Buying a double pram pushchair Buggy From Birth
There are many 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.
A must-have purchase for families with active children This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can tackle uneven terrain with ease.
What kind of buggy do you prefer?
A double buggy is perfect for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can be used as prams, sit and stand double stroller they have recline mechanisms 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 drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light, fold easily, and small enough to fit in your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's important to make sure the buggy's maneuverability with the folded wheels and to take in and out of your boot.
The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-byside that you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps 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 options (including "cinema" seats) for your little ones to choose from. They're usually easy to steer and, if you go for a model with soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of the kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by-sides, are also very popular. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on top of it. The seats are typically bigger and bulkier than a traditional side by side and you must ensure that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and baby or three kids with the addition of a buggy board.
Lastly there are the'single-to-double' convertibles which can be used as a single to double pushchair pushchair from birth then convert to a double buggy newborn by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're generally more expensive than side-by-sides and tandem buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and have a great price for resales. They're generally easy to steer, come with large storage bins and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema chairs'.
Do you have twins?
double running stroller buggys are the best way to transport your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child is seated above the other, and side-byside buggies. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies are typically narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems are generally wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot as well as a toddler seats.
Do you have one?
At first the idea of having a younger sibling could feel like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you are also caring for the infant. A double buggy can help them to feel included if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also help your child settle into their new role as big brother or sister'.
Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered the best double strollers option for twins because they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with a unique frame that expands in width and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options including using the second seat as a bassinet.
We also recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This innovative buggy is a single-pushchair that can be transformed into double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it comes with numerous thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.
Do you require a travel system?
Double buggies are great for transporting your children around in comfort but they're not essential for every family. You could use a single stroller, with a few attachments, such as baby straps and toddler carriers that permit you and your child to ride on their backs or in front.
If you do opt for a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side by side, tandem and convertible. The two seats are positioned parallel to each other, so your children can see each other. They are larger than a single stroller, and can be difficult to maneuver through kerbs. Tandem buggies provide a more compact alternative, with a single seat in the front and a second in the rear, however they are still large and heavy to push.
Convertible double buggies are great because they allow you to convert your stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. This will allow you to keep your infant snuggled comfortably in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic example of this. It's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three children with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.
Once your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or day trips where they might prefer to walk. But, it's important to remember that they may not want to be in a buggy, and they could easily be tired and disgruntled on longer outings.
Before you decide to purchase a double stroller, consider the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A reliable and sturdy double buggy will make life simpler, especially when you have to navigate busy streets or busy malls.