Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When choosing 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 suggestions on everything from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.

A must-have for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and is able to tackle uneven terrain easily.

What style of buggy do you want?

A Stokke Double stroller buggy is perfect for transporting two kids, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also be used as prams. Each seat comes with a reclining mechanism so that your children can sit or lie down in various positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage space to store everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight, fold easily and compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's important to make sure the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the folded wheels and to take out and back into your car boot.

You might have seen this type of lightest double stroller buggy on other mothers' strollers or even ridden in one as a kid. They're great for twins who are older or who want to keep pace with you. They also come in various seating configurations, including 'cinema seats'. They're usually easy to drive and, if you opt for a model that has soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by-sides are also popular. The second seat is located behind the first, rather than on top. They're typically bigger than a side-byside and can be heavy when folded, so it's important to check they'll fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and baby or three kids 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 double stroller with bassinet by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They tend to be more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of flexibility and have a great return on investment. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

double buggy that converts to single buggys are the best method of transporting your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies where one child sits above the other, and side-byside buggies. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in size to fit through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.

Do you have one?

At first the idea of having a younger sibling could feel like a lot of responsibility especially if you're caring for the infant. They may also feel left out if they are placed in an infant carrier while you push the older one ahead, so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make everything easier. 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.

The side-by-side double buggies can be a good option for twins, as each child will get the same view. However they are 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 offers different configuration options including using the second seat for the bassinet.

If you prefer, we suggest the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This nifty buggy is a single pushchair that can be converted into a double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain and it includes a number of clever features that will keep everyone happy.

Do you require a business 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 do using a single stroller with some attachments like toddler harnesses and baby carriers that allow you to ferry your child around on their backs or in front of you.

If you decide to go with a double buggy there are three kinds to pick from: side-by-side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats close to each other, so your children will be able see each other. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair and can be tricky to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are small with a seat in the front and a second one at the back. However they can be quite heavy and difficult to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to convert a single stroller into a double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your baby in the car seat until he or she is ready to move to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is an excellent illustration of this. It's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.

When your children get older and more mobile and able, you can get double buggy travel system 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 kids may not always be comfortable in a stroller and might get tired and angry during longer trips.

So, before you make the decision to buy a double buggy converts to single buggy at the time of birth, take some time to take a look at the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A reliable and sturdy double buggy will make life easier, especially when you have to navigate busy streets or busy malls.