Yes, exactly! If you want to go a bit off the beaten path (figuratively or literally) a carrier is a must. Dragging a pram on a sandy road or carrying it up a set of stairs really spoils the fun!

I actually didn’t start carrying daily until our little one was 1,5. The carrier kept sliding off my shoulders when I tried to carry in the front, never had that issue with him on my back. I wish I’d figured out sooner that you can cross the straps on the back!

Thanks Emma! Yes, even for toddlers a carrier is great 🙂

Yes we do have Baby Bjorn here. There’s been a lot of discussion whether or not the front facing Baby Bjorn is ergonomic and save for extended use. I’m not sure if there’s research to prove it though. But we prefer an ergonomic carrier, such as Manduca or Ergobaby. It’s more comfortable for both baby and parent. These brands are available on Amazon.com as well.

Thanks Jonny! I have friends who have the Ergobaby and love it. I think the Ergo and the Manduca are quite comparable, apart from a few minor details. I’m really sorry our son has outgrown the carrier, it was so convenient to just carry him 🙂

One of the things we liked most about Ergobaby was the number and availability of optional extras (such as the newborn insert that you mentioned), but it seems like Manduca have similar flexibility whilst being lighter overall. It’s almost a pity to stop at four; we would have liked to try it out! 😉 #FearlessFamTrav

Actually the Ergobaby has the same weight restrictions as the Manduca (up till 20kgs). But it’s more than just the weight, you need to see if your child’s legs are still supported enough. You could try the Manduca with the Extend for a toddler. Alternatively I can recommend the Tula Toddler carrier. We borrowed one for our trip to Vienna, Prague and Berlin last year and were very happy with it.

Laura x

Thanks Juliet! Love the #fearlessfamtrav linky, so very happy to co-host this month.

I really regret not babywearing when our son was younger. Totally discovered it when we started traveling with him long-term though! Made life much easier.

I can see how that would be a challenge! Great that you still managed a few hikes.