The Best Baby Carriers for Traveling: I’ve Tried 11 Carriers So You Don’t Have To
Traveling with little ones is always an adventure, but having the right baby carrier can make all the difference. After years of traveling with kids, I’ve tried many (too many?!) baby carriers and I’m here to share all the best (and worst) ones with you.
For my first child, I bought seven different baby carriers to try and find the perfect one. Unfortunately, both my child and I never found one that was comfortable for both of us and I didn’t end up baby wearing with him much.
It wasn’t until my second born child that I found the best baby carriers for traveling and everyday wear. Whether you’re traveling, just hanging out at home, or wandering through a new city, read on for my top baby carriers.
Why Babywearing is a Game-Changer
Babywearing is great for many reasons, including practicality, bonding, and hands free convenience which is particularly helpful during travel. Keeping your baby close fosters emotional connection and can help soothe fussy little ones by keeping them close to your heartbeat and warmth.
Beyond the bonding benefits, babywearing allows parents to stay hands-free which is very helpful when navigating crowded airports, chasing after older kids, or carrying luggage.
Baby wearing is also calming for babies in unfamiliar environments, as they feel safe and secure tucked against you and less stimulated by their surroundings.
Another benefit of baby wearing for parents of multiple kiddos is versatility. During travel, we typical bring a travel stroller and a baby carrier. The baby carrier is wonderful for naps on the go, our baby sleeps peacefully in a carrier allowing us to explore more while traveling.
For solo parent travel, I find baby wearing to be crucial. When I travel with two kids on my own, I often pile luggage (or sometimes a sleepy 5 year old) into the stroller and baby wear my youngest. Baby wearing is the only way I can navigate airports, airplanes, subways, and taxis on my own.
Whether you’re hiking a scenic trail, exploring a bustling city, or simply getting chores done, babywearing is a versatile and comfortable way to keep your baby close while giving yourself the freedom to move. Below, you’ll find my top picks for the best baby carriers for traveling along with my least favorite.
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Price Key (in USD) :
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$$$$$: 300+
1. All Around Best Baby Carriers For Traveling- Artipoppe Zeitgeist Baby Carrier
Price Point: $$$$$
The Artipoppe Zeitgeist carrier is my favorite baby travel carrier, I bring it everywhere with me from short grocery store trips to long hikes. It’s always in my carry on for every plane trip; it was the only way my then 9 month old could sleep on our 26 hour flight to the Congo.
Yes, it’s a splurge, but for good reason. It’s absolutely the most comfortable carrier I’ve ever used. As someone who has had two c-sections and diastasis recti, I’m very particular about how a baby carrier waist belt feels.
While baby wearing for hours and hours isn’t the most comfortable for me, the Artipoppe Zeitgeist is by far the most comfortable for long baby wearing. This carrier has cross back straps that help distribute baby weight and make it easy to put on by yourself.
Depending on the climate where you live or travel, you’ll find an Artipoppe Zeitgeist in material that works for you. Cold weather baby wearers may love cashmere while hot weather parents might appreciate the more breathable tencel fabric.
The Artipoppe Zeitgeist is incredibly stylish too. It comes in many different prints from bold to neutrals, I’m sure you’ll find one you love. When I got my first Zeitgeist, I thought it would be my one and only carrier, who would spend that much on a single baby carrier? And now I have three Artipoppe Zeitgeists. They are that amazing!
Lastly, the Zeitgeist is machine-washable, a must for travel mishaps or drooly babies.
Why I Love The Artipoppe Zeitgeist
Comfort: Even after long hikes and grueling flights, the zeitgeist is the most comfortable for me, it was a lifesaver for my lower back.
Versatile: I’ve used this for everything from grocery shopping to traveling as a solo parent on a cross country flight.
Stylish and Practical: It’s the carrier you’ll actually want to be photographed wearing.
Durability: Washable, durable fabric that holds up to travel and daily use.
It’s important to note that the Zeitgeist carrier is best to use after baby is 3 months old. The baby version of the zeitgeist carrier holds babies up to 45 lbs.
Artipoppe also sells a zeitgeist style of toddler carrier that I haven’t yet tried with my little one, but I do own it in a toddler size as I know baby and I will love it!
Some downsides to the Artipoppe Zeitgeist are the expensive price tag and the fact that it doesn’t have any pockets for storing keys or other essentials.
If you’re looking for an investment piece that makes travel with a baby easier and more enjoyable, the Artipoppe Zeitgeist is worth every penny. In my mind, I justify the expensive price tag with the fact that I use it at least every other day. Shop the Artipoppe Zeitgeist Baby Carrier here and save $55 with my link.
