slings vs. backpacks

[jenh]

Hello!
My 7 month old has been exclusivly worn in a sling since birth. She is so heavy now that I need something else for longer hikes/trips and camping.
I have heard conflicting things about frame backpacks- does anyone have relaibe info about carrying in a backpack at this age? Will occasional trips be hard on her spine? (we have a frame pack now and cannot get an ergo...)
I will still use my sling, just need another alternative for long hikes, etc.
Thanks in advance,
Jen

[memory maker]

I really like my ergo carrier. It is a soft carrier that can be worn in the front or in the back. My dd is 9 months and loves it too. It is very comfortable and puts most of the weight on your hips and not your shoulders. Sometimes you can get a good deal on the on ebay. They are a little expensive, but well worth it.

[muse]

www.babytrekker.com

i couldnt use the sling at all because it put all the weight on one side and Ds was BIG. The baby trekker was invaluable and suddenly i was mobile again. I used it from about 4 months on, first in front and then on the back.

[Ravin]

Don't discount the Asian style carriers. My Kozy is great, or there's the Equanamity Mei Tai, or the Packababy, or the Baby Back-Tie...

[*solsticemama*]

Originally posted by Ravin
Don't discount the Asian style carriers. My Kozy is great, or there's the Equanamity Mei Tai, or the Packababy, or the Baby Back-Tie...

ITA!! We love our Kozy. Ds is 30 lbs and I can carry him easily for an hour on my back in the Kozy.

[Heavenly]

I second the suggestion to get an Asian style carrier! I love, love, love my Mei Tai. You can get it at www.equanimitybaby.com. It is so beautiful (I got the burgandy embroidered corduroy) and comfortable. And I find it very easy to get on my back. The straps are longer than the Kozy which I initially found a bother but now that I've discovered I can cross it under her bum and then back around to the front it is great because it provides extra lift. Check it out!