Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. 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.

This buggy is a must-have for active families. It grows with your family from toddlers to twins. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and is able to tackle uneven terrain easily.

What kind of buggy would you like?

A double buggy is ideal for transporting two kids, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also be used as prams. Each seat is equipped with a reclining mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight that folds easily and are compact enough to fit into your car boot. If you travel a lot amount, you should check that the buggy can be easily moved with the wheels folded in your boot and taken out.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-by-side that you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs or even ridden in as a child yourself. They are perfect for twins who are older or who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in various seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They are usually simple to steer, and if you select a model that has a soft suspension, they are able to easily handle kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by-sides are also popular. This is because the second seat sits behind the first, instead of over it. They're typically bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, so it's essential to make sure they be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and a 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 best double stroller by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They are generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and have a great resale value. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the ideal method of transporting your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of Stokke Double Stroller buggy - side-by-side buggies where your children are seated together or tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be wider overall. They can also be able to accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.

Do you have one?

At first having a younger sibling can seem like a lot of responsibility especially if you're caring for the baby. They may also feel left out when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older sibling along and so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make everything easier. It can also give your child an immense sense of pride when they are able to be 'big brother or sister' and help them settle into their new role.

The side-by-side double pushchair buggies could be a great option for twins, since both children will have the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. We love the streamlined B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc with its innovative frame that opens the width to accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options, including using the second seat as an infant carrier or bassinet.

If you prefer, we suggest the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This innovative buggy starts as a single pushchair but is then convertible into a double, which can include an additional seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.

Do you need a travel system?

Double buggies can be an excellent way to transport your children in comfort. However they aren't required for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your children, you may be able to make do with just a single stroller and some attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses which allow you to transport your child on their back or in front of you.

There are three kinds of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side, and convertible. The two seats are placed side-by-side, so your children will be able to see one another. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair and are difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are an easier way to travel with one seat in the front and one in the rear, however they can still be large and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to transform one twin stroller side by side into a double buggy by securing an infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your infant snuggled safely in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The Uppababy V2 is an excellent example - it can be used with twins or a toddler, a baby or even three children using the optional PiggyBack Board.

As your children grow older and more capable, you can use double buggys to accompany them on bike rides or day excursions where they might prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that they may not always want to be in a buggy and could easily get tired and angry when they are on longer excursions.

Before you make the decision to buy a double buggy at the time of birth make sure you think about the above points and the specific circumstances of your family. A durable and reliable double buggy will make life easier, particularly when you are required to navigate busy streets or overcrowded malls.