Backpacks

Price range: $90 to $280 (depends on the quality of construction and the number of features).

Description: A backpack carrier is basically a backpack with a fixed frame and fabric baby seat. Backpacks are suitable for older babies or toddlers who find soft carriers too confining and who are too heavy to be carried comfortably on your front (although some soft carriers can be worn on your back).

Manufacturers recommend backpacks as suitable for babies from four or five months and up to three years (or 16kgs). They should only be used when your baby can support its head and has quite a strong sturdy back.

Backpack carriers are great for taking your baby where buggies won't go - like the bush or the beach. They're also excellent on public transport. Backpacks provide more support for the wearer than front packs and slings do. But you may need to build up your strength and stamina. You won't be wearing just any old backpack - you'll be wearing a heavy wriggling one!

Some of the more expensive backpacks are sold at outdoor shops. They have lots of storage compartments and may come with accessories such as zip-off day bags and reflective strips. They may also be made of breathable mesh material.

What to look for

• Shoulder straps should be well-padded and adjustable.
• An adjustable crutch or seat provides comfort.
• A waist strap gives added support.
• An adjustable frame is useful if the carrier is going to be worn by people of different heights or sizes.
• A harness is useful for wriggly babies that may try and climb from the carrier.
• A high back supports your baby; a headrest supports their head.
• An attachable sun or rain shade is useful for protecting your baby from the sun (especially if they don't like wearing a hat) and from the rain.
• Extra storage pockets and pouches are useful for keys, mobile phones, water bottles, nappies.

Readers' comments about backpacks

Good points

• They provide good back support.
• Great for letting baby see the world.
• Great for doing chores that can't be done with a front pack or sling.
• Ideal for tramping and day trips: children prefer being up higher, and a backpack's easier than pushing around a buggy.

But

• Some aren't comfortable for sleeping. Carry a towel or small blanket to cushion a sleeping head.
• The frame can be hard on your back.
• Sometimes doesn't feel secure when baby is moving around.
• Can be difficult to get off by yourself.
• If you're by yourself, it's difficult to check on your baby. Carry a small mirror that you can use for this.