The No. #1 Question That Everyone In Double Buggy From Birth Should Know How To Answer
Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are many factors to consider when selecting 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.
A must-have for active families This buggy can grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and can handle difficult terrain with ease.
What type of buggy do you want?
A double buggy is perfect for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also function as prams. Each seat comes with an adjustable mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in different positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. Often they're lightweight, easy to fold and are compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you travel a significant amount, you should check that the buggy can be easily maneuvered with the folded wheels in your boot and taken out.
You might have seen this type of double buggy on other mums strollers, or even in one as a child. They are ideal for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins. They typically come with numerous seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your little ones to pick from. They're generally easy to steer and, if you decide to go for a model with soft suspension, make light work of kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular choice as they're typically more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first, rather than on top. The seats are usually 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, a toddler and 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 pushchair from birth then convert to a double by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're generally more expensive than side by sides or tandem buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and have a great price for resales. They are easy to steer and come with a large storage basket. They also have the ability 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?
Double buggys are the best method of transporting your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary types of double buggy - side-by-side buggies in which your children sit in a row, side-by-side or tandem buggies where one child is placed above the other. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in size to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.
Do you have a baby?
At first having a younger sibling may feel like a lot of responsibility especially if you're caring for the infant. A double buggy can also make it easier for children to feel included when you place them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It will also give your child a sense of pride as they are able to be "big brother or sister" and help them settle into their role.
Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered the best option for twins because they let both children enjoy the same view, but they can be heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with an innovative frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also provides a variety of configuration options, including the second seat to create an infant bassinet.
Alternatively, we recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This clever buggy can start off as a single pushchair but it can then be converted into a double, taking an additional seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has lots of clever features that will ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require a travel system?
Double buggies can be an ideal way to move your children in comfort. However they aren't necessary for every family. You may be able make do with one stroller, and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler straps that allow your child and you to travel on their backs or in front.
If you do opt for a double buggy there are three kinds to choose from: side-by-side, tandem and convertible. The two seats are set side-by-side, so your children can see each other. However, they are generally larger than a single pushchair and are difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option with a seat at the front and a back seat. However they can be quite heavy and difficult to push.
Convertible double buggies are great because they let you convert your stroller into double buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. You can keep your baby in the car seat until she is ready to move to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is an excellent 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.
Once your children are older and have more stamina, a double buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or other day trips where they'd prefer walking. It is important to keep in mind that your children may not always enjoy being in a stroller and might become tired and disgruntled when they are on longer excursions.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, think about the above factors and your family's unique situation. Having a sturdy and reliable double stroller will make life much easier particularly if you have to navigate through busy streets or crowded shopping centres.