Alternatives to the Chicco Caddy backpack carrier are the Phil&Ted’s Escape (£179) and the Osprey Poco AG Premium (£300), premium carriers which are designed to allow the wearer and the little person cargo a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
7 of the best back carriers for babies and toddlers
What we love
Aside from the stylish appearance, I really rate the depth of this carrier, which makes it very secure. We normally strap Arielle in but if I’m in a rush I sometimes skip the straps and knowing there’s no way she can reach/wriggle out is very comforting. She’s obviously very comfy, too, as she often snoozes off.
Given the British weather, having a hood (which doubles as a sun canopy in summer) and a zip-on see-through rain cover is probably the most wonderful feature on this carrier. We’ve found it really useful, and I think it’s one of the most important features of the carrier. In the past I’ve used a carrier with a sun canopy, which keeps off the worst of the rain, but it’s so great to have a rain cover for those moments when the heavens suddenly open.
I like to carry wipes, a spare nappy, a drink and sometimes spare clothes and the roomy pouch is great for stuffing all this in. I’ve not yet used it apart from on the carrier but it’s nice to have this option.
Front or back carrier – which should I choose?
What to watch out for
Much is made of the Chicco Caddy Backpack carrier’s foldability factor (the carrier’s light aluminum frame folds flat), although I found that this manoeuvre does require some practice.
Bear in mind if you’re on your own you’ll have to unload your cargo first if you want to put the hood up mid-walk. Getting the carrier on and off is generally much easier if you have someone with you but I think this is probably true of all back carriers.
From your baby’s point of view the Chicco Caddy Backpack carrier probably feels a bit claustrophobic and at first Ari used to get a bit upset when we put her in. Now we just put her in at the very last minute and she’s fine.
This carrier is absolutely fantastic apart from one thing – it’s heavy! Despite having an aluminium ‘lightweight’ frame, all its features combine to make it heavier than my ancient back carrier, so although I do enjoy and use it, I tend to pick up my old one more often. However, if it looks like it might rain then it’s always my first pick.
Having used the carrier several times I’m still surprised at how awkward it is to get the stabilising bar/frame up and down. The simple slide and push mechanism is not particularly well-made and often seems to jam. I’ve looked at lots of other reviews and many people who own the carrier don’t seem to encounter this problem so it could be that mine has a fault.
Who is Chicco Caddy Backpack carrier best for?
Families who love to go on country walks.
A stylish and comfortable carrier with pouch and handy hood/rain cover, which are almost essential features for the British weather. The Chicco Caddy Backpack carrier is safe and secure for your baby and has padded, adjustable straps for mum or dad. Although it’s heavier than some carriers it’s a good all-rounder that won’t disappoint.
Looking for more ways to carry your little one?
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