Travel Light with These Top Baby Carriers for Your Journey
Are you looking for a baby carrier that is perfect for travel? Look no further! We compiled a list of the best baby carriers for travel, so you can choose the perfect one for your needs.
Disclosure: Kindly be aware that certain links provided below may be affiliate links. If you decide to purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It’s important to note that I am an Amazon Associate and earn from qualifying purchases. For the comprehensive disclosure statement, please click here.
Whether you are looking for a lightweight option for your newborn or something that can accommodate a toddler, we have you covered. Read on to learn more about the best baby carriers for travel!
Read More: Best Age to Travel with Babies
Best Travel Carrier for Babies Comparison Table
Last update on 2024-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
**Note: The baby carriers in this chart do not require a newborn insert, so no need to worry about buying additional accessories.
Our Top 5 Baby Carriers for Traveling with Newborns
The baby carriers in this section are perfect for traveling with newborns. They can all accommodate your infant without an insert, so no buying additional accessories.
All of these carriers offer at least two carrying positions, so you can find the most comfortable way to travel with your baby.
Honestly, babywearing is the way to go when traveling with a little one. Being hands-free with a baby is crucial.
Baby carriers help you get things done. Plus, you don’t have to drag your stroller around on vacation. Pop your baby in the carrier, and you are on your way.
Read More: Our Baby Travel First-Aid Kit
Best Baby Carrier for Traveling with Newborns
Most Affordable Baby Carrier for Travel – Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier
If you are looking for an affordable travel carrier for your baby, look no further than the Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier. This baby carrier is the most affordable baby carrier on the market, plus it’s perfect for newborns.
Infantino Flip is a versatile and comfortable baby carrier designed to support infants and toddlers as they grow. The baby carrier has four positions, including facing in, facing out, back carry, and hip carry, allowing parents to choose the most comfortable and ergonomic position for themselves and their child.
The carrier has soft and breathable fabrics, which help to keep the baby cool and comfortable, even during extended wear. It also features an adjustable seat, shoulder straps, and waist belt, which can be customized to fit a wide range of body types, ensuring that both the parent and the child are comfortable and supported.
One of the standout features of the Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier is the “Wonder Cover” bib, which attaches to the carrier and helps to protect it from drool and other messes. The bib is removable and machine washable, making it easy to clean and maintain.
Adjust your baby’s seating position with the optional wide seat. The wide seating puts your baby in the perfect M seating position.
The M seated position, according to orthopedic specialists, is the best position for babies with developing leg and hip joints.
Overall, the Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier is a well-designed and versatile baby carrier that offers excellent value for money.
Its combination of comfort, adjustability, and ease of use make it a smart choice for parents looking for an affordable baby carrier that can grow with their little one.
Pros
- Affordable – For less than $50, you can use this carrier for nearly 2 years
- Very lightweight – The lightest baby carrier for traveling with a little one
- Adjustable for M seating – Can be adjusted to allow your baby to be in the best position for their developing hips and legs
- Breathable – Lightweight material that keeps your little one from getting too hot
Cons
- Low weight capacity – weight capacity lower than other carriers
- Less padding – since this carrier is more affordable, that means less features such as padding and pockets
Perfect Newborn Baby Carrier for Travel – BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini
When it comes to traveling with a baby, convenience is crucial in terms of packing. The BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini is a lightweight and compact baby carrier designed for newborns and infants up to 12 months old.
BabyBjörn is a Swedish brand committed to providing high-quality and affordable baby products. With over 40 years of experience, BabyBjörn is a trustworthy brand for parents traveling with babies.
The minimalist design and simple functionality make it an excellent choice for parents who want a baby carrier that is easy to use without making complicated adjustments.
What makes this one of the best baby carriers for travel is how easy it is to put on and take off without help. It’s easy to lift your baby out without waking them while napping.
The soft and breathable fabric helps to keep the baby cool and comfortable, even during extended wear. It features wide shoulder straps and a waist belt that distribute the weight evenly across the wearer’s body, reducing strain and ensuring that both the parent and the child are comfortable and supported.
The design has adjustable head support and a seat that keeps your baby’s spine aligned and neck supported to keep you hands-free.
It also allows for two different carrying positions: facing in for younger babies and facing out for older infants, who are ready to explore the world around them.
When not in use, this baby carrier is ideal for storing in luggage or even your diaper bag.
