Babs and N looking at the sheep with N in the wompat toddler carrier

The Best Carriers for Toddlers and Preschoolers (2024)

Looking for the best carrier for toddlers? You’ve come to the right place!

While many people might think you’ll stop wearing your baby once they’re able to walk, that’s hardly true at all!

Toddler carriers will more than serve their purpose when your little one gets tired or if you need to hurry and they are in sloth mode.

Especially when travelling with a toddler, bringing a toddler carrier will make your life a lot easier!

We carried our daughter daily until she was 3 (on our daily walk to school and with the dogs) and it wasn’t until age 5 that we stopped putting the toddler baby carrier into our suitcase.

Our son, age 2 years and 2 months, is in a toddler carrier for a 2-year-old daily.

As mums who love to take our kids with us on our travels, we find toddler carriers extremely helpful.

Whether at home or travelling, toddler carriers allow us to comfortably multitask without sacrificing the needs of our beloved children.

We figured this might be what you want and your kids need, too!

Read on to find the best carriers for toddlers (and preschoolers)or read more about babywearing a toddler in our information guide.

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⭐ The Best Carriers for Toddlers 2024: Top Picks ⭐

Best carrier for toddler 2024: Tula Toddler (get a 10% discount with my code MFF10)
Best carrier for preschooler 2024: Tula Preschool
(get a 10% discount with my code MFF10)
Cheapest carrier for toddlers: LÍLLÉbaby Carryon Airflow
Best toddler carrier for travel: LÍLLÉbaby Carryon Airflow
Best toddler carrier for plus-size parents: Beco Toddler
Best backpack for carrying toddlers in a hot climate: Beco Toddler Cool
or LÍLLÉbaby Carryon Airflow
Best newborn to toddler carrier: Boba X
Best toddler carrier for hiking: Deuter Kid Comfort Child Carrier
Best hip seat carriers for toddlers: Tushbaby Hip Seat Carrier

🤑 Make sure to use code MFF10 if you’re planning to buy a child carrier for toddlers on the Tula website. You’ll get a 10% discount!

Best carrier for 1-year-old: Boba X
Best carrier for 2-year-old: Tula Toddler
Best carrier for 3-year-old: Tula Toddler
Best carrier for 4-year-old: Tula Toddler
Best carrier for 5-year-old: Tula Preschool
Best carrier for 6-year-old: Tula Preschool

THE BEST CARRIERS FOR TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS: COMPARISON CHART

IMAGE PRODUCT AGE/SIZE
Example of the Tula Toddler, a backpack carrier for toddler Tula
    A carrier with funky patterns, a high back panel, and that is extra strong. With a wide preformed waist belt.
    Toddler: 18m-4+
    Preschool: 3,5-6+
CHECK PRICE
A man holding a toddler boy on his back with the help of a carrier LílléBaby Carryon Airflow
  • Mesh carrier with high back panel and wide waist belt.
18m-5y CHECK PRICE
A woman holding a baby in a carrier Boba X
  • A newborn-to-toddler carrier that actually works well far into toddlerhood. Seat extenders and foot straps included to make even the biggest toddlers sit comfortably.
0m-3y CHECK PRICE
The firewagon edition of the Kinderpack Toddler, one of the best carriers for toddlers on the back Kinderpack
  • Extra comfortable/deep seat thanks to the 3 panels. Standard or plus size options for parents. Coolknit middle panel for airflow.
  • Standard: 8m-3+
  • Toddler: 18m-4+
  • Preschool: 3y-5+
CHECK PRICE
A woman carrying a female child on her back with the help of a black carrier Beco Toddler
  • Very comfortable toddler carrier with wide seat made from mesh fabric. With waist belt extender if necessary. Shoulder straps are a little less padded than the competition.
18m-6y CHECK PRICE
An example of the integra backpack carriers for toddlers Integra
  • Carrier with a SOFT waist belt instead of a stiff one. Nice designs, also wrap conversions, linen and a waterproof version.
  • Size 2: 18m-3,5y
  • Size 3: 3-6y
CHECK PRICE
A man carrying a baby on his back with the help of a carrier Tula Toddler Coast
  • A tropical-resistant carrier with mesh panel and hood. It also has additional padding to accommodate the toddler’s legs.
up to 4+ years CHECK PRICE
A blue colored toddler carrier Deuter Kid Comfort Child Carrier
  • A comfortable and lightweight carrier with mesh at the back, adjustable straps, sternum belt, padded hip belt, and sunroof.
up to 52.9 lbs CHECK PRICE
A woman carrying a black toddler carrier on her back with hood Luvdbaby Hiking Carrier Backpack
  • A hiking carrier with adjusted straps and waterproof material. It also has a diaper-changing pad and multiple mesh pockets.
up to 40 lbs CHECK PRICE
A woman holding a child with the help of a hip seat carrier around her hips Tushbaby Hip Seat Carrier
  • A comfortable, lightweight multi-purpose hip seat carrier that also serves as a diaper bag.
up to 3 years old! CHECK PRICE

