Best Carrier for a One-Year-Old?

aravis121

I've used a Baby K'Tan for my daughter up til now, but she's very wriggly these days, and I don't trust her enough to go hands-free. Next month we're moving to Manhattan (yay!) to a 4th-floor apartment with no elevator (boo!). So I will absolutely need my hands to carry up groceries, etc. Currently I don't live in a baby-friendly area, so there aren't any groups where I can try any out before buying. 

For what it's worth, I'd like to be able to carry her backpack-style (and without any assistance needed) for longer trips. Thanks in advance for any help! 

blu-eyedwife

My guy is almost 15 months.  I prefer the BabyHawk Mei-tai carrier.  My husband prefers the Ergo.  Both allow for front and back carry.  Personally, the BabyHawk is easier for me to put a back carry on myself because I can toss the straps over my shoulder instead of trying to work my arm through the strap of the Ergo.  But with practice, both are doable.

TiffanyBerry

Between ~6mo and 2yrs, I used a Pikkolo.  DD was definitely getting too small for it by the end.  I got a Bamberoo in toddler size that I can use on her now.

I don't think one carrier is going to last you until the end of your baby wearing days (if you plan to do so for a while), if you follow the "support from knee to knee" rule, but I certainly haven't tried them all!  

aravis121

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone - and keep them coming! I love hearing first-hand experiences!

aravis121

Once again, thank you all! I learned about some carriers that I didn't know existed  

MouseInLux

I second the Tula, we have a toddler one for DD, got it at around 14 months. She fit great in it and still does with room to grow

We had an Ergo before and I prefer the Tula. DD outgrew the Ergo by 14 months which is why we switched.