this type of double buggy on other moms strollers, or even in one as a child. They are ideal for older siblings who wish to keep up with you or for twins. They typically come with a large number of seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your toddlers to pick from. These are usually easy to steer, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they are able to easily navigate kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by sides, are also popular. This is because the second seat sits behind the first, instead of over it. They're generally bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's crucial to ensure they be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a baby and toddler or three kids with the inclusion of a buggy board.

Lastly there are the'single-to-double' convertibles which can be used as a single and double stroller 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 they offer a lot of flexibility and have a great resale value. They're generally easy to steer, come with a huge storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings of different ages, a double buggy is the best twin buggy option to transport them around. There are two types of sit n stand double stroller buggy: side-by-side buggies in which your children are seated side by side and tandem buggies in which one baby is above the other. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower in width to allow for access through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.

Do you have a child?

Being a parent to a child can be a big responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the baby. They may be a bit irritated when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older sibling along and having a double buggy from birth will make life simpler. It can also give your child a sense of pride as they are able to be 'big brother or sister' and help them settle into their role.

The side-by-side double buggies can be a great choice for twins, as both children will share the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy that features an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also comes with a variety of configuration options, including the second seat to create a bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are keen to explore. This innovative buggy starts as a single pushchair but it can then be converted into a double, taking a second seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain and has lots of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.

Do you require a system of travel for your business?

Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children in comfort. However they aren't necessary for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your children, you may be able to do using a single stroller with some 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 choose to purchase a double buggy, there are three types to pick from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats positioned close to each other, which means your children will be able see each one another. They are wider than a single stroller, and may be difficult to navigate around the kerbs. Tandem buggies are small, with one seat at the front and a second one at the back. However they can be quite heavy and lengthy to push.

Convertible double buggies are wonderful because they let you convert your single stroller into double buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your baby in the car seat until he or she is ready to move into the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great illustration - it could be used for twins or a toddler, one or more children using the option of a 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 other day excursions where they prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that they may not desire to be in a buggy and can easily be tired and disgruntled when they are on longer excursions.

Before you purchase a lightest double stroller stroller, think about the above factors and your family's unique circumstances. Having a solid and reliable double stroller will make life much easier particularly if you have to navigate through busy streets or crowded shopping centres.