Toddler Carrier Reviews

👶 The best young toddler baby carriers: age 12-18 months

Standard baby carriers will fit your 1-year-old just fine.

It isn’t until around 18 months of age that some of them will start to lack decent knee-to-knee support. Most, however, will fit until your kiddo is wearing a 2T (leg length).

If you’re looking for the best baby carrier for a 1-year-old to an 18-month-old, we recommend using a regular/standard carrier.

Good and popular brands are Ergobaby, Tula, LILLÉbaby and Beco.

Most (back) carriers for toddlers can be used from 18 months old but not before, the seat will be too wide which will be uncomfortable for your little one.

However, if you don’t own a regular baby carrier yet and you feel it would be silly to buy one for just a short couple of months, it’s possible to tie the fabric of the seat together with a little string.

That way, you can give your child knee-to-knee support without overstretching. Make sure the back panel – which is often higher to support older children – doesn’t come too high.

There are 2 baby carriers that you’ll be able to use well into toddlerhood. Both of these carriers are great choices if you don’t already own a regular carrier and you don’t expect to continue carrying over the age of 2.5.

1. Boba X

A woman holding a baby in a carrier

The Boba X carrier is made from a breathable 100% cotton fabric, making it a front and back toddler carrier that is very comfortable for your little one!

We’re usually not too fond of recommending a baby carrier that is adjustable from newborn to toddler.

It’s great in theory and we’re sure the fabric will be strong enough to support the weight.

However, experience has taught us that once upper bodies and legs start to grow, our kiddos won’t be all that comfortable anymore in a baby carrier.

We make an exception for the Boba X though!

Both the seat (8-21″/20-53 cm) and the panel body (12-16″/30-40 cm) micro-adjusts to fit your child’s body perfectly.

On top of that, they thought about the baby wearers as well: the carrier comes with a 25-58″ (63.5-147 cm) waist belt. This way, it will fit just about anybody!

An absolutely great feature of the Boba X is the seat extenders and the foot straps. That way even older toddlers will be able to sit comfortably!

As is customary for Boba, the designs are to die for.

2. Kinderpack Standard

Example of the Kinderpack standard a great baby carrier 1 year old
Photo credit @Kinderpack

Kinderpack is an American brand of stay-at-home parents that creates unique baby carriers in small batches.

Like many European brands, but as one of the only US brands, their carriers come in 4 sizes: the infant, the standard, the toddler, and the preschooler.

The Kinderpack Standard allows you to carry children from about 20 to 40 lbs.

Technically this could be from 8 months old and up until age 3, but they should be a minimum of 28″ tall.

This baby carrier for 3-year-olds comes with a hidden aviator hood/sleep shade (depending on the fabric of the middle panel).

Thanks to the 3-panel structure, your kid’s bottom sinks extra deep into the carrier, creating a very comfortable environment.

