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The Best Baby Carrier for Travel – What Baby Carrier is Best in 2022?

When deciding what baby carrier is best for you and your baby, there are so many things to take into account. But when you want to find the best baby carrier for travel – there are even more things to consider!

Whether you’re an experienced baby wearer or not, making the decision to baby wear on holiday is an excellent one. Ever since my son was born (almost 7 years ago) my husband and I have been wearing him – both at home and around the world. Between us, we’ve tried a multitude of baby carriers over that time – everything from wrap baby carriers to backpack baby carriers for hiking trips.

I’ve put together this guide to help you choose the best baby carrier for your needs. If you’re a complete beginner to babywearing, I’ve got you covered with information about all the best baby carrier brands on the market, and what each is good for. If you’re already babywearing and you’re simply looking for the best travel baby carrier, then you can skip ahead to the comparison table and reviews!


Best Baby Carriers for Travel – Comparison Chart

If you want to jump straight in to see which is the best-rated baby carrier for travel, this comparison chart is for you!

NameImageWeight Range (lbs)Best ForCarrying PositionsPrice


Deuter Kid Comfort Pro
Deuter Kid Comfort Pro Child Carrier Backpack for Travel & Hiking with Toddlers

16-48


Hiking


Back


Check Here


LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons
LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons Ergonomic 6-in-1 Baby Carrier Newborn to Toddler - with Lumbar Support - for Children 7-45 Pounds - 360 Degree Baby Wearing - Inward & Outward Facing - Stone

7-45


Everyday

Front, Front-Facing, Hip, Back


Check Here


Ergobaby 360
Ergobaby 360 All-Position Baby Carrier with Lumbar Support (12-45 Pounds), Carbon Grey, Cool Air Mesh

12-33


Everyday

Front, Front-Facing, Hip, Back


Check Here


LÍLLÉbaby Complete Airflow
LÍLLÉbaby Complete Airflow Ergonomic 6-in-1 Baby Carrier Newborn to Toddler - with Lumbar Support - for Children 7-45 Pounds - 360 Degree Baby Wearing - Inward and Outward Facing - Silver

7-45


Hot Climates

Front, Front-Facing, Hip, Back


Check Here


Baby Tula

Baby Tula Discover Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier, Adjustable Newborn to Toddler Carrier, Ergonomic and Multiple Positions for 7 - 45 pounds, Black with Gray Stars


15-45


Men, Backpack


Front, Back


Check Here


Hip Baby Woven Wrap
Hip Baby Wrap Woven Baby Carrier for Infants and Toddlers - Perfect for Baby Shower, Baby Sling Carrier, Baby Wrap Carrier, Baby Carriers, Baby Wearing Carrier, Baby Sling and Nursing Cover (Autumn)

8-35


Twins, Older Babies


Front, Hip, Back


Check Here


Boba 4G
Boba Baby Carrier Classic - Backpack or Front Pack Baby Sling for 7 lb Infants and Toddlers up to 45 pounds (Constellation)7-45

Newborns, Hiking, Backpack


Front, Back


Check Here


Infantino Flip
Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier - Ergonomic, convertible, face-in and face-out front and back carry for newborns and older babies 8-32 lbs

8-32


Everyday

Front, Front-Facing, Hip, Back


Check Here


Hip Baby Ring Sling
Hip Baby Wrap Ring Sling Baby Carrier for Infants and Toddlers - 100% Soft Cotton Baby Wraps Carrier for Babies 8-35 lbs - Perfect Baby Shower Gifts Moms and Dads - Nursing Cover (Summer Rainbow))

8-35

Newborns, Toddlers, Breastfeeding, Plus Size Parents


Front, Hip, Back


Check Here


Boba Wrap
Boba Baby Wrap Carrier Newborn to Toddler - Stretchy Baby Wraps Carrier - Baby Sling - Hands-Free Baby Carrier Wrap - Baby Carrier Sling - Baby Carrier Newborn to Toddler 7-35 lbs (Grey)

8-35


Newborns


Front, Hip


Check Here

Our Top 10 Baby Carrier Reviews

Ready to choose your baby carrier? Read our personal reviews of the top contenders below.

