You’ve downloaded packing lists, grabbed a lightweight umbrella stroller, and are nearly ready for going on your first flight with your baby.

All that’s left is your travel baby carrier. Not only will it be instrumental during the flight (and the perfect place for your infant to sleep unless you’re getting an airplane bassinet), but you also want to bring one for sightseeing.

What to Look for in a Baby Carrier

There are different types of baby carriers (front facing, backpack, slings, wraps), but the ones that are the best for travel tend to be wraps or front-facing carriers so those are the ones I’ve included in the list below.

Lightweight

Your baby weighs enough. You don’t want to lug around a heavy piece of gear to carry your baby around too.

Safety

Since the idea of a baby carrier is for you to be hands-free, it needs to be sturdy and safe. A sunshade or hood can also help protect baby’s eyes from bright plane lights and other airport distractions

Multiple Positions/Convertible

Versatility allows you to change the position as your baby gets older and stronger. If you plan on traveling frequently, opt for the multi-position carrier that allows you to not only change your baby’s position when he’s older, but also gives the option for newborn inserts.

Newborn inserts give that extra support little ones need for extra head support. Some products have the whole insert and pillow option. The whole insert is best for birth to three months, while pillow can be used at the 4-6 month mark when the baby gains more head control and neck strength.

Keeping all of those things in mind, here’s our list of the best travel baby carriers of 2020:

Use this travel baby carrier from the time of your newborn’s first trip up until he weighs 45 pounds. While it’s a little pricey ($99), you can get a lot of use out of it. You can put your baby in 6 different positions as he grows. It’s also labeled as a “hip healthy product”.

#2
Infantino flip 4-in-1 Convertible Carrier

This baby carrier is a winner because it can be used in four different positions, making it useful as your baby grows and gains more head and neck control. We also like it because there are adjustable seat and leg openings.

One word of caution…some users say the straps can hurt the baby’s legs, so be careful.

#3
Ergobaby Carrier 360

Safe, comfy, and durable are three words to describe the Ergobaby Carrier 360. You can carrier your baby in four positions and use a newborn insert (sold separately) to get the most use out of your carrier. It can be used from birth to 35 pounds, so you will get your money’s worth.

Baby’s love it and parents do too because it’s easy to wear and there’s even a little hood to cover baby’s eyes from bright lights and the elements.

#4
Gemini Performance Baby Carrier by Beco

Beco revamped its baby carrier with this model that has new shoulder straps with a safety catch. There’s also extra padding near baby’s leg for comfort. The built-in headrest is a nice touch, especially for babies that don’t have strong neck support yet.

You can choose to wear the carrier like a backpack or using cross-straps in the back. With four carrying options and a weight limit of 35 pounds you’ll be good to go for a while.

#5
Evenflo Breathable Soft Baby Carrier

If you’re looking for an inexpensive, simple baby carrier that you don’t plan on using that much, this is the one. It’s under $20 and offers two positions for baby, face in or out. Enjoy breathable mesh and adjustable padded back straps too.

#6
Baby K'tan Original Baby Carrier

If you want to be hands-free with your baby, but don’t want a conventional carry, this Baby K’tan model is an option. You put it on like a t-shirt and the carrier wraps around your body. You can wear it in five different positions and there’s a 35 pound weight limit.

If you’re the only one who plans on using it this could work. Since it comes in different sizes what fits you, may not fit your partner.

#7
Baby Bjorn New Baby Carrier

This is the Mercedes-Benz of travel baby carriers with a price tag to match ($189.99). But, if you’re an avid traveler and plan to bring your baby everywhere, you’ll get your money’s worth.

With four positions and a wide seat area, this baby carrier will last you a while as your baby grows. It is also completely adjustable for the person wearing it and the baby so you can find the perfect fit.

#8
Ultralite Miracle BEBE Carrier

If the Mercedes-Benz of baby travel carriers is not in your budget, this one probably is. At under $20, this baby carrier gets the job done.

You can put your baby front facing, outward front facing, or on your back. We love that it has a detachable butt pad for those surprise blowouts when you’re on the go.

#9
Boba Baby Wrap Carrier

If your trip includes casual strolls and not rugged mountain climbing, this baby wrap carrier may be a good option. You can be hands-free and comfy at the same time.

But, when you wear your baby like this, expect to feel the heat.

#10
Luxury Ring Sling Baby Carrier by Pura Vida Slings

Here’s another baby carrier that falls into the “I’m going to take a stroll, not climb a mountain” category. We like this one because it lets you be hands-free and hold your baby close.

As with the wrap carrier, it can get too warm. You can only have your baby in one position which may not be worth it for the price.

When you’re shopping for a baby travel carrier think about how often you’re going to use it and what types of traveling you plan to do with your baby. This will make it easier to choose the right one.