This is a guest post by Jennifer Ward of Stroller Insider.
It’s hard and nearly impossible to carry the baby in your arms constantly. You will face difficulty paying bills or doing other kinds of stuff when you need our hands free. Baby carriers and strollers are made to solve the issue. Baby carriers are the padded carrier to wear your baby on the back, allowing you to be hands-free, whereas a stroller is a hand-pushed vehicle to carry the baby.
I have covered everything you want to know about baby carriers and strollers in this article. Among them which one should you buy, a baby carrier or a stroller? Can a $100 baby carrier replace a $300 stroller? I have also included the advantages and disadvantages, the ins and outs, and a detailed understanding of baby carrier vs Stroller, so you can decide which you should pick and which one you should choose over another.
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List of Contents
Baby Carrier vs Stroller: What’s the Difference?
Baby carriers and strollers both offer flexibility to parents in their way. But which one they should choose depends on their lifestyle, age, and, most importantly, the baby’s comfort. But before deciding anything, let’s determine the differences between them.
Better Sleep
Usually, people prefer strollers because babies can sleep comfortably in them. Some luxury strollers come with reclining seats for babies to rest and relax. Some strollers are even car seat compatible, allowing infants to nap comfortably. However, a baby carrier is the best choice if your baby like being held. Moreover, you can give the baby a quick nap by snuggling them in the baby carrier.
Accessibility
A full-sized stroller is usually heavy and hard to push and pull up the stairs. In this case, an umbrella stroller is the first choice that would come to mind. But very few umbrella strollers are infant friendly. That’s when a baby carrier is the best choice. Moreover, taking your baby carrier is safer while hiking because you can snuggle your little passenger and keep them safe.
Hands-Free
To maneuver the stroller flawlessly, all you need to do is keep your hands on the handle. Some strollers can be operated with just one hand, but still, the hands cannot be completely free. But with baby carriers, the hands can be completely free, which gives ease of work, especially when it’s needed while grocery shopping and even in the airport while checking.
Storage Capacity
Usually, baby carriers do not come with any storage capacity. While going out in a stroller is a plus because it has a big storage capacity where anyone can easily store the babies’ snacks, toys, and milk bottles. Moreover, you can even store your day-to-day groceries also in the storage basket.
Weight Capacity
Most strollers have a weight capacity of around 50 to 55 lbs. for a single baby. Even though baby carriers come with a weight capacity of 45 lbs. carrying a baby over 45 lbs. can strain the back and posture. Moreover, with a double Stroller, you can carry two children at a time, whereas with a baby carrier, you can always carry one baby.
Portability
Without a doubt, it can be said that baby carriers are way more portable than a stroller. You may face difficulties traveling with a stroller on public transportation but not with a baby carrier. A baby carrier can be easily folded and kept in the backpack when it’s not in use. But that’s not the case for a stroller; even the most compact umbrella stroller requires a bit of space.
Canopy
Strollers come with canopies that are handy for traveling on sunny days because they protect your baby from the sun’s heat. So, a baby can have a long nap because of the shade. As baby carriers do not come with any such shade, babies may get easily exposed to harmful sun UV rays.
Expense
Baby carriers cost between $30 to $150, whereas typical strollers cost between $100 and $1000. Baby carriers are significantly less expensive than strollers. Strollers include solid frames, seats, suspensions, and a five-point harness system; some may be converted into double strollers, which makes a massive difference in the price point of both the Stroller and baby carrier.
Age Factor
Baby carriers are great for carrying infants, but you could find it more challenging as your baby ages.
- 0–6 months – Infant newborns old enjoy being close to their parents because it makes them feel safe. A baby carrier is the best choice because your babies will be the lightest at this stage. Some baby carriers are designed specifically for on-the-go nursing and napping.
- 6-24 months – Both strollers and baby carriers are suitable for this age range. If you can’t decide, think about other goals, such as where you’re going, what you will do, and how far you have to go.
- Twenty-four months and up –At this age, it can be challenging to carry a toddler for extended periods because your baby might occasionally desire to leave the confines of a stroller or carrier. However, a stroller is the best choice at this time.
Advantages And Disadvantages of Stroller and Baby Carrier
Stroller
Advantages of Stroller
- The most convenient option for long and far walks is a stroller.
- Even with back pain, pushing a stroller is easier and less tiring.
- Groceries and other necessities can be stored in large storage baskets.
- Strollers are user-friendly
Disadvantages of Stroller
- Strollers are bulky and take up a lot of space, even when folded.
- You may face difficulties with your stroller in narrow spaces, like small grocery shops, airports, etc.
- It may be tiring to fold and unfold a stroller.
- You need to go through security protocols while traveling with a stroller.
- Strollers are expensive.
Baby Carrier
Advantages of Baby Carrier
- Baby carriers are ideal for calming babies, particularly infants and newborns.
- Your infant feels secure in the baby carrier because of the snuggly and warm feel.
- Because they don’t take up much space, baby carriers are convenient for crowded places.
- On public transportation, baby carriers are more convenient because loading and unloading a baby carrier is no hassle at all.
- Baby carriers don’t cost much, so they don’t break the bank!
- Most baby carriers allow for discreet breastfeeding so that you can do so.
Disadvantages of Baby Carrier
- Because the baby’s position must be adjusted as well as the carrier straps, wearing a baby carrier requires some practice.
- The shoulders, back, and hips will be exhausted after some time, even if you are wearing the most comfortable baby carrier.
- If the child is heavy, it will be difficult to use it for a more extended period.
- Because of the limited view, not all toddlers enjoy being carried.
- Using baby carriers on more extended trips may cause discomfort due to heat and sweat.
Final Words
Finally, it’s the decision time: whether you decide between a Baby Carrier or a Stroller for your little angel, both baby carriers and strollers come packed with many features and advantages. Both are designed for a particular purpose. It’s up to you what purpose you need to serve.
I hope this article has answered your queries about Baby Carriers Vs Stroller. Happy stroller hunting!
