Based upon my years of traveling with babies, I can confidently say that a baby carrier is an invaluable piece of baby travel gear. In fact, on my list of essential baby travel gear, a baby carrier is my #1 choice. While I have occasionally traveled with a stroller, I have used a baby carrier for travel significantly more. I have tried many types and brands of baby carriers for travel and am happy to share my experience-based recommendations with you.
There are many reasons why I recommend a baby carrier for travel:
Firstly, a baby carrier frees up your hands, which allows you to carry other things and/or deal with your baby. This is such a major plus, especially when at the airport, maneuvering luggage, and flying with a baby. Wearing a baby carrier for travel also comes in handy when you are out sightseeing, since not all cities or attractions are stroller-friendly.
Additionally, babies love being in their mom and dad’s arms at all times, which makes naptime so much easier when on the go. After all, a happy, well-rested baby makes for good travel days. Finding the right travel baby carrier is a worthwhile use of your time!
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Best Baby Travel Carriers
I’ve prepared this list of the best travel baby carriers based on my personal experiences. My guide provides you with a clear overview of the best baby carriers for travel to help you choose the one that’s right for you. I have organized my list based on age group (for newborns and infants), based on the activity (for travel, hiking or water/beach vacations), as well as carriers that are best suited for twins.
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If you have older kids, I’ve also written a post about the best toddler carriers for travel.
Best Soft Structured Baby Carriers for Travel
Without fail, if you ask a group of moms to share their favorite baby carriers for travel, you'll find the LILLEbaby, Baby Tula and Ergo baby carriers in the responses. These three baby carrier brands make the best baby carriers, but each of them has several options to choose from which just adds to the overwhelm.
We've included the most popular option from each, but we also recommend heading to their sites to discover other options which may suit you better.
We've also included other popular soft-structured baby carriers that would work well for travel.
1. LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons Ergonomic 6-in-1 Baby Carrier
Just as the name suggests, the “All Seasons” carrier is designed for carrying your baby in a variety of different conditions and positions. And definitely one of the top baby carriers. The LILLEbaby Complete carrier is sturdy and well structured, and can be used in 6 different carrying styles.
For storage, this carrier offers two pockets; one larger zippered pocket and one smaller pocket on the outside. It also comes with a sleeping hood that you can pull out of one of the pockets or store away when it’s not in use.
This great baby carrier has padded shoulder pads, two-way adjustable straps and lumbar support for parents PLUS an adjustable head support for the baby. Overall, it's the best baby carrier for travel for parents who are looking for an affordable model that does not compromise on comfort or safety.
Weight Range: 7-45 lbs without infant insert
Carrying Positions: 6 Positions – fetal, infant inward, ergonomic outward, hip carry, toddler inward or backpack
Features:
- Removable sleeping hood
- Can be used without infant insert.
- Has adjustments to narrow the seat.
- Two-way adjustable straps and extendable back panel. Straps can be crossed in the back.
- Machine washable.
Options: All-Seasons line has a temperature control panel made of mesh. Unzip the cotton flap that covers the mesh panel. Airflow Mesh is suitable for warmer climates.
LILLEBaby has a several types baby carriers that come in a range of fabric styles.
For the fabric styles, we recommend choosing either All-Seasons or the Airflow Mesh. The All-Seasons has a zip down panel to help regulate your baby's temperature. We like this for traveling anywhere. The Airflow Mesh is more breathable and better suited for traveling to warm climates and for the summer.
Take the LILLEBaby quiz to find out which of their carriers is best for you!
2. Baby Tula Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier
The Baby Tula free-to-grow carrier is an ergonomically designed carrier that is made of soft, machine-washable cotton that is easy to clean. It’s long-lasting lifespan makes it perfect for carrying babies from 7 to 45 pounds without needing an infant insert.
This baby travel carrier comes in a wide variety of prints and allows you to carry your baby in a multitude of comfortable positions through its adjustable body panel. Its dual adjustment padded straps provide great support for your neck and shoulders too, ensuring that both parents and babies are safe and comfy.
