We need recommendations for a backpack carrier for our 20 mth 27 lb toddler. unfortunately he has outgrown the bjorn. we will be traveling via discount airlines within europe so size is a consideration. any help is greatly appreciated!!!

We have a Kelty and it was great for a recent trip to the Canadian Rockies. However, it is not small. I think the dimensions are ~30"x20"x16". It fit inside a large duffle bag and we packed plenty of other stuff inside.

has anyone tried the kelty transit carrier? it could also work as diaper bag or daypack. any thought are appreciated!!

I know if I had it to do again, I would look at those soft carriers that basically hold the child in a piggyback position. I have seen them used on much larger children (like up to age four) than other backpack carriers can accomodate, which comes in handy when you have a child not quite able to walk long distances but too old for a stroller.

I'm afraid I would opt for a good ol' umbrella stroller unless I would be hiking or something. We have pushed one (yes the same one) all over Europe & it is still going strong. I have a framed backpack for my 15 mo. old son, but only use it when hiking.

Ours came from REI, the brand name escapes me. It may actually be a REI.

We're planning on visiting relatives in germany for a week then off to venice for a week. Figured that backpack carrier would work better with the canals and bridges. We're taking a low-cost airline from munich to venice and they're strict on weight and size limits. Hence my concern on the dimensions.