10 Best Child Backpack Carriers 2025 in the United States

The Thule Sapling Child Carrier Backpack stands out with a weight capacity of up to 48 pounds, making it suitable for growing children. It excels in comfort and fit, featuring adjustable padded straps for parents and an ergonomic seat with under-leg support for the child. The ventilated back panel and sitting area keep your child cool during long hikes, enhancing comfort.

Safety is a priority with features like the UPF 50 sunshade, which provides excellent sun protection, and the self-standing frame, making it secure and stable when placing the child in or out. The carrier also includes a 22L gear compartment that's easily accessible through side zippers, adding to its practicality by allowing you to carry essential items conveniently. Additionally, the removable, machine-washable ErgoRide seat and drool pad simplify cleaning, a notable plus for parents dealing with messes.

However, the carrier's weight of 7 pounds might be a consideration for some, as it adds to the load during extended hikes. While the design allows for adding accessories, these come at an extra cost. The Thule Sapling is particularly well-suited for parents who enjoy hiking and outdoor activities, offering a balance of comfort, safety, and storage. Its versatility and thoughtful features make it a strong contender in the child-backpack-carrier category, despite the higher upfront investment and weight.

The Kelty Journey PerfectFIT ELITE Child Carrier is an excellent option for parents looking to explore the outdoors with their little ones. A standout feature is its PerfectFit Suspension, which allows for quick and easy adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit for different body types, effectively distributing the child's weight thanks to load lifters and a sturdy waistbelt. This is particularly beneficial during long hikes, as it minimizes strain on the parent's back.

Safety is a top priority with the 5-point harness system, providing peace of mind that your child is secure. The aluminum roll cage frame enhances stability, while the fold-out kickstand makes getting your child in and out seamless. The internal seat design ensures a cozy ride for your little explorer, and the wide seat can even accommodate a sibling for a short ride, adding versatility.

Storage options are generous with large zippered pockets for snacks and toys, plus additional compartments for dirty items, keeping everything organized during your adventures. The integrated sunshade is an added benefit for sunny days, and the two hip belt pockets allow parents to keep essentials like phones and keys handy. The carrier's weight of 7.8 pounds may feel a bit heavy for some, especially during extended outings. While it is designed for ease of use, those new to child carriers may take a little time to adjust to properly fitting the straps. This carrier is best suited for frequent outdoor explorers, as its features are more beneficial for committed hiking families.

The Osprey Poco LT Lightweight Child Carrier Backpack presents a promising option for parents seeking a versatile carrier for outdoor adventures. One of its standout features is its lightweight, foldable stainless steel frame, which makes it easy to store and travel with, offering convenience for parents on the move. The frame also locks securely, providing a stable platform when setting the carrier down, which is a reassuring safety aspect.

Comfort-wise, the adjustable straps and injection-molded AirScape framesheet are designed to ensure a good fit and support, although some might find that these features require a bit of adjustment for optimal comfort. The built-in sunshade providing UPF 50 protection is a thoughtful addition for sunny day hikes, ensuring the child remains shielded from harmful rays. Storage is adequate with both a large zippered pocket and a stretch mesh compartment, which are useful for packing essentials. However, some users might find the storage space limited for longer trips.

Ventilation is effectively addressed by the design materials, keeping both the child and carrier cool during use. In terms of ease of use, the machine washable materials and the design make it relatively easy to maintain and handle. At 5.56 pounds, it might feel slightly heavy for longer durations, especially if carrying additional gear. This carrier is particularly suited for parents who enjoy hiking and need a durable, compact carrier for their child.