Stroller or Backpack carrier?

[angelina]

Has anyone used a backpack carrier for a 2 year old? Just wondering if it would be easier or more trouble than a lightweight stroller for touring the parks.

 

[BuzzLightYear3]

This really depends on your preferences....I've used both with my kids, and I really like the backpack for places like airports and places where the terain doesn't allow for a stroller. Backpacks are also great when it's difficult to get through a crowd with a stroller which is probably why you're considering that. Although they're more maneuverable, you do have to be a little more careful with a backpack....it's easier to not realize that you're bumping into something, and the kids can reach more from that position without you knowing it.

I personally prefer a stroller though when feasible....
I think the biggest advantage is that you can see your child's face, reactions, etc. which is the whole reason you're probably going. Also, strollers are easier to get the child into and out of, aren't physically taxing, allow the child more room to move/play/snack, and don't heat up both you and your child (which is mostly a factor if you're visiting when it's hot.)

If you're going to be there for a while and will be going to/from parks, you might want to bring both with you on the trip and just alternate which you use depending on where you're going, time of day, how long you'll be there, etc.

Have a great trip!

 

[padams]

also, it may be easier for your child to nap in the stroller than the backpack. Even if your child is not napping at home (both of mine quit napping when they turned 2 ) , your child may fall asleep while touring WDW as mine have. Good luck! Pamela

 

[angelina]

We'll be visiting in June, so it may be too hot to use the backpack. We're driving down, so we could bring both. My child doesn't usually stay in the stroller, and can climb out of the backpack. This will probably be a difficult trip for that reason. Thanks for the advice.

 

[Kermit]

I would think your back would start to hurt soon with the backpack since you'd be getting the child in and out so often. I wouldn't worry too much about getting out of the stroller. WDW is enough to tire anyone after just a few hours. Most people would love to be in a stroller by 11:00.

 

[Tomandtammy]

if youre driving I would take both, that way either is handy. I would use the backpack in places like epcot where the children arent as intrested, but stroller in MK. ETC

Make sure you tell us future WDWers what you decide and what works for ya!

 

[disney09/2001]

I vote for the stroller. There is no way that I would want to carry a 2 year old all day in the heat. It may be a little difficult to push the stroller through the crowds, but I think it's still the better option. Just my opinion!!!

 

[kissafrog]

I wouldn't recommend the backpack for an entire day, only short amounts of time. Our two year old loves to ride in the backpack carrier, but after a while he gets uncomfortable, and has no room to move around.(except to kick, pull hair and ears on person carrying him, just to make sure they know he isn't happy!) For longer periods, he seems to enjoy the stroller more, because he can wiggle around and stretch out.

 

[Dr. Happy]

Hi There,
You'll be having such long days while you're there that I think that you'll quickly tire of the backpack carrier. Although I have a Gerry that I love, and it is very comfortable, I would hate to have to be "saddled" with that for more than a couple of hours. Besides, it doesn't carry nearly as much as a stroller can, and who would want all that weight on your back, in the heat, when you're there to have fun???? If you might be in training to climb Everest I might be inclined to say "Go for the backpack!" but you're probably not (so I won't).

If you get a light weight that reclines, your bambino can nap while you wonder and explore. And at night, a reclining stroller is the way to go!!