Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of things to consider when selecting 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 and age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

A must-have purchase for families with active children This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It is light with great maneuverability and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.

What kind of buggy would you prefer?

A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can be used as prams and come with the ability to recline in each seat so your children can sit or lay down in various positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light, fold easily, and compact enough to fit in the 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 then removed.

The most compact double stroller common type of double buggy is the side by side, which you've probably seen on other mums' pushchairs or even rode in as a child yourself. These are great for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins. They typically come with numerous seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your children to pick from. They are usually simple to control, and if select a model that has a soft suspension, they can effortlessly handle kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular choice as they're typically more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first rather than on the top. They're generally larger than a side-by-side, and can be bulky when folded, so it's essential to make sure they fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a baby and toddler or three kids with the addition of a buggy.

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 or tandem buggies but offer lots of flexibility and have a great price for resales. They are easy to steer and have large storage bins. They also have the ability to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with a built-in ride-on board and cinema seating for your child's older.

Do you have twins?

Whether your children are twins or siblings with different ages, a double buggy is the best option to move them around. There are two main types of Double Stroller For 3 Year Old buggy: side-by-side buggies in which your children are seated together or tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies are typically narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems are typically wider overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seats.

Do you have a toddler?

A younger sibling can feel like quite an overwhelming responsibility initially, particularly when you must tend to the baby. They might be a bit irritated if they are placed in an infant carrier while you push the older one to the side and having a double buggy right from the beginning can make everything easier. It can also help your child get into their new role of a 'big sister or brother'.

Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered to be the best choice for twins since they allow both children to have the same view, but they can be hefty and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc that features an innovative frame that can be expanded widthways to take two fixed seats and offers various configuration options, such as the second seat being used as an infant carrier or bassinet.

We also recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This buggy is clever and can start as a single pushchair and is then convertible into a double by adding 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 features many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone happy.

Do you require an automated travel system for your business?

Double buggies can be a great way to transport your children safely. However, they are not necessary for every family. Depending on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids you may be able to get by with a single stroller and certain attachments such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that let you carry your child around on their back or in front of you.

If you decide to go with a double buggy there are three kinds to choose from: side by side, tandem and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats positioned next to each other, meaning that your children will be able see each other. They are larger than a single stroller, and can be difficult to navigate through kerbs. Tandem buggies are small, with one seat at the front and another at the back. However, they can be heavy and lengthy to push.

Convertible double buggies are wonderful because they let you convert your single stroller into an additional buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. This way, you can keep your newborn snuggled up safely in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent example of this - it can be used for twins, a toddler and an infant, or even three children using the optional PiggyBack Board.

As your children grow older and more mobile to walk, you can opt for a double buggy to take them to bicycle rides or for day trips in which they prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that your children might not always be comfortable in a stroller and might be tired and irritable during longer trips.

Before you purchase a double stroller, take into consideration the above factors and your family's unique situation. A solid and reliable double stroller can simplify life, especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or crowded shopping centres.