The best part? Despite not including or requiring an infant insert, the carrier manages to grow along with the baby effortlessly, allowing you to use it from your baby's infancy right into their early toddler years. With a large front pocket for storing, a removable hood for neck support and privacy, and a breathable mesh panel, this is simply one of the best travel baby carrier options.
Weight Range: 7-45 lbs
Carrying Positions: 2 Positions – front carry & back carry
Fabric: Made from 100% cotton
Features:
- Snap settings adjust the panel from 5" to 15" wide.
- Panel height adjusters can adjust panel from 11" to 17" tall.
- Plenty of fun designs to choose from.
- Coast style has a mesh panel for more breathability.
- Machine washable.
Baby Tula is owned by the same company as Ergo Baby, so you can rest assured that they know how to make a good carrier. The Tula carriers often get rave reviews from moms, so they obviously make a comfortable baby carrier!
Baby Tula also has several options of baby carriers to choose from. The Free-to-Grow and Explore baby carriers are excellent for travel. If you are looking for a lightweight baby carrier, the Tula Lite baby carrier tucks away in the pocket, making it one of the best portable baby carriers.
If you are looking for a toddler baby carrier, the Tula Free-to-Grow and Explore will both adjust to fit a toddler, but Tula also makes one of the best toddler carriers.
3. Ergobaby Omni 360 All-Position Baby Carrier
This cozy, comfy and versatile Ergo baby carrier is an all-time favorite among parents in the baby-wearing community! Made of cotton, this machine-washable carrier is very easy to clean, and is designed for babies weighing between 7 and 45 pounds, aged 0-48 months.
This Ergo baby carrier offers inward, front-outward, hip & back carry positions, and has adjustable shoulder straps that can be worn two ways (regular or crossed). Additional features include a large removable storage pouch, an UPF baby hood for privacy and keeping your little one safe from the sun.
Weight Range: 7-45 lbs
Carrying Positions: 4 Positions – front carry, front facing out carry, hip carry, back carry
Fabric: 100% Cotton
Features:
- Baby privacy hood.
- Padded lumbar back support.
- Detachable storage pouch.
- No infant insert required.
- Machine washable.
Perhaps one of the best known baby carrier brands, Ergo Baby makes a suite of carriers to suit all parents. In their baby carrier line up you'll find different fabric types from cotton to cool air mesh. They also cover it all from hip seat carriers to infant carriers. Their main carrier is now called the Omni which has different styles: Omni Breeze, Omni Dream and Omni 360.
Not sure which Ergo is best for you? Click to see a comparison chart of the Ergo baby carriers.
4. Beco Gemini Baby Carrier
A baby carrier with many carrying positions is perfect for mothers, fathers, and babies of all sizes, and that's just what the Beco Gemini Baby Carrier offers. It is comfortable for carrying your little one in the front facing position, but also offers hip and back carrying positions for when your baby gets a little older.
This function-first carrier comes in a few neutral colors, weighs 1.32 pounds and supports babies that weigh between 7 and 35 pounds with ease. Comfortable and versatile, the carrier features adjustable straps that are easy to use, and buckles that are designed to prevent accidental opening. It's a favorite among parents!
Weight Range: 7-35lbs
Carrying Positions: 4 Positions – front facing in, front facing out, hip and back carry
Fabric: 100% cotton
Features:
- Machine washable.
- Adjustable shoulder straps. Straps can be crossed for a better fit.
- Use from birth without infant insert.
5. Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier
This travel baby carrier has a convertible seat design with four different carrying positions, making it one of the best baby carriers for newborns as well as for older babies. The narrow seat position and the padded head support allow it to comfortably hold infants weighing between 8 and 32 pounds, and the waist belt is designed to fit moms and dads of all sizes and shapes.
This baby travel carrier is made out of cotton and polyester, making it machine-wash friendly and especially perfect for daily use.
While we tend to look for the best baby carrier from the top baby carrier brands like LILLEbaby and Ergo Baby, you just can't ignore the 40k+ ratings this carrier receives. That may also have to do with it's budget price!
