Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are a lot of things to take into consideration when choosing the perfect double buggy from the time 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 twin buggy is essential for active families. It will grow with your family, from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight, has great maneuverability and is able to handle uneven terrain easily.

What kind of buggy would you prefer?

Double buggys are great for transporting up to two children at once even if they're not of the same age. They can be used as prams and come with the ability to recline within each seat, allowing your children can sit or lay down in various positions. They also come with plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight double stroller twin stroller buggy (made my day), fold easily, and compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's worth checking that the buggy's ease of use with the wheels folded as well as to get it out and into your boot.

The most compact double stroller popular type of double buggy is the side-by-side that you've probably seen on other mums' pushchairs or even rode in as a child yourself. These are great for older siblings that want to keep up with you or for twins. They usually have numerous seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your children to pick from. They are usually simple to navigate, and if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, they are able to easily navigate the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are a popular option because they're easier to turn than side-by-side. The second seat is positioned behind the first and not on the top. They're generally wider than a side-by-side and can be bulky when folded, which is why it's important to check they'll fit through doors and 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 more expensive than tandem buggies or side-by-side buggies, however they provide the flexibility of a single buggie and a very high resale price. They're generally easy to steer, come with a huge storage basket and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the ideal method to transport 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 together or tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in width to allow for access through doors. Tandems are generally larger overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.

Do you have a baby?

Having a younger sibling can be a big responsibility initially, particularly when you must tend to the baby. They may be a bit irritated when they are in an infant carrier while you push the older one ahead and so having a double buggy right from the beginning can make things easier. It will also help your child get into their new role as a 'big sister or brother'.

Side-by-side buggies can be a good option for twins since each child will get the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with an innovative frame which expands widthways and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also offers different configuration options, including the second seat for an infant bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and are keen to explore. This innovative buggy starts with a single pushchair but is then convertible into a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has lots of clever features that will ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you require a traveling system?

Double buggies are great for bringing your kids around in comfort however they're not the ideal purchase for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids you might be able to do with a single stroller and some attachments, such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers that allow you to ferry your child around on their backs or in front of you.

There are three types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats positioned close to each other, which means your children will be able to see each one another. They are wider than a single stroller, and aren't easy to maneuver through kerbs. Tandem buggies are a more compact alternative, with a seat in the front and another in the rear, however they are still large and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies permit you to transform one stroller into a double strollers buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can keep your baby in the car seat until he/she is ready to step to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great example 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 capable and able, you can get a double buggy to accompany them to bicycle rides or for day trips where they may prefer walking. But, it's important to remember that they may not want to be in a buggy and can easily get tired and angry on longer outings.

Before you invest in a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique circumstances. A durable and reliable double buggy can make life easier, particularly when you have to navigate through busy streets or crowded malls.