Charlotte in a ring sling in Larnaca, Cyprus in 2010
As dirty hippies attachment parenters, we are big believers in baby wearing. Throughout our travels, we’ve found that having a baby carrier (or two) on hand has been a big help.
At the airport, wearing your baby in a carrier leaves your hands free to take care of passports and boarding passes, and lets baby be a part of all the action and thus less likely to act out. And, it leaves the stroller free to haul carry-on luggage.
On the airplane, security regulations currently prohibit baby wearing during take-off and landing (which is just silly- how could baby be safer than strapped securely to a parent?) but during the flight a baby carrier can be a good place for baby to nap, and an easy way to take baby for aisle-walks. When we’ve had a late arrival time, rather than waking Charlotte up and having to deal with a cranky kiddo during customs and baggage, I’ve popped her in the carrier where she’s gone back to sleep, and then had free hands and a calm baby for arrival procedures.
When out and about, having a carrier is also tremendously helpful, as it provides a comfortable alternative to a stroller. In places where strollers are inconvenient or impractical, a baby carrier provides a comfortable seat for baby.
There are numerous styles and types of baby carriers, all with their own pro’s and con’s. For us, the two that have been the most useful are:
- Maya Ring Sling: lightweight and easy to get on and off, but not ideal for long periods of walking
- Ergo carrier: super comfortable and supportive, but bulky and hot in warm climates
Whatever type of baby carrier you use, I would highly recommend not leaving home without it!
Do you use a baby carrier when travelling? What’s your favourite kind?
Love my Ergo too! I had no idea they couldn’t be in a carrier during takeoff and landing…. bummer, especially if you’ve got the little one sleeping. What a silly rule.
I am not a big attachment parenter, but baby carriers are a handy travel item for every parent of a baby. As you mentioned, there are many occasions when it’s helpful to have the baby secured and comforted, leaving both hands free. They are great for places where strollers are either not welcome or practical.
LOVE my Ergo! Used it so much with baby #1 that I thought I might need a new one for baby #2. So far it is holding up though. I’ve also been packing a simple sling into my purse for those times that he is passed out in the car seat when we are out and about but might wake up and need a little snuggle. It has been a life saver. Thanks for linking up again today!
I couldn’t agree more. Our carriers have been ESSENTIAL in our travels. Like you, we adore our Ergo, and we never went anywhere without our Cuddly Wrap (like the Moby, but so much better!) either!