For parents, the Kinderpack provides a custom fit with 2 options: the standard, for sizes 0 to 22, and the plus size, for sizes 18 and up.

All Kinderpack carriers are available in colourful and funky prints and you can choose between a regular and a hot-weather version!

🧒 The best carriers for children: ages 2 – 4

As your child approaches the ages 2 to 4 and grows bigger, it is time to consider a new carrier. The right one still prioritizes both comfort and safety.

As we move forward, we’ll explore the top carriers designed to accommodate the unique needs of older toddlers.

With special features, discover carriers that prioritize your ease of use as well!

3. Tula Toddler

Example of the Tula Toddler, a backpack carrier for toddler
photo credit @ Little Zen One

Although not as well-known in the US as they are in Europe, the Tula baby carrier brand is a great choice if you’re looking for a backpack carrier for toddlers.

As with the other Tula carriers, it is comfortable and durable.

The back panel comes up high on the back of your child, which is something many people like.

The Tula Toddler carrier has a big pocket on the waist belt and additional padding at the leg openings, the shoulder straps, and the waist belt.

This baby carrier for a 2-year-old can only be used for front and back positions.

The Tula Toddler can carry your child from 25 lbs and up to 4+ years. They should be a minimum of 32″ tall.

Typical for the Baby Tula brand is the beautifully designed and colourful patterns they use for their carriers.

4. LÍLLÉbaby CarryOn Airflow

A man holding a toddler boy on his back with the help of a carrier

Unfortunately, the LÍLLÉbaby CarryOn AllSeasons is no longer available.

However, the Lillebaby CarryOn Airflow is your perfect partner in crime when babywearing in regular to warm climates.

It is suitable for children from 20 up to 60 lbs.

The toddler carrying backpack has 3-way adjustable straps, a removable hood, and features 2 pockets.

The biggest plus of the CarryOn is its wider and taller torso, which keeps even taller children comfortable.

It is made completely out of mesh fabric. This way it provides airflow for both yourself and your toddler, which is pretty useful if you or your little one sweats easily.

The toddler carrier backpack is available in multiple colours!

5. Beco Toddler

A woman carrying a female child on her back with the help of a black carrier

The Toddler version of the Beco has all its cool features and transformed to suit children from age 18m up until 6+!

You can wear your baby on the front (face inward) and on the back.

The shoulder straps are crossable in case your not-so-little-anymore-toddler likes to be carried on your belly, which is a great relief for your back!

There’s also extra padding in the straps and the leg holes, a large pocket on the belt, and a detachable zipper clutch.

The brand claims to fit all sizes of caregivers perfectly from XS to XXL (they offer waist belt extenders) – and parents seem to agree.

6. Integra size 2

photo credit @ Little Zen One

Integra baby carriers are a great choice for anyone looking for the best carrier for a toddler.

They come in 3 sizes: size 1 from birth until 2.5 years, size 2 from 18 months up until 3.5 years, and size 3 from age 3 to 6.

The feature that makes this one stand out the most is the soft waist belt.

Some parents don’t like a soft structured carrier because the belt is stiff and big. However, a soft waist belt ensures you have that perfect fit anytime.

It also comes with a large sun/sleeping hood, which you can snap onto the shoulder straps with small buckles.

The Integra Solar comes in various beautiful patterns, linen editions, and wrap conversions, so you’ll definitely find one to your liking.

There’s also a waterproof version available in many colours (Integra Solar). You can find more waterproof baby carriers here!

🤑 Get a $20 discount if you buy through this link. Little Zen One is a Canadian webshop that offers free worldwide shipping.

7. Kinderpack toddler

The firewagon edition of the Kinderpack Toddler, one of the best carriers for toddlers on the back
Photo Credit @Kinderpack

Kinderpack is an American brand of stay-at-home parents who create unique baby carriers in small batches.

Like many European brands, but as one of the only US brands, their carriers come in 4 sizes: the infant, the standard, the toddler, and the preschool carrier.

