Dear SlingLady,
We do a lot of hiking and we love our Ergobaby Carrier! I hate carrying around a diaper bag when we’re out in the woods, and I’m wondering whether the ERGO backpack would work for me. Can you tell me some pros and cons?
Thanks,
Cindy
Dear Cindy,
The ERGO backpack gets heavy use whenever I am out for the day with the kids. I love having only one thing to carry (the ERGO, with the backpack strapped on). While I wouldn’t call the backpack super spacious, it has enough space for diapers, wipes, changing pad, a change of clothes for both kids and even a snack. I put my keys and phone in the little back pockets of the pack, which lets me access them even when I’ve got the carrier/backpack on, with Maddy inside.
One downside is that if I want to get stuff out of the main pocket of the pack, I either have to have another adult get things out, or I have to take of the whole carrier. I really haven’t found a good way to get the pack off without taking off the entire kit and caboodle (including my daughter). This is annoying sometimes, but mostly works fine since we are generally taking a break when I need stuff from the pack.
Another downside is that if I stuff the pack full, it makes the ERGO kind of bulky and awkward to put on. Some people have complained that they need help putting on the carrier at all when the pack is full. I never had this problem, but I can see where some people would find the weight of it offputting, especially if you are still insecure getting your child into a back carry. I definitely recommend getting comfy with back carries before adding a full backpack to the mix!
For me, the pros of the backpack (convenience, losing the diaper bag, only having one thing strapped to me) far outweigh the negatives. Especially if you are out without a stroller, I highly recommend it.
