Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are plenty of factors to consider when selecting the perfect double buggy from birth. We spoke to Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options and age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.

A must-have purchase for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight with great maneuverability and can handle uneven terrain easily.

What type of buggy would you like?

A double buggy is great for transporting two kids, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also function as prams. Each seat comes with a reclining mechanism so that your children can Sit and stand double stroller or lie down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They're typically lightweight, easy to fold and small enough to fit into the car boot. If you travel a significant amount, it's essential to check that the buggy can be easily maneuvered with the wheels folded in your car boot, and then removed.

The most common type of double buggy is the side-byside that you've probably seen on other mums pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a kid. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins and typically have a large number of seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your toddlers to pick from. They are usually simple to control, and if select a model that has a soft suspension, they can effortlessly handle kerbs.

Tandem buggies, which are more simple to turn than side-by-sides are also popular. This is due to the fact that the second seat is placed behind the first instead of over it. The seats are generally wider and bulkier than a traditional side by side, so you should check that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport 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 pushchair from birth then convert to a double 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 they offer a lot of versatility and a good return on investment. They're generally easy to steer, have a huge storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

If your children are twins or siblings with different age groups, a double buggy is the best way to move them around. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, which have one child sitting above the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both buggies can be fitted with two fixed seats. However side-by-side buggies tend to be narrower to fit through doors. Tandems are typically larger overall. They can also be able to accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.

Do you have a toddler?

Having a younger sibling can be an overwhelming responsibility initially, particularly when you need to be attentive to the infant. A double buggy can help them to feel included if you put them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It can also provide your child with the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they get to be 'big brother or sister' and help them settle into their new role.

The side-by-side double buggies can be a great option for twins, since both children will have the same view. However they are heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with a unique frame that expands in width and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also offers different configuration options including using the second seat as an infant bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and love to explore. This clever buggy is a single-pushchair that can be transformed into a double by adding a second 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 can be a great way to transport your children safely. However they aren't necessary for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your children you might be able to get by using a single stroller with certain attachments such as toddler harnesses and baby carriers that let you carry your child around on their back or in front of you.

If you decide to go with a double buggy there are three kinds to pick from: side-by-side as well as convertible. The two seats are placed side-by-side, so your children can see each other. However, these tend to be wider than a single pushchair and can be tricky to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are a more compact alternative, with a single seat in the front and a second in the rear, but they are still long and heavy to push.

Convertible double running buggy buggies are wonderful because they let you convert your stroller to an additional buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. You can leave your child in the car seat until he/she she is ready to move up into the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example - it can be used for twins or a toddler, an infant, or even three children using the optional PiggyBack Board.

As your children grow older and more mobile to walk, you can opt for double buggys to accompany them to bicycle rides or for day trips in which they prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that they might not always prefer to ride in a buggy and can easily become disgruntled and tired on longer outings.

Before you purchase a cheap double pushchair stroller, consider the above factors and your family's unique circumstances. A reliable and sturdy double buggy can make life simpler, especially when you are required to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded malls.