Weight Range: 8-32 lbs
Carrying Positions: 4 Positions – facing in with two seat adjustments, facing out and back carry
Fabric: Polyester and cotton blend
Features:
- Machine washable.
6. Boba Baby Carrier Classic 4GS
This durable carrier from Boba is perfect for parents who are looking for a high-quality yet simple strap-on-and-go baby carrier. It includes ergonomic support for the baby in a deep seat that is made with comfortable cotton fabric.
It is easy to clean and includes a detachable infant insert; one for infants as small as 7 pounds and can be removed for babies starting at 10 pounds.
It also has a detachable hood that can be used for shade, privacy or for head support. The carrier comfortably fits parents that are up to 6'3" tall and 25" - 58" around the waist, but also comes with free waist and chest strap extenders for added flexibility, making this carrier an excellent option for plus-sized parents.
The purse strap holder is an extra feature that makes sure your bag doesn’t fall off your shoulder, and the storage the carrier offers is yet another added bonus. It has multiple pockets and zippered pockets on the waist belt and the hood too.
Weight Range: 7-45lbs (infant insert included)
Carrying Positions: 2 Positions – front & back carry (plus newborn froggy position with infant insert)
Fabric: 100% cotton
Features:
- Detachable integrated infant insert.
- Detachable sleep hood.
7. Boppy Baby Carrier
Made of soft, stretchy fabric, the one-size-fits-all Boppy Baby Wrap Carrier offers wearers and babies 3 different carrying positions; newborn front face-in (legs in frog position), baby front face-in (legs out), and front face-out.
It comes with a padded waist belt and wide shoulder straps that help evenly distribute the baby's weight. It requires no infant insert and is recommended for babies that weigh between 8 and 35 pounds.
In addition to all this, this portable baby carrier also comes with an integrated storage pouch for packing it up and throwing it into your car or diaper bag.
Weight Range: 8-35lbs
Carrying Positions: 3 Positions – newborn front facing in, baby front facing in and back carry
Features:
- One size fits all.
- Adjustable waist belt to 54".
- Budget baby carrier for travel.
8. Bebamour Baby Carrier
Bebamour makes wearing your newborn easy and stress-free. Made from a durable high-end fabric, this infant carrier is ergonomically designed to hold babies between 0 and 33 pounds in different carry positions. It features an adjustable waistband and shoulder straps to offer maximum adjustability and comfort to the wearer.
Like many of the others on this list, this travel baby carrier has even been deemed “hip-healthy” by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI). Some extra features include a removable front drool bib, a pair of shoulder drool bibs, and a foam wedge pad inside the hip seat that serves as a support for your baby's bottom.
It also comes with a zipper pocket on the belt for storing small things like keys and pacifiers.
The only drawback we would point out is that unlike a lot of the other carriers on this list, this carrier is required to be washed by hand only and should only be used to a maximum weight of 33 lbs.
Weight Range: 0-33lbs
Carrying Positions: 6 Positions – front & back carry
Features: Includes hip seat.
Best Baby Carriers for Newborn Babies
If you are traveling with an infant, here are the best infant travel carriers. The ones above will work as well, but these hold your newborn nice and close in a soft wrap.
9. Boba Wrap Baby Carrier
The stretchy baby carriers from Boba are great for supporting infants from birth up to 35 pounds. They come in a wide range of colors and patterns to let parents' sense of style shine through while doing so!
Made out of 95% Cotton and 5% spandex, the long wrap is warm, yet breathable, machine-washable, and stretchy enough to retain its shape without loosening or sagging when adjusting the baby.
There's also only one way to tie this one-size-fits-all wrap. This ensures you don't waste time guessing when on the go, but still get the guarantee of a custom fit every time you wear it!
Weight Range: birth to 35lbs
10. Baby K'tan Original Baby Wrap Carrier
The Baby K'tan Baby Wrap Carrier makes sure you don't spend even a second more fumbling and fiddling with ties, straps and rings. Pre-wrapped and available in a ton of colors and patterns, this 100% cotton carrier is designed to be as easy as a t-shirt to wear and secure babies up to 35 pounds close to your chest.
