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.

A must-have for active families This buggy can grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and can tackle difficult terrain with ease.

What kind of buggy do you want?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting two children at a time even if they're not the same age. They can also function as prams. Each seat is equipped with an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can lie down or sit in different positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. Often they're lightweight, fold up easily and are small enough to fit into your car boot. If you drive a great amount, you should check that the buggy can be easily maneuvered by folding the wheels into your car boot, and then removed.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-byside, which you've probably seen on other mothers' pushchairs or even rode in as a kid. They are ideal for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have numerous seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your toddlers to choose from. They're usually easy to drive and, if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, make light work of kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. This is because the second seat is placed behind the first, rather than over it. They're usually larger than a side-by-side, and can be bulky when folded, which is why it's essential to make sure they fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and three children, with the addition of a buggy board.

Lastly there are the'single-to-double stroller for tall parents' convertibles which can be used as a single twin pushchair from birth from birth then convert to a double buggy that converts to single by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies but provide plenty of versatility and a good resale value. They're generally simple to steer, feature an enormous storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema seats'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the ideal method to transport your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary kinds of double buggy - side-by-side buggies in which your children are seated in a row, side-by-side and tandem buggies in which one baby is above the other. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot as well as a toddler seat.

Do you have a baby?

A younger sibling can feel like quite an overwhelming responsibility initially, particularly when you need to be attentive to the baby. A double buggy can also allow them to feel included if you place them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It will also provide your child with a sense of pride as they are able to be 'big brother or sister' and help them adjust to their new role.

Side-by-side double infant stroller buggies are often considered the best option for twins since they allow both children to enjoy the same view, however they can be heavy and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc that features an innovative frame that opens the width to accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options, including the second seat being used as a bassinet or infant carrier.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who love to explore. This nifty buggy is a single pushchair that can be converted into a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that will keep everyone content.

Do you need a travel system?

Double buggies are ideal for transporting your children around in comfort but they're not a necessary purchase for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids you might be able to do using a single stroller with some attachments like baby carriers and toddler harnesses that allow you to ferry your child on their back or in front of you.

If you decide to go with a double infant stroller buggy there are three types to pick from: side-by-side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats near each other, meaning that your children will be able to see each one another. They are wider than a single stroller, and can be difficult to maneuver over kerbs. Tandem buggies are an easier way to travel with a single seat in the front and a second in the rear, but they can be still quite long and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to transform a single stroller into a double buggy by securing the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your infant snuggled comfortably in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main 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 kids with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.

As your children grow older and more mobile, you can use double buggys to accompany them on bicycle rides or for day trips in which they prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that your children might not always enjoy being in a stroller and could be tired and irritable during longer trips.

Before you decide to invest in a double stroller from the beginning, take some time to take a look at the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller will make life much easier particularly if you have to navigate busy streets or bustling shopping centres.