Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are plenty of things to take into consideration when choosing the perfect double buggy from the time 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.
This buggy is essential for active families. It will grow with you and your family, from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and can handle uneven terrain with ease.
What style of buggy do want?
Double buggys are perfect for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not the same age. They can also be used as prams. Each seat comes with an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can lie down or sit in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light that folds easily and are compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you drive a great amount, you should make sure that the buggy be easily moved by folding the wheels into your car boot and removed.
The most popular type of double buggy is the side by side that you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. They're great for twins who are older or who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in various seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They're usually pretty easy to drive and, if you opt for a model with soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of kerbs.
Tandem buggies are another popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. The second seat is positioned behind the first and not on the top. They're usually bigger than a side-byside and can be heavy when folded, so it's essential to make sure they fit through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and a baby or three children 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 are generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies but offer lots of flexibility and have a great resale value. They are easy to steer and have a large storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some even have built-in ride-on boards and 'cinema seating' for your older child.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the ideal method to transport your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two main kinds of double buggy - side-by-side buggies in which your children sit together and tandem buggies in which one child is placed above the other. Both buggies can accommodate two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be wider overall. They can also accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.
Do you have a baby?
Having a younger sibling can feel like quite an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you have to tend to the infant. They may be feeling a little secluded when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older one along and having a double buggy right from the beginning can make everything easier. It can also give your child the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they are able to be "big brother or sister" and help them settle into their role.
Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered to be the best choice for twins because they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be heavy and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc that features an innovative frame that expands the width to accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers various configuration options, including using the second seat as an infant carrier or bassinet.
Alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This clever buggy is a single pushchair which can be made double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain and has lots of thoughtful features to ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require an effective system of travel for your business?
Double buggies can be an ideal way to move your children in comfort. However, they are not necessary for every family. Depending on your lifestyle and the age gap between your children you might be able to do with a single stroller and some attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that let you carry your child on their back or in front of you.
If you choose to purchase a double buggy there are three kinds to choose from: side by side, tandem and convertible. The two seats are placed in a row, so that your children will be able to see each other. However, these are generally larger than a single pushchair and can be difficult to maneuver between kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option, with one seat in the front and another at the back. However, double tandem pushchair can be heavy and difficult to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to transform one stroller into double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until he or is able to climb up into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great example of this - it's suitable for twins or a toddler and baby or even three children with the addition of 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 excursions where they prefer walking. It's important to remember that your children may not always be comfortable in a stroller and could be tired and irritable on longer outings.
Before you make the decision to buy a double buggy at the time of birth, take some time to think about the above points and the particular circumstances of your family. Having a solid and reliable double stroller can make life much easier especially if you need to navigate busy streets or crowded shopping centres.