DEUTER KID COMFORT PRO

Deuter Kid Comfort Pro Child Carrier Backpack for Travel & Hiking with Toddlers

Deuter leads the way when it comes to finding the best baby hiking carrier. This structured carrier is different to the other baby carriers on this list, but for a specialised activity such as hiking, it pays to have the right equipment.

What makes this carrier stand out from the competition are its comfort and safety features. The revolutionary Aircontact Pro Backsytem distributes the weight of the carrier and your child wonderfully, allowing for an extremely comfortable carry, no matter who is wearing it. And your child will be riding in comfort too.

The seat height can be adjusted to meet the needs of your baby, and foot stirrups add to the perfect long-distance seating position. A 5-point harness mimics a good car restraint for your child – allowing them to ride in safety – and you don’t have to worry about them moving about in the carrier. There’s even a handy sunshade to keep the little one protected in hot weather!

Deuter Kid Comfort Pro for Travel

The Deuter Kid Comfort isn’t going to be the best baby carrier for air travel due to its size and weight. But if you’re going on a hiking holiday it may be worth the sacrifice on space! Also, check with your airline, as some may allow you to bring it along as an additional “baby item”. Nevertheless, whether you’re travelling by plane or car, the benefits of this carrier over others will shine when you hit the trails! Other travel benefits include:

  • Unmatched comfort for trekking.
  • Adjustable fit makes it a great carrier for all parents.
  • Includes a large cargo pouch under the child’s seat for hiking essentials – removing the need to carry another bag!
  • Inbuilt sunshade.

Buy it on Amazon

LÍLLÉBABY COMPLETE ALL SEASONS

LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons Ergonomic 6-in-1 Baby Carrier Newborn to Toddler - with Lumbar Support - for Children 7-45 Pounds - 360 Degree Baby Wearing - Inward & Outward Facing - Stone

When my son outgrew his Baby Tula, we upgraded to a Toddler Tula. It was fabulous and at the time, it was one of two toddler-specific carriers on the market. Now, however, there is far more choice available, and the LÍLLÉbaby Complete tops the Tula in terms of longevity and price!

The LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons carrier carries children up to 45 lbs – so it’s the ideal carrier if you’re planning on extending your babywearing days!

The Lillebaby can also handle a hip carry and comes in at a lower price point. There’s only one exception, and that’s if you’re a plus-size parent, you may want to opt for the Beco Toddler Carrier. The Beco waistband extends up to 59″ compared to LÍLLÉbaby and Tula’s 52″ and 55 respectively.

LÍLLÉbaby CarryOn for Travelling

If you’re travelling with toddlers, the LÍLLÉbaby Complete baby carrier will become indispensable! Other travel benefits include:

  • Two pockets for carrying small extras.
  • Breathable for warm weather holidays.
  • Super comfortable for long days sightseeing/at Disney/hiking.
  • Machine Washable.

Buy it on Amazon

ERGOBABY 360

Ergobaby 360 All-Position Baby Carrier with Lumbar Support (12-45 Pounds), Carbon Grey, Cool Air Mesh

The Ergo Baby 360 caused quite a stir when it first came out as it was one of the first front-facing baby carriers that kept your child’s knees and hips in the correct, natural M position. Before this, Ergo baby carriers were already a popular option for their durability and comfort. And the additional benefit of having your baby front-facing added to its appeal.

If the celebrity endorsement wasn’t enough to woo you, perhaps the fact it was developed with the help of doctors will. It’s touted as being one of the most comfortable carriers on the market – especially for younger children – due to the thickly padded waistband and shoulder straps.

It’s also fully adjustable and allows for front, back and hip carries alongside the front-facing option. This version, with the addition of Cool Air Mesh, also makes it a good option when travelling to hotter climates.

Ergobaby 360 for Travelling

The Ergobaby is the best front baby carrier for curious little explorers. Other travel benefits include:

  • Easy to put on & off.
  • Comfortable to wear for long periods, hiking etc.
  • Can carry children of different ages.
  • One carrier for two parents.

Buy it on Amazon

LÍLLÉBABY COMPLETE AIRFLOW

LÍLLÉbaby Complete Airflow Ergonomic 6-in-1 Baby Carrier Newborn to Toddler - with Lumbar Support - for Children 7-45 Pounds - 360 Degree Baby Wearing - Inward and Outward Facing - Silver

When it’s hot out, it’s easy to worry about you or your baby overheating when you’re carrying them close. But LÍLLÉbaby’s Complete Airflow carrier provides a safe way to wear your babies in a hot climate.