Overall, the BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini is a well-designed and functional baby carrier for travel that offers excellent value for money.
Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to take on the go, while its simple functionality makes it the best choice for parents who want a carrier that is easy to use.
Pros
- Reputable brand – BabyBjörn is trustworthy and reliable
- Good sizing – Suitable for plus size and petite parents
- Brilliant material – Cotton blend is soft, strong, and flexible
- Lightweight – Easy to pack for vacations or errands
- Ease – Easy to get on and off
Cons
- Age range – Only suitable for newborns up to 12 months old
Most Versatile Baby Carrier for Travel – LÍLLÉbaby Complete Airflow Baby Carrier
Another reputable brand, the LÍLLÉbaby Complete Airflow Baby Carrier is ideal for parents who enjoy carrying their baby in multiple positions.
Sure, carrying your baby in a baby carrier on your back is fine, but it can get uncomfortable for parents with back problems.
This baby carrier offers 6 carrying styles to allow for ultimate comfort for both baby and parent. Plus, these positions provide a nice change of scenery for your little one to explore the world!
The mesh-based material of this baby carrier is flexible, durable, and gentle on the skin of the baby and the parent.
Not only this, but mesh allows for a suitable amount of airflow, which is ideal for keeping your baby suitably cool against your skin. This is especially important when traveling in warmer weather!
Also, with the ability to change the position of your baby, you can keep them cool when you are warm or sweaty from walking around with them on your back.
To add to the ventilation, this baby carrier features a zip-down front to provide more air flow to your baby’s chest and stomach to instantly cool them down!
As for the comfort of the carrier, this travel baby carrier has padded shoulder straps and a wide waistband that are both adjustable for the parent to grow alongside their baby.
Pros
- Great ventilation – Mesh lining and zip-down front keeps baby cool in warm weather
- Comfortable to wear – Adjustable padded shoulder straps and wide waist belt prevent back pain
- Versatile – Ability to carry a baby in 8 positions
Cons
- Takes practice – Might take a while to switch positions quickly
Most Comfortable Travel Baby Carrier – Tula Free-To-Grow Baby Carrier
Versatility in size is essential for a baby carrier. There’s not much point in getting a baby carrier that your little one will outgrow in 3 months, nor is there much point in getting a product that doesn’t fit both parents.
That’s where the Tula Free-To-Grow baby carrier comes in. With its ability to hold babies and toddlers weighing up to 45 pounds, this carrier can last up to 3 or 4 years depending on how early you get it in your baby’s life.
Not only this, but the carrier features adjustable padded straps and a wide padded waistband to suit the body shape of the wearer. These padded areas also help to evenly distribute the weight of the child to prevent back, shoulder, or neck pain.
As an extra form of support to the wearer and the baby, this baby carrier can be worn in several ergonomic positions.
This is great for promoting good spine and hip development for your little one, plus it gives them a change of scenery to watch the world around them.
This baby carrier is made of 100% high-quality cotton to allow for ultimate comfort on your baby’s delicate skin (and to prevent rubbing the wearer’s arms or shoulders).
Cotton is an ideal material for a baby carrier because it is soft, durable, surprisingly strong, and provides a nice amount of breathability.
Pros
- Great size range – Suitable for babies, toddlers, and parents with a variety of body shapes
- Good weight distribution – Padded shoulder straps and wide waist belt makes the baby feel lighter without causing strain
- Comfortable fabric – Cotton material is soft to prevent chafing
Cons
- No face-out – Carrier can not be worn in face-out position
Read More: Our Baby Tula Carrier Review
Best Travel Baby Carrier for Breastfeeding Moms – Boba Wrap Baby Carrier
For those who prefer baby wrap carriers, you’ve got to check out the Boba wrap baby carrier. Boba is another leading baby carrier brand in the world of baby products, and for good reason.
This wrap carrier is ideal for parents traveling with newborn babies because it allows that vital skin-to-skin contact that cannot always be achieved with a regular baby carrier.
The Boba wrap baby carrier is made of stretchy and soft cotton and a spandex blend designed to comfortably hold babies without restricting their bodies.
The spandex material also helps to retain the structure and shape of the carrier to prevent sagging, kind of like spandex-based yoga pants!
This wrap baby carrier is surprisingly easy to use. Without the inclusion of wires and padding, the carrier can be worn in pretty much every position without restriction and can be easily thrown into the washing machine to be cleaned.
