Hiking with little ones can be an enriching experience, offering a dose of nature and adventure. But to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for both parent and child, choosing the right baby carrier hiking backpack is essential. In this comprehensive review, we explore the top 10 and best hiking carriers for toddlers that cater to various needs, from premium options to budget-friendly picks, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every family.
Image | Name | Buy Now |
 | Osprey Poco Plus | |
 | Deuter Kid Comfort Pro | |
 | Phil & Teds Escape | |
 | Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite | |
 | ClevrPlus Cross Country | |
 | Thule Sapling Elite | |
 | Luvdbaby Premium | |
 | Chicco SmartSupport | |
 | Boba Air Baby Carrier | |
 | Ergobaby Omni 360 All-Position Baby Carrier |
1. Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier
Price Range: Premium
Main Features: Adjustable torso, integrated sunshade, hydration reservoir sleeve.
The Osprey Poco Plus baby carrier hiking backpack stands out for its superior comfort and adjustability. Designed for long treks, it ensures both the child and the parent are comfortable throughout the journey.
Detailed Description
The carrier features an adjustable torso length and a fully framed and padded cockpit for child safety. The integrated sunshade is a boon for sunny days, and the hydration reservoir sleeve is a thoughtful addition for staying hydrated on the go.
Reasons for Recommendation
Its robust build and thoughtful design make it a top choice for avid hikers who don’t want to compromise on comfort and safety.
Pros
- Exceptional back support and adjustability
- Integrated sunshade for UV protection
- Hydration reservoir sleeve
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavier than some other models
2. Deuter Kid Comfort Pro
Price Range: Premium
Main Features: Variflex hip fins, integrated daypack, sturdy frame.
The Deuter Kid Comfort Pro is the epitome of a premium child backpack carrier for hiking, offering unparalleled comfort and functionality.
Detailed Description
This carrier boasts Variflex hip fins that distribute weight evenly, reducing fatigue. The integrated daypack is perfect for storing essentials, and the sturdy frame offers excellent stability.
Reasons for Recommendation
It’s ideal for those who prioritize ergonomic design and need extra storage space for longer hikes.
Pros
- Superior weight distribution
- Handy integrated daypack
- Sturdy and durable build
Cons
- Pricey for occasional hikers
- Bulkier than other options
3. Phil&Teds Escape Carrier
Price Range: Mid-Range to Premium
Main Features: Foot stirrups, moldable headrest, daypack.
One of the best hiking carriers for toddlers, Phil&Teds Escape Carrier, is a versatile choice that blends comfort with convenience, suitable for varied terrains.
Detailed Description
It features foot stirrups for child comfort, a moldable headrest, and a removable daypack. The carrier is designed to cater to both urban and trail environments.
Reasons for Recommendation
This carrier is recommended for its versatility and ease of use in different settings.
Pros
- Versatile for both urban and trail use
- Foot stirrups for child’s comfort
- Removable daypack for extra storage
Cons
- May be less comfortable for very long hikes
- Less breathable back panel
4. Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite
Price Range: Mid-Range
Main Features: PerfectFIT suspension, wide seat base, sunshade.
Kelty’s Journey PerfectFIT Elite baby back carrier for hiking is a great mid-range option that doesn’t skimp on features important for child and parent comfort.
Detailed Description
The PerfectFIT suspension system allows for easy on-body adjustments, while the wide seat base ensures a comfortable ride for the little one. The sunshade is an added benefit for protection against the elements.
Reasons for Recommendation
Its combination of comfort, adjustability, and affordability makes it an excellent choice for regular hikers.
Pros
- Easy to adjust while wearing
- Comfortable wide seat for child
- Good value for money
Cons
- Bulkier when compared to others
- Limited storage space
5. ClevrPlus Cross Country Baby Backpack
Price Range: Budget
Main Features: Lightweight frame, multiple pockets, retractable canopy.
For budget-conscious parents, the ClevrPlus Cross Country Baby Backpack offers a balance of functionality and affordability.
Detailed Description
Despite its lower price point, it doesn’t compromise on essentials. It features a lightweight frame, multiple pockets for storage, and a retractable canopy for sun protection.
Reasons for Recommendation
It’s an ideal choice for occasional hikers or those new to hiking with children, providing essential features without a hefty price tag.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Ample storage options
Cons
- Less durable materials
- Lower weight limit than premium models
6. Thule Sapling Elite Child Carrier
Price Range: Premium
Main Features: Fully adjustable back panel, removable backpack, deployable sunshade.
Thule Sapling Elite is a top-tier carrier known for its durability and ergonomic design, making it one of the best hiking carriers for toddlers and a favorite among serious hiking enthusiasts.
Detailed Description
This carrier features a fully adjustable back panel and hip belt, providing a custom fit for different body types. The removable backpack is convenient for extra gear, and the deployable sunshade protects the child from harsh sunlight.
