Hey there fellow travelers and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best baby carriers for travel this year. As we all know, traveling with a baby opens up all manner of issues and considerations as you move around. To this end, many try and keep their hands free for other things by keeping their little one in a baby carrier.
There are of course however numerous factors to consider when determining which baby carrier is ideal for you and your child. So for those of you considering whether this can work for you, I have had a look around and come up with three decent options below.
Let’s check them out.
My Three Recommended Baby Carriers for Travel
I will review these in more detail below however if you want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
What are Baby Carriers for Travel?
A baby carrier for plane travel is a soft, padded ‘seat’ for babies you wear on your front – some can also accommodate back or hip options as well. They of course can and are used for non travel purposes such as shopping etc. too however for travel, there are some advantages here as follows:
- Reduces crying – While wearing a baby carrier cannot stop a weeping baby 100%, their closeness to the body can definitely assist in reducing the crying here. They can also assist in getting baby to sleep as well.
- Assists with breastfeeding – It is feasible to nurse while your baby is in a carrier if you’re a breastfeeding parent who’s using a baby carrier. This item enables you to practice demand feeding or to feed the baby while on the road or in a plane etc.
- Hands free – As above, the simple fact that carrying a baby in a carrier allows you to use both hands as you navigate airports, planes, hotels and so on. Trust me – I can speak from experience here that this was the biggest advantage we have found with a carrier.
Check out these: 3 Best Baby Monitors for Travel
What Should You Be Looking For?
The following factors should be considered as you look around for a good baby carrier to meet your travel needs.
- Type of baby carrier
- Size
- Adjustability
- Material
- Positioning
- Safety
- Additions
Type of baby carrier
Choosing the best baby carrier might be difficult with so many variations available – here are some options to consider:
- Baby wrap – The most fundamental kind of baby carrier is this wrap option. A baby wrap is essentially a long piece of fabric that ‘ties’ the baby to an adult. They can be hard to master but provide the best flexibility in terms of position and baby preference. One suitable option for newborns is a stretchy baby wrap however for older babies a high-quality woven wrap will work better.
- Ring sling – Ring slings work in a similar fashion to a wrap however are generally quicker and simpler to put on. They work well for hip carries and are ideal for larger babies and small toddlers. These carriers are also among the most adaptable, serving you well from newborn through preschool.
- Soft structured carrier (SSC) – The next class of baby carriers is the most popular one as they’re easy to use and highly comfortable. They even come in lightweight, breathable fabrics, making them one of the best baby carriers for travel in all conditions.
Size
Whilst most options are suitable for use from newborn to small toddler, just make sure it will fit well for the age, weight and size of your baby.
Adjustability
As above, whilst you can purchase a one-size-fits-all carrier to use while traveling with your child, you might as well invest in a single baby carrier that can be used for infants as young as a couple of weeks and as old as 36 months. Hence look for an option that is adjustable for all age levels.
And in terms of the carrying adult, the carrier will be more comfortable for you if it has adjustable straps and back support as well. Additionally, examine the size specifications because certain carriers aren’t appropriate for parents who are plus size or have any injuries or disabilities.
Material
A baby carrier’s fabric must be sturdy, machine washable and most importantly, kind to your baby’s tender skin. Babies are sensitive to scrapes, skin irritations and discomfort from rough materials etc. and since they are practically immobile in a carrier, you don’t want the materials to rub or chafe.
Look then for a carrier with soft materials with extra padding if needed as well as naturally breathing fabrics that won’t overheat baby either.
Positioning
Although it’s not always required, it’s always smart to choose a carrier that can be held in various ways. Babies will benefit from a change of scenery from time to time however some carriers can only be worn in one position – or you may only like them to be carried one way.
Your baby can face the world whilst being carried on your front, which is fantastic for them to meet people and see shapes and colors, or they can be carried on your back which gives a comfortable surface for them to nap on. Most commonly however, small babies are carried with their front to the adult’s chest.
Simply choose a carrier that meets your preferred carry position of your baby.
Safety
When selecting the best baby carrier for travel, safety should be another factor given high priority. Look for a carrier that offers your child good spine and neck support in addition to one made of soft, irritant-resistant fabric.
