Strollers & Baby Carriers: Take Your Pick

Surprise! Though your baby is not even two years old, you got the exciting, albeit unexpected news, that you are going to be a parent...again. With another one on the way, there are a lot of questions on your mind. In addition to all the space planning and name choosing, an important decision that you have to make is what method of transport will be right for you. From strollers to baby carriers and snap and rides, all methods have their benefits and their drawbacks. That's why it is important to look into each one to make an educated decision. Here is a break down of the most common choices that parents prefer.

Stroller Shield

Tandem Strollers. Tandem strollers have one seat in front of the other. The benefit of this type of double stroller is that it is very narrow. You can fit into tight spots that would not give access to a side-by-side double stroller. On the other hand, tandems are much longer than your average stroller. This can be frustrating (for example, when you want to maneuver around a store and you keep bumping into the rack in front of you) or when you are standing by an intersection (so the front of the stroller comes uncomfortably close to the street). The jogging versions of these strollers are easier to maneuver in general and specifically around corners, but are also a lot heavier.

Side-by-Side Strollers. Another type of double baby stroller is the side-by-side stroller. This type of baby gear is wider than the tandem, with each seat sitting next to one another. Benefits include more interaction between the two children (for better or worse) and more compact designs. The obvious drawback is that you will have a hard time getting through narrow spaces, especially narrow doorways.

Baby Carrier

Single Strollers and Baby Carrier. One of the all time greatest pieces of baby gear is the baby carrier. Whoever invented this one should be given a medal. A baby sling allows you to wear your little one close to your heart and keeps your hands free for attending to other things at the same time. Many parents enjoy the freedom and intimacy involved in using this baby gear. For this reason, a baby carrier and single stroller combo is often voted the best option of all. This method alleviates the size/space issue both in length and in width because you are dealing with only one single stroller. What's more, your newest addition is close to your heart at all times, easily cuddled and calmed by your presence. Also, if you are a get up and go parent who enjoys the idea of a brisk challenge, then baby slings are perfect for you.

Some things you will want to look out for in general:

• A fast folding method offers a convenient solution to bulky strollers that take up your entire trunk. Make sure you get a compact design for a stroller that tucks away easily and conveniently.


• Lightweight is also a must for baby gear. The last thing you want when you are out trekking with your tykes is to have hefty gear that needs totting too. Lightweight strollers, like the Micralite baby stroller, backpack diaper bags and, as mentioned before, baby carriers make going out that much easier.