However, what this also means is that this baby carrier goes by dress size, so if you are planning to share this carrier with your partner, you will have to get two. With 5 positions to try and a carry bag that converts to a sash, this parent-invented wrap is sure to become both yours and your baby's favorite travel companion in no time!
Our only complaint about the Baby K'tan is that it's fit the carrier not the baby. Meaning that unless both parents are the same size, you can't share it. We still think this baby carrier for travel is more than worth it. It's easy to use and perfect for traveling with newborn babies.
Weight Range: birth to 35lbs
Carrying Positions: 5 Positions – front & back carry
Fabric: 100% cotton
Features:
- Machine washable.
- Folds small to fit in diaper bag.
11. Ergobaby Embrace Cozy Newborn Baby Wrap Carrier
With the sleek and classic Ergobaby Embrace Baby Wrap, there will be no more complicated wrapping or tying! This baby carrier weighs 1.5 pounds and is designed to hold babies that weigh between 7 and 25 pounds with its supportive waist belt and spreadable cross straps.
Made of a mix of polyester, rayon and spandex, the extremely soft and stretchy carrier is machine-washable and acknowledged for being hip-healthy. It also stores easy, making it convenient to roll up and throw into your backpack diaper bag while traveling. This is another of the best baby carriers for newborns.
Weight Range: 7-25lbs
Carrying positions: 2 Positions – front & back carry
Fabric: Polyester blend
Features: Machine washable.
12. BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Mini
The perfect travel baby carrier for newborns, the Baby Bjorn carrier comes in 8 different solid colors and is made of fabric that is super soft, lightweight and machine-washable. Parents get to choose between a 3D mesh fabric, cotton or a 3D jersey fabric based on their preferences when making their purchase. One of the best parts about this baby carrier is how easy it is to put on and take off. It's very flexible and can be used until your baby is around 12 months old. With a head support and adjustable seat, this carrier will provide the ultimate in comfort for your newborn.
Looking for the best infant carrier for air travel? This is a great option! It's small and easy to use, plus you can easily unfasten the front section and lift a sleeping baby out. Perfect if you are asked to remove your baby when going through security!
Weight Range: 7 to 24lbs
Carrying Positions: 2 Front carrying options.
Fabric: 100% cotton
Features:
- Machine washable.
- Available in mesh or jersey fabrics.
13. Nalakai Ring Sling Baby Carrier
These Nalakai Ring Slings are an excellent choice for parents who want to carry their baby in comfort and style. Made from a unique blend of linen and bamboo, the carrier blocks over 97% of harmful UV rays, and comes in 20 different colors to really bring out your personality.
The harness holds your baby naturally in the healthy M position so that their hips develop properly while keeping you both close and snug. It's worry-free travels all the time when your baby is wrapped in this wrinkle-resistant sling!
Weight Range: 0 to 35lbs
Carrying Positions: 2 Positions - Front carry and hip carry
Fabric: Bamboo and linen
Features: Machine washable on gentle cycle.
Other Baby Carriers for Travel
Still haven't found the perfect carrier? Our Amazon shopping list has a few other well rated options like this Moby Wrap Baby Carrier, the Cuddlebug Baby Wrap Sling + Carrier or this highly rated KeaBabies Baby Wrap Carrier.
Best Baby Carriers for Hiking
If you hope to bring your little one along on your outdoor family adventures, a baby carrier for hiking is a definite must-have for hiking with a baby.
The best baby hiking carrier will offer your baby a view of their surroundings, while also providing you with the right back support for even the lengthiest excursions. Keep reading to see why we love these hiking baby carrier options.
While you can always use soft structured carriers for hiking, we preferred a baby backpack carrier for hiking, especially if it was a long hike. You can read more about it in our post on the best baby hiking carriers, but we always appreciated the fit of a backpack style carrier plus the storage options for everything we needed to carry.
Baby carrier backpacks can also offer a more comfortable ride for your baby since they aren't right up against your body plus backpack carriers with a canopy can offer some sun protection.