The cotton and mesh construction make for a breathable carrier that maximises airflow. Allowing you and your baby to be more comfortable in hot weather, or while enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking.LÍLLÉbaby Complete Airflow carrier boasts being able to carry your baby in a range of positions, from newborn to toddler.

But sometimes it’s better to do a few things well than a lot of things so-so. And this rings true for this LÍLLÉbaby carrier. While it’s a great choice if you have a young baby and your main concern is air circulation, there are better carriers out there for toddlers.

But that’s a minor gripe. Most people who buy this carrier rave about it and love the flexibility.

LÍLLÉbaby Complete Airflow for Travelling

While I may not love this carrier for longevity, there’s no doubt it’s the best baby carrier for travelling in hot weather. Other travel benefits include:

  • Super comfortable carrier for long days exploring.
  • Able to swap between children of different ages easily.
  • Sun hood with UPF 50+ protection

Buy it on Amazon

BABY TULA

Baby Tula Discover Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier, Adjustable Newborn to Toddler Carrier, Ergonomic and Multiple Positions for 7 - 45 pounds, Black with Gray Stars

Discovering the Tula Baby Carrier was a game-changer for my husband. He went from reluctantly carrying our son, to volunteering to carry him! The Tula Baby Carrier is a soft structured carrier that allows for plenty of adjustments to be made – ensuring the most comfortable fit for everyone.

Other aspects that make the Tula SSC the best baby carrier for dads include the large well-padded extendable waist belt and the dual-adjustment straps. Both my husband and I found it to be the most comfortable baby carrier for back carries, which made it much easier to carry him when walking the dogs or doing the vacuuming!

This was in part thanks to the quality, thick padding on the shoulders and hips. And children find it super comfortable also, due to the high back support and padding around their thighs.

Tula baby carriers are also the most attractive SSC on the market, with a range of fun prints to suit every personality. You can even buy wrap conversion Tula baby carriers, but expect to fork out a lot more than a standard canvas carrier!

Tula for Travelling

I loved the Tula baby carrier for airplane travel as I could easily get it on & off to wear around the airport and on the plane – my son was even happy sleeping in it! Other travel benefits include:

  • Lightweight at 1.3 lbs and rolls up small.
  • Machine Washable.
  • Handy pocket for keys and money.
  • Quick adjustment between carriers.
  • Easy to put on and off.

Buy it on Amazon

HIP BABY WOVEN WRAP

Hip Baby Wrap Woven Baby Carrier for Infants and Toddlers - Perfect for Baby Shower, Baby Sling Carrier, Baby Wrap Carrier, Baby Carriers, Baby Wearing Carrier, Baby Sling and Nursing Cover (Autumn)

The best baby carrier wrap for older babies, Hip Baby have a reputation for making excellent quality wraps that function well and look fabulous! My first woven wrap was a Hip Baby and it cemented my love of wrapping. Of course, the biggest benefit of using a wrap carrier is the versatility it allows.

So long as you buy the correct size (size 6 is generally considered a good universal size) you can master all kinds of carries! Back, front, hip, you can even carry twins comfortably with a woven wrap.

Hip Baby woven wraps offer a lot at a very reasonable price. Making them a perfect woven wrap for beginners.

Woven Wraps for Travelling

I wouldn’t say a woven wrap is the best baby carrier for travelling especially, but it does have some unique benefits, as seen below:

  • Ability to carry older babies/toddlers for longer periods very comfortably.
  • Offers a wide range of carries.
  • Ability to carry two children at once!
  • Machine Washable.

Buy it on Amazon

BOBA 4G

Boba Baby Carrier Classic - Backpack or Front Pack Baby Sling for 7 lb Infants and Toddlers up to 45 pounds (Constellation)

Soft Structured Carriers are universally loved by babywearers, and this version from Boba has some amazing features that make it stand out from the crowd.

Its simple, lightweight design makes it a breeze to wear, and without having to buy an insert, your carrier will allow you to wear your baby right from newborn up into the toddler years.

