We bought our Little Life Cross Country back carrier once Biba was old enough to sit up unaided. We were planning a trip to Cornwall and needed something that would not restrict us in the way a pushchair would.
We had used a Baby Bjorn front carrier when she was tiny. This was great when we were going off the beaten track. The Little Life Cross Country offered the same freedom, but is more suited to an older baby. The carrier uses a Tectonic 800 back system, which ensures your back is supported. I would admit that it is definitely one for the dads. My husband loved taking Biba up to the top of hills in the back carrier. I did carry it once or twice, but be prepared for a lonely walk, as the man in your life will volunteer to take over!
What we love
The brilliant thing about this carrier is that it is lightweight. Once it is up on your back, it is amazingly comfortable. It has an anchor point for added stability when putting the child in. This is basically a little hole you can put your foot into. It is very easy to put your child in and has straps to secure them in place.
There is also a little toy bar at the child’s eyeline. This did not really keep Bibas attention as there was so much going on around her she wasn’t particularly bothered. There are also toy loops on either side, which you can attach their favourite toy. A neat feature, but again one we did not use. The anatomically shaped seat is very comfortable. Biba has fallen asleep in the seat on more than one occasion.
The sun/shower canopy slides on easily and can give the child some protection from the elements. There are loops on either side, for the child to put their feet into, which stops them from swinging around too much (a word of warning though. Do not put wellies on your child. We have had to retrace our steps to look for a welly which accidently fell off during a walk!)
The fabric is incredibly strong and sturdy. It looks very attractive and certainly delivers on comfort. It is easy to use and retains its shape well in-between uses.
What to watch out for
The pocket, which is very handy for nappies etc, is very difficult to do up. Because it is an integral part of the frame, the zip is taught. This means it is very stiff to pull up. I would take a separate bag and try to avoid putting anything you made need quickly in this pocket.
We thought we could use this type of backpack until Biba was at least 3. In reality she is too big and heavy for it now, and she’s 2. She is not a big child, but we would struggle to carry her over long distances. She also prefers to walk everywhere now. I think it depends on your child and how far you are planning to go with the backpack on. It would be fine if you were just popping to the shops, but I would not recommend it for long walks in the countryside once your child is over 18 months!
Who is the Little Life Cross Country back carrier best for?
Mums and dads who like to take the scenic route.
The Little Life Cross Country back carrier is robust and simple to use, but really does seem to have a 12-month window of use from 6 months to 18 months. It is a very comfortable carrier for both the child and the adult. A lightweight back carrier definitely worth trying!
