10 Tell-Tale Signs You Need To Get A New Double Buggy From Birth
Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy from the moment of birth. We spoke to Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.
This buggy is essential for active families. It will grow with your family, from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight and has great maneuverability and can tackle uneven terrain with ease.
What kind of buggy do you prefer?
A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can be used as prams and have a reclining mechanism within each seat, allowing your children can sit or lie down in different positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. Often they're lightweight, fold up easily and compact enough to fit in the car boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking that the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the wheels folded and to take out and back into your boot.
The most common type of double buggy is the side by side one, which you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs double or even ridden in as a child yourself. These are great for older siblings who wish to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have many seating configurations (including "cinema" seats) for your little ones to choose from. They're usually pretty easy to steer and, if you opt for a model that has soft suspension, you can make light work of kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by sides, are also popular. The second seat is positioned behind the first and not on the top. They're generally larger than a side-by-side, and can be heavy when folded, which is why it's crucial to ensure they fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used for twins, a baby and toddler or three children with the addition 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 pushchair 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 flexibility and have a great price for resales. They are easy to steer and have a large storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with a built-in ride-on board and "cinema seating" for your older child.
Do you have twins?
smallest double buggy buggys are the ideal method to transport your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two main kinds of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children are seated side by side, and tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in width for getting through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate both an infant seat and a carrycot.
Do you have one?
Having a younger sibling can feel like an overwhelming responsibility at first, especially when you must tend to the baby. A double buggy may make it easier for them to feel included if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It can aid your child in settling into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.
Side-by-side buggies can be a good option for twins, since both children will have the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc that features an innovative frame that can be expanded widthways to take two seats fixed. It also offers various configuration options, including the second seat being used as an infant carrier or bassinet.
Alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy double buggy that converts to single Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This buggy is clever and can start off as a single pushchair and it can then be converted into a double, taking the place of a second seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it comes with a variety of thoughtful features to keep everyone comfortable.
Do you require a travel system for your business?
Double buggies can be a great way to transport your children safely. However, they are not necessary for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your children you might be able to make do with just a single stroller and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler harnesses which allow you to transport your child on their backs or in front of you.
There are three types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side, and convertible. The two seats are set side-by-side, so your children will be able to see one another. However, they are typically larger than a single pushchair and are difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option, with one seat at the front and another at the back. However, they can be heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggy converts to Single buggies are great because they let you convert your stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until he/she is able to climb into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great illustration of this. It's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three children with the the optional PiggyBack board.
If your children have grown older and have more stamina, a double buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or other day trips where they'd prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they might not always desire to be in a buggy and could easily be tired and disgruntled during longer trips.
Before you invest in a double stroller double, consider the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A reliable and sturdy double buggy can make your life easier, especially when you are required to navigate busy streets or busy malls.