Known as the best baby carrier for plus size mom/dad/carers, the Boba 4G has one of the widest waist belt capacities – extending from 25-58 inches. We particularly love the foot straps for toddlers, as they give your child some grounding (and they’re less likely to kick you if their feet are firmly anchored on something!). I also love the high back of this carrier which is perfect for tall kids like mine!

Boba 4G for Travelling

The Boba 4G is a ‘workhorse’ baby carrier – it’s sturdy, reliable and well-rounded – both at home and away! Other travel benefits include:

  • Easily adjustable between wearers.
  • Detachable hood.
  • Easy to get on and off, so bigger kids can catch a ride when they want/need to.
  • Comfortable to wear for hours.

Buy it on Amazon

INFANTINO FlLIP

Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier - Ergonomic, convertible, face-in and face-out front and back carry for newborns and older babies 8-32 lbs

One of the most affordable baby carriers on the market, the Infantino Flip is a great choice for the budget-conscious, or those new to baby wearing. This versatile baby carrier is comfortable, easily adjustable, and long-lasting.

The Infantino is lightly padded and features a 2-position seat, making it super comfortable for babywearers of all sizes. And while I wouldn’t neccesarily recommend it for newborns, the ability to carry your baby in a range of positions means it can grow with your child.

The Infantino also allows you to carry your child front-facing, or on your back – which can be a lot more comfortable as your baby gets heavier.

Infantino for Travelling

Easily adjustable, lightweight, and durable – the Infantino Flip makes it a great baby carrier for travelling. Other travel benefits include:

  • Super lightweight – at just 1.2 lbs, it’s the best carrier for international travel.
  • Easily transfer between parents – adjustments are quick and easy.
  • Machine Washable.

Buy it on Amazon

HIP BABY RING SLING

Hip Baby Wrap Ring Sling Baby Carrier for Infants and Toddlers - 100% Soft Cotton Baby Wraps Carrier for Babies 8-35 lbs - Perfect Baby Shower Gifts Moms and Dads - Nursing Cover (Summer Rainbow))

Although some people swear by ring slings for younger babies, I mostly enjoyed using one once my baby was a bit older. One of the best budget baby carriers, the Hip Baby Ring Sling is a way to get a great quality carrier, at a low price.

Handwoven in 100% cotton, and coloured with eco-friendly dies, the Hip Baby Ring Sling is a great looking baby carrier. And the addition of solid aluminium sling rings means it’s strong and safe for your baby too.

The adjustable size of the Hip Baby Ring Sling makes it perfect for both mums, dads, and plus-size wearers – it’s the most versatile baby carrier! The Hip Baby carrier is best for short stints of sightseeing. As all of your baby’s weight is carried on one shoulder, it can become uncomfortable if worn for long periods of time.

Hip Baby for Travelling

A good-quality ring sling is perfect for travelling due to its super easy setup. Other travel benefits include:

  • Lightweight fabric makes it easy to wear and pack.
  • Machine washable.
  • Toddlers can get in and out quickly.
  • Older babies and toddlers can see more when carried on the hip.
  • Great for nursing in.

Buy it on Amazon

BOBA BABY WRAP

Boba Baby Wrap Carrier Newborn to Toddler - Stretchy Baby Wraps Carrier - Baby Sling - Hands-Free Baby Carrier Wrap - Baby Carrier Sling - Baby Carrier Newborn to Toddler 7-35 lbs (Grey)

A stretchy wrap is an absolute godsend when you have a newborn that just wants to be attached to you 24/7. And the best baby wrap carrier for newborns is the Boba Baby Wrap. Made from 95% cotton/5% spandex it’s breathable and flexible, so you’ll have no trouble wearing it for hours! 

Many parents (myself included) fall in love with the art of wrapping, and the flexibility it allows you when carrying your baby. And a stretchy wrap is often a stepping stone to a woven wrap which is more suitable for older babies and toddlers.

The Boba wrap is also a perfect baby carrier for premature babies, so if your little bundle of joy were to arrive early, you’d be covered!

The only downside to the Boba Wrap is that it can take a little practice to get the wrapping technique just right. The long lengths of fabric can seem quite daunting at first. But once you’ve got the hang of it, you won’t regret buying the Boba as your first baby wrap!

