I am in the market for something I can put my toddler in and carry him on my back. Is there such a thing that will hold the weight of a toddler?
There are several back packs that would hold his weight. I saw one at a big lots recently. Otherwise you could check out once upon a child, they ususally have a couple. Or even a sporting store (but you'll probably pay a higher price for one there.).
We have a backpack carrier by "Phil and Ted's" and our 2-year old loves it. Their "Metro" looks cool and is not too bulky. I have seen them at USA Baby, or you can buy one online at www.tinyride.com.
p.s. It's good exercise for you, too! :)
We have a Kelty back carrier (frame) which is great for hiking. I think the max weight is 40 lbs, though. We used it when he was smaller and too big for the Baby Bjorn and he liked the view up high. Even slept in it!
I make a babywrap that I actually used for my 5 year old. (he is a small 5 yr old at 35lbs) It carries newborn to about 40 lbs. You can carry them on the front, back or hip. I love mine. If you are interested you can see a couple on my website www.maroo.etsy.com I just started working on the website so I only have a couple there but you can always email me if you have other questions.
You could either get a sling that is capable of being used in the back carry position, or you could get a backpack. There are really nice hiking type ones that can hold a larger child. They're somewhat bulky, but extremely comfortable to wear, we had one that we used with our daughter until she was about 2. When we went places like the farmers market where it wasn't fun to push a stroller, but we wanted her contained. I had a Kangaroo Korner fleece pouch sling that I used with her until she was close to 2, but I didn't use it too much in the back carry position. For me it was more comfortable to use in the hip carry, but I know it could have been used in the back too.
Hope that helps.
Go to mamatoto.org Its the best baby/toddler wearing site I've found. I made my own wrap using there directions. Its just 5 yards of cotton from the fabric store. (I reccomend 6 yards for anyone above average weight or height or to carry a larger child) It didnt require any sewing and I just tie around me (super easy!) and pop my 8 month in. It will work front or back carry as he grows!