For ages 2 to 4, it’s recommended to go with the Toddler version (although some kids might not fit it just yet at age 2 when they’re not that tall).

The Kinderpack Toddler allows you to carry children from about 25 to 45 lbs. Technically this could be from 18 months old up until 4+ but they should be a minimum of 32″ tall.

Kinderpack also issues the max weight as an absolute minimum in which the carrier should still be comfortable.

It is able to support much more weight, but comfort for your little one might be a little less.

This toddler carrier for back and front carry positions come with a hidden aviator hood/sleep shade (depending on the fabric of the middle panel).

Thanks to the 3-panel structure, your kid’s bottom sinks extra deep into the carrier, creating a very comfortable environment.

For parents, the Kinderpack provides a custom fit with 2 options: the standard, for sizes 0 to 22, and the plus size, for sizes 18 and up.

All Kinderpacks are available in colourful and funky prints and some have a mesh back panel!

👦 The best kids carrier: age 4+

Every child is different. Some would still like to be carried, some do not, while some only like it occasionally.

As children grow older, more adventures and explorations are available for you to share.

A reliable carrier is useful, especially when travelling long distances or simply when your little one wants to be close to you.

For children aged 4 and up, we recommend choosing some of the best preschool carriers to accommodate their growing bodies.

8. Tula Preschool

Example of the Tula Toddler, a backpack carrier for toddler
photo credit @ Little Zen One

Although not as well-known in the US as they are in Europe, the Tula baby carrier brand is a great choice if you’re looking for a carrier for an older child.

As with the other Tula carriers, it is comfortable and durable. The back panel comes up high on the back of your child, which is something many people like.

The Tula Preschool has a big pocket on the waist belt and additional padding at the leg openings, the shoulder straps, and the waist belt.

This child carrier for over 40 lbs can only be used for front and back positions.

The Tula Preschool can carry your child from when they are in 4T pants (35 lbs) and up to 6+ years (70 lbs).

The extra-large panel and the reinforced structure, make it extremely fit to carry around older children.

Typical for the Baby Tula brand is the beautifully designed and colourful patterns they use for their carriers.

🤑 If you purchase a Tula carrier through our link, you’ll receive a 10% discount if you use our code MFF10!

9. Integra size 3

photo credit @ Little Zen One

Integra baby carriers are a great choice for anyone looking for the best carrier over 30 lbs.

They come in 3 sizes: size 1 from birth until 2.5 years, size 2 from 18 months up until 3.5 years, and size 3 from age 3 to 6.

The feature that makes this one stand out the most is the soft waist belt.

Some parents don’t like a soft structured carrier because the preformed belt is stiff and big. However, a soft waist belt makes sure you have that perfect fit anytime.

It also comes with a large sun/sleeping hood, which you can snap onto the shoulder straps with small buckles.

The Integra Solar comes in various beautiful patterns, linen editions, and wrap conversions, so you’ll definitely find one to your liking. There’s also a waterproof version available in many colours (Integra Solar).

🤑 Get a $20 discount if you buy through this link. Little Zen One is a Canadian webshop that offers free worldwide shipping.

10. Kinderpack Preschool

The kinderpack preschool, an big kid carrier
Photo Credit @Kinderpack

Kinderpack is an American brand of stay-at-home parents that creates unique baby carriers in small batches.

Like many European brands, but as one of the only US brands, their carriers come in 4 sizes: the infant, the standard, the toddler, and the preschooler.

For ages 3 to 5, it’s recommended to go with the Preschool version (although some kids might not fit it just yet at age 3 when they’re not that tall).

The Kinderpack Preschool allows you to carry children from about 35 to 55 lbs. Technically this could be a back carrier for 3-years-old up until 5+ but they should be a minimum of 38″ tall.

Kinderpack also issues the max weight as an absolute minimum in which the carrier should still be comfortable.

It is able to support much more weight, but comfort for your little one might be a little less.