Other stretchy wraps, such as the Baby K’Tan have less fabric, but you have to choose a size – making it difficult for two parents to share a carrier.

Boba Wrap for Travelling

The Boba Wrap is one of the best baby carriers for travel because it weighs only 1.76 lbs and can roll up tiny in your suitcase! Other travel benefits include:

  • It’s easily worn by both parents, so there’s no need to pack two carriers.
  • Machine washable and dries quickly.
  • Breathable cotton is good for hot climates.
  • Able to breastfeed your newborn on-the-go (and discreetly if you wish).

Buy it on Amazon


Stroller vs Baby Carrier for Travel

The decision to use a baby carrier vs stroller for travelling is one that many parents grapple with. Of course, sometimes it’s easier to take a baby carrier and stroller with you when you travel, but it’s not always practical. And who wants to lug around extra luggage if you don’t need to? Especially on top of all the other baby essentials like a travel crib and car seat!

I’m not going to go into all of the benefits of babywearing, but let’s look at some of the obvious and not-so-obvious benefits when using a baby carrier for travel.

How to choose the best baby carrier for travel.

Babywearing at the Airport/on the Plane

  • Keeping tabs on toddlers. Who wants to be chasing after toddlers in a busy airport? Using a baby carrier is an excellent way to be able to keep an eye on toddlers and pre-schoolers while checking in and navigating your way through the airport.
  • Allowing babies to sleep through security. If your flight is at a time when your baby normally sleeps, having them in a baby carrier allows them to continue sleeping while you go through the checking-in and security screening process. At some airports, you’ll be required to remove the baby carrier to go through security, but not always. It’s still a better option than having to pick them up out of their stroller – which is guaranteed to wake most babies up!
  • Having hands free for luggage. Ever tried to push a loaded luggage cart and a stroller at the same time? Trust me, you’ll want to give this one a miss. Especially if you’re travelling without another adult’s help.
  • It’s just a godsend on the plane. Travelling with young babies can be challenging. Our son wasn’t falling asleep on his own when we went on our first big overseas adventure with him. Using the baby carrier made it easier to rock him to sleep, either standing in the aisle or simply walking up and down – without my arms going numb from the exertion! Once asleep it was far easier to transfer him into the bassinet, or sit down and let him snooze on my front while using the baby carrier.
  • It’s light and easy to transport. It goes without saying that a baby carrier is easier to transport than a stroller, and if you’re wearing it – it won’t even count as part of your luggage allowance!
Best baby carrier for travel - Mei Tai baby carrier

Babywearing at your destination

  • Strollers can’t cope with cobbled lanes. The first time we travelled to Europe with our son I also brought along our shiny new Bugaboo stroller – and then found it was more of a nuisance than anything else! The haphazard nature of European streets adds to their charm, but cobbled lanes, narrow paths, high curbs, and uneven roads are not suitable for strollers.
  • Save space on public transport. If you’ve ever tried to get on a packed subway/metro train with a stroller, you’ll most likely not want to repeat the experience!
  • Sightsee with ease. Yes, you can take your stroller up the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or into the Museum of Natural History in New York, but you’ll be fighting the crowds and will find you can get around better without! Toddlers won’t be happy not being able to see over all the people or rails, and you’ll end up hoisting them up to get a better look anyway. Needless to say, there have been countless attractions we’ve visited throughout Europe that would have simply been impossible with a stroller – and there’s often nowhere secure to store one either.
  • Make shopping simple. Not all shopping aisles are made equal and you may be in for trouble trying to navigate a bulky stroller in certain shops.

How to Choose the Best Baby Carrier for Travel

Choosing the best baby carrier for travel isn’t a lot different from choosing a baby carrier for home. Some things to take into consideration include who will be wearing the baby (or toddler), how often it’ll be used, whether you want to back or front carry, and maybe whether looks or practicality are more important to you!

Travel specific requirements may include:

  • The climate you’re travelling to
  • Whether you’ll need a carrier that’s easy to put on and off as you get in & out of a vehicle
  • Comfort for a full day of carrying
  • Whether your older toddler can get in and out easily
  • Ease of washing
  • A carrier that both parents can wear to avoid packing two

But apart from all else, safety and comfort should be key to your decision making when choosing the best baby carrier for air travel.

