There are many types of buggies on the market – in every shape, size, price range and colour you can imagine. While all those choices are great, it can be hard to find the one that’s right for you, your baby, and your family’s lifestyle. Here are a few of the common choices, which will make buying one a little less tricky.
Standard buggies are the most popular choice for babies. Since they recline fully, and usually fold up to be quite compact, they’re both suitable for newborns, who need to lie down, and for trips to town with an older child or toddler. You’ll get the most wear out of a standard buggy! Look for a standard buggy that has a steel frame, with durable plastic trays and fittings. It should fold easily, and have good quality wheels, with brakes. A washable cover is a must, and a built in shopping basket makes trips to the shops easier for mummy and daddy. Standard buggies or strollers come in a wide range of prices; however, it’s best to buy the best you can afford, since you’ll get the most use out of it.
If you’ve already got a standard stroller, and you’re looking for something more compact for short trips to the shops or elsewhere, then a lightweight buggy is ideal. These buggies fold up super compact – as small as an umbrella, and they’re stripped down, and perfect for travel. Prices vary according to features, but if you’re prepared to spend a little more, you’ll get features like individual braking, an aluminium frame and a full recline function.
Double or triple buggies are perfect for families that are expecting twins or triplets, or if you have a small child or toddler already. There are choices between side-by-side and tandem models, and they have many of the same features as standard buggies. They are more expensive and bulkier than standard strollers are, but they do make handling two or more small children a lot easier!
Jogging buggies are the top of the line, as far as buggies go. Designed to be used on most types of terrain, they have lightweight yet strong frames, shock absorbers on some models, and they usually have five point harnesses, knobbly tires for running on rough ground, and padded seats. Of course, all that luxury comes at a price, and jogging buggies are the most expensive option.
There are some budget options available, but they’re stripped down versions, and if you want all the features, you will pay considerably more than most other options. Also remember that while the buggy is designed for jogging, your baby isn’t – at first. Paediatricians recommend that you don’t jog with your baby, even in a jogging buggy, until he or she is six months old.