15. The Deuter Kid Comfort Pro Baby Backpack Carrier
The Deuter Kid Comfort Pro has everything that you are looking for and more in a good hiking backpack baby carrier! Weighing about 8.8 pounds and chock full of handy features, this best baby backpack carrier is one of the most luxurious carriers for travel on our list.
Safety always comes first and in that regard, this high quality backpack carrier does not disappoint. Fully padded and equipped with color coded buckles on its safety harness, it is equipped to handle even the sharpest jolts and turns without waking your baby up from their slumber while on your hike. And for older, more independent kids, it features a safe step-in side entry to climb in and out on their own.
What really sets this high-end baby backpack carrier apart and makes it one of the best baby hiking carriers in the market, however, is its Vari Slide Back Length Adjustment System. The feature makes adjusting the height of the carrier easy and allows parents with different torso lengths to customize the size of the carrier with a simple lift of an easy-to-use plastic buckle!
When it comes to storage, the Deuter Kid Comfort Pro provides enough space to bring along anything you may need for your adventure in the wild. Between a bunch of pockets, a removable daypack with inside pockets, a sunroof and a rear-view mirror for your little rider, this carrier really does have it all. And did I mention it also comes with a pillow? Yes, the carrier includes a large, soft pillow for steering clear of naptime crankiness when on the go with little ones!
It's easy to see that this carrier has all the right features, including a highly adjustable shoulder strap and waist belt to ensure even weight distribution on the parent's back. And with a mesh-lined interior, that allows air to flow between the parent's back and the kid, and a cozy and secure seat that'll cradle your baby in comfort, this carrier really is one of the best baby carrier backpacks for hiking and travel.
If you are thinking a baby backpack carrier is too big for traveling with, get all our advice for flying with a hiking backpack carrier.
Weight Range: 8 months to 48.5 lbs (including weight of carrier). Baby should be able to sit up unassisted.
Features: Includes fixed sun roof, footrests, and integrated day pack.
The Deuter Kid Comfort has less expensive versions than the Pro, like the Kid Comfort and Kid Comfort Active. The Deuter Kid Comfort Pro has the most features and the most storage.
Read our full review of the Deuter Kid Comfort Active
16. Osprey Packs Poco Plus Child Carrier
Whether it's a short walk in the park or a hike in the mountains, the Osprey Poco Plus baby backpack carrier will always add something special to your outdoor adventure. The carrier is designed for every parent; tall, short, and everyone in between!
The minimum child weight for this carrier is 16 pounds and maximum weight, including your child, gear and the weight of the carrier itself, is 48.5 pounds.
If you're worried about carrying that much weight, don't be! Because the harnesses and hip belt with the Fit-on-the-Fly feature can be easily adjusted for the perfect fit, and is one of the things that makes this carrier stand out the most. The child cockpit comes with a double halo child harness that is also adjustable, along with removable foot stirrups.
Aside from its incredible comfort design, this carrier also comes with loads of storage facilities, including tons of zippered compartments along with a built-in sunshade, a washable drool pad and toy loops.
It's really almost like a stroller that you carry on your back - just a lot more comfortable! Parents also rave about the suspension system and ventilated back panel of this carrier which makes for excellent wearability when carrying your child for prolonged periods.
Weight Range: 16-48.5 lbs (including weight of carrier).
Features:
- Built in sun-shade.
- Adjustable and removable foot stirrups.
Similar to the Deuter, Poco makes both the Poco Child Carrier and the Poco LT Carrier in addition to the Poco Plus. The Poco Plus has the most features and the most storage.
Best Baby Carriers for Beach Vacations
When you want to have a good time by the water with your little one, a waterproof baby carrier is an indispensable item. It'll make sure your little one is safe and sound, and snuggled up close to you when things get exciting all around them! Listed below is a quick overview of some of the best baby carriers for hot climates and use in water in the market.
17. Vlokup Mesh Baby Wrap for Pool, Beach & Swimming
Made of polyester, the Vlokup Baby Wrap is fantastic for holding your little one as closely and safely as possible in any water-related situation. This is one of the best baby carriers for a beach vacation and is made of an excellent mesh fabric to keep your baby feeling light and comfortable. It evenly distributes weight across the wearer’s back, allowing you to carry your little one for longer.
