Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When choosing the perfect double buggy, there are a lot of things to consider. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her advice on everything ranging from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.
A must-have investment for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can handle uneven terrain easily.
What kind of buggy do you want?
A double buggy is ideal for transporting two kids, not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can be used as prams and have a reclining mechanism in each seat, so your children can sit or lie down in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. Often they're lightweight, easy to fold and are small enough to fit into your car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's worth checking the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the wheels folded and to take in and out of your car boot.
You might have seen this type of double buggy on other moms strollers or even in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have many seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your children to pick from. They're generally easy to steer and, if you opt for a model with soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular option because 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 typically bigger and bulkier 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 or a toddler and baby or three children 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 provide plenty of versatility and a good price for resales. They're generally easy to steer, have large storage bins and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema seats'.
Do double pram and pushchair have twins?
Whether your children are twins or siblings of different ages, a double buggy is the best way to transport them around. There are two types of double buggy: side-by-side buggies in which your children sit together or tandem buggies where one child is placed above the other. 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 overall. They can also accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.
Do you have one?
Having a younger sibling can be an enormous responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the infant. They might also feel left out when they are in an infant carrier while you push the older sibling ahead, so having a double buggy from birth can make things easier. It can also help your child settle into their new role as a 'big sister or brother'.
The side-by-side double buggies can be a great option for twins, as both children will share the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy that features an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also comes with a variety of configuration options, including the second seat as a bassinet.
Alternatively, we recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This buggy is clever and can start off as a single pushchair but is then convertible into a double, taking a second seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it includes a number of thoughtful features to keep everyone happy.
Do you need a travel system?
Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children safely. However, they are not necessary for every family. Depending on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids you might be able to get by with just a single stroller and some attachments, such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers which allow you to transport your child on their back or in front of you.
If you choose to purchase a double buggy, there are three types to choose from: side-by-side, tandem and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats positioned close to each other, so your children will be able to see each other. However, they are typically larger than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option, with one seat in the front and another at the back. However, they can be heavy and lengthy to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to convert one stroller into a double buggy by securing 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 to the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example - it can be used with twins as well as a toddler and a baby or even three children using the option of a PiggyBack Board.
When your children are older and have more stamina, a double buggy can also be used to accompany them on bike rides or day trips where they'd prefer walking. However, it's worth remembering that they may not desire to be in a buggy and can easily be tired and disgruntled when they are on longer excursions.
So, before you decide to invest in a double buggy from birth make sure you think about the above points and the particular circumstances of your family. A sturdy and reliable double stroller can make life much easier, especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.