Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are plenty of things to consider. 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 will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It is light and movable, and is able to handle uneven terrain with ease.
What type of buggy do want?
Double buggys are great for transporting up to two children at once even if they're not of the same age. They can also be used as prams and have recline mechanisms in each seat so your children can sit or lie down in various positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage space for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They are often lightweight, fold easily, and compact enough to fit in your car's boot. If you drive a great deal, it's important to ensure that the buggy can be easily maneuvered with the wheels folded in your boot and taken out.
You may have seen this kind of double buggy on other mums' strollers or even ridden in one as a child. They are perfect for twins or older siblings who want to keep pace with you. They also come in various seating configurations, including 'cinema seats'. They're generally easy to drive and, if you opt for a model that has soft suspension, make light work of the kerbs.
Tandem buggies are also a popular choice as they're typically easier to turn than side-by-side. The second seat is placed behind the first and not on the top. The seats are typically bigger and bulkier than a side by side however, so make sure whether they are able to pass through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a baby and toddler or 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 they offer a lot of versatility and a good resale value. They're generally easy to steer, come with large storage bins and can 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 ideal method of transporting your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two primary types of double buggy - side-by-side buggies in which your children sit side by side, and tandem buggies where one baby is above the other. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies tend to be smaller in size to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be larger in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot as well as a toddler seat.
Do you have children?
At sit n stand double stroller , having a younger sibling may seem like a lot of responsibility, especially if you're caring for the infant. A double buggy may allow them to feel a sense of belonging 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 are able to be 'big brother or sister' and help them get used to their new role.
The side-by-side double buggies could be a good option for twins, as each child will get the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with a unique frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also offers different configuration options, including the second seat for the bassinet.
We also recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for families who love to explore. This clever buggy can start off as a single pushchair and can be converted into a double, which can include an additional seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it includes a number of clever features that will keep everyone comfortable.
Do you require an effective system of travel for your business?
Double buggies are a great way to transport your children in a comfortable way. However, they are not necessary for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your kids you might be able to get by using a single stroller with some attachments like toddler harnesses and baby carriers that allow you to ferry your child around on their back or in front of you.
There are three kinds of double buggies: tandem, side-by-side, and convertible. The two seats are set side-by-side, so your children can see one another. They are wider than a single stroller and may be difficult to navigate through the kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option, with one seat at the front and another at the back. However, they can be heavy and lengthy to push.
Convertible double buggies are fantastic as they allow you to transform your stroller into an additional buggy by attaching an infant bassinet or car seat to the frame. This way, you can keep your baby comfortably in their car seat until they're ready to move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great example of this. It's suitable for twins, a baby and toddler or even three children with the the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children are older and have more stamina, a double buggy can also be used to accompany them on bicycle rides or day excursions where they prefer to walk. It's important to keep in mind that your children might not always like to be in a stroller and could become tired and disgruntled when they are on longer excursions.
Before you purchase a double stroller, take into consideration the above factors and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable double stroller can make life much easier particularly if you have to navigate through busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.