The wrap is 5 meters long and 0.5 meters wide, and is recommended for babies that weigh between 8 and 35 pounds. With plenty of fabric, you can wrap your baby however you like and have endless fun times in the water!
See all our baby beach essentials here!
18. Beachfront Baby Wrap
This one-size-fits-all wrap is made from quick-drying polyester fabric, and is designed for babies that weigh between 8 and 30 pounds. The breathable fabric is especially great for when it’s hot outside and one of the best baby carriers for water. With an optimal carry position that is high on the wearer’s chest, your baby will stay cool and comfortable with their head above the water both at the pool and beach.
Some moms have also said that the material proves to be a little too short for larger adults so be sure to check the dimensions before making your purchase.
We do have to mention that this carrier is made out of a non-SPF material, which means you will have to try to stay in the shade as much as possible when carrying your baby in it outdoors. We recommend a good baby sun hat and taking breaks in one of these baby beach tents.
Best Baby Carriers for Twins
A twin baby carrier is an absolute must if you ever want to have two free hands again once you have twins! They also make it that much easier to enter places that are not large enough to accommodate a double travel stroller easily. For instance, when you are in an elevator or navigating a busy airport in a rush, lugging around a stroller plus two babies can be a nightmare.
Having a baby carrier for twins is a life saver in all of these situations. You'll want to bring anything you can that makes travel with twins even a little bit easier!
19. TwinGo Original Baby Carrier
Featuring an intuitive design with ergonomic positioning and 8 different ways to adjust this twin carrier, the TwinGo Original baby carrier is a favorite among parents. This twin baby carrier comes in 2 different color combinations: black/orange/blue or grey/yellow/green.
The TwinGo carrier is recommended for babies that weigh between 10 and 45 pounds. However, what really sets this twin carrier apart from other brands is that you can wear this as a double-child carrier or divide it into two single-child carriers and share the love with your partner.
TwinGo fits very well on both men and women and has adjustable waist and shoulder straps for a more customized fit. The sleep hoods that come included expertly and gently support your babies' heads, and the extra-large reversible storage pocket is perfect for storing keys, diapers, phones and other odds and ends that you'd like to have on hand.
Weight Range: 10-45lbs (or starting at 7 lbs with the infant insert).
Carrying Positions: 2 Positions – front & back carry
Includes two 100% cotton sleeping hoods
20. TwinGo Carrier - Air Model
Brilliantly adaptable, comfortable and easy to operate, the TwinGo Air carrier is well known for being amazingly well-rounded. It allows parents to carry both babies at once (or separately) by evenly distributing their weights between the front and back.
Made of a breathable mesh fabric, it is lightweight and ideal for warmer climates. Parents of twins love the Twingo Air for outdoor use, especially when taking them hiking or to the zoo due to the carrier's ability to stay cool even in warm temperatures. The zip-up content panel will help keep your babies warm in cooler temperatures.
This twin baby carrier is recommended for babies that weigh between 10 and 45 pounds, and is equipped to tandem carry two children of different ages. With the help of the optional newborn insert, this carrier can even be used for newborns starting at 7 lbs, making it an exceptionally worthy purchase for new parents. It really is one of the best baby carriers for twins!
Three Color Options: Black, Grey & Teal
Weight Range: 7-45lbs
Carrying Positions: 2 Positions – front & back carry
Includes two 100% cotton sleeping hoods
Best Baby Carrier for Traveling – Our Recommendation
As mentioned, I’ve used many different baby carriers when traveling with my kids. For instance, I have used a Baby K’Tan, Ergo Original, Ergo Performance Original with & without infant insert, Onya Baby Nexstep, LILLEBaby CarryOn Toddler Carrier, Deuter Kid Comfort III, and the Piggyback Rider. I have also rented a Kelty backpack carrier, but it wasn’t clear what model it was (or I forgot to check). I’ve used our carriers for around the house, hiking, city sightseeing and everything in between.
