Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When choosing the perfect double buggy, there are many things to consider. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her advice on everything ranging from seating options and age groups to folding mechanisms and storage.
This buggy is essential for active families. It will grow with your family from toddlers to twins. It is lightweight and movable, and can maneuver through uneven terrain with ease.
What type of buggy do you want?
A double buggy is great for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can be used as prams and have recline mechanisms within each seat, allowing your children can lie down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They are often lightweight that folds easily and are compact enough to fit in your car's boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking the buggy's maneuverability with the wheels folded and also to get out and back into your car boot.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-byside that you've probably seen on other mothers' pushchairs or even rode in as a kid. These are great for older siblings who wish to keep up with you or for twins. They usually have a large number of seating configurations (including "cinema" seats) for your children to choose from. They are usually simple to control, and if select a model that has a soft suspension, they are able to easily handle kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by-sides are also popular. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first, instead of sitting on top of it. They're generally bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's important to check they'll fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used for twins, a baby and toddler 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 by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They are more expensive than tandem buggies and side-by-side buggies, however they provide plenty of flexibility and a very high cost of resale. They are easy to steer and come with a large storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema seats'.
Do you have twins?
Double buggys are the best method to transport your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary types of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children are seated in a row, side-by-side or tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both buggies are able to accommodate two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also be able to accommodate a toddler seat and a carrycot.
Do you have a child?
At first the idea of having a younger sibling could seem like a lot of responsibility especially if you're taking care of the baby. A double buggy can make it easier for children to feel included when you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It can also help your child get into their new role as a 'big brother or sister'.
The side-by-side double buggies can be a good option for twins, as each child will get the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with a unique frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also comes with a variety of configuration options including using the second seat to create an infant bassinet.
We also recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families that love to explore. This buggy is clever and can start with an individual pushchair, but can be converted into a double by adding the place of a second seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that will ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require a business travel system?
Double buggies are excellent to transport your children around in comfort however they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You could use one stroller with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that permit your child and you to travel on their backs or in front.
There are three kinds of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side, and convertible. The two seats are set in a row, so that your children will be able to see one another. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair and can be difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are an easier way to travel with a single seat in the front and another in the rear, but they can still be heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to transform a single stroller into double buggy by attaching the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until he or is ready to step to the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great example of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler and baby or even three children with the the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children become older and more able, you can use double buggys to accompany them on cycling trips or other day trips where they might prefer walking. It's important to keep in mind that your children may not always like to be in a stroller and could be tired and irritable on longer outings.
Before you make the decision to buy a double stroller from the beginning make sure you consider the above factors and the specific circumstances of your family. A sturdy and reliable double buggy can make your life simpler, especially when you are required to navigate busy streets or overcrowded malls.