Hiking Backpacks for Toddlers and Children
It is important to get your child used to carrying a backpack so the feeling is not a surprise to them when they are older. Keep in mind that a child should never carry more than X% of their body weight, so if they weigh 40 pounds their backpack and all its contents should weigh less than X. Be prepared to carry their backpack if the hike is long, difficult, hot or they are just plain tired of it.
My children typically carry only a few items in their backpacks for day hikes: a small water bottle, no more than a ½ liter, their rain jacket or outermost layer, a small snack or two and any accessory they want to use on the hike like binoculars, magnifying glass or animal identification cards like these. For backpacking trips, they will also carry their camp shoes, typically very lightweight Crocs.
Here are 4 of the best backpacks out there for your young kids
Deuter Schmusebar Pack - Kids'
Features: Child-friendly design with bright butterflies, adjustable shoulder straps and chest strap, padded back panel, name label inside, reflective details for visibility, roomy main compartment with zippered closure, two water bottle side pockets.
Capacity: Approximately 6-8 liters.
Empty pack weight: 10 ounces
Age Range: Suitable for toddlers and younger children (2-5 years).
Features: Child-friendly design with plush teddy bear, adjustable shoulder straps and chest strap, padded back panel, name label inside, reflective details for visibility, roomy main compartment with zippered closure.
Vaude Ayla Children's Backpack
Features: Adjustable shoulder straps and chest strap, padded back panel with ventilation channels, spacious main compartment with zippered closure, mesh side pockets, loop for attaching small items, bright and colorful design.
Capacity: Around 6 liters.
Empty pack weight: 8 ounces
Age Range: Suitable for toddlers and younger children (3-6 years).
CamelBak Scout Hydration Pack
Features: Lightweight design with adjustable shoulder straps, padded back panel, 1.5-liter hydration reservoir included, zippered compartments for snacks and essentials, reflective accents for visibility.
Capacity: Approximately 5-7 liters.
Empty pack weight: 14 ounces
Age Range: Suitable for children transitioning from toddlerhood to early childhood (4-8 years).
REI Co-op Tarn 18 Kids Pack
Features: Adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap: Provides a customizable fit for children of various sizes and ages. Padded back panel: Offers comfort and support during extended hikes and outdoor activities. Mesh side pockets: Convenient for carrying water bottles or snacks, allowing easy access for children. Front stuff pocket: Provides additional storage for jackets, hats, or other quick-access items. Hydration reservoir compatible: Accommodates a hydration bladder for easy access to water on the trail. Reflective accents: Enhance visibility in low-light conditions for added safety during hikes. Durable construction: Made from high-quality materials designed to withstand outdoor adventures and rough handling. REI's Kid's Adventure Guarantee: Reflects REI's commitment to providing quality outdoor gear for children's adventures.
Capacity: 18 liters, providing ample space for children to carry essentials such as water, snacks, a light jacket, and small personal items.
Empty pack weight: 13 ounces
Age Range: Suitable for children aged 5-10 years old, depending on individual size and comfort level.
Fit and Comfort: The adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap allow children to find a comfortable and secure fit, while the padded back panel offers support during longer hikes.
Versatility: The REI Co-op Tarn 18 Kids Pack is versatile enough for day hikes, school outings, camping trips, and other outdoor adventures.
The REI Co-op Tarn 18 Kids Pack is an excellent option for families looking for a reliable and versatile backpack for their young adventurers. With its adjustable fit, durable construction, and ample storage space, it provides children with the tools they need to explore the great outdoors safely and comfortably.
Things to Consider:
Fit and Comfort: Look for backpacks with adjustable straps and padded harnesses to ensure a comfortable fit for your child. If you can, trying on packs in person can be helpful to make sure the backpack isn’t too big.
Safety Features: Consider features like padded cockpit, harness system, stirrups, and sunshade to keep your child safe and protected during hikes.
Storage and Organization: Choose backpacks with enough storage space for essentials like snacks, water, extra clothing, and diapers (if needed). Water reservoir storage really helps my kids stay hydrated wile hiking since it is easier and more fun to drink from a hose than their water bottle.
Durability and Quality: Opt for backpacks made from durable materials that can withstand outdoor use and rough handling.
Weight Capacity: Check the weight capacity of the backpack to ensure your child can comfortably carry their “necessary” gear.
Use what you have. Start out with whatever backpack you have on hand since your child is likely used to the feel of that backpack and they will be carrying very little weight. We regularly use our school backpacks to start since I wasn’t sure our hiking adventures would
Happy Hiking!!