I do the majority of the babywearing, but my husband does it quite frequently too. I loved our Baby K’Tan when each of our kids was itty bitty and would buy it again. I didn’t use it for very long though (maybe 9 months).
I am frugal by nature and also don’t like to have to carry extra pieces, plus I didn’t really love using the infant insert with our Ergo (especially when it was hot out), so if I was buying a carrier now I would probably go for one that could be used the longest with the most options.
My choice would be the Ergo Omni 360 or the LÍLLÉbaby COMPLETE. They don’t require an infant insert, they have the most carrying options and I’m familiar enough with their other products, that I know the quality would be great. Both of these options also have mesh fabric options making them some of the best baby carriers for hot weather.
If carrying is still an option once your toddler is 2.5-3 yrs old, I would highly recommend a toddler carrier, like the LÍLLÉbaby Carryon Toddler Carrier. Though most baby carriers are rated to 45 lbs, the toddler carrier is wider and taller, making it so much more comfortable for both toddler and parent.
I’ve carried my 4 year old in my Ergo and was surprised how much more comfortable the LÍLLÉbaby Carryon Toddler Carrier was. I love being able to carry it around my waist or in my backpack and throw my toddler in it easily on-the-go. When he chooses to walk, I’m not still pushing around a stroller. I’m free to chase him!
The best baby carriers for dad are the ones that will fit both parents. While I loved the Baby K’tan, my husband and I couldn’t share it. We both found the Ergobaby carrier and our Deuter backpack carrier to be comfortable for carrying both babies and toddlers. Any of the baby carriers with adjustable shoulder straps and an adjustable waist belt will be the best baby carriers for men.
The best baby carriers for air travel are the ones that you can pack up. To be honest, I think any of the soft-structured carriers are a good fit for older babies and toddlers. When flying with an infant, the Baby K’tan, the BABYBJORN mini or the Ergo Embrace would all be good options.
Finally, if you plan to spend a lot of time hiking with a baby or toddler, look into a hiking backpack carrier. Both of my kids were happier for so much longer in the backpack carrier. They sat up higher, could see more and were cooler.
Benefits of a Baby Carrier for Travel
I often hear from parents asking if a baby carrier vs. a stroller would be better for travel. In many instances I’ve found our travel baby carrier to be the clear winner. Here are the main reasons I’ve preferred to travel with one of the baby carrier instead of a travel stroller:
- Being hands free.
- The benefits of babywearing still apply on vacation.
- Your baby may sleep easier in a carrier.
- Not all attractions are stroller accessible.
- Not all cities are stroller friendly.
- You will want a baby carrier for the airplane, trust me!
Let’s get into a little more detail on some of the key parts of travelling with a baby and why you’ll want a baby carrier:
Advantages of a Baby Carrier for the Airport
I always chose to use a baby carrier at the airport (often without even bringing a stroller on our trip with us and choosing to rent baby equipment at our destination instead). It doesn’t happen all the time, but often you’ll get right through security without even taking your baby out of the carrier.
And if your baby isn’t sleeping, it’s not really a big deal to take them out if you have to. Going through security with free hands is invaluable. Plus, with a baby carrier you won’t have to completely empty a stroller to put it through the x-ray.
Benefits of a Baby Carrier for Air Travel
Every parents dream is that their baby will sleep through the flight. You’ll save your arms (and maybe even be able to hold up a book or feed yourself) if your baby falls asleep on you in the carrier.
If your baby is having trouble sleeping or it’s just not nap time, having a carrier to walk your baby around or even just to not have to hold your baby the entire time will be a lifesaver. I highly recommend a baby carrier for plane travel. Your arms will thank me!
Don’t miss my post on Best Baby Travel Toys!
Advantages of a Baby Carrier for Public Transport
I have regretted taking a stroller on public transit almost every single time we tried. Either we had to fold it up, or it was too crowded on the bus or subway, or we couldn’t get it through the turnstiles. A baby carrier is so much better if you plan on getting around with public transportation.
Benefits of a Baby Carrier for Sightseeing
There are plenty of places around the world where you either cannot or will not want to use a stroller, even the most lightweight travel stroller. Having a baby carrier will mean you won’t have to miss out!
