Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When choosing the perfect double pushchair buggy, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her advice on everything ranging from seating options and age groups, to folding mechanisms and storage.

A must-have investment for families with active children This buggy will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It's lightweight with great manoeuvrability and can tackle uneven terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do want?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting up to two children at the same time even if they're not of the same age. They can be used as prams, and they have recline mechanisms in each seat, so your children can sit or lie down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. Often they're lightweight, fold easily 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 pushed around by folding the wheels into your car boot, and then removed.

You may have seen this type of double buggy on other moms' strollers or even ridden in one as a child. They are perfect for older siblings or twins who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in various seating options, including 'cinema seats'. They're usually pretty easy to drive and, if you go for a model with a soft suspension, make light work of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are another popular choice as they're typically more maneuverable than a side-by-side. This is due to the fact that the second seat sits behind the first, instead of sitting on top of it. They're usually larger than a side-by-side, and can be heavy when folded, so it's important to check they'll fit through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, 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 by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're generally more expensive than side by sides or tandem buggies but provide plenty of flexibility and a high price for resales. They are easy to steer and have a large storage basket. They can also handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with an integrated ride-on board that can be used as "cinema seating" for your older child.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the best way to transport your children, no matter if they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary kinds of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children sit in a row, side-by-side or tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in width for getting through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot as well as a toddler seats.

Do you have a child?

Having a younger sibling can feel like a big responsibility at first, especially when you have to tend to the baby. A double buggy can also help them to feel a sense of belonging if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will also help your child get into their new role as a 'big sister or brother'.

Side-by-side buggies can be a good option for twins, as both children will have the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. We love the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE from Leclerc that features an innovative frame that can be expanded in width to accommodate two seats fixed and provides various configuration options, such as the second seat being used as an infant carrier or bassinet.

Alternatively, we recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy double push chair Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This innovative buggy starts as a single pushchair but is then convertible into a double, which can include an additional seat or carrycot, or car seat (depending on the model). Its super-smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it has lots of thoughtful features to keep everyone comfortable.

Do you require a traveling system?

Double Pram for siblings buggies are great to transport your children around in comfort but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. Depending on your lifestyle, and the age gap between your children you might be able to do using a single stroller with some attachments, such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that let you carry your child on their back or in front of you.

If you do opt for a double buggy, there are three types to pick from: side-by-side as well as convertible. Side-by-side buggies have two seats positioned next to each other, so your children will be able see each other. However, they tend to be wider than a single pushchair, and can be tricky to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies provide a more compact alternative, with one seat in the front and a second in the rear, however they can still be long and heavy to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to convert one stroller into a double buggy by securing a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This allows you to keep your newborn snuggled up safely in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic example of this - it's suitable for twins or a toddler and baby or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.

When your children become older and more capable and able, you can get a double buggy to take them to bike rides or day excursions where they may prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they might not always want to be in a buggy and could easily be tired and disgruntled during longer trips.

Before you invest in a double stroller, think about the above factors and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable double stroller can simplify your life, especially if you need to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.