The ability to make custom positions for your baby is great for both parties – not only does it provide a change of scenery for your little one, but it also allows the parent to adjust the carrier into a more ergonomic position.
Plus, this wrap carrier is ideal for breastfeeding moms, as the stretchy material provides some privacy and enough room for your baby to get into a comfortable feeding position.
Pros
- Custom adjustability – Ability to be worn in a huge variety of ways for comfort and convenience
- Soft and stretchy – Cotton and spandex blend is comfortable, durable, and flexible
- Easy to clean – Machine wash-friendly and doesn’t sag or stretch
Cons
- Long – Fabric is long for short parents
Best Travel Carrier for Older Babies Comparison Table
Last update on 2024-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Travel Carrier for Older Babies
Baby Tula Coast Explore Mesh Baby
I will admit. The Baby Tula Coast Explore Mesh is one of our favorite baby carriers for travel.
Pros
Cons
Read More: Our Baby Tula Carrier Review
LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons
LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons
Pros
Cons
Boba Baby Carrier Classic 4GS
Pros
Cons
Ergobaby Omni 360 Baby Carrier
If you ask any parent what the best baby carrier brands are, they are almost definitely going to say Ergobaby.
Ergobaby is one of the most reputable and trustworthy baby carrier brands for a bunch of reasons, but especially for their inclusive sizing for both the baby and the parent.
The Ergobaby Omni 360 baby carrier is one of the most popular products on the market. With its ability to hold babies and toddlers weighing up to 45 pounds, this carrier can be used for little ones up to 4 years old, making it a long-lasting carrier.
Not only this, but the adjustable sizing of the padded shoulder straps and wide waistband make this carrier ideal for growing alongside the parent’s weight fluctuations.
This baby carrier is made of 100% premium cotton that is soft to your baby’s delicate skin (and your own!) to prevent irritation and chafing.
It can be carried in several ways to allow for maximum comfort and enjoyment for your little one. Plus, the shoulder straps can be crossed over to aid shoulder pain!
My favorite part about this carrier is the large storage pouch and removable hood, allowing you to hold essential items and keep your baby’s head protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
Pros
- Premium quality – Reputable brand and made of high quality materials
- Great age range – Can hold babies and toddlers weighing up to 45 pounds
- Extras included – Removable storage pouch and hood make for useful accessories
Cons
- Size – Might be too big for petite parents
Boba Baby Carrier Classic 4GS
Pros
Cons
Things to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Travel Baby Carrier
Baby carriers are one of the most essential items for traveling with a baby. You can’t expect yourself or your partner to push a baby in a stroller or carry a baby in your arms on your travels.
Not only do they hold your baby in a safe and comfortable position, but they work to keep your hands free to carry bags, take photos, feed your baby, and much more. Plus, not all cities or attractions are stroller-friendly!
Here are my tips on what to look for in a baby carrier for travel!
Size
The size of the carrier will play a huge role in whether you can squeeze it into your luggage when traveling in a car or on a plane.
If you’re worried about saving space in your luggage, I recommend opting for a carrier made of yoga-style fabric, as these don’t feature any wiring or straps that can take up space in a suitcase.
Instead, they can simply be rolled or folded, taking up minimal space in your luggage.
However, it also comes down to personal preference. Some parents might not like the yoga-style fabric carriers for their lack of breathability, and if they’re taking their baby to a warm place, it could result in your baby overheating.
If you plan on taking your baby for long walks (such as hikes), you will be better off with a chunkier carrier with extra straps and padding to help balance out the weight of your little one. Sure, it’ll take up more space in your luggage, but it’ll be worth it.
Material And Ventilation
The material of a baby carrier must be durable, washable, and most importantly, gentle on your baby’s delicate skin.
Babies are prone to scratches, chafing, and irritation from harsh fabrics, and considering they are essentially trapped in a carrier with little freedom of movement, you don’t want the carrier to harm them in any way.
Cotton and yoga-style fabric with soft edging is highly recommended for both the baby and the parent.
However, you’ve also got to consider ventilation. Wearing a baby carrier can get warm for both the parent and baby – especially when hiking or traveling in hot weather, which can lead to overheating or heat stroke, which is potentially life-threatening.
I like to use carriers with built-in mesh panels or zip-down openings to provide enough airflow to keep your baby cool.
