Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are a lot of things to consider. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her tips on everything from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.
A must-have for families with active children This buggy can grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight, has great maneuverability and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.
What kind of buggy would you prefer?
Double buggys are great for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not the same age. They can also serve as prams. Each seat comes with an adjustable mechanism so that your children can lie down or sit in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light they fold easily and are small enough to fit in the car boot. If you drive a great amount, you should make sure that the buggy be easily moved with the wheels folded in your boot and taken out.
The most common type of double buggy is the side-by-side one, which you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs or even ridden in as a child. They are ideal for older siblings who wish to keep up with you or for twins. They typically come with a large number of seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your children to choose from. They are usually simple to steer, and if you select a model that has a soft suspension, they will effortlessly handle kerbs.
Tandem buggies are another popular option because they're easier to turn than side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first rather than on the top. They're usually larger than a side-by-side, and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's important to check they'll be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and an infant or three children, with the addition of an extra 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're more expensive than tandem buggies or side-by-side buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and come with a premium resale price. They're generally simple to steer, feature a huge storage basket and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some even have built-in ride-on boards and cinema seating for your child's older.
Do you have twins?
Whether your children are twins or siblings with different ages, a double buggy is the best option to move them around. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies which have one child sitting above the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in width for getting through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.
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 may allow children to feel included when you put them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It can also help your child get into their new role of big brother or sister'.
Side-by-side double buggies are often considered to be the best choice for twins since they allow both children to have the same view, however they can be hefty and heavy. We love the streamlined B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc which has an innovative frame that can be expanded the width to accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options, including the second seat being used as an infant carrier or bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who love to explore. This clever buggy is a single-pushchair which can be made double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it features many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone content.
Do lightweight twin stroller require a travel system?
Double buggies can be a great way to transport your children safely. However they aren't required for every family. You might be able to use one stroller, and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that permit you and your child to travel on their backs or in front.
If you do opt for a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. lightweight twin stroller -by-side buggies have the two seats that are near each other, which means your children can 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 a seat at the front and a back seat. However, they can be heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies permit you to convert a single stroller into a double buggy by securing the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until she is ready to move to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic example of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children get older and more mobile, you can use double buggys to accompany them on bike rides or day excursions in which they prefer to walk. It is important to keep in mind that your children might not always like to be in a stroller and might become tired and disgruntled on longer outings.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable double buggy can make your life easier, especially when you need to navigate busy streets or overcrowded malls.