Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her suggestions on everything from seating options and age groups to folding mechanisms and storage.
This buggy is an essential item for active families. It grows with you and your family, from twins to toddlers. It’s lightweight and movable, and can maneuver through uneven terrain easily.
What type of buggy do want?
A double buggy is great for transporting two kids, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also be used as prams. Each seat has a reclining mechanism so that your children can lie down or sit in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. Often they’re lightweight, easy to fold and compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you travel a significant deal, it’s important to check that the buggy can be easily moved by folding the wheels into your car boot, and then removed.
The most popular type of double buggy is the side by side, which you’ve probably seen on other mums pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. They are perfect for twins or older siblings who want to keep up with you. They are also available in various seating configurations and styles, including ‘cinema chairs’. They are generally easy to navigate, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they are able to easily navigate kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular option since they’re more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is placed behind the first, rather than on the top. The seats are usually larger and heavier than a side by side and you must ensure whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used for 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 pushchair from birth then convert to a double stroller with car seat by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They are generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies but offer lots of versatility and a good return on investment. They’re generally simple to steer, feature large storage bins and can handle uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on boards for older children and ‘cinema seats’.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the most efficient method of transporting your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child sits above the other, and side-byside buggies. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.
Do you have a toddler?
At first, having a younger sibling could seem like a lot of responsibility especially if you’re caring for the infant. They might also feel left out when they are in an infant carrier while you push the older one ahead and so having a double buggy from birth can make everything easier. It will also help your child get into their new role as a ‘big brother or sister’.
Side-by-side buggies can be a good option for twins, since both children will share the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with an innovative frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options, including the second seat for a bassinet.
Alternatively, we recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This clever buggy is a single-pushchair which can be made double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone happy.
Do you require an effective business travel system?
Double buggies are great for transporting your children around in comfort however they’re not a necessary purchase for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your children, you may be able to make do with just a single stroller and certain attachments such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers that allow you to ferry your child around on their backs or in front of you.
If you do opt for a double buggy, there are three types to pick from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. The two seats are placed side-by-side, so your children can be able to see each other. However, they tend to be wider than a single pushchair twin, and can be difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are an alternative that is smaller, with a single seat in the front and another in the rear, however they are still long and heavy to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to transform a single stroller into a double buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This way, you can keep your baby in their car seat until they’re ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example of this – it can be used for twins as well as a toddler and an infant, or even three children using the option of a PiggyBack Board.
When your children are older and have more endurance, a double buggy can be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day trips where they’d prefer to walk. But, it’s important to remember that they may not desire to be in a buggy and could easily get tired and angry during longer trips.
Before you decide to invest in a double buggy at the time of birth, take some time to think about the above points and your family’s specific circumstances. A sturdy and reliable double stroller can simplify life especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or crowded shopping centres.