10 Best Child Backpack Carriers 2025 in the United States

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.

The Osprey Poco Premium Child Carrier Backpack stands out for its excellent comfort and safety features, making it a great choice for parents who want to hike or travel with their little ones. The deluxe child cockpit is fully framed and padded, offering a secure environment with an adjustable double halo harness that ensures your child stays snug. The anatomical fit and ventilated side panels are designed to keep your child comfortable even during longer outings.

One of the key highlights is the adjustable fit feature, which allows for 6 inches of torso length adjustment. This means that different caregivers can easily customize the backpack to fit their body type, enhancing comfort for both the adult and the child. The adjustable AirSpeed backpanel is also a thoughtful addition, providing good ventilation to help keep things cool on warm days.

In terms of storage, the backpack includes a large zippered main pocket and a lower storage compartment, offering ample space for essentials like snacks and diapers. Some users find the backpack a bit cumbersome when fully loaded, especially on steep trails. The weight capacity is adequate for most children, but as your child grows, you might find it less comfortable as a longer-term solution. Additionally, while the backpack is machine washable in parts, maintaining its cleanliness can be slightly more complicated compared to simpler models.

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.