Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are a lot of things to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy right from the moment of birth. 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.
This buggy is essential for active families. It will grow with your family, from twins to toddlers. It is lightweight, has great maneuverability and is able to handle uneven terrain easily.
What type of buggy would you prefer?
A double buggy is great for transporting two children, 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 lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight, fold easily and are compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking that the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the wheels folded and also to get out and back into your car boot.
You might have seen this type of double buggy on other mothers strollers, or even in one as a kid. They're great for twins or older siblings who want to keep up with you. They also come in various seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They're usually pretty easy to drive and, if you decide to go for a model with soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by sides, are also very popular. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first instead of sitting over it. They're usually wider than a side-by-side and can be bulky when folded, so it's crucial to ensure they fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and baby 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 pushchair from birth then convert to a double by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're more expensive than tandem buggies or side-by-side buggies, however they provide plenty of flexibility and have a high selling price. They are easy to steer and feature a large storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema seats'.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the ideal method of transporting your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies which have one child sitting above the other, and side by side buggies. 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 or toddler seat.
Do you have a baby?
Having a younger sibling can be an overwhelming responsibility initially, particularly when you must tend to the infant. A double buggy can allow them to feel a sense of belonging if you put them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It can also give your child a sense of pride as they become a 'big brother or sister' and help them get used to their new role.
The side-by-side double buggies can be a great choice for twins since both children will have the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with an innovative frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options such as using the second seat for a bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to active families who are keen to explore. This innovative buggy starts off as an individual pushchair, but is then convertible into a double, taking 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 comes with a variety of clever features that will ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require a traveling system?
Double buggies can be a great way to transport your children in comfort. However they aren't required for every family. You may be able make do with one stroller, and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that permit you and your child to be able to travel on their backs, or in front.
There are three different types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side, and convertible. all terrain double stroller are set parallel to each other, so your children can see one another. They are larger than a single stroller, and can be difficult to navigate through the kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option, with one seat in the front and a second one at the back. However, they can be heavy and difficult to push.
Convertible double buggies are fantastic because they let you convert your stroller to double buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. It is possible to keep your baby in the car seat until he or is able to climb up into the buggy seat. double buggy with car seat is a great illustration of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler and baby or even three children with the the optional PiggyBack board.
Once your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or day trips where they'd prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that they may not prefer to ride in a buggy, and they could easily become disgruntled and tired on longer outings.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, take into consideration the factors above and your family's specific circumstances. Having a solid and reliable double stroller can simplify your life, especially if you need to navigate busy streets or crowded shopping centres.