10 Best Hiking Backpack For Toddler

Stepping into the jungle with your adorable little one can be extremely fun. Not only do you get to savor the beauty and serenity that nature has to offer, but you also bond with your baby. All this is courtesy of the best baby carrier for hiking. The best hiking backpack for toddlers guarantees versatile functionality, comfort, and security for your baby anytime you hit the trail.  So, how do you choose the best baby carrier for hiking? What are some of the key aspects to consider? We are going to take a close look at this and review some of the top models that the market has to offer.

10 Best Hiking Backpacks For Toddler Comparison

BABY CARRIERVOLUME &DIMENSIONBOTTOM LINEPRICEOsprey Packs Poco AG Plus Child Carrier4.5 out of 526L29″ x 15″ x 17″Adjustable to different torso lengths, Safety and secure your kid, Integrated sunshade, Comfortable to carry, Robust and durable material, Osprey special guarantee assured.	Check Price
MiaMily Hipster+ Child & Baby Carrier4.0 out of 5	Max. Wt. 18 Kg11.6″ x 11.0″ x 6.6″	Adjustable shoulder straps with extra 3-way lock buckle, Two layers for comfort, Hip belt pockets, Headcover, More storage space, Proper seating for your kid, Can carry in different positions.	Check Price
Bebamour New Style Designer Sling and Baby Carrier 4.5 out of 5	Max. Wt. 14.9 Kg9.84″ x 5.51″ x 7.87″	Wide padding for adjustable hip belt and shoulder strap, More different ways to carry your kid, Pockets with a hip belt, Smooth padding for baby, More safety for the young one, and Lightweight.	Check Price
Thule Sapling Child Carrier  4.0 out of 5	Max. Wt. 22 Kg13.75″ x 12.25″ x 28.75″	Easy and quick to load, hip belt pockets with zipping, Hydration compatible, Sunshade protects baby, Straps stabilize child and load, Adjustable torso length.	Check Price
Deuter Kid Comfort  Child Carrier for Hiking 4.5 out of 5	16 L Max. Wt. 22 Kg28″ x 17″ x 13″	Great design features, Kickstand for keeping on the ground, Ventilated back panel, Soft and Comfortable hip belt, Adjustable shoulder straps, Easy to carry.	Check Price

1. LILLEbaby Baby Carrier

LÍLLÉbaby COMPLETE baby carrier is composed of several comforts and convenience-enhancing features that transform into an efficient hiking baby carrier. To begin with, the carrier can be configured to hold the baby at six different angles. This eliminates the risk of wearing down one side of the body.

Breathable mesh and soft material

Similarly, it is made with breathable 3D mesh and soft material that assures opulence for adults and toddlers alike. Opulence is further amplified by sufficient padding on the hip belt and shoulder strap.

Prevents back pain

For easy carrying, the pack has a lumbar support panel that disperses weight across the torso thus preventing back pain. Maximum safety for the toddler is affirmed by a number of sturdy supportive adjustment points. There is a sleeping hood and foldable support on the baby’s compartment.

Generally, the Lillebaby baby carrier provides value for money. It is super comfy with an exquisite design and ideal features for a memorable hiking experience. 

PROS

• In-built sleeping hood
• Long-lasting
• Lightweight
• Highly adjustable shoulder straps

CONS

• The cockpit makes it difficult to get in the baby without an extra hand
• Numerous straps tamper with the ease of use

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2. Luvdbaby Premium Baby Backpack Carrier

This hiking baby carrier boasts unmatched convenience and world-class safety for your kid. The cockpit is a thickly cushioned cocoon secured by a breathable harness and stirrups.

Cockpit with Sun cover

On the same note, the cockpit has a sun cover to counteract adverse weather. It features a thickly padded back panel that also happens to be adjustable to fit any body type. Comfort for the parent is further enhanced through the cushioned shoulder strap.