2. Best For Newborns- Boppy ComfyFit Hybrid Carrier
Price Point: $
For the newborn stage, the Boppy ComfyFit Hybrid is my top pick. Made from soft, stretchy yoga pants material, this semi-structured carrier is the perfect balance between a traditional wrap and a more structured carrier. It’s gentle on tender areas, which is especially important if you’re recovering from a C-section like me.
Why I love the Boppy ComfyFit
Soft and Stretchy Fabric: Gentle on healing skin and ideal for snuggling your newborn.
Easy to Use: No complicated wrapping techniques; just put it on, wrap, tie and go.
Compact: Lightweight and easy to pack, making it perfect for travel.
This carrier was a lifesaver during those early days, and I still recommend it to every new parent I know. Shop the Boppy ComfyFit Hybrid Carrier here.
3. Best Lightweight Carrier- Tula Light Compact
Price Point: $$
For short, outdoor adventures the Tula is a great option. What I love most about this carrier is that it packs down tiny into a little bag. It’s lightweight and dries quickly. I’ve used it at a spray park and it quickly dried.
Two extra features I love is the zipper pocket that you can easily store your keys or credit card while baby wearing, this is a feature that is lacking in the Artipoppe Zeitgeist. In addition, it has a breathable sun shade that is perfect when baby is napping on a sunny day.
This carrier is also super lightweight. It’s easy to pack into a day bag or have on hand in your trunk for quick trips. However, because it’s so lightweight there isn’t a lot of structure so for me, I couldn’t baby wear for too long with this carrier. After about an hour or so, my lower back would start hurting.
Why I love the Tula Light:
Light & Compact Design: It packs down very small, perfect for travel. I love how it folds into a zippered cross body bag.
Budget-Friendly: It’s affordable, and comes in many colors
Attached sun shade: the detachable sun shade is great for sunny days, especially when baby is napping
4. Best Carrier for Water Play
Price Point: $
For water adventures, this Water Sling is fantastic and affordable. Made from quick-drying, breathable fabric, this sling allows you to carry your baby in the pool or at the beach. It’s perfect for parents who want to wade in the water while keeping their infant close.
Why I love this water sling:
Water-Friendly Fabric: Quick-drying and lightweight, ideal for pool or beach days.
Versatile: Perfect for wading in the pool with an infant while keeping up with older kids.
Compact: Easy to roll up and toss in your beach bag.
This sling made it possible for me to play in the pool with my 5-year-old while safely carrying my newborn—a total win for family trips and surviving the hot, humid summer in Washington DC. Shop the Water Sling here.
5. Best Ring Sling WildBird Ring Sling
Price Point: $$
The WildBird Ring Sling is a great option for quick ups and downs, especially in the early months. It’s comfortable, compact, and comes in a variety of beautiful fabrics and colors.
I love the linen material of the ring sling as it’s slightly grippy and made it easy to learn to use. It’s also relatively breathable and lightweight which was great to use during hot weather.
I appreciate the versatility of ring slings too. I’ve used the Wild Bird Ring Sling as a blanket or nursing cover.
However, as my youngest has grown, I’ve found myself reaching for the Artipoppe Zeitgeist more often, as the ring sling is less supportive for extended wear with a heavier baby.
Why I love the Wildbird Ring Sling:
Convenience: Easy to use for short outings and transitions.
Stylish Options: Choose from a wide range of fabrics and colors to suit your style.
Compact Design: Fits easily into a diaper bag
Versatility: Can be used a baby blanket or nursing cover
While it’s not my go-to for travel anymore, it’s still a fantastic choice for parents with younger babies who need a lightweight and versatile carrier. Shop the WildBird Ring Sling here.
Structured Carriers vs. Ring Slings vs Wraps: Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between a structured carrier, a ring sling, or a wrap often comes down to your lifestyle, your baby’s age, and your specific needs. Each has their strengths and can be great options, but understanding their differences can help you make the right choice.
Structured Carriers
Structured carriers, like the Artipoppe Zeitgeist, are designed for maximum support and comfort. They usually feature padded shoulder straps, a supportive waistband, and ergonomic designs to evenly distribute your baby’s weight. These carriers are excellent for longer outings, traveling, and situations where you’ll need to carry your baby for extended periods.
Pros:
- Superior weight distribution for back and shoulders.
- Adjustable settings for a customized fit.
- Ideal for older babies and toddlers.
- Great for activities like hiking or long walks.
Cons:
- Bulkier and heavier to pack compared to slings.
- Not ideal for newborns.
- Takes longer to put on than ring slings
Ring Slings
Ring slings are made from a single piece of fabric threaded through two rings, creating a simple yet versatile carrier. They’re great for quick ups and downs, making them a great choice for newborns or parents running errands. Their compact design makes them easy to pack for travel.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact for easy storage.
- Perfect for newborns and young babies.
- Quick to put on and adjust.
