Is it confusing to find the right fit for you toddler or big kid on your outdoor adventures?
Not only am I a certified babywearing educator, but I’m also a mom who loves getting outside with my three kids. I have been getting outdoors with my kids for over 5 years, since the birth of my first. I have a lot of firsthand experience with carriers- so I know what works and what doesn’t.
I do want to start off by saying that you don’t have to get a big kid or toddler carrier if you child is within the weight limits of your infant carrier. HOWEVER- most people are going to find that they are significantly more comfortable, as is their child, with a dedicated toddler carrier. There are so many on the market, so which ones will be best for you?
Why chose a Toddler/Big Kid Specific Carrier?
Ergonomics
A wider and taller panel ensures that your child's weight is being well distributed.
Comfort
A wider and taller panel ensures that your child's weight is being well distributed.
Higher Weight Limit
Carriers designed for older ones have a higher safety tested weight limit.
Tula Toddler
Tula Toddler is a fantastic, supportive carrier that works starting around a 2T pant size. It has a rated weight from 25-60lbs. The Preschool tends to work best around a 4T pant size. It is rated from 35-70lbs. Tula has a wide variety of fabric options and a breathable mesh option (Coast). It has a stiffer waistband which can add to the supportive feel of the carrier.
Beluga Baby Buckle
The Beluga Baby Buckle is a fantastic, lightweight option that works from around 15-50lbs. It provides a great option that can be used from infant through toddlerhood (often around 4yo). It has a very breathable fabric panel that can allow it to be a fantastic option in the heat.
The Lenny Lamb Preschool
The Lenny Lamb Preschool is one of the most versatile and adjustable toddler carriers on the market. It allows adjusting from around 1yo through 5+. It does have a softer waistband which can be very comfortable for many, but not quite as supportive for all. I find female wearers *tend to find it more comfortable compared to males. My own husband enjoys it, but not as much as something like the Tula Toddler or Lillebaby Carryon (which both have a stiffer waistband.) It’s actually more comfortable on my body on the other hand.
The Trail Magik
The Trail Magik is such a unique option that provides a comfortable spot for your older child to sit for a little break. It is not a carrier by itself, but rather utilizes your backpacking pack or another child carrier like the Thule or other options. It is perfect for quick breaks, but not something I’d recommend for extended wearing. It is front only, although there is a way to convert it into an onbuhimo style carrier.
The Lillebaby Carryon
The Lillebaby Carryon is a more budget friendly option. They can often be found gently used, but even new are frequently on sale. They also start at a lower price point compared to other option. It has a supportive waistband and tends to fit starting around a 2t pant size. It is a fixed panel and not adjustable.
Thule Sapling.
If you are really interested in a structured carrier for big kids, I highly reccommend that you check out the Thule Sapling. It is one of the higher price point structed packs, but it is also a very unique carrier that still puts a child in an ergonomic seated postion. Having a child in a seated postion allows better weight distribution for the wearer, which makes an impact on comfort for both child and wearer.
BabueBaby
BabueBaby is a unique carrier with a torso support strap that truly takes the weight off your shoulders. For those who have neck or back pain, this carrier style can help to reduce discomfort. It also provides a very well supported positioning for children. This can be extrememly beneficial for any child, but especially for those with low muscle tone.
Those are a few fantastic options that I have used and loved on our outdoor adventures with our kids. Utilizing a big kid or toddler specific carrier can be such a great option for many. I look forward to hearing any questions that you might have on the different options. If you have something that you’ve loved, I would love to hear about it as well!
-Cassidy