More gear organization

Additionally, its two-in-one design offers more storage space with a removable daypack and multiple exterior mesh pockets. There is an insulated pocket exclusively for a baby’s special water bottle as well. Interestingly, it also has a diaper-changing pad not to mention a lightweight aluminum kick-out stand. Finally, premium materials ensure durability and strength.

In short, Luvdbaby Premium Baby Carrier for Hiking with Kids offers versatile functionality, more space, kingly comfort, and quality if you are willing to dig deeper into your pocket.

PROS

• Multiple exterior pockets  
• Secure baby compartment
• Comfortable
• Insulated water bottle pocket    Insulated zippers

CONS

• Might be expensive for tight-budget buyers

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3. Clevr Cross Country Baby Carrier

Are you looking for a cheap backpack carrier with top-notch functionality? You should grab the Clevr Cross Country Baby Carrier. Besides being featherweight it is well-padded for optimum opulence.

Robust support

It also incorporates a fixed frame that offers robust support for the whole structure. This transforms the pack into a powerful and efficient baby carrier.

Breathable fabric

Large storage space coupled with exterior side pockets gives you another reason to get the pack. It is well-ventilated with breathable fabric eliminating any sweating in hot weather.

Spacious compartment

Similarly, the shoulder strap and hip belt are breathable. The baby compartment is spacious and extensively ventilated as well. The interior of the compartment utilizes soft material to correspond with the delicate toddler skin. For sun and rain protection there is a cover over the baby compartments.

In short, Clevr Cross Country Baby Carrier is a decent backpack that retails at a reasonable price. It is perfect for occasional hikers and recommended for kids weighing between sixteen and forty pounds.

PROS

• Comfortable
• Multiple side pockets for water bottles
• Integrated sunshade
• List Element

CONS

• The shoulder straps are not easy to adjust
• Inadequate padding on the waist belt

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4. Osprey Poco AG Plus Child Carrier

The Osprey Poco AG Plus is constructed to offer the convenience of the highest order. Convenience starts with an integrated hydration sleeve on the back panel that makes it easy to drink water.

Other than that, there is a spacious lower compartment coupled with exterior mesh pockets on the sides offering extra storage room. The cockpit is exceptionally comfortable with soft padded stirrups that are adjustable for support.

Similarly, the cockpit is very breathable to keep your baby cool and dry.  The same goes for the back panel. Additionally, its suspension system is defined by a seamless and countered mesh that extends from the lumbar region to the shoulder blades.

Plus, the carrier incorporates anti-gravity suspension supported by light aluminum frames.  This reinforces the structure giving more stability and balance.

Generally, besides the minimal rectifiable issues, Osprey Packs Poco AG Plus Child Carrier is above average in terms of comfort, functionality, and convenience. It is worth the price.

PROS

• Versatile functionality
• Extensive padding for comfort
• Hydration compatible
• More exterior pockets

CONS

• The sunshade or rain cover is not wide enough
• Hip pads are not comfortable and not efficient

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5. MiaMily Hipster Plus 3d Baby Carrier

Hiking enthusiasts love the HIPSTER PLUS for its flexible functionality. Perhaps the most superb attribute is that it can be carried in nine different ways.

There is a firmly held 3D hip seat that is wider at the base giving babies a healthy sitting position and eliminating any risk of hip dysplasia.

Its humanized design disperses weight across the shoulders and down the lower back. Thus, carrying the pack is less strenuous with a limited effect on posture.  

The cockpit area is structured with mesh material that is breathable hence keeping the baby dry and comfortable. Extensive pockets are added to the exterior to beef up storage space. Alongside this comes a foldable daypack that is detachable.

Further, it is fitted with a waist best generating additional lumbar support.  All its pockets are secured with quality YKK zippers not to mention a 3D adjustable system for its Duaflex buckles.

In short, MiaMily Hipster+ Child & Baby Carrier outperforms many hiking baby carriers in the market. A carrier with 9 different carrying positions and a 3D hip sit is hard to come by. It is worth adding to your next shopping list.

