Carry of the Week #5: Rucksack / Reinforced Rucksack / Rucksack Variations
The Rucksack (aka: “Ruck”) is a classic back carry in the world of woven wrap babywearing. It is a relatively simple back carry, and has some “upgraded” variations for additional support or for shorter or longer length wraps.
The basic Rucksack is a simple one-pass back carry that can be used to wrap babies of any age, from newborn (best recommended for experienced wrappers) to 6-month-olds to toddlers and beyond. It is best achieved with a mid-length woven wrap and can be a good way for beginners to get started with back carries. The Ruck is also appreciated for its simplicity and lightness in warm weather.
As with all wrap carries, importance is placed on creating a nice, deep seat for baby, with baby’s legs being in a good M position (knees above bum) and fabric supporting under the legs from knee to knee.
Younger babies should have fabric supporting them up to their necks, whereas older babies should be supported at least up to their armpits.
The video tutorials linked below included ones for the basic Rucksack, Reinforced Rucksack, Rucksack Variation, and Newborn and Toddler Rucksack options.
One important note: Much of the difficulty babywearers have when learning the Rucksack relates to getting and maintaining a good seat, and with sufficiently tightening the carry throughout the back pass and shoulder straps using the “strand by strand” tightening method. When practicing the Ruck, be sure to focus on these aspects to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive back carry!
Safety: Please read our Disclaimer and also keep in mind that if this is your first time doing a back carry, or even this particular carry, you should have a spotter and/or practice over a soft surface such as a bed or a couch, or even kneeling on a carpeted floor. You can also practice with a doll or stuffed animal first until you feel comfortable.
If you are a beginner with woven wraps, we recommend that your child be approximately 6 months old, with good neck control/head support, and able to sit before attempting any back carry.
Stretchy wraps (such as the Moby, Boba Wrap, DIY knit wraps, etc) should NOT be used for back carries.
Rucksack (with tips to get and maintain a good seat)
Rucksack and Reinforced Rucksack
Rucksack with Knotless Tibetan Finish
Reinforced Rucksack (with tips for spreading cross passes)
Reinforced Rucksack
Reinforced Rear Rebozo Rucksack (aka RRRR, aka “Pirate Carry”)
Reinforced Rear Rebozo Rucksack (aka RRRR, aka “Pirate Carry”) with a Candy Cane Chest Belt (CCCB)
Rucksack with a Newborn (tied at shoulder with some chestbelt variations)
Rucksack with a Toddler, Tied at Shoulder with a Candy Cane Chest Belt (CCCB)
Babywearing International of Tucson 