Expecting a baby means navigating a world of essential gear, from prams to car seats. One item that promises to make life with a newborn easier is a baby carrier, offering a secure, hands-free way to keep your little one close. As a soon-to-be first-time mother, I put several of the market's most popular carriers to the test to find which ones are worth your investment.
Putting Popular Carriers to the Test
Without a real baby to hand, a teddy bear roughly the size of a three-month-old stood in as my model. A key piece of advice for any new parent: read the instructions thoroughly before attempting to use any carrier with your newborn. The various straps and clips can be confusing for the uninitiated. From a celebrity-loved luxury brand to a high-street bargain, here is my verdict on the carriers set to be big in 2026.
The Celebrity-Approved Luxury Choice
You've likely spotted the Artipoppe Zeitgeist Baby Carrier on social media, worn by stars like Gigi Hadid, Chrissy Teigen, and Princess Eugenie. Priced at £370 from Harrods, it sits at the premium end of the market. The carrier arrives in luxurious packaging and the fabric feels exceptionally high-quality. It was straightforward to fit, fastening around the waist and over each shoulder, with adjustable neck cushions and bottom widths to suit your baby's size.
While Artipoppe states it can be used from birth, even on its smallest setting it seemed better suited from around three months old. A friend noted it truly excels from one year onwards. It's machine-washable but not particularly weather-proof. The standout feature is its style and comfort; wearing it, I felt both supported and fashionable. It makes for a stunning gift for any style-conscious parent.
Stylish and Affordable Alternatives
For those who love the Artipoppe aesthetic but not the price tag, the Momcozy PureHug Baby Carrier is a superb alternative. At £49.99, its leopard print design caught my eye. It offers a similar fit with an adjustable bottom section and neck support. Momcozy recommends it for babies aged 3-24 months, so again, not for newborns, but the fabric is comfortable and it represents excellent value.
Another strong contender is the Carifit Core, priced at £195. This carrier leans more towards practical, functional design, potentially appealing more to dads. It features breathable fabric, adaptive sizing, a handy zip-up pouch, and even pairs with a dedicated app. It attaches differently, going over the head, and felt the most supportive of all the models tested, especially for those with back concerns. While the fabric isn't the softest, this felt the most suitable for a newborn, and I plan to use it when my baby arrives.
The Budget-Friendly Amazon Best Seller
For shoppers on a tight budget, the Infantino Flip 4-in-1 Convertible Carrier is currently on sale from £24 on Amazon (usual price £36.99). It boasts tens of thousands of positive reviews and comes in several designs. However, I personally found it difficult to master; the instructions were hard to follow and the various straps confusing. The fabric felt plasticky and potentially uncomfortable against delicate skin, though it is clearly wipeable and water-resistant. While it wouldn't be my first choice, it remains a safe and budget-conscious option for many families.
In conclusion, the best baby carrier depends on your budget, style, and your baby's age. For luxury and fashion, Artipoppe leads. For smart features and newborn support, consider Carifit. And for style on a budget, Momcozy offers a fantastic compromise.
