Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

A must-have purchase for active families, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can handle uneven terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do you want?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting up to two children at once even if they're not the same age. They can also be used as prams, and they have a reclining mechanism in each seat so your children can lay down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space to store everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They are often lightweight that folds easily and are compact enough to fit into your car's boot. If you travel a significant amount, you should make sure that the buggy be easily moved with the wheels folded in your boot and taken out.

You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other mums strollers double strollers, or even in one as a kid. They are perfect for older siblings or twins who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in various seating options, including 'cinema seats'. They're usually easy to steer and, if you go for a model with soft suspension, make light work of kerbs.

Tandem buggies are another popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. The second seat is placed behind the first rather than on top. The seats are usually bigger and bulkier than a side by side, so you should check whether they are able to pass through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and a baby or three children with the inclusion of a 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 are generally more expensive than side by sides or tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of versatility and a good resale value. They are easy to steer and feature an ample storage basket. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings with different ages, a double buggy is the best option to transport them around. There are two main kinds of double buggy - side-by-side buggies where your children sit 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 fit through doors. Tandems are typically more spacious overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seats.

Do you have one?

At first having a younger sibling could feel like a lot of responsibility particularly if you're also caring for the baby. They may be feeling a little secluded if they are placed in an infant carrier while you push the older one along, so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make everything simpler. It can also help your child settle into their new role of big brother or sister'.

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 hefty 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 as a bassinet.

We also recommend an alternative, the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for 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 model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it comes with a variety of thoughtful features to keep everyone happy.

Do you require a traveling system?

Double buggies are 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 children you may be able to get by with just a single stroller and certain attachments such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that let you carry your child around on their backs or in front of you.

If you decide to go with a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side-by-side as well as convertible. The two seats are placed side-by-side, so your children will be able to be able to see each other. However, they are generally larger than a single and double stroller pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are compact with a seat at the front and a second one at the back. However, they can be heavy and difficult to push.

Convertible double buggies are great as they allow you to transform your single to double stroller stroller into double buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or 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 V2 is a good example - it can be used for twins as well as a toddler and one or more children using the optional PiggyBack Board.

If your children have grown older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day trips where they'd prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that your kids may not always be comfortable in a stroller and could get tired and angry when they are on longer excursions.

Before you make the decision to buy a double buggy at the time of birth make sure you think about the above points and your family's specific circumstances. A reliable and sturdy double buggy can make life simpler, especially when you have to navigate busy streets or crowded malls.