In most South Asian families, it is uncommon to take babies out on hikes or any form of travel before they turn 4 or 5 years of age. Our families echoed this sentiment, questioning the need to expose such a young child to these experiences. However, we didn't want to give up the activities we enjoyed before having a baby. Instead, we wanted to include our little one in everything we love doing.
Embarking on outdoor expeditions or navigating through the bustling streets of a city with a little one can be a daunting task. Having a reliable and well-designed baby carrier can make all the difference. The market is full of various options and finding the best engineered baby carrier to explore both environments alike was a challenge. We chose Osprey packs Poco™ Plus and could not have been happier. Poco Plus has provided us with the freedom and flexibility to take our little one with us everywhere thanks to its comfort, durability, and versatility.
Osprey Poco Plus is equipped with an array of remarkable attributes, including a spacious lower compartment with a zipper that accommodated a diaper changing kit during our little one’s infancy and a portable potty with extra change of clothes now that she is potty-trained. The carrier also features a built-in sunshade to protect our little one from harmful sun rays, a double halo harness to ensure her safety and security and adjustable stirrups to allow her to rest her feet comfortably instead of letting them hang. The adaptable torso option facilitates the easy transition between Shashank and me, which is particularly helpful when our little one shows a preference for either one of us.
We started taking our daughter on short hikes in Poco Plus when she was only 5 months old. Hiking with her in the carrier has been a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time as a family. It is a rewarding experience to watch her grow and develop while discovering the beauty of nature. We engage with her in meaningful ways by pointing out to different animals, plants, and other natural features which helps develop her cognitive skills and curiosity.
As our baby girl is growing more accustomed to the carrier, she has started to develop a sense of security and comfort in it. It has been a valuable tool for us, as it has allowed us to keep her close and secure while exploring new environments. The carrier's versatility has meant that we can take her with us on any adventure, whether it's a hike in the mountains or a stroll through the city streets. We have been able to navigate crowded streets, climb stairs, and hop on public transportation with ease. She has enjoyed the sights and sounds a city has to offer, from museums and galleries to bustling markets and vibrant neighborhoods. At the same time, she has witnessed numerous waterfalls, unique rock formations and her favorite animals in the wild, all while nestled in the comfort of her carrier.
We noticed changes in how she interacted with the carrier. In the early months, she slept through most of the hike, cozied up happily in the carrier. As she grew older and more alert, she started to become more curious about her surroundings. She would reach out to touch leaves or grab at branches as we passed by, showing an interest in the natural world around her. As soon as she learned to walk, she has been eager to accompany us on foot. During longer hikes, we provide her with a respite from the carrier, and allow her to walk alongside us until she becomes fatigued and is willing to be carried once more. In the past, we used to carry feeding bottles and burp cloths, but now we bring her favorite snacks and her trendy sunglasses (that she loves) on our excursions.
During one of our recent hikes in Arizona, we traversed 9 miles of rugged terrain, encountering significant elevation gain along the way. We made several frequent stops to accommodate bathroom breaks, meals, and opportunities for her to roam and discover the area on her own. As we made our way through the incredible hoodoo mazes, caves, and grottos on the 7-hour hike, our little adventurer took two restful naps in the carrier and marveled at the stunning rock formations around us. Without Poco Plus, I couldn't have imagined such a smooth and enjoyable experience. Upholding our values of leave no trace, we did pack away our trash in the Poco carrier.
Our expeditions with our daughter have provided us with the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime. We have shared so many moments of awe and wonder. The love and appreciation for nature that she continues to develop will hopefully translate into a desire to protect and conserve, creating a more sustainable future for all.
Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time parent, Poco Plus is an essential gear for any journey with your little one. So, grab your Poco Plus, pack a snack, and hit the trails or urban streets – you and your baby are in for a great adventure!
