Many parents worry that when they have a baby that their active, outdoorsy lifestyle has to come to an end. While you probably shouldn’t rock climb with your child, camping and hiking are fun adventures for your little tike. The most challenging part is getting your infant to your camping location or taking them along for the hike. Outdoorsy parents want to purchase the best baby backpack carrier to tote their child along for the hike.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Baby Backpack Carrier
- The size of Your Baby: The first factor to consider is how big your baby is at the time of purchase, as well as their age. Some carriers are designed to wear on the front of the parent’s body and are meant for babies who are young. Older babies are able to sit in a carrier on your back. Most carriers hold a child up to 40 pounds.
- How Far You Intend to Go: If you typically don’t hike too far, a lightweight carrier is a great choice. You can fold them up and stick them in the diaper bag. Plus, they take up virtually no space in the trunk of your car. However, families that hike for extended periods of time or through rough terrain should consider a larger, framed carrier. Your child, as well as you, will be more comfortable throughout the day with more support.
- Frames: Carriers with a softshell are ideal for babies who are less than a year old. These carriers are lighter and don’t cost nearly as much money. Hardshell carriers are meant for families who do a lot of hiking or have children over a year old. You receive more support, so you can trek longer.
- Available Storage: Some baby backpack carriers combine to make a daypack as well. These ones allow you carry extra food, water, and other essential items. Clearly, you can’t carry a huge bag with a child on your back, but if you plan to hike for a few hours, having storage is a convenient option.
- Freestanding Carriers: A nice option is a backpack carrier with a large, metal frame with a stand. You can set the carrier down with your baby inside, and it won’t tip over! It is a great option, allowing you to get camp ready or to take a break without placing your child on the dirty ground. Generally, these carriers also provide you with more support.
Parents Favorite Baby Backpack Carriers
Baby Backpack Cross Country Carrier by Clevr
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One of the highest rated backpack baby carriers is by Clevr. It is a lightweight carrier, weighing only 5.1 pounds, because of its durable but sturdy aluminum frame. Aluminum is a reliable material; you don’t have to worry about it breaking because of your child’s growing weight.
Clevr added a number of features that make it loved by parents. There is a retractable canopy that protects your child from rain and sunlight. To help distribute the weight of your baby, a built-in suspension system, with padded straps and a hip belt, absorbs the energy and weight of your child. The pounds are distributed evenly across your torso instead of just your shoulders. Also, lumbar padding keeps you cool and comfortable while hiking.
Parents can opt for the Clevr Baby Back Pack for kids between six months and four years old. It has a maximum weight of 40 pounds. Parents appreciate the two side water bottle holders, the large back pocket for extra items and the metal stand that allows parents to set it upright. When you are done hiking, the Clevr Pack folds flat, so it fits perfectly in your vehicle!
Phil & Teds Parade Lightweight Backpack Carrier
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Phil & Teds make high-quality baby products from luxury strollers to clip on a high chair. If you need it to be on the go with your baby, Phil & Teds creates a great choice for your family. The Parade is lightweight, weighing only 4.4 pounds, but it is strong enough to carry kids up to 40 lbs. An aluminum frame carries children, who can sit up, with no issues, but it also keeps the overall weight down.
Comfort is a huge factor for Phil & Teds. There is an active ergo-fit harness system with padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. While you wear the carrier, the straps are soft and adjustable, so it is perfect for both parents. A mesh panel on your back keeps you cool while giving you padding on your spine.
There are even more reasons to love this backpack carrier! It folds flat, measuring 23.5 inches x 12 inches x 6.5 inches. Airline requirements allow you to keep it as a carry-on bag. They include a matching mini backpack for your child. One of the nicest features is that it is freestanding, for easy loading. The internal frame allows parents to set the carrier down with a baby inside.
Overall, if you want a backpack carrier with high-grade materials, you will love this one!
Kelty Journey 2.0 Kid Carrier
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Kelty is a well-known brand for backpack carriers. The Journey 2.0 features an adjustable suspension system that fits both mom and dad. It has a secure leg strap and a five-point harness that keeps your baby safely in place. Kelty also added under the seat storage for convenience. A removable chin pad, front storage pocket, and a hydration pocket provide extras desired by parents.
There are a lot of impressive features for the Journey 2.0. The seat has a lot of padding, as well as an adjustable height of the seat. A sun hood protects your child from all of the elements. A patented, auto-deploy kickstand and no-pinch hinges provide a safe place for your baby. The Journey is freestanding, so you can quickly load and unload your child.
One thing to note is that the Kelty Journey weighs 7lbs 2oz, making it a heavier choice. You can use it for babies six months and up, but it fits children better closer to nine months! It is usable for kids up to 40 pounds, with a maximum weight capacity of 50 lbs.
