Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are many things to take into consideration when choosing the perfect double buggy from the moment of birth. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her suggestions on everything from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.

This buggy is a must-have for active families. It grows with you and your family from toddlers to twins. It is light, has great maneuverability and is able to handle uneven terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do you prefer?

Double buggys are perfect for transporting up to two children at the same time even if they're not the same age. They can be used as prams and have the ability to recline in each seat so your children can lie down in various positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage space to store everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight, fold easily, and compact enough to fit into your car boot. If you drive a lot it's important to make sure the buggy's ease of use with the wheels folded and to take in and out of your boot.

You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other moms twin strollers for newborns, or even in one as a child. They are ideal for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have numerous seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your toddlers to choose from. They are generally easy to steer, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they will easily handle the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are also a popular choice as they're typically easier to turn than a side-by-side. The second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on the top. They're generally wider than a side-by-side and can be a bit bulky when folded, so it's important to check they'll fit through doors and 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 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 are generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies but offer lots of versatility and a good price for resales. They are easy to steer and have large storage bins. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings with different ages, a double buggy is the best way to move them around. There are two primary types of double buggy - side-by-side buggies in which your children sit in a row, side-by-side, and tandem buggies where one child is placed above the other. Both buggies are able to accommodate two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to be able to pass through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seat.

Do you have a baby?

At beginning, having a younger sibling could feel like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you're caring for the baby. They might be feeling a little secluded when they are in a baby carrier as you push the older one to the side and so having a double buggy from birth will make life easier. It can also give your child an immense sense of pride when they become a "big brother or sister" and help them get used to their role.

Side-by-side double buggies are usually considered the best twin stroller option for twins as they allow both children to enjoy the same view, however they can be heavy and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc which has an innovative frame that opens the width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, such as the second seat being used as a bassinet or infant carrier.

We also recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This clever buggy can start as a single pushchair and is then convertible into a double by adding the place of a second seat, carrycot or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and includes a number of thoughtful features to keep everyone happy.

Do you need a travel system?

Double buggies can be a great 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 do using a single stroller with some attachments, such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers that allow you to ferry your child on their back or in front of you.

There are three kinds of double buggies: tandem side-by-side, and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats positioned next to each other, meaning that your children will be able to see each other. They are larger than a single stroller, and may be difficult to navigate through the kerbs. Tandem buggies offer a more compact alternative, with a seat in the front and a second in the rear, however they are still long and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to transform one stroller into double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your newborn snuggled up comfortably in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic example of this. It's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.

If your children have grown older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or day excursions where they prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they might not always prefer to ride in a buggy, and they could easily become disgruntled and tired on longer outings.

So, before you make the decision to buy a double buggy at the time of birth be sure to consider the above factors and the specific circumstances of your family. A solid and reliable double stroller will simplify your life especially if you need to travel through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.