10 Best Backpack Child Carriers 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

The Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Signature Series Child Carrier is a solid option for parents who enjoy hiking with their little ones. One of its standout features is the PerfectFIT Suspension System, which allows easy adjustments for both mom and dad, ensuring a comfortable fit for both. This is crucial for long hikes or walks. Additionally, the carrier includes an integrated sunshade, a thoughtful inclusion for sunny days when you might forget sunscreen.

For safety, it boasts a 5-point harness and a padded aluminum roll cage, providing peace of mind when you're on rough terrain. The wide seat base and adjustable foot stirrups support your child's natural sitting position, enhancing comfort for them as well. Multiple grab handles make it easier to lift, adjust, and set down the carrier, which adds to its ease of use.

It also features ample storage with a large zippered pocket and internal stretch pockets for additional layers, toys, and other essentials, along with zippered hip belt pockets for quick access to water, snacks, or your phone. On the downside, the carrier's weight of 7.1 pounds might be a bit heavy for some parents, and since it's made from plastic, it may not be as durable as other materials. However, it compensates with useful features and a high level of comfort and safety. The carrier is also relatively easy to clean, needing just a wipe with a damp towel. It's particularly suited for parents who want a reliable, comfortable, and safe option for outdoor activities with their children.