This front and back carrier for 4-year-olds plus comes with a hidden aviator hood/sleep shade (depending on the fabric of the middle panel).

Thanks to the 3-panel structure, your kid’s bottom sinks extra deep into the carrier, creating a very comfortable environment.

For parents, the Kinderpack provides a custom fit with 2 options: the standard, for sizes 0 to 22, and the plus size, for sizes 18 and up.

All Kinderpack carriers are available in colourful and funky prints and some come with a mesh back panel!

🌞 The best baby toddler carrier for hot weather

When it comes to carrying a toddler in summer, make sure to follow the standard rules for wearing a baby in high temperatures: stay in the shade as much as possible, hydrate, and take regular breaks.

A lot of people prefer a soft structured carrier for toddlers over a wrap or sling because those tiny walking humans tend to run around, hop in, hop out and repeat.

Can you imagine tying your wrap a zillion times in 90 degrees?

If you do prefer wrapping your toddler, choose a woven wrap to prevent shoulder and back pain. You don’t need a special toddler wrap.

Below, you’ll find our top 3 best toddler carriers for hot weather, but if you’d like a more comprehensive article, check out our toddler section in the best baby carrier for hot weather.

11. Beco Toddler Cool

A woman holding a boy toddler on her back with the help of a carrier

The Toddler version of the Beco Cool has all its cool features and transformed to suit children from age 18m up until 6+!

You can wear your baby on the front (face inward), and on the back.

The shoulder straps are crossable in case your not-so-little-anymore-toddler likes to be carried on your belly, which is a great relief for your back!

There’s also extra padding in the straps and the leg holes, a large pocket on the belt, and a detachable zipper clutch.

The brand claims to fit all sizes of caregivers perfectly from XS to XXL (they offer waist belt extenders) – and parents seem to agree.

12. LÍLLÉbaby CarryOn Airflow

A toddler boy being held by a man on his back with the help of a carrier

The Lillebaby CarryOn Airflow is the perfect travel toddler carrier for warmer climates.

It is suitable for children from 20 up to 60 lbs.

The toddler carrying backpack has 3-way adjustable straps, a removable hood, and features 2 pockets.

The biggest plus of the CarryOn is its wider and taller torso, which keeps even taller children comfortable.

It has all the advantages of the All Seasons ergonomic toddler carrier, except that it’s made completely out of mesh fabric. This way it provides airflow for both yourself and your toddler.

The toddler carrier backpack is available in multiple colours!

13. Tula Toddler Coast

father with a child in a back carrier for toddler
photo credit @ Little Zen One

It is no surprise that one of the most famous baby carrier producers offers a version for keeping your toddler cool in hot weather.

As with the other Tula carriers, it is comfortable and durable. What makes it tropical-resistant is the mesh panel on the back and the mesh hood, leaving room for air to brush in.

The Tula Coast has a big pocket on the waist belt and additional padding at the leg openings, the shoulder straps, and the waist belt.

This baby carrier for hot weather can only be used for front and back positions.

The Tula toddler Coast can carry your child from 25 lbs and up to 4+ years.

🤑 Get a $20 discount if you buy through this link. Little Zen One is a Canadian webshop that offers free worldwide shipping.

⛰️ Best Hiking Carriers for Toddlers

Hiking is not an easy outdoor activity. More so when carrying a child with you. But it’s more fun!

Embarking on hiking adventures with a young child requires the best back carrier for a toddler to ensure both comfort and safety. These should be lightweight, too.

We recommend the best kid carriers that strike the balance between comfort and functionality.

These are not only tailored to accommodate the unique needs of your toddler but also offer you the convenience of hands-free exploration in rugged terrains.

Adjustable straps, multiple mesh pockets, and waterproof material? We got you!

14. Deuter Kid Comfort Child Carrier

A blue colored toddler carrier

Your most precious cargo will find themselves comfortable in this Deuter Kid Comfort Child Carrier.

It features a mesh at the back that provides ventilation.