Choosing Between a Wrap and a Soft-Structured Baby Carrier
Wraps are excellent for infants and very small babies (typically from birth until about 20 lbs). They don’t require any type of infant insert. If you get a true wrap (as opposed to a carrier like the Baby k’Tan) then it’s a one size fits all. They are a soft without any buckles, like wrapping your baby in a blanket.
A wrap will require some practice to get it right. A soft-structured baby carrier can also be used from birth.
A soft structured carrier will have a much higher weight limit and some can be used into the early toddler years. Soft-structured baby carriers also have a much smaller learning curve. They’ll often have padded shoulder straps for added comfort.
You probably can do a back carry in a woven wrap, but it’s much easier to do in soft structured carriers. A carrier will also have a few pockets to carry keys, etc. Depending on who will be doing the baby carrying, dads typically prefer the carriers over wraps.
When to Choose a Ring Sling
A ring sling will be easier to put on than a wrap, as the techniques to wrap must be mastered before it’s easy to take your baby in and out. Your baby will outgrow the wrap quicker. A ring sling can still be used with a toddler. Ring slings are smaller than a wrap so can easily be put into a bag or pocket, additionally they are easier to change your baby’s position.
Considerations Before Buying a Baby Carrier
So now that I’ve hopefully convinced you that a baby carrier is a must for travel, which one should you get? The number of baby carriers to choose from can be overwhelming.
My first recommendation would be to do your research then try them out before you buy. How can you do this? See if you can borrow from a friend, visit a babywearing lending library or join a babywearing group. Alternatively, check return policies and see if you can order more than one to try before you commit.
When it comes to choosing the best baby carrier for you, these are the questions you need to ask yourself:
How long do you hope to use it for?
What age will you start using it with your baby?
How many carrying positions would you like to have?
Do you have any back, neck or shoulder issues?
How important is the fabric and/or the option to have fun patterns?
Do you plan to use it mostly in warm destinations?
What types of activities will you use for most: sightseeing or hiking?
And finally, what is your budget?
What’s the Best Baby Carrier for Flying?
In all honesty, the best baby carrier for flying will be the one that your baby is most comfortable with. Flying will be a new experience for your baby and having something that your baby is familiar with is a good idea.
I’ve said it plenty of times before, but I love a baby carrier for flying because it allows you to take a break from holding your baby, you can walk the aisles if your baby is fussing, and it allows you to have your hands free to do things like eat or hold a book (if your baby falls asleep on you). It also keeps your baby safe if you happen to fall asleep too.
So once you find a baby carrier that’s most comfortable for you and your baby, that’s the best baby carrier for air travel for your family!
What to do if Baby Hates the Carrier?
What if you’ve bought the best baby carrier for travel you could find and your baby hates being in it. It’s true, some babies don’t like the carrier. Some babies have only a certain amount of time they will tolerate being in it. And then some babies love being in a baby carrier. All babies are different.
The best advice I can give here is to try it at home before you plan to travel with it. Then you’ll know how your baby feels before you go on your trip.
If you have an infant baby carrier or one that works for newborns, start using it right away. Regardless of when you start using your baby carrier, try using it for small stretches of time every day even just around the house, especially if your baby isn’t a fan.
If your baby is old enough, try different positions. If your baby just isn’t having it, put it away for a few weeks then try again. Babies are constantly changing!
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This post was written & edited by:
Celine Brewer is the owner of Baby Can Travel. Not only does she have years of experience traveling with babies & toddlers, but she's helped millions of new parents travel with their babies and toddlers for over a decade. In addition to writing on her baby travel blog, she has shared her expertise on traveling with a baby or toddler by contributing to articles about traveling with a baby with the Washington Post, USA Today, the Lonely Planet magazine and Pregnancy & Newborn magazine.
Celine also writes about family travel on the site FamilyCanTravel.com, which she co-owns with her husband. Being from the Canadian Rockies, she shares her passion about her home and travel to Banff National Park and area on their site TravelBanffCanada.com.