When I was in college, I worked at the local Berkeley REI to earn enough money (gear) to fuel a trekking pilgrimage to Tibet. Among other fun areas, I worked in the backpack department, where I learned from the masters about fitting and wearing backpacks. Backpack fitting requires knowledge of anatomy, ergonomics, packing physics, trail dynamics and bodily hygiene - none of which I had.

When my baby arrived, I had no idea that any of that would matter.

Nearly 18 months and 5 baby carrying devices later I realize it would have been handy if someone pointed me at a list of baby-carrying options. What should you look for in a baby carrier, sling, backpack or carryall?