Reasons for Recommendation
Its durability and ergonomic design make it perfect for frequent, long-duration hikes.
Pros
- Customizable fit for maximum comfort
- High-quality, durable materials
- Removable backpack for additional storage
Cons
- High cost
- Heavier than other options, which may be a concern for some
7. Luvdbaby Premium Baby Backpack Carrier
Price Range: Budget to Mid-Range
Main Features: Padded shoulder straps, adjustable seat, diaper changing pad.
The Luvdbaby Premium Backpack Carrier is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on the essentials needed for a comfortable hiking experience.
Detailed Description
It comes with padded shoulder straps for comfort, an adjustable seat for your child, and includes a unique diaper changing pad. These features make it both functional and family-friendly.
Reasons for Recommendation
It’s recommended for its affordability and the thoughtful inclusion of a diaper changing pad, making it ideal for young families.
Pros
- Affordable without sacrificing quality
- Diaper changing pad for convenience
- Comfortable padding for both parent and child
Cons
- Less robust than premium models
- Limited storage space
8. Chicco SmartSupport Backpack Carrier
Price Range: Mid-Range
Main Features: Lightweight aluminum frame, adjustable, padded straps, built-in kickstand.
The Chicco SmartSupport Backpack Carrier is a mid-range option that offers a blend of comfort, support, and ease of use.
Detailed Description
Its lightweight aluminum frame and adjustable, padded straps ensure comfort for the parent, while the built-in kickstand allows for easy loading and unloading of the child.
Reasons for Recommendation
This carrier is ideal for parents looking for a simple, no-fuss solution with the necessary features for occasional hikes.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Comfortable and adjustable for parent and child
- Stable and secure with its kickstand
Cons
- Not as feature-rich as some other options
- May not be suitable for very long hikes
9. Boba Air Baby Carrier
Price Range: Budget
Main Features: Ultra-lightweight design, compact and foldable, simple to use.
The Boba Air baby carrier hiking backpack is unique in its ultra-lightweight and minimalist design, making it perfect for travel and short hikes.
Detailed Description
It is incredibly compact and foldable, fitting easily into a diaper bag or backpack. Despite its simplicity, it provides adequate support and comfort for both parent and child on shorter outings.
Reasons for Recommendation
It’s recommended for its extreme portability and ease of use, particularly for families who travel frequently.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Simple and easy to use
- Great for travel and short hikes
Cons
- Not suitable for longer hikes
- Limited support and features compared to others
10. Ergobaby Omni 360 All-Position Baby Carrier
Price Range: Mid-Range
Main Features: All-position carrying, lumbar support, breathable mesh.
The Ergobaby Omni 360 is a versatile carrier that allows for all-position carrying, making it adaptable to various hiking scenarios.
Detailed Description
This carrier offers excellent lumbar support for the parent and breathable mesh fabric for the child’s comfort. Its versatility in carrying positions makes it a great all-rounder.
Reasons for Recommendation
Its adaptability and focus on ergonomic design make it a solid choice for parents who value versatility and comfort.
Pros
- Versatile carrying positions
- Strong lumbar support for parent
- Breathable mesh for child comfort
Cons
- More suited for urban settings than rugged trails
- Less storage space compared to dedicated hiking carriers
Conclusion
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just starting out, there’s a child backpack carrier on this list that will meet your needs. From premium models like the Osprey Poco Plus and Deuter Kid Comfort Pro to budget-friendly options like the ClevrPlus Cross Country Baby Backpack, each of these hiking carriers offers a unique set of features designed to make hiking with your little one a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience. Remember to consider the specific needs of your family and the nature of your hikes when making your choice. Happy trails!
Enjoy the parenthood! You are the best parents to be!
IMPORTANT: We created the Family Store especially for you. By clicking on the image below you can find anything from Newborn’s First Kit, Baby & Family Essentials, Kids Travel to Travel Gear. We hope you will find something valuable for your own adventures!
Our shop contains products from other companies that we love and use! Everything is based on our values of quality over quantity.
To get more support from parents and family travelers, join our Parenting Support Group.
And follow us on Instagram and Youtube to know about our crazy expat life!
Also, check out:
- Choose The Right Front-Mounted Bike Seat For Your Baby
- Best Ride On Toys For Toddlers And Push Toys For 1-Year Olds
- Best Stroller Travel Systems
- 21 Best All-Terrain Strollers
- The Ultimate Guide to the Best Baby Carriers and Slings
Welcome to check out our best product selection for parents and babies, including travelling gear and resources here.
This post may contain affiliate links that we may or may not receive a small commission for, at no extra cost to you. This helps to fund our blog but we never advertise for anything we don’t personally love or recommend. There is never any pressure to buy anything, we just like sharing things that make our life easier and help you find them if it is something you are looking for. Please, see our full disclosure here.
