Looking for Carrier Recommendations for Toddler - -Hip or Backpack?

I've used lots and still find my Beco to be the most comfortable for my almost-3y/o. All of these carriers max out around 35lbs.
I'll usually wear my daughter on my back so she can see over my shoulder, but if she's not feeling well, or is sleepy, I'll wear her in front. I never do a hip carry because A: I'm pregnant and the straps aren't comfy across my belly and B: I can't carry her as long because of the uneven distribution of weight.
Lots of people snatched up the 4th generation Beco (easiest to use w/ a toddler, in my opinion) at a great price on mamabargains.com so there are lots to be found around the sale boards around $65! (huge since they're $180 otherwise)
Two good listing places here: http://www.diaperswappers.com/forum/search.php?searchid=9... and here: http://www.thebabywearer.com/forum/search.php?searchid=44...

Hi B. ~
We use a Moby carrier for our daughter and I believe it's good up to 35lbs? I'm not sure, but we love it! It's one long piece of material and you can use it in various ways. It's reasonably priced, $38-40.
You can go online and google Moby. Good luck!

Hi B.,
I can only tell you that the Ergo carrier is the BEST! I have a very large boy, 35lbs and 1 yr (he's been 33 lbs for about 5 months too). The ergo is a backpack and front carrier. It is very good for the child's spine, and hips.
There is a mommy who does our stroller circuit training workouts with her 2yr old in it!
It is super comfortable and very sturdy. I plan on using this one with all my children (2 more planned). There are numerous ways to wear it (just watch the DVD).
And the kids don't mind facing mom, that's where they want to be anyway!
I cannot tell you enough how much I love that thing. I swear I don't own stock in the company, but I would if I could!
PS: we tried them all: bjorn, moby wrap, side sling, traditional sling - he out grew them all. We even have a backpacking one...but the ergo wins everytime.
Good luck. It's worth every penny.

I absolutly LOVE my sling!! I've used it for two of my babies and it doesn't hurt my back at all. You can use it on your hip, back and front. I've carried my 2 1/2 year old in it at the zoo for hours and never felt sore after. I bought two b/c I found I needed one for the car and one for the house. You can go to www.seamscountry.com. The gal will make you one with your material or you can use one of hers. The weight of your baby will rest on your shoulder, not on you back.

You can use the Ergo Baby carrier on your hip as well. Also, you can veiw the different wearing configurations with instructions on their website. Check around for local retailers, and you might be able to try it on before you buy. That's what I did. Good luck.

http://www.ergobabycarrier.com/support/instructions