Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting the perfect double buggy from the moment of birth. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options and age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

This buggy is an essential item for active families. It will grow with your family, from twins to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle uneven terrain easily.

What type of buggy do you want?

A double buggy is great for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can also serve as prams and come with the ability to recline in each seat so your children can lie down in various positions. They also come with plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light they fold easily and are compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking that the buggy's maneuverability using the folded wheels, and to take out and back into your car boot.

You may have seen this kind of double buggy on other mums strollers, or even in one as a child. They are ideal for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins. They usually have a large number of seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your children to choose from. These are usually easy to steer, and if you choose a model with a soft suspension, they can effortlessly handle kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by-sides, are also popular. The second seat is placed behind the first, rather than on top. The seats are generally larger and heavier than a side by side however, so make sure whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and baby or three kids with the inclusion of a buggy board.

Lastly there are the'single-to-double pram stroller (Going at articlescad.com)' 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 are more expensive than tandem buggies or side-byside buggies, but they offer plenty of flexibility and a very high resale price. They're generally easy to steer, come with an enormous storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as cinema seating for your older child.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings of different ages, a double buggy is the most efficient way to transport them around. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child sits above the other, and side by side buggies. Both buggies are able to accommodate two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be larger overall. They can also accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.

Do you have a toddler?

Having a younger sibling can be an overwhelming responsibility initially, particularly when you must tend to the baby. A double buggy can make it easier for them to feel a sense of belonging if you place them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It will 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 buggies could be a great choice for twins, since both children will share the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE small double stroller from Leclerc which has an innovative frame that expands the width to accommodate two fixed seats and offers various configuration options, such as using the second seat as a bassinet or infant carrier.

If you prefer, we suggest an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This innovative buggy is a single-pushchair which can be made a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it features many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone content.

Do you need a travel system?

Double buggies can be a great way to transport your children in a comfortable way. However, they are not necessary for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your kids you may be able to get by with just a single stroller and certain attachments such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers that let you carry your child on their back or in front of you.

There are three different types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. The two seats are set side-by-side, so your children will be able to see one another. However, they tend to be wider than a single twin pushchair, and can be difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are a more compact alternative, with a seat in the front and a second in the rear, however they can still be large and heavy to push.

Convertible sit n stand double stroller buggies are fantastic because they let you convert your stroller into an additional buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. This will allow you to keep your baby in their car seat until they're ready to move into the main buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example - it can be used with twins or a toddler, an infant, or even three children using the optional PiggyBack Board.

When your children get older and more capable, you can use a double buggy to take them on bicycle rides or for day trips in which they prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that your children may not always enjoy being in a stroller, and may get tired and angry when they are on longer excursions.

Before you decide to purchase a double buggy at the time of birth, take some time to take a look at the above factors and the particular circumstances of your family. Having a sturdy and reliable stokke double stroller stroller can simplify life, especially if you need to travel through busy streets or bustling shopping centres.