Transporting Kids Dutch Style

To truly settle into the Dutch lifestyle you need to own a bicycle. When I moved from the UK to the Netherlands I bought myself a second hand bike within a week and have not been without one since. I use it for getting around the city, daily errands, leisurely outings, even moving house (with a rented bakfiets). So last year when I had my baby girl I was faced with a dilemma: how can I continue using my bicycle while transporting a baby?

Well, of course the Dutch have this covered; from babies, toddlers and children, there are a variety of ways of transporting them on 2 wheels (and occasionally 3). Here are a few methods:

Steco Baby Mee carseat adapter

The Steco Baby Mee is mounted onto the back rack of your bike and the car seat straps into it. The base is supported with suspension springs for a smooth ride for your baby. The mount can also be installed in most types of bakfiets. It is suitable to use from 4 months of age. You can order them online (bol.com) or via your local bicycle supply shop. More information can be found on the Steco website.

Front bicycle seat

Most front mounted bicycle seats are suitable from 9 months until around 3 years (check with the manufacturer for the specs for your seat). There are a variety of models, just make sure it has at least a 3-point harness and foot protectors with straps to secure your little one and keep them safe. These bike seats mount onto handle bars, so they can make steering a bit more difficult. They are most suited for bikes that have a broader steering or larger instep, otherwise you may need to combine them with extra accessories so that there is still space for you on the bike.

If you are looking to get a front bicycle seat, I recommend visiting a bike shop; they will be able to advise on what sort is most appropriate for your bike.

Rear bicycle seat

If a front mounted bicycle seat isn’t an option, or maybe you need two seats, then a rear mounted one is a solution. Usually suitable for children from 9 months up to 6 years (again, check with the manufacturer from your seat for exact specs). This model bicycle seat is more stable to cycle with as it is mounted onto the saddle support, so all the weight is on the back wheel.

Extra mounted saddle

Ideal for the papafiets, these mini saddles are mounted on the middle support bar of the bike. You can combine them with feet supports for added comfort. Your child needs to be old enough to sit without support on the bike. You can also find models that fit onto lady bikes.

Bakfiets

The ultimate transportation for parents, a bakfiets is a normal bicycle on the rear, with a wooden or canvas seating area mounted on the front. They come in lots of different models, including 2 wheel and 3 wheel versions. They can be outfitted with seats, harnesses and rain covers. Most models can transport 2-4 children, or you can get a mega version that sits 8 children.

Fietskar

Little carts that attach to the back of your bike, they often sit 2 children and have some space for shopping. They are handy in bad weather as the kids are snug and dry inside while you brave the elements. You can buy multiple attachment points so that it can be attached to yours or your partners bike, depending who is looking after the kids. Often they can be combined with an extra wheel so you can unhook them from the bike and use it like a stroller.

Steco Buggy Mee

When cycling with a toddler, this handy rack fits onto the back luggage rack of your bike and can be used to easily and securely transport your buggy. Handy for if you are popping into the city center and need transport for your little one while there.