10 Best Backpack Child Carriers 2026 in the United States

The Osprey Poco LT is a lightweight and compact child carrier ideal for families who enjoy hiking or need a practical carrier for everyday outings like trips to crowded places or airports. Weighing just 5.56 pounds, it’s easier to carry and transport compared to bulkier models. Its patented folding stainless steel frame makes packing and storing simpler, a helpful feature if you travel often. The carrier adjusts to fit different adult body sizes with a 6-inch torso adjustment, which is great if multiple caregivers will use it.

For comfort, the ventilated AirScape back panel promotes airflow to keep you cool, and the padded contact points help reduce strain during long carries. Safety is supported by the secure locking frame and a built-in UPF 50 sunshade that protects your child from the sun. Storage isn’t the largest but includes a zippered pocket which is handy for small items.

This carrier represents a reliable, comfortable, and travel-friendly option that balances ease of use with safety and ventilation, making it suitable for active parents.

The Osprey Poco LT is a compact and lightweight child carrier backpack designed mainly for families who want an easy-to-carry option for toddlers up to 50 pounds. Weighing just about 5.6 pounds, it strikes a good balance between being sturdy and easy to handle, which is important for long walks or travel. Its patented folding frame is a standout feature, making it simple to pack and store, especially useful for trips or crowded places.

Comfort-wise, it offers a well-padded, ventilated back panel that helps keep the adult wearing it cool, and the adjustable straps cater to different body sizes, so it can be comfortably shared between caregivers. Safety is covered with a secure frame and harness, plus an integrated UPF 50 sunshade to protect your child from sun exposure. Storage is somewhat limited but sufficient for essentials in the zippered pocket, which also houses the sunshade.

The carrier excels at everyday adventures and travel due to its lightweight build and ease of use, though it may not have as much storage or heavy-duty padding as some larger backpack carriers designed for more rugged hiking. It is an excellent choice for parents seeking a convenient, comfortable, and safe carrier for toddlers on the go.

The Osprey Poco LT Lightweight Child Carrier Backpack is a practical choice for parents looking for a convenient and versatile child carrier. Its lightweight folding frame is a standout feature, making it easy to travel with and store, which is a major plus for parents on the go. The frame is designed to provide stability and support for the child, adding an essential layer of safety.

The backpack includes a built-in sunshade offering UPF 50 protection, which is great for outdoor activities where sun exposure is a concern. This feature can be easily stored and deployed, adding to its convenience. The comfort aspect is addressed with the injection-molded AirScape Framesheet, which likely aids in ventilation, making the carrier more comfortable in warm weather.

In terms of storage, the backpack offers a large zippered pocket with a stretch mesh compartment and an additional lower storage compartment. This provides ample space for carrying essentials such as diapers, snacks, and personal items, making it quite functional for longer outings. This backpack is likely best suited for parents looking for a compact, travel-friendly child carrier with good storage and adequate sun protection.