Not all family travel destinations are stroller friendly. Expecting your young child to walk for prolonged periods of time can be too much for their little legs. Instead of carrying your children with your bare hands, it is a better idea to let your shoulders and back take the load by using a good backpack child carrier.
We have used Ergo Baby and Tula carrier during our previous trips. They are both very good carriers, but we found them to be not suitable for our 2.5 year old son. His 16kg frame is still within the weight limit of both carriers but our son prefers to sit up high above our heads to enjoy the views. This is why we decided to give backpack child carrier a try.
For our trip to Nepal we bought a second hand backpack child carrier. This gave us flexibility on days when we visited busy sights or places with too many steps like the hilltop World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara (only a few hundred steps!). As we only planned to use it sparingly, we settled on a basic model the Macpac Koala carrier. We preferred a compact child carrier as some models we found to be too bulky. As at the time of writing this model has been replaced by the updated Macpac Possum.
Overall the Macpac Koala is comfortable to wear. For the parents it has adjustable padded shoulder, hip and back pads. It also comes with a few other straps including one on the chest for better weight distribution and to keep things stable. The child is seated in a good position to help them get a good view while venturing around. There is also a small zip compartment at the back and below the seat for storing necessities like spare nappies and wipes.
Here are our tips on How to Choose the right Backpack Child Carrier:
– Make sure it is comfortable for you
Try before you buy. Find a child carrier that spread your child’s weight evenly over both your shoulders, back and hips. Make sure the hip belt, padded straps and lumbar support are right for your size.
– Choose a solid model that is not too heavy
You are already carrying the weight of your child so keep the carrier itself as light as possible. Macpac Koala is compact and have a slim design. It weighs only 2.5 kg but is very stable. It is made from hinged alloy frame and folds flat for easy transport or storage.
– Good sitting position for your child
Your child’s legs must be in a “froggy” position (legs spread), with their weight supported under the thighs and buttocks.
– Mounting anchor point
Get a model that does have one. Being a basic model Macpac Koala is not a free standing model and doesn’t have a mounting anchor. So loading our son becomes a two person job.
– Consider getting the extra accessories
Usually accessories on offer include a headrest (in case your child needs to nap) and a sun shade (for hot days).
– Choose a carrier made from materials that are easy to clean
Remember that the carrier is likely to be worn outdoors and will be put in checked luggage between airports. Macpac carriers easily cleans with a brush, non detergent soap and cold water. Also there are many removable components for easy cleaning.
– Consider the maximum recommended load
Most can only carry up to 20kg.
– Before you buy make sure you it is suitable for the type of holiday you are planning
Backpack child carriers are mainly designed for long distance walking outdoors.
If you decide to purchase a second hand backpack carrier just like us, make sure you inspect it thoroughly. Check and recheck that all harnesses are working securely as your child’s safety is paramount.
We buy most of our travel essentials online via Ebay