PROS

• 3D hip seat for healthy sitting positions
• Made with dual material
• Headcover
• Foldable bag for extra space

CONS

• The seat keeps digging into the lower stomach that compromising the comfort
• Zippers keep snapping

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6. Bebamour New Style Baby Carrier 2 in 1 

The Bebamour New Style Baby Carrier boasts incredible flexibility in terms of functionality. A great price accompanied by multiple carrying positions makes it a favorite among hiking enthusiasts.

Different angles

You can either use it as a single hip seat or simply pick up the whole carrier at 6 different angles. Shoulder straps are adjustable, wide, and thickly cushioned with cotton.

Thin Ultralight support

It also has an attached head cover and attachment loops for toys. The carrier is made with polyester which is highly breathable. On top of that, it has thin ultra-light support frames making it easy to carry.

PROS

• Designed for optimum functionality
• Sufficient ventilation
• Top safety features
• Easy to use
• Affordable 

CONS

• Thick padding makes it bulky

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7. Ergobaby Omni 360 Ergonomic Baby Carrier 

The Ergobaby all-in-one is taking over the market for all good reasons. It has impressive features capable of accommodating kids weighing 7lbs to 45lbs.

Adjustable seat

The carrier is made with an adjustable seat making it possible to carry your baby in different positions. Other than that, the seat meets all security and comfort requirements for the baby.

Five-star comfort

This includes soft breathable material for five-star comfort. Comfort for the adult is boosted through a well-cushioned back panel and crisscross shoulder straps.  

Baby hood for protection

It also comes with a padded waist belt for sufficient lumbar support. More storage space is provided by a detachable bag. The shoulder straps are adjustable to provide a custom fit. To top it off, the carrier has a baby hood for privacy and protection from the sun or rain.

In short, Ergobaby Omni 360 All-in-One Ergonomic Baby Carrier will surely exceed your expectations in terms of ease of use and functionality. It is a quality carrier designed to accommodate toddlers of all ages.

PROS

• Integrated babyhood
• Enhanced comfort
• Waist belt 

CONS

• Might not be suitable for smaller babies

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8. Be Mindful Retro Scout Baby Carrier

Be Mindful Retro Scout Baby Carrier beats other models with regard to functionality and ease of carrying around.

Ultra-light

The carrier is quite sturdy yet ultra-light.  Its lightness emanates from a support frame that distributes the weight across the shoulders, back, and down to the waist.

Quality material

It is woven with quality material that is reflected on the canvas and sturdy seams. Storage is not a problem with this model as it has several compartments besides the cockpit for the baby.

Removable toddler backpack

The cockpit is fitted with a detachable cover and adjustable stirrups to secure the baby. To add to that, the pack comes with a hydration pack as well as a removable toddler backpack. There is a kickstand at the bottom for stability and support.

Adjustable torso length

Accessibility to the baby wipe pouch is reinforced for convenience. Another remarkable component is the adjustable torso length, waist belt, and shoulder straps that give a custom fit.

In short, The Be Mindful Retro Scout Baby Carrier is almost flawless with regard to comfort, ease of use, and functionality. It is recommended for babies aged six months to 4 years.

PROS

• Has a headcover
• List Element
• Ultra-light

CONS

• Expensive
• Hood is fixed

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9. Thule Sapling Child Carrier 

The Thule Sapling Child Carrier has some incredible features for parents and their babies. It has a humanized design making it easy to carry and adjust to fit any adult.

Good storage space

The hip belt, which provides more support, has extra zippered pockets for snacks and other things. Still, it features several roomy compartments topping up storage space.

Comfort and safety

For hydration, the carrier has a hydration sleeve of up to 3L. Comfort is upgraded through breathable material and a well-cushioned back panel. There is more emphasis on the toddler’s comfort and safety with sturdy stirrups for support.

Versatility and helmet compatibility

This parka has tons of space for your hiking essentials. It comes with two vertical-entry chest pockets and two hand-warming pockets. The zip-off detachable hood gives this jacket extra versatility and helmet compatibility.

