Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are many things to consider when selecting the perfect double buggy from birth. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.
A must-have investment for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle uneven terrain with ease.
What read what he said of buggy do you want?
Double buggys are ideal for transporting two children at once even if they're not the same age. They can also be used as prams. Each seat comes with a reclining mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in various positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. Often they're lightweight, easy to fold and are compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's important to make sure the buggy's maneuverability using the folded wheels, as well as to get it in and out of your car boot.
The most popular type of double buggy is the side by side, which you've probably seen on other mothers' pushchairs or even rode in as a child. They're ideal for twins who are older or who want to keep up with you. They also come in various seating options such as 'cinema seats'. They are generally easy to navigate, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they will easily handle the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular option since they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. double buggy for twins is positioned behind the first rather than on top. They're usually larger than a side-by-side, and can be heavy when folded, which is why it's important to check they'll fit through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, an infant or three children with the addition 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 tend to be more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and have a great price for resales. They are easy to steer and have an ample storage basket. They also have the ability to handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema chairs'.
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 types of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children are seated side by side, and tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both buggies are able to accommodate two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to fit through doors. Tandems are typically wider overall. They can also accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a child?
At beginning the idea of having a younger sibling could seem like a lot of responsibility particularly if you're also caring for the baby. They may be a bit irritated when they are in a baby carrier while you push the older sibling along and so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make things easier. It will also provide your child with an immense sense of pride when they get to be 'big brother or sister' and help them settle into their role.
The side-by-side double 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 sleek double buggy with an innovative frame that expands in width and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also offers different configuration options, including the second seat to create an infant bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who like to explore. This innovative buggy is a single pushchair which can be made a double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it includes a number of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.
Do you need a travel system?
Double buggies can be an ideal way to move your children safely. However they aren't necessary for every family. You may be able use a single stroller, and some attachments such as baby carriers and toddler straps that allow your child and you to travel on their backs or in front.
If you choose to purchase a double buggy, there are three types to choose from: side by side or tandem, and convertible. The two seats are positioned side-by-side, so your children will be able to see each other. However, these tend to be wider than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are an easier way to travel with a seat in the front and a second in the rear, however they can still be large and heavy to push.
Convertible double buggies permit you to transform a single stroller into a double buggy by securing an infant car seat to the frame. This will allow you to keep your baby comfortably in their car seat until they're ready to move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby V2 is a good example of this - it can be used for twins, a toddler and one or more children with the optional PiggyBack Board.
As your children grow older and more capable, you can use a double buggy to take them to cycling trips or other day trips where they might prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that they may not always desire to be in a buggy and could easily be tired and disgruntled during longer trips.
Before you make the decision to buy a double buggy from birth be sure to take a look at the above factors and the particular circumstances of your family. A solid and reliable double stroller can make life much easier especially if you need to navigate busy streets or crowded shopping centres.