There's a wide variety of baby carriers available at all different price ranges. Once you know your budget, I would recommend reading some reviews from people who have already bought and used them. Another good idea is to go into any sporting goods store and try on a few! Store associates can help fit the pack to your unique body, which takes the guessing work out of it.
In this post I'll discuss my favorite carriers from newborn to toddler stage, and why I chose them.
My son, Beara, and I in our happy place :)
Soft-Framed Carriers
Solly Baby Wrap
This wrap is so soft and comfortable to wear. It's easy to use (I watched a video on their website and got the hang of it pretty quickly), they have a great selection of colours,
and a good return policy. The wrap is perfect for newborns and can be used up to 25 lbs (11kg).
My son was born in July, so the weather was pretty hot for the first 2 months. I loved that we didn't overheat using this wrap and he was protected from the sun, too.
A great, comfortable option for some hands-free time (especially comfortable for the C-section mamas).
Make sure your baby's hips
are well supported and in the hip healthy "M" position,
your carrier is tight enough
(like you are hugging them)
to support their back, you can see their face by glancing down, and their head is close enough for you to kiss them :)
Ergobaby Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh Carrier
I can't say enough about this carrier ! I love it. I use it every day. From hiking, to grocery shopping, getting house and garden work done and even setting up our campsite.
It also works wonders for nap time when we are out and about. It is so versatile and comfortable. I've used it since my son was 2 months old but it is suitable from newborns (7lbs/3kg) and can be used right through to toddlers (45 lbs/20kg).
There are a few different positions you can use; front-carry facing inwards or outwards, hip-carry and back-carry.
Be sure to use the front-carry position with baby facing inwards until they are old enough to support their head themselves.
There are lots of colours and patterns to choose from and, like I mentioned, the return policy is an extra bonus in the off chance this carrier just isn't for you.
The carrier is lightweight, packs away easily, and washes well in the washing machine. There is a little sunshade/rain cover for baby's head on the front inward-facing position, which has come in handy a few times.
It also has the recommended positions for baby's weight colour marked on the velcro at the base of the seat. So you will know which way to position them as baby grows.
Make sure your baby's hips are well supported and in the hip healthy "M" position, your carrier is tight enough (like you are hugging them) to support their back, you can see their face by glancing down, and their head is close enough for you to kiss them. :)
Structured Framed Carriers
(for use when baby can support their own head and neck and sit up on their own.
Usually around 6 months of age)
Phil and Teds Escape Carrier
I bought this carrier in a bit of a rush and regret not waiting until my preferred carrier was back in stock.
I had an international trip coming up and lots of hikes planned, so I definitely rushed into my decision to buy it.
It is a nice looking carrier but it didn't fit me well, at all. No matter how I adjusted it, the weight was mainly on my shoulders instead of my hips. I think it is best suited to people with a shorter torso and doing less mileage.
The sun shade isn't great, it doesn't offer much protection from the sun or wind and I found just taking it on and off to be more effort than it's worth.
It does come with a day-pack that can be removed and used separately, a section for your water bladder, a changing pad, and it packs down quite well.
Second-hand carriers usually sell for a lot cheaper than purchasing them new. Be sure to check online if you are keen on getting this carrier for your family.
You may save yourself a little $$!
The Osprey Poco Plus
My son practically lives in this carrier ! I use it nearly every day, whether we are doing a short hike, long hike or going backpacking.
I got the 'Plus' version for the extra storage. I love it. I can pack everything I need for a day hike or overnight stay in this pack. There are plenty of zippered pockets to pack the essentials, and more.
Osprey are just so good at making backpacks and this one is no different, it fits great and is incredibly comfortable, even carrying a toddler and gear. The weight limit is 48.5lbs(22kg).
The torso length is really adjustable, the plus version has a 'fit on the fly' adjustable hip belt. There are zippered pockets on the hip belt that my phone fits into. Stretch mesh pockets on either side, great for carrying your water bottle and easy to reach with the pack on.
I love how secure my son is in the seat, the straps are great and the fabric is soft and comfortable. The kickstand is very sturdy and easy to push out or fold down.
There is a built in sunshade that is super easy to take out and put away. It offers great protection from the sun, wind and even light rain. I've found the sunshade to be useful when my son falls asleep, he can rest his head against it. I bought the rain cover (sold separately) and find it great, too.
Osprey has a great return policy and guarantee on their products. While it is expensive, it's worth the investment for the amount I use it.
These packs are durable and hold up well for years of adventures.
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