Viewing mirror

Another notable feature is a viewing mirror that helps parents easily keep an eye on their toddlers. There is a sunshade on the baby compartment for protection from the sun and rain. The last feature is the kickstand that keeps it stable while packing or unpacking.

In short, the Thule Sapling Child Carrier is a well-structured baby carrier with outstanding top functionality and comfort. The carrier is ideal for toddlers weighing between fifteen and forty pounds.

PROS

• Ergonomic support system 
• In-built hydration sleeve 
• Spacious compartment
• Adjustable back panel

CONS

• The kickstand tends to be rigid and takes extra effort to open
• The backpacks price is way overboard

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10. Deuter Comfort Child Carrier

Just as the like name suggests, comfort is prioritized in the design of Deuter Kid Comfort 2. The model is built to maintain stability in the worst terrain.  

Anti-gravity suspension system

This is thanks to an excellent anti-gravity suspension system that distributes weight evenly along the hips. Alongside that comes a baby compartment with five-star ventilation and soft fabric for delicate baby skin.

Snooze-inducing pillow

The harness is highly breathable and adjustable too. Nonetheless, it comes with kid-specific features such as a snooze-inducing pillow, snack pockets, and toy attachment loops.

Suitable in the hot climate

It is the kind of baby carrier you need in a hot climate as it is integrated with a hydration sleeve and a sun cover for the baby. Additionally, the Deuter Kid Comfort 2 offers a customized fit for any body type owing to an adjustable torso length.

Detachable and with zippered compartment

That is not all; it has a detachable day pack with a zippered compartment. Actually, this Deuter innovation is best suitable for kids weighing from 16 pounds to 40 pounds.

In short, if you are looking to invest in a strong, supportive and comfortable carrier, the Deuter Kid Comfort 2 Framed Child Carrier for Hiking is the way to go.

PROS

• Extensive side pockets
• Detachable daypack
• Hydration pocket 
• Super ventilation 
• Has a sunshade

CONS

• Its drool pad is too small for the comfort of babies
• It is not accessible from the sides

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What is the importance of hiking carriers for babies?

The ideal hiking baby carrier features a fabric woven onto a rigid aluminum frame and a cockpit for the baby. Unlike strollers, baby carriers are designed to sustain uneven terrain in the jungle as well as adverse weather conditions.

Additionally, they are easy to carry. Most of them incorporate anti-gravity suspension systems that distribute weight evenly on the waist making them ultra-light. This among other features makes the backpack safe, secure, and comfortable for the toddler.

Moreover, in-built attributes such as a sunshade, rain cover, and viewing mirror make it easy for parents to monitor their babies. Similarly, they have hydration sleeves and water bottle pockets thus eliminating any risk of running thirsty. Moreover, some of them are constructed with detachable day packs that provide more packing space. On the same note, there are attachment loops and extra pockets for toys or other hiking gear.

How do you choose a hiking backpack for a toddler?

Consider the following factors while choosing a hiking backpack for a toddler:

I.    Pack Weight

II.   Sun and Rain Protection

III.  Adjustability

IV.   Ventilation

V.    Pockets and Storage Capacity

VI.   Water Storage

VII.  Stirrups

VIII. Removable Day packs    

I. Pack Weight

The comfort of a baby carrier is anchored on its weight. Despite bringing your baby along, you need to feel comfortable and walk around with ease. This means that the backpack ought to be comfort-oriented and as light as possible. Unfortunately, the comfiest baby carriers are often bulky. Support frames and thick padding are to blame. 6 to 10 pounds should be okay for an empty carrier. Coupled with the baby’s weight it could go up to 20 pounds.

II. Sun and Rain Protection

Other than enjoying the beautiful countryside you really to have your baby protected from excess sunlight and harmful rays. The same goes for rainfall. Thus, it is vital for a hiking baby carrier to have rain and sun protection. Most built-in sun or rain protection covers are fitted over the cockpit area. Some bags have detachable covers that are purchased separately.

