11 Strategies To Completely Defy Your Double Buggy From Birth
Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When you are deciding on the perfect 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 can grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's lightweight and movable, and is able to handle uneven terrain easily.
What type of buggy would you prefer?
A double buggy is ideal for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side-by-side. They can also serve as prams and have recline mechanisms in each seat, so your children can sit or lie down in different positions. They're often spacious enough to store everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light they fold easily and are small enough to fit in the car boot. If you drive a lot it's worth checking that the buggy is easy to manoeuvre with the wheels folded and to take out and into your car boot.
The most common type of double buggy is the side by side that you've likely seen on other moms pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a child. They're ideal for twins or older siblings who want to keep pace with you. They are also available in various seating configurations and styles, including 'cinema chairs'. They're generally easy to steer and, if you opt for a model that has soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of kerbs.
Tandem buggies are a popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. The second seat is positioned behind the first and not on the top. The seats are typically bigger and bulkier than a traditional side by side however, so make sure that they will fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler, a baby or three children by the addition of an extra 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 tend to be more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem buggies but provide plenty of versatility and a good price for resales. They're generally easy to steer, have an enormous storage basket and can handle uneven surfaces. lightweight twin buggy have 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 method of transporting your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies, where one child sits over the other, and side by side buggies. Both can accommodate two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies are typically narrower 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 baby?
At first the idea of having a younger sibling may feel like a lot of responsibility especially if you are also caring for the infant. A double buggy can allow them to feel a sense of belonging if you place them in an infant carrier and push the older child. It can also provide your child with an immense sense of pride when they become a 'big brother or sister' and help them get used to their new role.
Side-by-side buggies can be a good option for twins, since each child will get the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a streamlined double buggy that features an innovative frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also offers different configuration options such as using the second seat for a bassinet.
We also recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This clever buggy can start as an individual pushchair, but is then convertible into a double by adding a second seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is ideal for rough terrain, and it comes with many thoughtful features that are sure to keep everyone happy.
Do you require a travel system?
Double buggies are excellent for transporting your children around in comfort but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You might be able to use a single stroller, and some attachments such as baby straps and toddler carriers that permit your child and you to be able to travel on their backs, or in front.
There are three different types of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats near each other, which means your children will be able to see each one another. They are wider than a single stroller, and aren't easy to maneuver through kerbs. Tandem buggies are small with a seat at the front and another at the back. However they can be quite heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies are wonderful because they allow you to convert your stroller into a dual buggy by simply attaching an infant car seat or bassinet to the frame. This way, you can keep your baby safely in their car seat until they're ready to move into the main buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a great illustration of this. It's suitable for twins or a toddler or even three kids with the the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children become older and more able and able, you can get a double buggy to take them to bike rides or day excursions in which they prefer to walk. It's important to remember that your kids may not always enjoy being in a stroller and could get tired and angry during longer trips.
So, before you make the decision to buy a double stroller from the beginning, take some time to take a look at the above factors and your family's specific circumstances. A reliable and sturdy double buggy can make life easier, particularly when you need to navigate busy streets or crowded malls.