Pushing a stroller through a crowd is much standing in front of a school door at recess time with a fragile piece of artwork: dangerous. If you're tired of putting a precious child in harm's way in a holiday shopping crowd, invest in a new child carrier backpack instead.
Child carrier backpacks are designed for children over six months of age, and can be used until the child is up to five years old. Children younger than six months usually need more head support than is offered by child carrier backpacks.
A major consideration in choosing the right child carrier backpack is weight. The child's weight will be a significant determinant in selecting the right backpack. The overall pack weight is important as well. Some high-end backpacks weigh more than lighter, less expensive alternatives. Select child carrier backpacks with a manageable overall carrying weight.
Another important factor is selecting the right child carrier backpack is choosing the one designed for the future wearer's height range. Each manufacturer lists specific recommendations concerning a person's overall height in addition to the length of that person's torso. Don't buy a backpack made for a taller or shorter person.
Many child carrier backpacks offer several convenient features that make transporting both child and his or her necessary extras much easier. For example, many offer storage compartments for items such as snacks, bottles, diapers, or extra clothing.
Some backpacks are even equipped with changing pads or rain hoods. Rain hoods can also be used to protect a child's vulnerable head from intense sun. One extra helpful feature that few backpacks offer is extra carrying links. Attach these to special toys or pacifiers to prevent playing the inevitable game of drop and catch while hiking.
Some child carrier backpacks are more rugged and durable than others, while some are designed primarily for a short stroll or trip to the store. Typically, the basic version of the child carrier backpack contains a nylon or cloth seat that isn't padded. Shoulder straps feature minimal padding for the wearer's comfort and all are equipped with waist straps to secure wiggly passengers.
Some basic backpacks also provide hip straps to distribute the weight more evenly over the wearer's back. Often these contain a little storage pouch. The best choices are those with seats that can be removed and washed, or at least seats that are covered with fabrics that are easy to clean by wiping down. Evenflo child carrier backpacks or Gerry child carrier backpacks will meet these basic requirements easily.
Hiking child carrier backpacks are designed for travel or long hikes. These usually feature stronger frames, a more durable seat, and shoulder straps that are heavily padded for the wearer. Most child carrier backpacks also have multiple storage compartments. Kelty child carrier backpacks and Tough Traveler child carrier backpacks are made specifically for the long haul.
Parents who intend to do significant amounts of hiking will want to be sure their child carrier backpacks also include hip belts as well as chest straps for optimal weight distribution. Adjustable seats that accommodate older children are helpful. Furthermore, a complete safety harness is a must; this will prevent your child from falling or climbing out of the backpack, and protect him or her if the wearer falls.
If you're tired of being a moving target, put the stroller away and strap on a child carrier backpack.