Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy from the moment of birth. 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.
A must-have investment for active families This buggy can 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 do want?
Double buggys are great for transporting two children at the same time, even if they are not the same age. They can be used as prams and come with the ability to recline in each seat, so your children can sit or lie down in different positions. Many have ample storage for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They're usually lightweight, fold easily, and compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you drive a great amount, it's essential to make sure that the buggy be easily maneuvered by folding the wheels into your car boot and removed.
You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other mums strollers, or even in one as a child. They are ideal for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have numerous seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your children to choose from. These are usually easy to control, and if opt for a model with a soft suspension, they will effortlessly handle the kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by sides, are also popular. The second seat is placed behind the first and not on the top. The seats are typically larger and heavier 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 baby and toddler or three children with the addition of a buggy.
Lastly there are stokke double stroller -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 more expensive than tandem buggies or side-by-side buggies, but they offer plenty of flexibility and come with a premium cost of resale. They're generally easy to steer, come with an enormous storage basket and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema chairs'.
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 kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies, which have one child sitting over the other, and side-byside buggies. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in size to fit through doors. Tandems are typically larger overall. They can also accommodate both seats for toddlers and a carrycot.
Do you have a toddler?
At first having a younger sibling could seem like a lot of responsibility particularly if you're also caring for the baby. A double buggy may make it easier for children to feel included when you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also provide your child with an immense sense of pride when they get to be 'big brother or sister' and help them adjust to their new role.
Side-by-side buggies can be a good option for twins, as both children will have the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy that features an innovative frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also comes with a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat for the bassinet.
We also recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This nifty buggy is a single-pushchair which can be made a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that will keep everyone content.
Do you require an effective business travel system?
Double buggies can be an excellent way to transport your children in comfort. However they aren't required for every family. You may be able use a single stroller, with a few attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler straps that allow your child and you to travel on their backs or in the front.
If you do opt for 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 next to each other, meaning that your children will be able to see each other. They are wider than a single stroller and can be difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are small that has one seat in the front and a back seat. However they can be heavy and difficult to push.
Convertible double buggies are great because they allow you to convert your stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until he or is ready to step into the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example of this - it can be used for twins or a toddler, a baby or even three children using the optional PiggyBack Board.
If your children have grown older and have more endurance, a double buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or day trips where they might prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they may not desire to be in a buggy and could easily get tired and angry when they are on longer excursions.
Before you invest in a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable double stroller will simplify your life especially if you need to travel through busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.