Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

There are many things to consider when selecting 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 double stroller with foot Brake age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.

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

What kind of buggy do you want?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting two children at the same time even if they're not the same age. They can also be used as prams. Each seat is equipped with an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can sit or lie down in different positions. Many have ample storage for everything from snacks and drinks to nappies and wipes. They are often lightweight they fold easily and are compact enough to fit into the car boot. If you travel a significant amount, you should check that the buggy can be easily maneuvered by folding the wheels into your car boot, and then removed.

You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other mums strollers or even in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings who want to keep up with you or for twins. They usually have a large number of seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your toddlers to choose from. They're usually pretty easy to steer and, if you decide to go 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 very popular. This is because the second seat is positioned behind the first, instead of sitting on top of it. They're generally larger than a side-by-side, and can be a bit bulky when folded, so it's important to check they'll fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used to transport twins or a toddler and baby or three children with the addition of a buggy.

Lastly there are the'single-to-double pushchair with car seat' 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-byside buggies, however they provide the flexibility of a single buggie and come with a premium resale price. They're generally simple to steer, feature an enormous storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as 'cinema seating' for your child's older.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the best method of transporting your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two types of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children sit in a row, side-by-side and tandem buggies in which one baby is above the other. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems tend to be wider overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.

Do you have a child?

Having a younger sibling can be a big responsibility initially, particularly when you must tend to the baby. They may be a bit irritated if they are placed in a baby carrier while you push the older sibling ahead and having a double buggy from birth can make everything simpler. It will also provide your child with an immense sense of pride when they are able to be 'big brother or sister' and help them settle into their new role.

Double buggies that are side-by-side are often considered the best option for twins since they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be bulky and heavy. We like 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, including the second seat being used as an infant carrier or bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and like to explore. This clever buggy can start off as a single pushchair and is then convertible into a stokke double stroller, taking an additional seat, carrycot or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that are sure to ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you require a travel system?

Double buggies are excellent for bringing your kids around in comfort, but they're not essential for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your children, you may be able to get by with just a single stroller and some attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that allow you to ferry your child on their back or in front of you.

There are three types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats that are next to each other, so your children will be able to see each other. They are larger than a single stroller and aren't easy to maneuver through kerbs. Tandem buggies offer a more compact alternative, with a seat in the front and another in the rear, however they can be still quite long and heavy to push.

Convertible double tandem pushchair buggies are fantastic because they let you convert your stroller into an additional buggy by attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. This allows you to keep your newborn snuggled up comfortably in their car seat until they're ready to move 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 kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.

When your children become older and more mobile, you can use a double buggy to take them on cycling trips or other day trips where they might prefer walking. It is important to keep in mind that your kids may not always be comfortable in a stroller and could be tired and irritable during longer trips.

Before you purchase a double stroller, take into consideration the factors above and your family's specific circumstances. Having a solid and reliable double stroller can simplify life particularly if you have to navigate through busy streets or crowded shopping centres.