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20 Trailblazers Lead The Way In Double Buggy From Birth
Buying a Double Buggy From Birth


There are many things to consider when selecting the ideal double buggy from birth. We spoke with 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 for families with active children, this buggy grows with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight and movable, and can handle uneven terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do you want?

A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also serve as prams, and they have a reclining mechanism within each seat, allowing your children can sit or lay down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space to store everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light that folds easily and are compact enough to fit in your car's boot. If you're someone who drives a lot, it's worth checking the buggy's maneuverability using the folded wheels, and also to get out and back into your car boot.

The most well-known type of double buggy is the side-byside, which you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs or even ridden in as a child. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you, or for twins. They usually have a large number of seating options (including 'cinema' seats) for your little ones to pick from. They're generally easy to steer and, if you go for a model that has soft suspension, make light work of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are also a popular option because they're more maneuverable than a side-by-side. The second seat is located behind the first and not on top. The seats are usually larger and heavier than a traditional side by side, so you should check whether they are able to pass through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and an infant or three children with the addition of an additional 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 more expensive than tandem buggies or side-by-side buggies, however they provide the flexibility of a single buggie and a very high cost of resale. They're generally easy to steer, come with large storage bins and are able to handle uneven surfaces. Some have a built in ride-on board for older children and 'cinema chairs'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the most efficient method to transport your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child is seated above the other, and side-by-side buggies. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in width to allow for access through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.

Do tandem double stroller have a child?

At first the idea of having a younger sibling can seem like a lot of responsibility, especially if you are also taking care of the baby. A double buggy can also help them to feel a sense of belonging if you put them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also give your child the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they become a 'big brother or sister' and help them get used to their new role.

Side-by-side double buggies are usually considered the best option for twins as they allow both children to have the same view, however they can be hefty and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc that features an innovative frame that can be expanded widthways to take two seats fixed. It also offers various configuration options, including using the second seat as baby carrier or a bassinet.

We also recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This buggy is clever and can start as a single pushchair and can be converted into a double by adding an additional seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with many thoughtful features that will keep everyone happy.

Do you require a traveling system?

Double buggies are great to transport your children around in comfort, but they're not essential for every family. You might be able to get by with just one 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 the front.

There are three different 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 see each other. They are larger than a single stroller and aren't easy to maneuver around the kerbs. Tandem buggies are compact, with one seat at the front and a back seat. However they can be heavy and difficult to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to transform a single stroller into a double buggy by securing an infant car seat to the frame. This will allow you to keep your newborn snuggled up in their car seat until they're ready to transition into the main 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 addition of the optional PiggyBack board.

When your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can also be used to accompany them on bike rides or other day trips where they might prefer to walk. It is important to keep in mind that your children may not always enjoy being in a stroller and could get tired and angry when they are on longer excursions.

Before you purchase a double stroller, consider the factors above and your family's unique circumstances. A durable and reliable double buggy will make life simpler, especially when you need to navigate through busy streets or crowded malls.