Best carrier for airport/flight with 9mo old

[wishwales]

I am the crazy one taking a 10 hour flight on my own with my 9 month old. I am definitely going to need both hands at all times to get us and all our gear on the plane. I am checking the stroller so need a carrier for getting to the gate and going through immigration, etc. I am a large-ish lady (size 18) and looking for something sturdy and comfortable. I have a Moby wrap but would prefer an actual carrier for this occasion, not a wrap or sling, etc. Any suggestions?

Something like a secure structured carrier? I like the Manduca a lot (since you can cross the straps over on your back for a front carry, which you can't do with many other brands). I am pretty sure you'll be fine with it at size 18, I'm sure I've had people a similar size use it at the sling library I run. You can also use it on your back if you like which might be easier with lots of gear.

I'd either go for a structured carrier like the Manduca or Boba or a mei tai like a Baby Hawk as they are quick and easy to get on and they fold small enough to put in a large pocket.

If you got one soon then plenty of time to practice.

I got a chicco go carrier which I hope will do ok for our journey. It was mega-cheap but has good reviews.

www.amazon.co.uk/Chicco-Go-Baby-Carrier-Black/dp/B000UNX4A0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1331479495&sr=8-1

Er, I hate to be all doom and gloom but I get people bringing carriers like that to the sling library with their 4-6 months olds saying that they are just not comfy at all for more than a few minutes. I would seriously consider returning it and having a look on www.naturalmamas.co.uk for sale boards for something not-too-pricey but much more comfortable.

pootlebug, I don't see anything to purchase on that link. Is it the same with the Baby Bjorn because I found that comfy when I tried it on. I have a Moby but thought it would be too hot and fussy travelling alone.

You probably need to sign up as a member (free) but then you should be able to see it here www.naturalmamas.co.uk/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=28

Yes, same with a Bjorn. Comfy enough with a tiny baby, or for a few minutes, but really not great for a 9 month old for longer periods I think - their legs are longer, their centre of gravity too far from you and it will pull on your back. I see your point with the Moby being hot (and to be honest Moby's tend to be best for 0-6 months or so, but I'd much prefer to use a Moby than a Bjorn for a 9 month old.

Thanks again - now to try and get one this week!!!! Can you carry the baby facing out in any of the ones you recommended? Do you like the baby hawk? Or is Manduca the way to go? (Looking for one that doesn't break the bank)

You can't face out, no. You should find that at 9 months she can get her arms out and look around plenty though.
The problem with facing out is that you can't really get their legs into a comfy position (they just dangle down, which isn't as comfy for them, and they tend to bash on your thighs by the time their legs are 9 month length) and by definition because their legs aren't wrapped around you, they are carried much further from your centre of gravity, thereby putting a lot more strain on your back.
The only carrier I'd really recommend that allows facing out is the Beco Gemini. But I still wouldn't want a 9 month old facing out in it for the reasons above.
The babyhawk is good, but the Manduca is imho a lot better - more padding in the straps, more structured waistband, so it will be comfy for much longer as your little one gets heavier. If you'd prefer a mei tai (i.e. with long straps like the babyhawk) I think I'd go with a Melkaj rather than babyhawk as it is more padded and supportive (there are usually some on Natural Mamas for sale). Other potential brands to look for are Nubigo, Bamberoo, Kinderpack, Ergo etc. Beware fake ergos on ebay in particular though. Or post on the 'ISO (in search of) forum on Natural Mamas saying you are looking for something suitable for a 9 month old and see what people offer.

Sorry but did you recommend the Boba?

I like lots of things about the Boba - it is lightweight but supportive, the foot stirrups are good for lengthening the amount of time you can comfortably use it, etc. You might still be able to pick up the 2g version for a good price new since they brought out the 3g.

The only downside for me is that you can't cross the straps over your back for a front carry - you have to wear it like a backwards rucksack. I prefer to cross the straps (which you can with the Manduca, but can't with the Boba or Beco, and is tricky with the Ergo).

I only intend to use it occasionally so I don't need the best of everything. For example, I am not sure how big a role the crossing of straps will be. I might need to compromise a few features for cost.

You have been a HUGE help for me. I am still considering everything and will let you know what I decide and how it goes. Thank you SO much.

There's an ex-demo Boba 2g for sale here www.naturalmamas.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=165788&highlight=boba

The strap crossing thing isn't an essential, just a nice-to-have. It is very rare (impossible?) to get every feature just as you'd like it, so this seems a reasonable one to compromise on imo.

Yeah, perfection is rare! Thanks for the link.