Deuter Kid Comfort Air
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The next choice for the best baby backpack carrier is by Deuter. It is a comfortable, breathable carrier meant for babies who are able to sit up on their own. Deuter’s unique Air Comfort back system provides maximum ventilation for the parent. Mesh side panels allow sunburn to reach your child, creating an airy environment.
Comfort Air is lightweight, weighing only 6lbs 8oz, featuring a spring steel frame. The frame is durable but allows the parent to move in flexible ways as you hike. The entire frame and carrier are adjustable, so it fits both mom and dad. Deuter’s VariQuick system adjusts the carrier. You can use it if you have different height and torso lengths. A flexible hip belt provides a comfort fit and helps to distribute the weight of your child.
Deuter included so many amazing features! An integrated kickstand provides a stable platform, so your child can rest in the carrier when not on your back. Several storage pockets are located on the backpack carrier. For ventilation, Deuter included a breathable, sweat-wicking back system, so everyone is confident even on warm days.
You will love the Comfort Air! It is fully foldable, easy to store in your trunk. It is a JPMA certified child carrier, tested to exceed state and federal guidelines. Your child stays safe with a five-point harness, perfect for kids up to 40 pounds.
Boba 4G Carrier
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If you want a carrier meant for young infants, the Boba 4G is the way to go. You can use it for kids weighing seven to 45 pounds. Overall, the carrier is adjustable. The chest strap slides up and down, so it can fit everyone. Parents between five feet and six feet three inches can comfortably wear the backpack carrier. Adjustable straps on the sides of the carrier allow mom to pull baby closer for comfortable breastfeeding.
There are so many great features to the Boba 4G! It has multiple pockets, such as one along the weight, for items like cell phones or other must haves. A bag strap holder keeps extra bags in place with a snap. Removable foot straps and a sleeping hood keeps your baby comfortable on the ride.
You will love the Boba. If you want to be able to carry young infants for short hikes, this is the way to go. It is made 100% cotton and weighs 2 pounds. You can easily fold the carrier and keep it in a diaper bag. Parents can carry their baby on the front and back. It arrives ready to wear and go on a hike as soon as you put it on! Plus, the Boba 4G is cheaper than other baby backpack carriers.
Thule Sapling Child Carrier
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The Thule Sapling allows parents to carry their child comfortably why on the go in the great outdoors. It is comfortable for parents with a fully adjustable back panel and hip belt. Parents can find the perfect fit, transitioning between parents is a breeze.
Thule didn’t forget about the child. The seat is plush with an adjustable height. It is ergonomic and efficiently distributes the weight of the child because of the inner thigh support. One of the best features is the storage. There are mesh pockets, a hydration reservoir sleeve, and two large zippered compartments. Parents can store diapers, clothes, and other important essential items.
There are many other important features. A deployable sunshade keeps your baby protected from the sunlight. Dual access loading lets parents load the child from the top or side. A breathable back panel gives comfort and support at the critical points, plus air can circulate to keep you cool. Removable stirrups let your child rest his legs while on the go.
Parents can purchase this backpack carrier for kids who weigh 40 pounds or less. The ratings are impressive, and parents love this carrier!
ErgoBaby Four Positon 360 Cool Air Mesh Baby Carrier
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The last baby carrier on our list is the infamous ErgoBaby. It is one of the most well-known for parents. Whether you like to hike or just want a carrier to use in the grocery store, the ErgoBaby 360 is the way to go. The seat is ergonomically correct, with a full seat, perfect for your growing child’s hip development.
ErgoBaby features breathable, 3D air mesh panels, creating the perfect environment for your child. Everyone stays nice and cool. Parents have the option of four different types of ergonomic carrying positions: front-inward, front outward, hip and back.
Parents can use this carrier for their child from 12 to 33 pounds. If you want to use it for infants under 12 lbs, ErgoBaby sells an infant insert (sold separately). While this carrier may not be the best choice for long hikes, it is great if you intend to head out for a short trek. The carrier evenly distributes the weight of your child.
There are many reasons to give the ErgoBaby a try. It is an excellent choice if you want a carrier that works for the grocery store and the woods. The wide, adjustable waistband makes the carrier a comfortable choice for everyone despite the activities chosen for the day!
Finding the Perfect Baby Backpack Carrier
There are so many fantastic choices for the best baby backpack carrier. To make your decision, you have to figure out what type of activity you plan to use the carrier for on a regular basis. If you take long hikes on a regular basis, a sturdy framed carrier is the best option. However, if you want to be able to wear your smaller infant on trails, a carrier that can be worn on the front and back is an ideal choice.
Do you have a favorite baby backpack carrier? We would love to know about it in the comments!
As we conclude this discussion on baby backpack carrier, remember that there’s a wide array of options available to suit every family’s unique needs. Parenthood is a journey filled with discovery, and by embracing the diversity of options, you can find the perfect fit for you and your little one, and in this case you can consider exploring the comprehensive list below for additional recommendations. Happy parenting!
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