III. Adjustability

Carrying a baby through the whole hiking trip is a hefty task. You might need an extra hand, trust me. Thus, considering that the baby carrier may be handled by different adults. High adjustability is definitely a top priority. This way you can easily adjust the shoulder straps of the waist belt to fit anyone. A pack with a wide torso range as well as a highly adjustable fit system will be ideal.

IV. Ventilation

You need a bag that is well-ventilated and breathable to eliminate sweat in hot weather. This should be applied to the baby’s compartment and the back panel. Openings at the top and sides should keep the baby aerated sufficiently. The design should further come with a mesh back panel, baby harness, and shoulder or waist strap.

V. Pockets and Storage Capacity

The best hiking backpacks for toddlers are versatile in terms of their use and functionality. Besides being spacious to effectively accommodate the baby, the pack ought to incorporate extra pockets. Extra pockets mean extra packing space for snacks and so on.

VI. Water Storage

Just like any hiking backpack, baby carriers should also come with compartments for water storage. Luckily most hiking backpacks for toddlers are fitted with a hydration sleeve.

VII. Stirrups

Get a hiking baby carrier with removable stirrups on both sides of the toddler’s seat. It gets the child to fit and sit properly in the cockpit for hours.

VIII. Removable Day packs

Day pack transforms into more carrying capacity. It would be wiser to get a pack with a detachable day pack. You can have someone else help you carry the removable day pack.

Things to consider while choosing hiking backpacks for toddler

Choosing a carrier that provides the best comfort and ample security for your baby outdoors is not easy. There are several requirements that a child carrier hiking backpack must meet. Here are some of the key aspects to consider:

1. Cockpit Comfort for the toddler

2. Harness security for the toddler

3. How big is your baby

4. Type of frame

5. Carrying Comfort and Padding

6. Hiking duration

7. Freestanding capabilities

8. Versatility

9. Storage capacity

10. Extra Features

1. Cockpit Comfort for the toddler

Carriers are all about giving children a remarkable hiking experience. Thus, your focus should be directed to getting the most secure and comfortable carrier for your toddler. The cockpit should be well constructed to offer support for the back, neck, and head of the baby. Proper cushioning, soft fabric and top-notch ventilation are also essential.

2. Harness security for the toddler

The harness system ensures that the baby is held in a secure position at all times. Hence, it should be adjustable and gentle on the legs, arms, and shoulders.

3. How big is your baby

The baby’s size is the most important attribute to consider when buying a hiking baby carrier. This gives you a rough idea of the type of pack that you will purchase. Most carriers can accommodate a baby weight of up to 18 kg. Younger babies of about 7kg can be held in secure front-loading carriers while older or bigger ones fit better in larger supportive backpacks.

4. Type of frame

Frames provide support. We have a soft shell and hard shell carriers. While soft-shell carriers are meant for lighter toddlers, hard-shell carriers can hold heavier children. Hardshell carriers tend to offer robust support and are durable and comfortable too. However, hard shell carriers are more costly.

5. Carrying Comfort and Padding

You are more likely to carry a comfortable carrier for longer. Excellent suspension systems and light support frames make a carrier more comfortable. Thick padding on the hip belt, shoulder straps, and back panel also amplify opulence. Another factor is extensive ventilation and breathability. Finally, the suspension should be unparalleled.

6. Hiking duration

It is vital to define how far you intend to go on your hiking trip. This comes in handy when picking the perfect size. Longer trips need larger carriers that tend to be bulky. On the other hand, if you are going for a short trek then a lightweight carrier would be appropriate.

7. Freestanding capabilities

Freestanding carriers are stable and secure for the baby. This is helpful when loading or unloading the pack. Such carriers are designed with metal stands offering support to the whole structure.

8. Versatility

You will have to dig deeper into your pocket for the best baby backpack carrier for hiking. Therefore, you need to go for an all-around pack that will accommodate all your needs. A carrier with multiple functionalities is golden. Similarly, baby carriers with adjustable sizing provide a customized fit for any body type.

