Next.js App Router: Client Component Data Fetching and Cookie Conundrum

[Abd-Alwahab]

Hey Next.js community, I'm grappling with an interesting challenge in the new App Router. Here's the scenario:

Deeply Nested Client Component: I have a client component buried within my component tree that needs to fetch user-specific data from an API.

Cookie Dependency: The API relies on cookies to identify the logged-in user.

Next.js Restriction: As you know, Next.js prevents client components from directly making API requests that involve cookies.

Prop Drilling Avoidance: I'd rather avoid fetching data in server components and passing it down through props to prevent excessive prop drilling.

My Workaround: Layouts and Context API

The solution I've come up with involves using layouts:

Fetch in Layout: I fetch the user data in a layout component (which is server-side rendered).

Context API: I then pass this data down via the Context API.

Client Component Access: Finally, my deep client component consumes the data using useContext.

Seeking Your Thoughts

I'm curious to know:

Is this the most elegant solution? Are there better patterns or approaches I might have missed?

Potential Drawbacks: Are there any potential downsides or pitfalls with this approach?

Alternative Ideas: Do you have any alternative solutions or strategies that might be more effective?

Your insights are much appreciated!