Buying compact double buggy From Birth
There are many things to take into consideration when choosing 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.
This buggy is an essential item for active families. It will grow with your family, from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight, has great maneuverability and can maneuver through uneven terrain easily.
What type of buggy would you like?
Double buggys are ideal for transporting two children at a time, even if they are not of the same age. They can be used as prams and have recline mechanisms within each seat, allowing your children can sit or lay down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They are usually light that folds easily and are compact enough to fit into the car boot. If you drive a lot it's important to make sure the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the folded wheels and also to get in and out of your boot.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side by side that you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. They are perfect for twins or older siblings who want to keep pace with you. They also come in a variety of seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They are usually simple to control, and if opt for a model with a soft suspension, they will effortlessly handle the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular choice as they're typically more maneuverable than a side-by-side. This is because the second seat sits behind the first rather than over it. The seats are generally larger and heavier than a traditional side by side however, so make sure whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and a baby or three kids 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 offer lots of versatility and a good return on investment. They're generally easy to steer, come with an enormous storage basket and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema seats'.
Do you have twins?
Whether your children are twins or siblings of different age groups, a double buggie is the best option to transport them around. 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 higher than the other. Both buggies can accommodate two seats fixed. However, side-by-side buggies are narrower to be able to pass through doors. Tandems tend to be larger overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.
Do you have children?
At first, having a younger sibling may seem like a lot of responsibility especially if you are also taking care of the baby. They may be a bit irritated when they are in a baby carrier while you push the older sibling to the side, so having a double buggy from birth can make everything simpler. It can also give your child the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they become a "big brother or sister" and help them settle into their new role.
The side-by-side double buggies can be a good option for twins since each child will get the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc with its innovative frame that can be expanded in width to accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers various configuration options, such as using the second seat as baby carrier or a bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are keen to explore. This innovative buggy is a single-pushchair that can be transformed into double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and comes with a variety of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.
Do you require a travel system for your business?
Double buggies can be a great way to transport your children in comfort. However, they are not necessary for every family. You may be able make do with a single stroller, and some attachments like baby straps and toddler carriers that allow you and your child to ride on their backs or in the front.
There are three types of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side and convertible. The two seats are positioned side-by-side, so your children will be able to be able to see each other. However, these are typically larger than a single pushchair, and are difficult to maneuver between kerbs. Tandem buggies offer a more compact alternative, with one seat in the front and another in the rear, however they can be still quite long and heavy to push.
Convertible double buggies permit you to convert one stroller into double buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your child in the car seat until he or is able to climb into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great example of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three children with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children get older and more capable, you can use double buggys to accompany them to bike rides or day excursions in which they prefer walking. But, it's important to remember that they may not always want to be in a buggy and can easily be tired and disgruntled on longer outings.
Before you invest in a double stroller, think about the factors above and your family's unique circumstances. A solid and reliable double stroller can simplify life especially if you need to navigate busy streets or bustling shopping centres.