A Provocative Rant About 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 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 active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins to toddlers. It is light and movable, and can maneuver through uneven terrain easily.
What kind of buggy would you prefer?
A double buggy newborn buggy is perfect for transporting two children, but not necessarily of the same age, side by side. They can be used as prams, and they have a reclining mechanism within each seat, allowing your children can sit or lay down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from drinks and snacks to wipes and nappies. Often they're lightweight twin buggy, fold easily and are compact enough to fit in your car boot. If you travel a significant amount, it's essential to check that the buggy can be easily pushed around with the folded wheels in your boot and taken out.
The most popular type of double buggy is the side by side one, which you've probably seen on other mothers pushchairs, or perhaps ridden in as a child. They are ideal for older siblings that want to keep up with you or for twins. They usually have numerous seating configurations (including "cinema" seats) for your toddlers to pick from. They're usually easy to steer and, if you go for a model that has soft suspension, you can make light work of the kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are easier to turn than side-by sides, are also very popular. This is due to the fact that the second seat is positioned behind the first, instead of over it. The seats are generally larger and heavier than a traditional side by side, so you should check whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and a baby or three children, with the addition of an additional buggy board.
Lastly there are the'single-to-stokke double stroller' 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 are generally more expensive than side by sides or tandem buggies but offer lots of flexibility and have a great price for resales. They're generally simple to steer, feature a huge storage basket and can cope well on uneven surfaces. Some models even come with built-in ride-on boards and 'cinema seating' for your child's older.
Do you have twins?
If your children are twins or siblings of different age groups, a double buggie is the best double stroller way to transport them around. There are two primary types of double buggy: side-byside buggies that let your children are seated in a row, side-by-side or tandem buggies where one child is higher than the other. Both buggies can accommodate two seats fixed. However side-by-side buggies are smaller to fit through doors. Tandems tend to be wider in general. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seats.
Do you have a baby?
At first, having a younger sibling can seem like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you are also caring for the baby. A double buggy can also make it easier for them to feel a sense of belonging if you put them in an infant 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 double buggies are often considered the best option for twins because they allow both children to enjoy the same view, but they can be hefty and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a compact double buggy with an innovative frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also provides a variety of configuration options, including the second seat for a bassinet.
We also recommend alternatively, we recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer for active families who like to explore. This clever buggy can start as a single pushchair and can be converted into a double stroller with car seat, taking a second seat, carrycot or car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it comes with a variety of clever features that will keep everyone happy.
Do you need a travel system?
Double buggies are an ideal way to move your children safely. However they aren't required for every family. You may be able make do with a single stroller, and some attachments like baby carriers and toddler straps that allow you and your child to travel on their backs or in front.
If you choose to purchase a double buggy there are three types to choose from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. The two seats are positioned side-by-side, so your children can see each other. However, they are typically larger than a single pushchair and are difficult to maneuver up and down kerbs. Tandem buggies are an alternative that is smaller, with a single seat in the front and another in the rear, however they can be still quite heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies allow you to convert one stroller into double buggy by attaching a bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. This will allow you to keep your baby comfortably in their car seat until they're ready for a move into the main buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example - it can be used with twins or a toddler, an infant, or even three children using the optional PiggyBack Board.
When your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or other day trips where they'd prefer to walk. It's important to remember that your kids may not always like to be in a stroller and might become tired and disgruntled during longer trips.
Before you invest in a double stroller, consider the factors mentioned above and your family's unique situation. A sturdy and reliable double buggy can make your life easier, especially when you have to navigate busy streets or crowded malls.
