What's the verdict on Baby Backpacks?

sudevi · #1 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 02:08 PM

You know those ones with a metal frame and people take them when they go hiking in the bush or on overseas holidays like my mum did. Are they any good?
If they are, which is a good one?

hanabi · #2 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 02:15 PM

I'm sure there are good ones, but they cost a packet.

I have used a structured back pack for travel OS. The main advantage was the extra storage space most models have but the big drawback was comfort, for both the wearer and the baby.

Most models have an aluminium arm that springs out when you take them off and put them down. This arm can become a step ladder for baby to rise up and bale him/herself out of the saddle of the back pack. Even with safety straps, the temptation to push down on that ruddy arm with their foot and elevate themselves out of the seat is irresistible. I'm sure there are better types than I have used, but my preference is for soft carriers now, which keep baby closer and lower so I don't have to worry about tree branches or street signs whacking bub in the face if I drop my guard!

sudevi · #3 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 02:47 PM

thanks for that feedback, I am using my ergo for now, I do find it presses on my bladder!

Jakaluma · #4 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 03:06 PM

We had those old blue ones with a metal frame - sure they're from when I was a child cos I've got a photo of my Dad carrying my sister in one. We had two over the years, both picked up from garage sales I seem to think. Excellent, very comfortable, cost about $15 or $20 and well worth it. I've climbed Table Mountain with a nearly 2 year old in it, no problems. Never rubbed or chafed.

And both children have always loved them. I never had a pram or stroller - went from sling to backpack. They were always up high and could see what was going on, and chat away in my ear. Used them just generally day to day, as well as bush walks, and also things like zoo, visit to city, museums, shopping - you name it.

I know a few people who bought them new and had mixed results. Some loved them and thought them well worth the outlay (eg my sister) but others haven't found them comfortable. Probably finding the exact one for your body essential, although these old ones fitted both DH and myself (and we're very different body shapes LOL)

sudevi · #5 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 03:43 PM

yeah, that was what I was thinking, instead of resorting to a pram go from sling/ergo to a backpack -thanks for your feedback Jakaluma and Hanabi

Deesalie · #6 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 05:51 PM

We have one, which was a hand me down. But yes, well worth it if you're the outdoors type

starbuckozzie · #7 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 06:05 PM

I've got an Ergo and a Kelty framed backpack, purchased in the US. Both are excellent for different reasons. If I'm around town, getting on buses, shopping, getting on a plane, definitely the Ergo every time, because it's smaller on space, weight and time. If I'm going hiking, climbing a mountain or anything slightly rough or longer distance I go with the backpack. The Kelty raises the child so they can see much better. My 18 month old prefers it now for that reason although if she wants to cuddle down she wants the Ergo.

The Kelty also comes with a waterproof rain hood so is great for bushwalks in less sunnier climes. Oh, and a zip-on backpack. It can also be used as a high chair in a pinch because of the aforementioned legs. Neither of my children have managed to climb out of it and they are both tall but it's probably American-sized.

I found both too hot for the tropics and ended up using a good roomy jogging stroller most of the time there. Here in NSW I'm using all three bits of gear about equally because we walk to the shops a lot and if it's more than a few things we need the stroller. (Also I carried my baby so much with poor posture that I am now in physiotherapy and pilates and having to avoid carrying her for long periods! :-()

Yes, we are baby sports gear freaks. If there was something I could get that allowed me to swim laps whilst towing my baby I'd be first in line! (Has to allow for tumble turns so seats are a no-go.)

**Nyree** · #8 (**permalink**) 04-03-2008, 10:12 PM

I'd heard the rigid framed backpacks are dodgy for little spines (but don't own one, so can't comment from personal experience).

RubyRoo · #9 (**permalink**) 05-03-2008, 12:42 AM

We have a rigid frame backpack which my DH loves- he will use this as first preference. I hate it, as it sits a bit out from your body, putting the child's weight further away from your centre of gravity, thereby increasing the strain on your back. I MUCH prefer carrying our DD in the Ergo on my back....she's over 14kg now though, so I do find I'm getting a bit of neck strain if I wear her for long periods! She doesn't seem to mind being in either type of backpack....either of them means going outside somewhere (unless we're shopping), and she thinks it's all a big adventure!

Heartwood · #10 (**permalink**) 06-03-2008, 11:39 AM

We had a Kathmandu backpack. The baby/child is suspended in a seat between the rigid frame of the pack, so it shouldn't affect the baby's spine at all. They are heavy, and you need to condition yourself to using them. I like them for their storage, weather protection and that they are slightly cooler than soft structured carriers, but they are difinetely bulky and heavy.

We sold our Kathmandu and went with some Patapums.