Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are plenty of things to take into consideration. 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.

This buggy is a must-have for active families. It will grow with you and your family from toddlers to twins. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and can handle uneven terrain easily.

What kind of buggy do want?

Double buggys are great for transporting two children at the same time even if they're not the same age. They can also serve as prams. Each seat comes with an adjustable mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They're typically lightweight, easy to fold and 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 using the folded wheels, as well as to get it out and back into your boot.

You might have seen this type of double buggy on other mothers' strollers or even ridden in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins. They typically come with numerous seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your children to choose from. They are generally easy to control, and if select a model that has a soft suspension, they can effortlessly handle the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are another popular option since they're more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first rather than on the top. The seats are usually bigger and bulkier than a traditional side by side and you must ensure whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and a baby or three children, with the addition of an extra buggy board.

Lastly there are the'single-to-double' convertibles which can be used as a single twin 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, but they offer plenty of flexibility and a very high resale price. They are easy to steer and have a large storage basket. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as 'cinema seating' for your child's older.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the best way to transport your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary types of double buggy: side-by-side buggies where your children are seated in a row, side-by-side and tandem buggies in which one baby is above the other. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies tend to be narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate both seats for toddlers and a carrycot.

Do you have a toddler?

At beginning, having a younger sibling could feel like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you're taking care of the baby. They may be a bit irritated if they are placed in an infant carrier while you push the older one along and so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make everything simpler. It will also help your child settle into their new role as big brother or sister'.

Side-by-side Double pushchairs with adjustable handle buggies are usually considered to be the best choice for twins as they let both children 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 including using the second seat for the bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and love to explore. This nifty buggy is a single-pushchair that can be transformed into a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone content.

Do you require an effective system of travel for your business?

Double buggies can be an excellent way to transport your children in a comfortable way. However they aren't required for every family. You may be able make do with a single stroller, with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that permit you and your child to ride on their backs or in front.

If you do opt for a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side by side, tandem and convertible. The two seats are set in a row, so that your children will be able to be able to see each other. However, these tend to be wider than a single pushchair, and can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies provide a more compact alternative, with one seat in the front and another in the rear, however they can still be large and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies are great as they allow you to transform your stroller into double buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until she is ready to move into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great example of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three children with the the optional PiggyBack board.

As your children grow older and more mobile and able, you can get double buggys to accompany them on bicycle rides or for day trips in which they prefer walking. It is important to keep in mind that your children might not always like to be in a stroller and could become tired and disgruntled during longer trips.

So, before you make the decision to buy a double buggy from birth be sure to consider the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. Having a solid and reliable double stroller will simplify life especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.