Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When it comes to choosing the ideal double buggy, there are many aspects to consider. We spoke to Fourth Trimester postnatal retreat expert Katie Billingsley for her advice on everything from seating options to 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 lightweight with great manoeuvrability and can tackle difficult terrain with ease.

What type of buggy do you prefer?

Double buggys are great for transporting two children at the same time, even if they are not of the same age. They can also serve as prams. Each seat is equipped with an adjustable mechanism that allows your children can lie down or sit in different positions. A lot of them have plenty of storage for everything from drinks and snacks to nappies and wipes. They're typically lightweight, easy to fold and are small enough to fit into your car boot. If you drive a great amount, it's essential to ensure that the buggy can be easily moved by folding the wheels into your car boot and removed.

You may have seen this type of double buggy on other mums strollers, or even in one as a child. They are ideal for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins. They usually have a large number of seating options (including "cinema" seats) for your children to pick from. They're usually easy to steer and, if you decide to go for a model with a soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are also a popular option because they're easier to turn than a side-by-side. This is because the second seat sits behind the first one, rather than on top of it. The seats are typically larger and heavier than a traditional side by side however, so make sure whether they can fit through doors or on public transport. They can be used for twins or a toddler and a baby or three children with the inclusion of a buggy board.

Lastly there are the'Single Double Stroller-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 and tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of versatility and a good resale value. They are easy to steer and feature an ample storage basket. They also have the ability to handle uneven surfaces. Some come with a built-in ride-on board for children older than and 'cinema seats'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the most efficient method of transporting your children, whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two main kinds of double buggy - side-byside buggies that let your children are seated together and tandem buggies in which one baby is above the other. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-byside buggies are typically narrower in width to allow for access through doors. Tandems are generally wider overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot and toddler seat.

Do you have a toddler?

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 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 give your child the feeling of pride that comes with knowing that they are able to be 'big brother or sister' and help them adjust to their role.

The side-by-side double buggies can be a great choice for twins since both children will have the same view. However they're heavy and heavy. We like the sleek B-AGILE DOUBLE by Leclerc that features an innovative frame that opens in width to accommodate two fixed seats and offers different configuration options, including the second seat being used as baby carrier or a bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to active families who like to explore. This innovative buggy starts with a single pushchair twin but it can then be converted into a double by adding an additional seat, a carrycot or a car seat (depending on the model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain, and it has lots of thoughtful features to keep everyone comfortable.

Do you require an automated best travel double stroller system for your business?

Double buggies are great to transport your children around in comfort however they're not essential for every family. Based on your lifestyle and the age gap between your children, you may be able to make do with a single stroller and certain attachments such as baby carriers and toddler harnesses that allow you to ferry your child on their backs or in front of you.

There are three kinds of double buggies: tandem side-by-side and convertible. The two seats are set in a row, so that your children can see each other. However, these are generally larger than a single pushchair, and can be tricky to maneuver around kerbs. Tandem buggies are compact, with one seat in the front and a back seat. However they can be quite heavy and long to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to transform one stroller into a double buggy by attaching an infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until she is ready to move into the 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 children with the addition of the optional PiggyBack board.

As your children grow older and more able to walk, you can opt for a double buggy to accompany them on bike rides or day excursions where they may prefer to walk. However, it's worth remembering that they might not always desire to be in a buggy and could easily become disgruntled and tired when they are on longer excursions.

Before you invest in a double stroller, take into consideration the above factors and your family's unique circumstances. A durable and reliable double buggy can make life easier, particularly when you have to navigate busy streets or crowded malls.