A Proficient Rant About Double Buggy From Birth
Buying a Double Buggy From Birth
When you are deciding on the perfect double buggy, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. We spoke with Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options, age ranges to folding mechanisms and storage space.
A must-have for active families This buggy will grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It's light and easy to maneuver and can handle uneven terrain with ease.
What type of buggy do you want?
Double buggys are perfect for transporting up to two children at once, even if they are not of the same age. They can also be used as prams and have recline mechanisms within each seat, allowing your children can lie down in different positions. Many of them also have plenty of storage space for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They're usually lightweight, fold up easily and are small enough to fit into your car boot. If you're a frequent driver, it's worth checking that the buggy is easy to manoeuvre using the folded wheels, and to take in and out of your car boot.
You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other mums strollers, or even in one as a kid. They are ideal for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins. They typically come with many seating configurations (including "cinema" seats) for your little ones to choose from. They are generally easy to navigate, and if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, they will easily navigate kerbs.
Tandem buggies, which are simpler to turn than side-by-sides, are also very popular. The second seat is positioned behind the first, rather than on the top. They're usually wider than a side-by-side and can be a bit bulky when folded, which is why it's important to check they'll be able to pass through doors and public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a toddler and 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 are more expensive than tandem buggies or side-byside buggies, however they provide the flexibility of a single buggie and come with a premium cost of resale. They are easy to steer and have an ample storage basket. They are also able to handle uneven surfaces. Some models even come with a built-in ride-on board and "cinema seating" for your older child.
Do you have twins?
If your children are twins or siblings of different ages, a double buggy is the best option to transport them around. There are two types of double buggies: tandem buggies, which have one child sitting above the other, and side-byside buggies. Both will accommodate 2 fixed seats, however side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in width for getting through doors. Tandems tend to be larger overall. They can also accommodate seats for toddlers and a carrycot.
Do you have children?
At beginning, having a younger sibling can feel like an overwhelming amount of responsibility, especially if you are also caring for the infant. A double buggy may make it easier for them to feel included if you place them in a baby carrier and push the older child. It will aid your child in settling into their new role of a 'big brother or sister'.
Side-by-side buggies can be a great option for twins, as both children will share the same view. However, they are bulky and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a sleek double buggy with a unique frame that expands in width and can accommodate two fixed seats. It also provides a variety of configuration options including using the second seat for a bassinet.
We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who are active and love to explore. This innovative buggy is a single-pushchair that can be converted into double by adding a second seat or carrycot (depending on the model). double umbrella stroller Push Chairs And Prams is ideal for rough terrain, and it has many thoughtful features that will ensure that everyone is happy.
Do you require a business travel system?
Double buggies are great to transport your children around in comfort, but they're not the ideal purchase for every family. You may be able use one stroller, and some attachments such as baby straps and toddler carriers that allow your child and you to be able to travel on their backs, or in the front.
If you do opt for a double buggy there are three kinds to choose from: side-by-side, tandem and convertible. Side-by-side buggies have the two seats that are near each other, which means your children will be able to see each other. They are wider than a single stroller, and aren't easy to maneuver over the kerbs. Tandem buggies are a compact option, with one seat in the front and a back seat. However, they can be heavy and long to push.
Convertible double buggies permit you to transform one stroller into a double buggy by securing the bassinet or infant car seat to the frame. It is possible to keep your baby in the car seat until is ready to step into the buggy seat. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is an excellent example of this - it's suitable for twins or a toddler and baby or even three kids with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.
When your children get older and more able and able, you can get double buggys to accompany them to bicycle rides or for day trips where they might prefer to walk. It is important to keep in mind that your children might not always like to be in a stroller and might become tired and disgruntled on longer outings.
Before you purchase a double stroller, take into consideration the factors above and your family's unique circumstances. A sturdy and reliable double stroller will make life much easier especially if you need to travel through busy streets or overcrowded shopping centers.