I'm stuck....

I'm looking for a nice way to carry DD on my back.  She's 18 months, about average in size.  We're going to Disney in June, and I'm really looking for a light weight carrier (either a Mei Tai or a Patapum, I think) that is compact and can be carried in a small bag.  We're traveling with an umbrella stroller as well but I don't think that will suffice for standing in lines, getting on and off Disney transportation etc.  I really like the style and colors of the MTs, but the buckles/straps on the Patapum seem easier.  I'm really unsure about the waist belt on the Patapum...it seems a bit thick and bulky.  I'd also like to be able to use the carrier possibly for her to sleep/nap in while we're there - she's not always the best stroller sleeper. 

I've used slings for her through all of infancy, but the sling isn't comfortable anymore for her, and it's not secure enough (she's a wiggle worm) for back carrying her.  I loved that my sling could just be balled up and shoved in my diaper bag.  I also carried her on my back in a Snugli, and it was fine, but it was bulky to carry.

I saw a young lady in an airport using something very like the patapum, except it did not hae the thick wide strap at the waist.  I was dumb and didn't ask her where she bought it.  I think I saw something on this site like it - a Miquel Inspired something?  But no color choices in that were left.

So, MT or Patapum?  And if MT, which one?  What's the difference?

Hopefully someone else will chime in here too. I have no experience with the papatum, but I do have a couple of MT's.  I think they would work well for you, they are NOT at all hard to figure out. I managed to figure it out with my ds on the first try, and i'm pretty uncoordinated and not good at following directions :)  Plus, they come in all sorts of colors and fabrics, you're sure to find something you'll love!

I have both. I prefer a MT. I think they make a perfect fit each time. You really have to mess with the clips and slide the straps to get a good fit. I also think MT are easier to get on. I also like the may different ways you can tie a MT, where as a patapum has 1 way to put it on. With a MT you can do front/back carries and depending on how you tie them the weight is distributed differently on your shoulders and hips. They are also light weight and more comfortable to me. This is just My opinion.
Beth

I second the MT. I haven't used mine much this winter but come summer...soooo much better to use. It's so helpful to not have to do all the straps buckles ect when passing your child back and forth between you and the spouce!

---

Ann

Mommy to Logan 8-25-05

Thanks Ladies!  I'm actually quite excited that you all recommend MTs. They offer me so much more color/style options!!

Okay, now which do I choose?  I lean right now towards the Freehand (I think that's what it's callled).  What's the differences?  I also liked the Kozy, and I think the MT USA something or other.

With the MT, will I be able to sort of make a belt out of it and tie to to my waist once we're on a ride?  I'm thinking rides like It's a Small World - the stuff we'd have stood in line to take DD on. 

If I order now, I should have plenty of time to practice before we go.

I am actually loving my Freehand the most right now. I have a Sachi, Kozy, and Freehand MT. The Freehand has a prefect amount of padding in the shoulder strap. They are lightweight so you wont be too hot. Yes you would be able to tie it around your waist. I have a 2 year old so our kids are close in age. You will love anyone of them.
Beth

i shortly owned a Patapum. i'd definitely choose a MT over it. I just found my MTs to be more comfortable and prettier. i like the versatility of MTs.

I have a newborn that I have been using a MT with.  We are going to Disney at the end of April.  I was planning to just  leave him in it on the rides.  It might be different with the back carry, but in the front carry, I would leave them in.  Then you don't have to go in and out a lot.  Anyway, I will report back about how it goes!

---

Stacy :)
Mom to Garrett-2.23.01- and Chase-9.30.03- and Aiden-3.15.06