- Stylish options available in various fabrics and colors.
- Versatile uses, can be used as a nursing cover or blanket.
Cons:
- Less supportive for longer wear or heavier babies.
- Can strain one shoulder, especially during extended use.
Wraps
Baby wraps are a popular choice, especially for newborns, because they offer a snug, womb-like experience. Made from soft, stretchy fabric, wraps are highly versatile and can accommodate different carrying positions, making them a favorite among parents during the early months.
Pros:
- Provides a snug fit that’s ideal for newborns and smaller babies.
- Can be tied in various ways to suit your body type and preferred carrying style.
- Easy to fold and pack, making it convenient for travel.
- Keeps baby close to your body, fostering a sense of security and comfort.
Cons:
- Requires practice to tie correctly and ensure a safe, secure hold.
- Takes longer to put on compared to structured carriers or slings.
- Best for younger babies; may lack the support needed for older infants or toddlers.
Which to Choose?
If you’re looking for a carrier that can handle long days of travel or support a growing toddler, a structured carrier will be your best bet. On the other hand, if you prioritize portability, quick adjustments, and a cozy fit for a newborn, a ring sling could be your go-to. Many parents find that having both options offers the best of both worlds, allowing them to adapt to different situations with ease.
If you’re traveling with a newborn and want a lightweight, intimate option, a baby wrap might be the perfect choice. They’re especially useful for short trips, around-the-house use, or providing comfort during naptime on the go. However, for longer adventures or for older babies, you might consider a structured carrier for additional support.
Baby Carriers and Airline Travel
Navigating Airports and Airline Policies with a Carrier
A baby carrier is great for navigating airports, allowing you to keep your hands free for tickets and luggage while keeping your little one secure. Many carriers can be worn through security checkpoints, but be prepared to remove metal components if requested by TSA. Structured carriers with quick-release buckles are especially convenient in these situations, as they’re easy to take on and off when needed.
Tips for Security
When passing through security, wear a carrier that doesn’t set off metal detectors (the Artipoppe Zeitgeist has never set off metal detectors for me). However, at certain airports, I’ve been told I have to remove baby from the carrier while other security checkpoints have allowed me to pass through security without taking him out.
Airline Takeoff & Landing
Make sure to check your airline’s policy regarding carriers during boarding and takeoff. Depending on the airline, you may be required to take off a baby carrier. For instance, when I recently flew overseas, I had to take off the carrier and put on a baby seatbelt. This was a bit annoying when baby was already asleep and putting on the baby seatbelt woke him up.
For First-Time Baby Wearers
If you’re new to babywearing, understanding how to use your carrier is important. Look for instructional videos or step-by-step photo guides from the manufacturer or on YouTube from certified baby wearing consultants.
Practicing how to adjust a ring sling or secure a structured carrier’s buckles ahead of time will be very helpful for a comfortable and safe fit for you and baby.
Carriers I’ve Tried But Don’t Love
Ergobaby 360 Omni
I know many people love the Ergobaby 360 Omni. I was not a fan, I find the shoulder straps to be bulky and hard to put on by myself. I have heard from many mom friends that this is their favorite carrier, but for me, it wasn’t the most comfortable.
The bulkiness made it not the easiest to put on myself and there’s also an awkward clip that goes behind your shoulders that I had trouble buckling on my own. I often needed to ask someone else to help me buckle the back clip.
Lillebaby Complete All Season
I did like this option for short periods of forward facing baby wearing. It is breathable material and easy to wash. However, I found the straps to be bulky. I much prefer the cross back straps of the Artipoppe Zeitgeist to these types of shoulder straps.
Just like the Ergo baby, I found this carrier to be a bit annoying to buckle on my own.
Infantino carrier
This infantino carrier was not my favorite either. I found it to be uncomfortable for me and also for my baby. He could never quite settle and sleep in this carrier for me.
Mei tai style carrier
The one I used is no longer available, but I didn’t like this style of carrier. It was a bit complicated and never quite felt secure for me or for baby.
Solly and Boba Wrap
Despite many videos and attempts to try to get this wrap to work, I could not figure this wrap out. After a few minutes, it would get saggy and not look or feel right.
Baby Bjorn
This structured carrier was again, not the most comfortable for me and baby. I wasn’t a fan of the straps, I found them to be unsupportive and dug into my shoulders.
Best Baby Carrier For Traveling Final Reflections
The right baby carrier can make your travel experience smoother, more comfortable, and more enjoyable for you and baby. Whether you’re exploring a new city, hiking a scenic trail, or enjoying a day at the beach, I hope you find a baby carrier that you and baby love.
What’s your favorite baby carrier for travel? Let me know in the comments below or connect with me on Instagram at @FullPassportFamily for more family travel tips and recommendations!
