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 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 Child Carrier Backpack offers several strengths for parents looking to carry their child comfortably and safely. Its Deluxe Child Cockpit is a standout feature, providing a padded and framed space that ensures both comfort and security for the child. The adjustable Double Halo harness and child seat, along with soft contact surfaces and ventilated side panels, add to the child's comfort and safety. The removable and machine-washable drool pad is a practical addition for easy cleaning.

For the parent, the 6”/15 cm torso length adjustment on the back panel allows for a customizable fit, accommodating different body types with ease. Additionally, the adjustable AirSpeed backpanel helps in providing good ventilation, making it more comfortable for the wearer during long walks or hikes. Storage options are ample, with a zippered front panel pocket that includes a stretch mesh compartment, and a zippered lower storage compartment for additional gear.

The Osprey Poco Child Carrier Backpack excels in providing comfort, safety, and convenient storage, making it a strong choice for parents on the go. Safety features appear robust with the fully framed cockpit and adjustable harness, but always ensure that the carrier meets the latest safety standards before purchase.