Baby backpacks are an excellent way to ease the aches and pains that often accompany new parents. Fortunately, there are many choices on the market for all stages of infant. For older children who can sit upright and support themselves, a traditional backpack is a good choice. A few convenient features to look for include built-in carrying pockets, a kickstand, which allows the backpack to sit upright while you load up your baby, and shoulder straps that distribute the weight evenly.

Kelty backpacks are a great option for parents who want to stay active. These rugged baby backpacks allow you to carry your baby on hikes or walks, safely and easily. Plus, a number of baby backpacks from Kelty can convert into child chairs when you're ready for a break.

Another option for young children is a baby sling, which is carried over the shoulder and offers easy access for bottle feeding. Slings are incredibly popular because they mimic the position that you would normally hold a baby in, while leaving your hands free. When buying a sling, you'll probably want to focus on finding one with a padded strap and extra pockets for convenience.

For very small children who are unable to sit by themselves, you'll want to choose a front carrier. Carriers also leave your hands free, and they distribute weight evenly, eliminating back and shoulder pain. Baby Bjorn offers some of the most popular carriers on the market. Baby Bjorn's sporty Original model features padded straps for extra comfort, secure buckles, and adjustable seat height and head support. The Active model lets your baby face either in or out, making it a bit more flexible.