10 Best Backpack Child Carriers 2025 in the United States

The Osprey Poco LT Lightweight Child Carrier Backpack is a solid choice for parents seeking a convenient way to carry their child. One of its standout features is the built-in sunshade, which offers UPF 50 sun protection and can be easily deployed from a dedicated zippered pocket. This is a great addition for outings on sunny days.

The patented lightweight stainless steel frame is another plus, as it not only folds smaller than many other child carriers, making it easier to store and travel with, but also locks in place to support the child securely and provide stability when setting the carrier down. This is especially useful for parents on the go who need something easy to handle and reliable.

Comfort is enhanced by the injection-molded AirScape Framesheet, which helps distribute weight and adds to the stability. Storage is also well-thought-out with a large zippered pocket featuring a stretch mesh compartment, as well as a separate zippered lower storage compartment. This allows parents to easily organize and access their essentials while on the move. The Osprey Poco LT appears to be a practical and convenient child carrier that balances functionality and ease of use, making it a suitable option for active parents looking for a versatile and travel-friendly solution.

The besrey Baby Backpack Carrier is designed for parents who want a reliable and comfortable way to carry their toddler on hikes. It supports children weighing between 16 and 40 pounds, covering most toddlers, making it a good fit for day trips and moderate hikes. Safety is well-addressed with a 5-point seat belt system and padded straps to keep your child secure and comfortable. The detachable sunshade protects your little one from sun, rain, or wind. Comfort for the adult is considered with adjustable shoulder straps and a waist belt that help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain during longer walks.

This backpack offers ample storage with multiple pockets, including a storage area under the seat and zipper pockets on the waist belt, allowing you to carry essentials like diapers, water, or snacks conveniently. Ventilation is limited, and the polyester material may be less breathable, which could affect comfort in hot weather. Weighing around 7.6 pounds, it remains lightweight enough to carry without feeling bulky.

The carrier’s foldable frame enhances ease of use and storage, though cleaning requires hand-washing. This carrier balances safety, comfort, and practical storage effectively, making it a strong choice for parents who enjoy hiking with toddlers.

The Thule Sapling Child Carrier Backpack is a well-designed option for parents looking to take their children on hikes or outdoor adventures. It supports a comfortable and safe ride for your child with an ergonomic seat, under-leg support, and a ventilated back panel. The carrier also includes a UPF 50 sunshade which is great for protecting your child from the sun and keeping them cool during hikes.

The machine washable seat and drool pad make cleaning easy, ensuring that the carrier can stay fresh and hygienic with minimal effort. Adjustable padded straps enhance comfort for parents, making it easier to carry the load over long distances. Additionally, the self-standing frame adds to the ease of use, allowing for simple loading and unloading of your child.

The 22L gear compartment is accessible while wearing the pack and provides ample storage space for essentials. However, the carrier weighs 7 pounds, which might be on the heavier side compared to other models, potentially making it less suitable for very long hikes or for parents looking to minimize their carrying weight. Despite this, the carrier's ability to add on accessories, though sold separately, offers customization and potentially more storage or weather protection options. Given its features and design, the Thule Sapling Child Carrier Backpack is a solid choice for parents who prioritize comfort and safety for both themselves and their child during hiking activities.