Babywearing Safely

Babywearing safety is paramount. When you’re entrusting a piece of fabric to hold the weight of your child, it’s vital to make sure the baby carrier is up to the job. Here are a few things you should be aware of in order to wear your baby safely.

  • Always respect weight limits of carriers. These are the weight limits they’ve been tested to, and proven safe for.
  • Make sure your baby’s airways are visible and that your baby is well supported in the baby wrap.
  • Don’t buy cheap knock-off baby carriers. Things like stitching, buckles, and fabric quality could be compromised – with potentially harmful consequences.

Comfort for Baby

Ensuring you get the right fit for your child is essential. Not only for their comfort, but also for their safety. That’s why when using a wrap or sling, it’s important to seek out advice from experienced babywearers on how best to use it.

Another key aspect – especially for very young children – is to ensure the correct knee/hip placement. This prevents conditions such as hip dysplasia developing from using your wrap incorrectly. Again, this is another reason soft structured carriers (SSCs) are popular, as it’s far harder to get it wrong!

Comfort for Babywearer

The more comfortable you are wearing your baby, the more often you’ll do it! Many baby carriers will allow you to comfortably carry your child right up until they’re a hefty preschooler. So think about longevity when it comes to comfort too. The best baby carrier for newborn babies may not be the best baby carrier for toddlers.

Choosing the best baby carrier for your personal needs is an important step in your babywearing journey.

Most Common Types of Baby Carriers

With so many types of baby carriers on the market, it can be a minefield choosing the right one. They all have things they are good at, and things they’re not so good at. There’s no one size fits all approach to babywearing! But what’s sure, is that is soon as you find the best baby carrier for you, you’ll find life with a baby so much easier.

BABY WRAP

The first baby sling, baby wraps have been around for centuries. This is the most basic form of baby carrier. Which makes it one of the most versatile, but also one of the hardest to master!

Basically just a long length of fabric, there are several carries you can do with a baby wrap.

How to choose the best baby carrier for travel.

Stretchy baby wraps are one of the best baby carriers for newborns but they aren’t suitable for older babies who weigh more, and need more support.

Woven wraps can be used right up until the end of your babywearing days. A good quality woven wrap can carry a preschooler!

RING SLING

Ring slings are ideal if you love the look of baby wraps, but want something that is much quicker and easier to throw on. I used to keep mine in the car and put it on for quick dashes into the supermarket or gas station. They’re perfect for nosey toddlers, and great for hip carries.

They’re also one of the most versatile carriers that’ll see you right through from newborn stage to preschoolers!

Best baby carrier for newborn babies

The only downside to ring slings is that one shoulder is taking the burden of the weight. So they’re not super suitable for long carries.

SOFT STRUCTURED CARRIER (SSC)

Soft-structured carriers are the most popular baby carrier. They’re easy to use, they can be extremely comfortable, and some come in lightweight, breathable fabrics, making them one of the best baby carriers for travel in summer.

Baby baby carrier for toddlers.

Many soft structured baby carriers can be worn on your front or your back, and some can even be worn on your hip. They’re also often cited as the best baby carrier for dad!

STRUCTURED BACKPACK BABY CARRIER FOR HIKING

Backpack baby carriers are more robust baby carriers. They have a structured framework that allows your child to sit in more of a chair position on your back. They’re not ideal for babies, but can be a good option for older toddlers and children – especially if you do a lot of hiking!

best baby carrier for hiking

Some have inbuilt rain covers, and larger pockets, making them ideal for long day hikes and getting out into the outdoors. They’re also a very popular option with dads.


Choosing the Best Baby Carrier for Your Needs

Now you know the various types of baby carriers, and the pros and cons of each, it’s time to look at which baby carrier is best for your specific needs when travelling.

BEST BABY CARRIER FOR NEWBORN

Never is a baby carrier more essential than when your baby is a newborn. Often referred to as the ‘4th trimester’ newborn babies take comfort in being close to mum or dad at all times. But if you’ve got other kids or other commitments, it’s not always possible to spend all day on the couch with a sleeping newborn on your lap!

Baby carriers allow new mums to get on with their day while catering to the needs of your newborn.

Choosing the best baby carrier for newborn babies is vital. It’s most important that your baby’s body is supported correctly, the baby wrap is the right size to safely carry your baby, and that it’s comfortable enough to wear for many hours at a time.