9. Storage capacity

The size of the carrier depends on the duration of the trip. Logically, longer trips deserve more capacity for food, water, and other hiking gear. Baby carriers with detachable daypacks are recommended for extended hiking periods. Carriers with extensive pockets may be perfect in this case too.

10. Extra Features

Extra features enhance convenience, comfort, and security. This could be extra pockets, attachment loops, or a water sleeve. Also, look out for sun and rain protection.

When can I put my baby in a backpack carrier?

The best time to get your baby into a backpack carrier is when they can sit upright and support themselves independently. This occurs at about six months after birth. By this time, most babies should have gained absolute control of their necks and head. It is with such capabilities that babies can actually enjoy the comfort of a backpack carrier.

Otherwise, another technique to determine a toddler’s readiness for the backpack carrier is to use weight.  The right weight of a backpack plus that of the kid should range between thirty and fifty pounds. The best parameter to use in this case is age and ability to sit properly.

Final verdict

In case you are planning to get the best hiking carrier for toddlers keeps your eyes on the comfort provided. Another crucial aspect is to ensure the carrier incorporates top-notch security features for the baby. Top functionality and high torso adjustability come in later. Quality and durability should not be compromised for the baby carrier.  Check out different models and designs before making your final decision.

FAQs:

Let us go through some FAQs on child carriers:

1. What is the best hiking child carrier?

1. LÍLLÉbaby COMPLETE baby carrier

2. Luvdbaby Premium Baby Backpack Carrier

3. Clevr Cross Country Baby Backpack Carrier

4. Osprey Packs Poco AG Plus Child Carrier

5. MiaMily Hipster+ Child & Baby Carrier

6. Bebamour New Style Baby Carrier

7. Ergobaby Omni 360 Baby Carrier

8. Be Mindful Retro Scout Baby Carrier Backpack

9. Thule Sapling Child Carrier

10. Deuter Kid Comfort 2 Framed Child Carrier for Hiking

2. What age can you carry a baby on your back?

Managing the weight of delicate infants is easier when they are carried on their backs. However, having the baby on the back is risky as there is minimal supervision. Wait until your growing child is at least 12 months old before carrying him or her on the back.

3. What age can babies go in Slings?

The recommended age for babies to go to slings is four months. Infants below four months are at great risk of suffocation. Even at this age, it is imperative for a parent to exercise optimal caution so as to avoid putting the baby’s life at risk.

4. Do baby carriers cause hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is caused by unhealthy hip positioning. Baby carriers with an ergonomic design allow babies to sit in the M position such that the knees are bent and placed above the bottom. It is a healthy sitting position for the infant. In the event that the hips are not spread apart but are instead together and not adequately supported, the baby is prone to hip dysplasia. Great baby carriers actually curb hip dysplasia or dislocation.

5. Are baby slings dangerous?

Baby slings are soft, one-shouldered baby carriers. They are ideal for infants above the age of four months. This form of baby carrier is quite safe if used in the right manner. Carrying younger babies whose bodies are not strong enough to accommodate the pressure exerted by the sling’s fabric might result in suffocation. It can also hinder hip development and trigger hip dysplasia.

6. Can newborns go in Slings?

Slings are totally unsafe for newborns. As much as they are suited for babies with as little as 8 lbs, the safest age to put your infant in a sling is at least four months. If you have to put your newborn in a sling, do it with a lot of care.

7. Are baby carriers bad for a baby’s legs?

Unhealthy leg positioning in baby carriers has a detrimental effect on normal hip development. It can cause dislocation and hip dysplasia owing to immature sockets. Therefore, baby carriers are to some extent bad for babies’ legs if the baby is placed in an unhealthy position.

8. When can the baby use the front-facing carrier?

It is advisable to use a front-facing carrier when the baby is at least six months old. At this age, her neck muscles will be robust enough to hold her head steadily. Another reason for using a front-facing carrier at this age is to prevent hip problems.