Positions
While it’s not a necessity, it’s always a good idea to opt for a carrier that can be held in multiple positions. Some carriers can only be held in one position, like backpack carriers for hiking, but babies will benefit from a change of scenery now and then.
The option to carry your little one on your front as they face the world is great for them to meet people and see shapes and colors, and carrying them on your back provides a nice surface for them to nap.
I like the carriers that can be held by a single strap, as this positions your baby horizontally for breastfeeding.
Adjustability
There’s no point in buying a baby carrier for travel that doesn’t fit you or your baby. While you can temporarily buy a one-size-fits-all carrier for traveling with your baby, you might as well buy one that will last a couple of years.
I find that you’ll save a lot of money investing in one baby carrier that can be worn for newborns to little ones ages 36 months, and all you’ll have to do is adjust the sizing accordingly.
You’ve also got to consider your comfort. Baby carriers are designed to evenly distribute the weight of a child to remove painful strain from your arms, back, shoulders, or hips.
Adjustable straps will help to make the carrier more comfortable for your body as they provide a personalized experience. Plus, make sure to check the size requirements, because some carriers aren’t suitable for plus-size parents.
Safety
Above all else, your baby’s safety is the most important factor to consider when choosing the best baby carrier for travel.
As well as choosing a carrier made of soft, irritation-resistant fabric, you should look for a carrier that offers good spinal and neck support for your little one.
When walking (or hiking) with a baby in a carrier, your baby will feel every motion of your steps, which can negatively affect their spine if they don’t have adequate support.
Make sure to choose a carrier that comes with long back support to align their spine, prevent them from falling out, and keep their necks supported.
However, this generally only really applies to newborns and babies who cannot hold their heads up by themselves. Once your little one has developed, they can afford to have less back and neck support to allow for freedom of movement.
Why You Need a Baby Carrier for Travel
We’ve been traveling since our son was 8 weeks old, and having a baby carrier made it a lot easier to get around. Here are some of the reasons you need a baby carrier for travel.
- Hands-Free – Getting through the airport is easier when your hands are free. You can easily pull your luggage, and quickly get on and off an airplane. When traveling with a baby, having both your hands will make your life easier.
- Lightweight – No need to pick up a heavy stroller, collapse it, put it in a stroller bag, or battle cobblestone in Europe. A baby carrier easily fits in your suitcase, so no need to gate-check a stroller or wait after getting off the plane, just put your baby on your back and go.
- On the go – Sightseeing, shopping, or even exploring is easier when you wear your baby. You don’t have to worry about pushing a stroller through crowds or looking
- Perfect for naptime – Babies tend to fall asleep easier when they are close to their parents. Nap time is a little easier when wearing your little one.
Read More: Out 8 Favorite Stoller Alternatives
Types of Baby Carriers for Travel
There are several different types of baby carriers that can be used for traveling with your baby.
My wife and I, we’ve used three different types of carriers, but I favor the soft structure carrier. My wife really loves the ring slings, but I wasn’t a fan, so the best travel baby carrier for you depends on the style you prefer.
Here are the different types of baby carriers that can be used for traveling with your little one.
Soft-structured Carrier
Soft-structured carriers are the most popular baby carriers. Most parents opt for this carrier because it is the most versatile.
Most soft-structured carriers can be worn in at least two positions, but many can be worn in 3-4 different positions.
Another reason parents love soft-structured carriers is that they have a higher weight capacity than other travel baby carriers.
The typical maximum weight for soft-structured carriers is 33-45 lbs, which means this carrier can last well into the toddler years.
Read More: Best Travel Carrier for Toddlers
Ring Sling
My wife loved her ring sling when our son was a newborn. They are similar to baby wraps, but they have a ring to tighten and loosen your little one.
Many parents like ring slings because they offer versatility. You can carry your little one in different positions, depending on your comfort.
This type of baby carrier makes it easy to put your baby in the perfect breastfeeding position on the go.
There is a learning curve to finding the best babywearing method with a ring sling. Overall, this is a great option for parents that prefer versatility and less structure than the other travel baby carriers on our list.
Most Popular Ring Slings
Last update on 2024-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Baby Wrap
Most Popular Baby Wraps
Last update on 2024-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Mei Tai
Mei Tai baby carriers are baby carriers inspired by Eastern Asian culture. You can envision them being a mixture of a baby wrap and a soft-structured baby carrier.