Also, it is comfortable enough that your kid can sleep in it!

Also made for parents, this also has a sunroof, hip fins, adjustable straps and sternum belt, and a padded hip belt.

Not only do these ensure the carrier stays in place, but they also guarantee that you’re carrying an even load.

Besides being sturdy, this carrier is lightweight, allowing you to enjoy pleasant hikes for hours!

The Deuter Child Comfort carrier can carry a child weighing up to 52.9 lbs!

15. Luvdbaby Hiking Carrier Backpack

A woman carrying a black toddler carrier on her back with hood

Luvdbaby Hiking Carrier Backpack is your perfect completion for a hike with your toddler.

Aside from heavily padded and adjustable straps and a load-bearing belt, it features multiple mesh pockets for easy carrying of your valuables and belongings.

Designed for long hikes, it also includes a diaper-changing pad for when your precious one calls for one.

It is also height adjustable and the material is waterproof!

Luvdbaby Hiking Carrier Backpack can carry a child weighing up to 40 lbs!

👩‍👧 Best Hip Carriers for Toddlers

If you’re looking for an easier way to carry your toddler, hip seat carriers is a practical and comfortable option for you.

We recommend one that will provide you comfort and ease of movement to your little one.

16. Tushbaby Hip Seat Carrier

A woman holding a child with the help of a hip seat carrier around her hips

The Tushbaby Hip Seat Carrier is a lightweight product. Multipurpose, it also serves as a diaper bag.

With a hip sit carrier that allows side carrying, front-facing, face-to-face, and feeding positions, you can rest assured this product will bring comfort to your child.

Not putting pressure on your back and hips this seat carrier is comfortable for you as well. It won’t hurt your spine!

Tushbaby Hip Seat Carrier can carry a child weighing up to 44 lbs. This is a good toddler carrier for a 3-year-old!


Information Guide

✅ What is a baby carrier for toddlers?

A baby carrier toddler is the same backpack-like item to carry your baby hands-free as a regular baby carrier – the only difference is that it’s made especially for toddlers and bigger children.

While the waist belt and shoulder straps offer the same support for the caregivers there are several adjustments for your toddler or preschooler.

The fabric of the seat is wider, making sure that important knee-to-knee support is offered.

Furthermore, the back panel is wider and higher to adjust to the growing body of your child.

All of this will make sure your little one sits safely into the M or frog position and has sufficient support in the back to comfortably spend a couple of hours in the kids’ baby carrier, even if they decide to take a nap.

✅ What are the Differences Between Baby Carriers and Toddler Carriers?

The differences between baby carriers and toddler carriers are their size and overall design.

Toddler carriers are larger than baby carriers and provide enhanced support at the back panel.

Additionally, toddler carriers are designed for various wearing positions beyond the traditional way offered by baby carriers.

✅ Why would you use baby carriers for toddlers?

Many baby carriers claim they can hold bigger children – often up to 45 lbs – and while that is not a lie (they were indeed tested to endure such weights) it doesn’t take comfort and support into account.

Once your baby reaches the 18-month point, you’ll start noticing that they don’t get full knee-to-knee support anymore.

While a 2/3rd support is considered all right, we’d only recommend continuing to use your previous carrier if you doubt you’ll still be carrying your 2-year-old.

If that is the case, you can keep on using your regular baby carrier or infant-to-toddler adaptable carrier. Buying a new toddler-wearing carrier is an expensive purchase.

However, once they’ve reached that 2-year mark, they won’t be comfortable or supported enough anymore.

A lot of parents continue to carry their toddlers well into the preschool years, so buying a decent bigger child carrier isn’t that far-fetched.

✅ What are the benefits of using a carrier for a toddler?

There are many benefits to using a carrier for a toddler, including:

  • Allowing toddlers to walk without getting too exhausted
  • Letting them sleep in the carrier and avoid having to bring along a stroller
  • Providing a comfortable way for toddlers to rest while still being able to explore their surroundings
  • Being specifically developed for toddlers and preschoolers, so they are a perfect size and have all the features that toddlers and older children need.

