Anyone have any opinions on a baby backpack?

[catlvr976]

I have a front pack carrier that converts to a backpack that I've been using when I take dd out for walks (ok, it's mostly for myself in my attempt to lose some poundage). She is almost grown out of it, so I'm looking to buy a backpack.

Anyone have any recommendations? I don't want to spend a fortune, but I don't want to get something super cheap either. I will use it mostly for walking, no jogging or hiking or anything like that.

Thanks!

[village idiot]

I am interested in what everyone has to say about backpacks. I am thinking of getting one for dd. Sorry no advice.

[mamabeth]

Well, like a lot of mamas on this board, I forked over and got and Ergo, and it is really great. It's pricey ($75-$85) but I saved up and I have to say it's well worth it. Some mamas don't like it but Ergo is great about returns apparently. My DD is 7 mo and around 16 lbs, and she's a little small for it but still *loves* to ride in it, front or back! It is kind of a pain to put on but we're getting better at it every time.

I am also walking with her in it to lose "poundage" safely, so good luck to you on that front too.

you can get it at www.ergobabycarrier.com or peppermint.com, and there are a few other sites that carry it.

[TranscendentalMom]

I love the Tough Traveler! I have the Stallion model which I think retails for $160 but I got mine on ebay for about $60. I tried the Gerry Baby, Evenflo, and Kelty and all of them pulled on my shoulders too much. The Tough Traveler frame is lightweight and non bulky and it distributes the weight perfectly. They have a website www.toughtraveler.com

[TEAK's Mom]

ERGO! ERGO!

Seriously, this thing is worth the price. It is a little tricky to put on at first, but I've gotten pretty good. I also love how small and light it is when dd wants to walk.

[remynyc]

i have to say, i love the ergo too!! i also love my packababy.

[kerikadi]

remynyc ~ I hope you don't mind me asking since you have both - which do you find yourself reaching for most often? Could your DH use either? Do you have a favorite? I can't justify both but can't make up my mind either.

Keri

[TieDyeMom]

We have the Ergo and one of the Kelty frame backpacks. I like the Ergo because it is front or back loading. It is tricky to get on by yourself but dd and I are getting better about it. We have only used it in the front position so far. I use it around town, the zoo, short walks. My husband carries dd around in the Kelty when we hike, take dogs for a walk and do anything long. She seems to like both packs but I would say she definately seems to enjoy the Kelty more. The sits higher up and sees the world a lot better in the Kelty. We carry a pocket mirror with us so the person carrying her can see her too (drawbacks to back carrying). The frame does make it bulkier but it includes a daypack to put neccessities in.

[lilyka]

We have a top of the line Kelty ($200 or so retail - we got an awsome deal through employee purchase like $80 sorry, I just get so excited about a good deal :LOL) and Yakima one and like both pretty well. the yakima one is simpler and easier to adjust. the kelty one is nice and plush though.

http://www.yakima.com/home.html (it doesn't link directly but on the top menu bar click on products, go to the bottom and find chilrens stuff and then find the grasshopper backpack)

http://www.kelty.com/Kelty/index.cfm...tion=Kids.Home

I think what we have is comprable to the back country (we bought it 6 years ago - I should say it still looks brand new despite the abuse it has taken.)