Our pick of the best baby carriers for a newborn are:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
Stretchy Wrap - Boba1.76 lbsMediumCheck Price
Ring Sling - Hip Baby12.8 ozMediumCheck Price

BEST BABY CARRIER FOR HIKING

Choosing the best baby hiking carrier is vital if you’re planning on hitting the tracks with your little one. There’s nothing worse than an uncomfortable fit, or a carrier that’s simply not up to the job when you’re in the middle of a long hike. 

Being able to transfer the carrier between parents is another important consideration if you’re buying a baby back carrier for hiking.

Our pick of the best baby carriers for hiking are:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
SSC - LÍLLÉbaby Complete Airflow2.25 lbsEasyCheck Here
Structured - Deuter Kid Comfort Pro7 lbsEasyCheck Here

BEST BABY WRAP CARRIER

Not all wraps are created equal. Stretchy wraps are awesome for young babies, but older babies will need more support. Woven wraps are fantastic for all ages and offer endless versatility, but take a little getting used to in the beginning.

If you’re looking for the best wrap baby carrier, you’ll need to take into consideration how long you plan on babywearing, what types of carries you’re likely to do, and how much you’re willing to spend – as wraps range from very affordable, to eye-wateringly expensive!

Here’s our pick of the best baby carrier wraps:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
Woven - Hip Baby1.59 lbsHardCheck Price
Stretchy - Boba Wrap1.76 lbsMediumCheck Price

BEST BABY TODDLER CARRIER FOR TRAVEL

Choosing the best toddler carrier for travel is now harder than ever with so many choices on the market! No longer are you confined to one or two choices, as more and more brands are bringing out toddler versions of their most popular baby carriers.

Things to consider when buying a toddler carrier for travel include seat height and width for comfort, ease of getting your heavy toddler into it, and, conversely how easy it is for toddlers to get out. Because we all know how often busy toddlers want to get in and out of their carriers, right?!

Our choice of the best toddler carrier for travel is:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
Ring Sling - Hip Baby12.8 ozMediumCheck Price
SSC - LÍLLÉbaby CarryOn2.43 lbsEasyCheck Price

BEST BABY CARRIER FOR DADS

Men and women have different needs when it comes to babywearing. So if you want to find the best baby carrier for men to wear, you’ll need to look beyond what works for you. Things such as where the weight is carried, body shape (big bellies can make front carries uncomfortable!), and extendable straps can make all the difference.

In our babywearing journey, there have been some carriers that my husband loved, and others which he found incredibly uncomfortable – or at worst, unwearable.

Here’s our choice of the best baby carrier for dads:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
Structured - Deuter Kid Comfort Pro7 lbsEasyCheck Price
SSC - Baby Tula1.3 lbsEasyCheck Price

BEST BABY BACKPACK CARRIER

Carrying your baby on your back can be a lot more comfortable than carrying their weight on your front, and it allows you more flexibility. Things such as vacuuming, shopping, and anything else that requires bending forwards, will be a whole lot more comfortable when your baby is on your back.

But not all carriers are created equal when it comes to comfortable back carries.

Here’s our pick of the best baby carrier backpacks:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
SSC - Baby Tula1.3 lbsEasyCheck Price
SSC - Boba 4G2.2 lbsEasyCheck Price

BEST BABY SLING CARRIER

A baby sling will be your best friend for quick trips to the shops or for calming fussy babies when it’s time to cook dinner. Super easy to put on (once you get the hang of it), and the best baby carrier for hip carries, a sling allows you to get on with what you’re doing while caring for your baby or toddler.

Finding the best baby carrier sling is a relatively easy task. Avoid slings that don’t allow for adjustment, as they’re rarely comfortable or safe, and stick with sturdy materials such as thick woven wrap conversions and solid metal rings.

Our pick of the best sling baby carrier is:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
Ring Sling - Hip Baby12.8 ozMediumCheck Price

BEST BABY CARRIER FOR BREASTFEEDING

If you are breastfeeding, or you’re planning to, having the ability to breastfeed your baby in a carrier is essential. You don’t want to have to get your baby out every time he or she is hungry – especially with very young babies who are hungry often!