✅ When do you use a baby carrier for toddlers?

You can use your (back) carrier for toddlers for an endless amount of things.

When they’re still little, 1 year old, or 18 months old, you can continue to babywear your toddler the same way you did as a baby. That includes in the house (doing your daily chores), taking a walk, going to the shop or mall, putting them to sleep and the list goes on and on.

When they start walking around a lot, you might prefer the best child carrier for ultrafast on and off, because we all know you’ll need it.

Toddlers tend to have the habit of wanting to walk and then wanting to be picked up again after a hundred feet. However, little legs grow tired quickly, so the average 2 and even 3-year-olds will still spend a decent amount of time in the carrier.

But even kids in their preschool years might still like to be carried occasionally. Especially when you like to go on long hikes, bringing a toddler carrier for travel is a great idea.

✅ What are the Types of Toddler Carriers?

There are three common types of toddler carriers worth considering: soft-structured carriers, structured carriers, and hip seat carriers.

  • Soft-structured carriers, the most popular type, feature padded shoulder straps and a waistband, facilitating versatile wear. They allow you to carry your little one either forward-facing or on your back.
  • Backpack carriers for toddlers, as their name implies, resemble backpacks. With framed seats, these are more structured but are less flexible in terms of carrying positions, typically accommodating only back-carrying. Nevertheless, these are the best for outdoor activities like hiking!
  • Hip seat carriers, on the other hand, function like a waist belt or pouch where your toddler can sit. One notable advantage is that they don’t cause pressure on your shoulders and back!
  • Wrap carriers are a piece of fabric that wraps around you and your child to secure them to your chest or back. They’re compact, which makes them great for travelling, but are not sturdy for intense activities such as hiking. While the fit is customisable, it can be challenging to get it right.
  • Sling carriers, also known as ring slings, are pieces of fabric that have a ring at both ends. They’re lightweight, breathable, and compact, which makes them great for travelling and hands-free tasks. These also allow you to carry your child at the front or back. However, it can pose restrictions around the neck.

✅ What are the Toddler Carrying Styles?

There are three toddler carrying styles or positions: forward-facing, back position, and hip position. There isn’t a single best position to carry the best baby carrier for a toddler; it depends on your and your child’s needs in a given situation.

  • The forward-facing style, offered by most carriers, involves wearing your child on your chest, whether facing you or outward. This position is particularly comfortable for younger toddlers. As they grow and become more curious about the world, they might prefer facing outward.
  • The back carrying style is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, and best backpack carriers for toddlers are most convenient for this purpose.
  • The hip carrying style, with the help of a hip seat carrier, allows you to wear your toddler on your hips, resembling a natural way of carrying a child. This option is highly versatile, as it also enables side-carrying positions for your child.

✅ Things to keep in mind when buying toddler carriers

📌 Back carry

When babywearing toddlers, most caregivers prefer a toddler back carrier because an older child is heavier for your body and it’s easier to do other things.

Putting them on the back will allow you to move freely while having them on the front or on the hip will always hinder you in some way or the other.

Which obviously doesn’t mean it’s impossible to babywear your toddler like that. Your little one might prefer it if they are sick or really tired.

And especially with a young toddler, it’s still very feasible to do so. I only started to refuse Little Elf’s request when she turned 3 and Kath still carried her occasionally on the front up until age 5.

📌 Carrier or wrap

While wrap carriers for toddlers are excellent (they’re strong enough to support a really big child!), I find them a little cumbersome to use with a toddler who wants to go up and down all the time.

However, my best friend is a total wrap addict and happily carried her 3-year-old daughter in a wrap carry when she was tired.

So it all comes down to preferences. As many parents prefer SSCs, I will be focusing on actual (back) carriers for toddlers in this article.

📌 Size

Remember that so-called ‘toddler carriers’ are usually only suitable for older toddlers (age 2, sometimes 2,5, or 3 years old).

