Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are plenty of things to take into consideration when choosing the ideal double buggy right from the moment 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 for families with active children This buggy can grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It is light, has great maneuverability and is able to handle uneven terrain easily.
What type of buggy do you prefer?
Double buggys are great for transporting two children at once even if they're not the same age. They can also function as prams. Each seat has an adjustable mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in various positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light that folds easily and are compact enough to fit in your car's boot. If you travel a lot deal, it's important to make sure that the buggy be easily pushed around with the wheels folded in your car boot, and then removed.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side by side one, which you've probably seen on other mums' pushchairs or even rode in as a child. They're ideal for twins or older siblings who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in a variety of seating configurations such as 'cinema seats'. They are generally easy to navigate, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they will effortlessly handle the kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by sides, are also popular. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first one, rather than over it. The seats are generally 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 to transport twins, a toddler and an infant or three children with the addition of an additional 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 or tandem buggies but offer lots of versatility and a good resale value. They are easy to steer and come with an ample storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema seats'.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the most efficient way to transport your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary kinds of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children sit side by side or tandem buggies where one baby is above the other. Both buggies can accommodate two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seat.
Do you have a baby?
Being a parent to a child can feel like an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you need to be attentive to the infant. They may be feeling a little secluded if they are placed in a baby carrier as you push the older one along and so having a double buggy from birth will make life easier. It will also give your child 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 double buggies are usually considered to be the best choice for twins as they let both children enjoy the same view, however they can be hefty and heavy. We love the streamlined B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc with its innovative frame that expands widthways to take two seats fixed. It also offers various configuration options, including the second seat being used as a bassinet or infant carrier.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and like to explore. This innovative buggy starts with a single pushchair but is then convertible into a double, which can include a second seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with many thoughtful features that are sure to ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require an automated system of travel for your business?
sit n stand double stroller are great for transporting your children around in comfort, but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You could make do with a single stroller, with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow you and your child to be able to travel on their backs, or in the front.
If double to single buggy choose to purchase a double buggy, there are three types to choose from: side by side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats near each other, meaning that your children will be able to see each other. However, they are generally larger than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver between kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option, with one seat at the front and a back seat. However, they can be heavy and lengthy to push.
Convertible double buggies are wonderful as they allow you to transform your stroller to double buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. You can keep your child in the car seat until is able to climb into the buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent example of this - it can be used for twins as well as a toddler and a baby or even three children with the optional PiggyBack Board.
As your children grow older and more capable to walk, you can opt for a double buggy to take them on bike rides or day excursions where they might prefer to walk. It's important to remember that your children may not always like to be in a stroller and might become tired and disgruntled on longer outings.
Before you invest in a double stroller, take into consideration the factors above and your family's unique circumstances. A solid and reliable double stroller will simplify your life, especially if you need to navigate busy streets or bustling shopping centres.