Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are many things to take into consideration when choosing the ideal double buggy right from the moment of birth. We spoke to Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

A must-have for families with active children This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and can handle difficult terrain with ease.

What kind of buggy would you like?

A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can also be used as prams, and they have the ability to recline in each seat so your children can sit or lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light, fold easily, and small enough to fit in your car boot. If you travel a significant amount, it's essential to make sure that the buggy be easily maneuvered by folding the wheels into your boot and taken out.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side by side, which you've probably seen on other mums' pushchairs or even rode in as a child. They are perfect for twins or older siblings who want to keep up with you. They are also available in a variety of seating configurations, including 'cinema seats'. They're generally easy to drive and, if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, you can make light work of kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular choice as they're typically easier to turn than side-by-side. This is because the second seat sits behind the first instead of over it. The seats are typically wider and bulkier than a side-by-side however, so make sure whether they are able to pass through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, an infant or three children by the addition of an extra 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 provide plenty of flexibility and a high return on investment. They're generally simple to steer, feature an enormous storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some even have a built-in ride-on board and cinema seating for your child's older.

Do you have twins?

best double strollers buggys are the most efficient method of transporting your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggy: side-by-side buggies in which your children are seated together or tandem buggies where one baby is above the other. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also accommodate both seats for toddlers and a carrycot.

Do you have a baby?

A younger sibling can feel like quite a big responsibility at first, especially when you have to tend to the baby. They might be a bit irritated when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older one to the side and so having a double buggy from the start can make things easier. It will also provide your child with an immense sense of pride when they are able to be "big brother or sister" and help them adjust to their role.

The side-by-side double buggies can be a good option for twins, as each child will get the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with a unique frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also comes with a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat to create an infant bassinet.

Alternatively, we recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This clever buggy can start off as an individual pushchair, but is then convertible into a double by adding the place of a second seat, carrycot or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone content.

Do you need a travel system?

cheap double buggy buggies are great for transporting your children around in comfort, but they're not a necessary purchase for every family. You could get by with just one stroller, and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that permit you and your child to travel on their backs or in the front.

There are three types of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side, and convertible. The two seats are positioned side-by-side, so your children can see one another. They are wider than a single stroller and can be difficult to maneuver through kerbs. Tandem buggies are an easier way to travel with a single and double stroller seat in the front and another in the rear, however they are still long and heavy to push.

Convertible double single pushchair buggies are fantastic because they allow you to convert your stroller to an additional buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your baby comfortably in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent illustration - it could be used for twins, a toddler and a baby or even three children with the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children get older and more able and able, you can get double buggys to accompany them on cycling trips or other day trips where they may prefer to walk. But, it's important to remember that they might not always desire to be in a buggy, and they could easily get tired and angry during longer trips.

Before you invest in a double stroller, take into consideration the factors mentioned above and your family's unique circumstances. A solid and reliable double stroller will simplify your life, especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.