We bought a Wompat Toddler when our daughter just turned 2. According to the size chart, the Toddler was meant for children aged 2-4.

However, it didn’t fit her properly until she was about 3.5 years old! Because the back panel was too large/deep and the seat too wide, she wasn’t comfortable at all. Picking the right size is important!


best carriers for toddlers and preschoolers: Frequently Asked Questions

Which carrier is best for toddlers?

Tula Toddler is the best carrier for toddlers, especially for parents who want a backpack carrier.

The back panel also extends high; the leg openings, shoulder straps, and waist belt can keep toddlers from 25 to 60 lbs!

Is a toddler carrier worth it?

Toddler carriers are definitely worth it! Not only do they allow tired toddlers to walk without getting too exhausted, but they also let them sleep in the carrier and avoid having to bring along a stroller.

Carrying one of the best toddler carriers for travel or long walks helps a lot!

Can you put a 2-year-old in a baby carrier?

While you can use a carrier for 2-year-olds, toddler carriers are best for them.

Many parents find that carriers are especially useful for toddlers who get tired quickly or have a hard time walking long distances. Carriers provide a comfortable way for toddlers to rest and sleep.

What is the best carrier for a 2-year-old?

The best carrier for a 2-year-old is Tula Toddler. This carrier has a back panel that comes up high for children who are a minimum of 32″ tall.

Promising comfort, it has additional padding at various parts and allows you to carry your toddler in front and back positions.

Can you put a 3-year-old in a carrier?

Absolutely! A toddler carrier can be used for a 3-year-old. In fact, many parents find that carriers are especially useful as older toddlers still get tired quickly or have a hard time walking long distances.

There are carriers specifically developed for toddlers and preschoolers.

Can you put a 4-year-old in a carrier?

While each child is different, many parents find that a carrier is useful for a 4-year-old. Carriers can help when travelling longer distances or when the child becomes overwhelmed and needs to be close to a parent.

To accommodate their growing bodies, we recommend choosing a preschool carrier for a 4-year-old.

Is Ergobaby good for toddlers?

Unfortunately, Ergobaby is not the best baby carrier for toddlers as it is too small, even though the weight limit is not reached. Ergobaby is recommended only for children up to 18 months old.

Are toddler hip carriers good?

Yes, hip carriers are useful, especially if your toddler wants to get on and off the regular carrier. It’s easier than just carrying them in your arms.

As a toddler, our daughter did not want to be in the carrier, especially in hot countries. Hence, she used to sit on the carrier worn around Kath’s waist for support.

Can you use a baby carrier for a toddler?

No, we don’t recommend baby carriers for toddlers as these do not have knee support and the back panels are too short. These lack the support provided by toddler carriers.

What is the largest preschool carrier?

The panels of the Kinderpack Preschool carrier and Tula Preschool carrier are almost the same size. But Kinderpack features a headrest that gives an additional 2″.

When can you stop using a baby carrier?

You can stop using a baby carrier as soon as your child is comfortable to walk the distances you want to go. This is around the same time you’d stop using a stroller.

You might also find it hard to use a carrier at some point. I couldn’t wear our daughter for a significant time after she turned 4.

Are ring slings good for toddlers?

Ideally, ring slings are good to use as they are easy to put on and off.

However, it can put a strain on your neck and shoulder. Hence, if you are carrying a heavier child, you might not be able to last a long time doing so with ring slings.


Final thoughts on the best carriers for toddlers and preschoolers

We hope this selection of the best carriers for toddlers and preschoolers helps you find what you are looking for.

Take note, just choose the one that fits your and your little one’s needs the most so you can continue carrying them well into toddlerhood and even as a preschooler!


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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Babs Rodrigus is the co-founder and main writer of Mums on FlipFlops . She is absolutely crazy about traveling – especially together with her wife and kids. Babs loves animals, chocolate (what did you expect from a Belgian?), reading, and writing.

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