What sling/carrier to use? Buggy board?

[Salsie]

My LO is 10 weeks (big baby) and I also have a 2.5 year old. I am thinking of getting a sling/carrier for him to use when my toddler wants the pushchair and more importantly when I am flying alone in the summer. I will only be able to manage the single pushchair and luggage so think a sling will be my best option when he will be about 7 months. I didn't use one with my 2 year old and wondered what people would recommend.

My other option would be a buggy board which I have been debating bit we have a mini city jogger and I'm not sure how well they work as handle bar does not move and I have heard you need to walk very far back to not keep hitting it. Does anyone use one with this pushchair?

I will probably visit a sling library but would be good to know any recommendations too.

Many thanks

[Mariamadeit]

If you can get to the SE London sling library or the Greenwich and lewisham one (Google them) that would be best as you will be able to try a range on and see which suits you best, everyone has different preferences. You can also hire something to try v cheaply from them. Go for something ergonomic rather than a narrow based high street carrier as this won't last as well or be as comfortable. I have travelled with mine since they were 8 weeks old, some airports are fine with you going through security wearing the baby, others insist you take the baby out. Also on planes, you will have to take the baby out during take off and landing and use the special lap belt, but other times, the baby can be in the sling.

For young babies my preference is a stretchy, but as you said your lo is big, you might be better with something more structured/ woven wrap or ring sling.

For the older child, have you considered a trunki? I never took a buggy with me, trunki got my son around the airport and had some space to keep stuff in...

[vez]

I agree about trying slings at the sling library. (Saying that I never managed to go there during my mat leave as their opening times were slightly awkward..)

But I fared very well with a Connecta carrier. It folds down really small in my bag so it's ideal when travelling. It's also quite easy to put on and take off. And comes in lovely designs :-)

[goldilocks]

Sling library is probably a good idea if you can get there. At 7 months and for airports etc I'd recommend a structured carrier like the ergo or manduca. They're all the same principle but trying them on is helpful as some seem to fit different people better. They're quick to get on and off and will have good longevity. My daughter is 26 months and I still carry her on occasions in an ergo (they can go on your back as they get bigger).

[etta166]

I like the Connecta and travel Ergo for travelling, and had a Ergo Original for day-to-day use. I still use the Travel version now, because it can pack away small for when my toddler is walking, and fit in my rucksack with all the other kid's stuff.

If you can get to a sling library or a sling meet, you can try lots of different options.