Seeking recommendations for a child carrier that packs well

We’re flying to Hawaii this coming summer and want to bring a carrier for our 4 year old. We currently have an old Kelty Kids framed carrier that’s showing its age, but it doesn’t really pack down too small. We’re trying to minimize checked bags, so I’m looking for a carrier that packs down pretty tight and can accommodate a 35 pound kid. Any recommendations?

I think in theory many of the quality baby carriers take children that size (I had Lillebaby for example) but it would have been supremely uncomfortable for everyone hiking with even my tiny for her age four year old. As they get older most kids don’t like being hemmed in and their limbs get longer. I think by 4 you choose hikes they can do and if you really can’t you use a framed carrier.

@Kel
Yeah, he’s good for a few miles, but I’ve got a couple of bucket list hikes that I really want to get in, and he’s not going to be able to do them without being carried at least a little bit. Hoping there’s a solution that packs better than a framed carrier and he can be comfortable enough to be in for a mile or so at a time.

@Milan
I can’t imagine it, but in any case I think you can normally check baby equipment for free. I’m pretty sure we took the framed carrier on a flight once. Maybe your kid is more placid than mine anyway, she hated being confined. Unfortunately some plans just don’t work with small children.

I have a Luvdbaby, it’s great. I’ve folded it flat and packed it in a suitcase a couple times. Easy to find on Amazon.

Check out this awesome toddler carrier I used!.. www.PiggybackRider.com

Wylie said:
Check out this awesome toddler carrier I used!.. www.PiggybackRider.com

I’ve seen this! I’ve heard mixed reviews on it. Is it good for putting a kid up there for longer periods of time, or is it only useful for quick leg breaks? Can he take a short nap in it?