Your baby will feel every step you take while walking with them in a carrier, which could harm their spine if they don’t have enough support. For this reason, ensure to pick a carrier with extended back support to keep their necks supported, align their spine, and prevent them from falling out.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Soft padding: This feature helps lessen the pressure that your shoulders and hips may feel as you carry your little one.
- Ease of cleaning: Babies tend to become messy, so it will be a big plus for you to buy a baby carrier that you can easily clean.
FAQs
What features make these baby carriers ideal for travel?
When selecting the best baby carriers for travel, there are several essential features to consider. Firstly, travel-friendly carriers are lightweight and can be easily folded or rolled up to fit into a suitcase or a backpack without occupying too much space. Secondly, the material is vital; look for options made of breathable fabrics to ensure your baby stays cool and comfortable during your journeys, especially in warmer climates. Moreover, these carriers come with adjustable settings and supportive straps to distribute the baby’s weight evenly, reducing strain on the parent’s back and shoulders. Lastly, ease of use is also an important consideration. When you’re on the move, you want a carrier that’s easy to put on and take off without requiring additional assistance.
Are baby carriers suitable for infants and toddlers?
Yes, most baby carriers are versatile and designed to accommodate a range of age groups, from infants to toddlers. Each carrier has adjustable settings to ensure a snug and safe fit for newborns, and they can be readjusted as your baby grows. However, it’s essential to check the specific weight and age recommendations for each carrier. Typically, these carriers can comfortably and safely hold babies from the newborn stage up to toddlers weighing around 25 to 35 pounds. Additionally, features like head and neck support for infants ensure that even the youngest travelers are safe and comfortable during your adventures.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier
My first suggested brand is a terrific option for individuals who need something for intermittent use but still want something that is durable, cozy and simple to adjust. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Infantino
- Type: Soft structured carrier
- Material: Washable fabric
- Capacity: 32 pounds
- Dimensions: 10.2 x 10.2 x 4.3 inches
- Weight: 8 pounds
Other inclusion:
- Adjustable head support
- Multiple carrying positions
- Washable fabric
- Padded shoulder straps
- Narrow and wide seat positioning
Why have I chosen it?
This lightweight and inexpensive baby carrier allows you to carry your child in four different postures. It is made of materials that is breathable with ease of adjustment.
With the optional broad seat, you can easily change how your baby is seated including the ideal M position. All in all, a great option for those who need something at the airport and on the plane for a decent price.
2. Boba Wrap Baby Carrier
My second listed item is among the bestselling baby wrap carriers for newborns where wearing it for hours of travel is relatively easy as it comes with a breathable and adaptable material upon purchase. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Boba
- Type: Baby wrap
- Material: 95% cotton and 5% spandex
- Capacity: 35 pounds
- Dimensions: 5.5 yards in length
- Weight: 1.76 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Machine washable
- One-year warranty
Why have I chosen it?
This item is incredibly easy to tie around you and comes in a variety of colors. It also weighs just 1.5 pounds making it incredibly convenient to pack away when not in use.
It is made of a machine washable blend of soft, elastic cotton and spandex that is intended to cradle babies comfortably without placing undue pressure on their bodies as well.
3. Ergobaby 360 All-Position Baby Carrier
My last reviewed product is considered one of the most reputable and trustworthy baby carrier brands – and the one we used and loved. The manufacturers are known for the inclusive sizing of their products for both the baby and the parent and they also produce baby carriers that are innovative and cozy too. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Ergobaby
- Type: Soft structured carrier
- Material: Polyester fabric
- Capacity: 45 pounds
- Dimensions: 10.5 x 6.7 x 6.7 inches
- Weight: 1.54 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Breathable mesh construction
- Cushy shoulder straps
- Lumbar support
Why have I chosen it?
This well-liked baby carrier can accommodate young children up to the 45lb and age of 4 making it a long-lasting carrier. Additionally, the wide waistband and adjustable cushioned shoulder straps on this carrier allow for growth in tandem with changes in the parent’s weight.
Perhaps the best feature of this carrier is the roomy storage pouch and detachable hood, which you can use to store necessities and shield your child’s head from the sun’s damaging rays as well.
Conclusion
There you have it, my three best best baby carrier for air travel options this year. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