I remember once I forgot to feed my son just before walking the dogs. Halfway through our walk he got hungry and I was able to feed him on the go – handsfree and discreetly!

Our choice of the best baby carrier for breastfeeding is:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
Ring Sling - Hip Baby12.8 ozMediumCheck Price
Stretchy Wrap - Boba1.76 lbsMediumCheck Price

BEST BABY CARRIER FOR TRAVEL IN SUMMER

Babywearing in extreme heat can be taxing on both you and your baby. With young babies, you have to be careful about them overheating, and older children will be uncomfortable being carried if they’re all hot and sweaty.

Luckily, some baby carriers are just better for handling the hot temps, and carrier manufacturers are also cottoning on to the need for more ventilation!

Here’s our choice of the best summer baby carrier:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
Ring Sling - Hip Baby12.8 ozMediumCheck Price
SSC - LÍLLÉbaby Complete Airflow2.25 lbsEasyCheck Price

BEST BABY CARRIER FOR TWINS

If you’ve been blessed with twins, you may not realise that babywearing is a very viable option for you too! Although some brands do make a baby carrier for twins, none are incredibly well designed from what I’ve seen. Instead, you’re better off DIY’ing a carrier out of the most popular baby carriers and making it work double!

A long woven wrap (size 6 or 7) can be worn to carry one baby at the front, and one at the back. Or you can tie it to wear one baby on each hip. Alternatively, use two SSC’s and use one on your back and one on your front – allowing for maximum flexibility and giving you the chance to offload one to someone else when the opportunity arises!

Here’s our suggestion of the best twin baby carrier:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
SSC - Baby Tula1.3 lbsEasyCheck Price
Woven Wrap - Hip Baby1.59 lbsHardCheck Price

BEST FRONT FACING BABY CARRIER

I’ve never been a massive fan of front-facing baby carriers. My son was an easily over-stimulated baby, so it would never have worked for him. Plus, there have been concerns over the earlier “crotch dangling” designs of front-facing baby carriers, and whether they were contributing to bad hip health.

But I can see how they could have their place with older, more curious babies who aren’t content to peek out at the world from the safety of their parent’s chest. And designs have evolved massively in recent times to account for the aforementioned hip placement.

If you’ve got a curious child on your hands and would prefer a front-facing carrier over a hip carry or backpack, here are the best baby carrier front-facing designs:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelPrice
Ring Sling - Hip Baby12.8 ozMediumCheck Price
SSC - Ergobaby 3602.43 lbsEasyCheck Price

BEST BABY CARRIER FOR PLUS SIZE MOM OR DAD

Plus size parents needn’t worry about finding a baby carrier that will fit. There are many baby carriers on the market that will allow plus-sized moms and dads to babywear comfortably – and in a range of positions.

Our choice of the best baby carrier for plus size parents is:

Carrier TypeImageCarrier WeightDifficulty LevelReview
Toddler SSC - LÍLLÉbaby CarryOn2.43 lbsEasyCheck Price
SSC - Boba 4G2.2 lbsEasyCheck Price
Ring Sling - Hip Baby12.8 ozMediumCheck Price


 

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How to Choose the Best Baby Carrier for Travel | Wondering what to look for in a baby carrier? There are so many factors to take into account when choosing the right baby carrier. But we've done all the leg work - literally! - so you don't have to. Find the best baby carrier for every babywearer here!

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Mithi Chinoy

Thursday 25th of February 2021

Babywearing is a great idea when you're traveling. Your baby remains with you undisturbed.

Kelly Brown

Wednesday 1st of May 2019

Appreciate the variety of baby carriers in this article, what is recommended under the price of $200? I am looking for a backpack to take my son on hikes with me.

Nadine Maffre

Friday 10th of May 2019

Hi Kelly, it depends a little on the age of your son. For older kids, maybe a structured carrier would be better, in which case this one is excellent and currently on sale just under your budget. For younger babies/toddlers, I'd recommend an SSC like this one for hiking, it'll be more comfortable for you both. And it's only around half the price!

Shenaz kadri

Friday 8th of March 2019

This is a really good article for every mom & baby. All these carriers are looks wonderful, especially the "LÍLLÉBABY COMPLETE AIRFLOW". Because it looks very comfortable and beautiful. Thanks for the useful information.

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