Many parents love the versatility that Mei Tai baby carriers offer for travel. You can carry your little one in the front, back, or on your hip.
If you have back problems, this style may be the best travel carrier for your baby. The weight of your little one is evenly distributed over your shoulders to reduce the stress on your back.
Most Popular Mei Tai Carriers
Last update on 2024-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Backpack Carrier
Backpack carriers are popular for hikers. Outdoor families love backpack carriers because they offer more accessories such as rain covers, pockets, snack trays, and even sunshades.
These are ideal for families headed on long hikes or planning to do a lot of walking during their travels. Dads tend to love these travel baby carriers, but bad-ass mamas wear them too.
Most Popular Backpack Carriers
Last update on 2024-09-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
FAQs About Travel Baby Carriers
Which Baby Carriers Are Best For Newborns?
Any baby carrier that says they are suitable for babies aged 4 to 36 months is great for newborns. These baby carriers are adjustable, which means you can alter the size and shape depending on your baby’s preferences.
Plus, the adjustability means you can make the carrier bigger as they grow, thus extending the lifespan of the carrier!
Here are my favorite baby carriers for newborns:
- Boba Wrap Baby Carrier
- Nalakai Ring Sling Baby Carrier
- Bebamour Newborn Baby Carrier
- Ergobaby Embrace Cozy Newborn Baby Wrap
Do I Need A Baby Carrier For Travel?
A baby carrier is an essential item to bring when traveling with a baby. Baby carriers are designed to remove the weight of the baby from straining your back, arms, or hips, and instead, evenly distribute the weight to make your baby feel lighter.
Instead of having to push a stroller around (which isn’t always possible when hiking, on the beach, in a crowded city, or in non-stroller-friendly places), your arms are free to carry other bags, take photos, or eat.
Not only are baby carriers ideal for providing your baby with a safe place to rest and view the world, but they can also be used for convenience in a variety of other situations.
These include doing housework, walking the dog, going to the grocery store, and more. Plus, baby carriers are great for planes, because your baby can peacefully sleep in your arms with the added protection and safety of the carrier.
Can I wear a baby carrier on a flight?
Yes and no. You can use a baby carrier during the flight, but you cannot wear it during takeoff and landing. Your little one must be in your lap at those times, but they can be in a carrier the entire duration of the flight.
Babywearing during the flight may keep your little one more comfortable since they will be close to you. Although purchasing a seat for your little one with a car seat is the safest option, I understand not everyone can afford an additional seat.
Tip: If you are breastfeeding, I highly recommend a ring sling. It made breastfeeding our little one on the go easier, plus it can double as a nursing cover.
Can I wear a baby carrier through airport security?
Yes!!! You can wear your baby carrier and baby through security. After putting everything on the scanner, you will be asked to walk through the metal detectors.
You may be asked to step aside for additional screening, such as swaps or the wand, but the good thing is you can still babywear. This is great for parents traveling with multiple kids, so if you can, babywearing is the way to go at the airport.
Are Wrap Baby Carriers Good For Travel?
Wrap baby carriers come with pros and cons. These carriers allow a beautiful bonding experience due to skin-to-skin contact, which is ideal for newborns.
They also don’t involve unnecessary adjustments with straps, meaning they can be simply folded into a bag without taking up much space.
However, some parents prefer not to use wrap baby carriers when traveling, because they don’t provide as much breathability as other carriers.
With such close contact, wrap carriers can make the baby warm, which isn’t ideal when traveling to warmer climates.
Conclusion: What is the best baby carrier for travel?
The answer to this depends on the type of carrier you prefer. I prefer soft-structure carriers. To me, they are more comfortable and I like to carry things on my back (thanks to the Army and ruck marching).
My wife loved using a ring sling when our son was a baby. She thought they were easier to use, but they make me a little paranoid, due to the lack of straps for additional security.
If you are planning to travel with your baby, then babywearing is the way to go. Of all of the baby carriers on our list, here are the most popular travel baby carriers:
- LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons Ergonomic
- Ergobaby 360 All-Position Baby Carrier
- Beco Gemini Baby Carrier
- Baby K’tan Original Baby Wrap
- Boba Wrap Baby Carrier
Wow, thank you so much for featuring us on your list of the best baby carriers for travel! We’re thrilled to be recognized as a top choice for adventurous families. We appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to serve parents who love to explore the world with their children!