15 Best Hiking Backpacks for Kids, Toddlers, and Teens | 2022

You may be asking, do my kids really need hiking backpacks?

The truth is they don’t…if you don’t mind carrying all of their water, food, and gear. 

Let’s do some math! I have four kids with a combined weight of 232 lbs. According to the experts at REI, hiking backpacks should weigh between 10% and 20% of a hiker’s body weight.

No backpacks for the kiddos means I’ll end up carrying an extra 23.2 lbs and a max of 46.4 lbs!  My knees can’t take another 46.4 lbs. 😬😨  

So let’s pack it up, pack it in, and let me tell you all about the best hiking backpacks for kids.

We’ll start with hiking backpacks for toddlers.

*Psst…if you want more tips for hiking with kids check out this article.

5 Best Hiking Backpacks for Toddlers 

In my toddler’s mind, she has all the essentials in her pack, you know…dolls and stuffed animals. No, these aren’t going to keep her hydrated or fed, but if we need to throw down a play session of “daddies and babies” on the trail, we are ready to rock!

At this age, you’re really just trying to get your toddler used to carrying a pack and grow a love for hiking. If you overload them, they may fall over helpless on their back like a turtle, traumatized with a lifelong fear of hiking.

Best Toddler Hiking Backpack – Deuter Kikki Kid’s Backpack for School and Hiking

The Deuter Kikki backpack is the ultimate hiking backpack option for your toddler.  This pack has a fun design with quality and comfort for kids 3 and up. Equipped with padded shoulder straps and backs, your toddler will get the feel of what a real hiking backpack is like.

Pros

• Quality – Of all the packs reviewed for toddlers, the Deuter had the highest quality. If you have or are planning on having many little ones, a pack like this can get passed down from toddler to toddler.

• True Hiking Experience – What I love about this pack more than any of the other toddler packs is while having a fun design, it actually looks and functions like a true adult hiking backpack. This will expose your child early to the joys of trying to strategically fit everything needed for a long hike.

Cons

• Price – The Deuter is the most expensive toddler hiking backpack on the list but also the highest quality.

Check the Deuter Kikki Kid’s Backpack price.

Best Hiking Backpack for Emerging Walkers – IHayner Toddler Backpack (Ages 1-2)

This IHayner Toddler backpack offers several different colors and is best for kids under 38 inches. I know you may frown on putting your kid on a leash. But, guess what? It is detachable. 

Have you been to the Grand Canyon? Not a lot of guard rails at that place. Hiking with toddlers can be dangerous. I’m more worried about my toddler’s safety than I am about the judging eyes of others.

Pros

• Safety – The detachable leash is nice for keeping your toddler close and out of danger.

• Versatile – This backpack is lightweight and can be used on the trail, amusement parks, and pretty much anywhere.

• Cuteness Factor – Your toddler is probably more concerned with how cute it is than the functionality.

Cons

• Limited Storage – No water bottle pockets on the side. What a bummer!

Check the price of the IHayner Toddler backpack. 

Most Versatile Toddler Hiking Backpack – Skip Hop Toddler Pack (Ages 2-4)

The Skip Hop toddler pack takes the cake on the cuteness factor. Your toddler will light up carrying one of these animal-shaped packs. There are styles ranging from Dino to Narwhal and everything in between. These packs are versatile enough for small hikes, trips to grandma’s, or off to school.

Pros

• Price – Most styles come in at about $22! You and your little wanderer will get your money’s worth before they grow out of it. You can even add matching items like a water bottle, snack containers, and lunch box.

Cons

• Short Hikes Only – The Skip Hop isn’t designed for and I wouldn’t recommend it for long hikes. Eventually, the pack will be uncomfortable on younger kids, and then guess what? You’ll have to carry it!

Check out the different styles and get pricing on the The Skip Hop toddler pack. 

Best Giftable Toddler Backpack – Naturally Kids Toddler Backpack

The Naturally KIDS Toddler Packs come with a removable stuffy. You probably won’t see too many hikers with this on the Appalachian or the Pacific Crest Trail but these will do the trick for short hikes with your toddler.  

Your barely-walking little ones won’t mind carrying snacks, water, and a couple of toys when they have a new best friend along for the ride.

Pros

• Functionality – Adjustable shoulder straps, two side pockets, reflective logo (safety), and two small compartments offer great functionality for carrying a wide variety of items and helping to achieve a comfortable fit.

• Gift Idea – In most cases, getting a toddler a backpack for a present may earn you the reputation as a bad gift giver. This toddler backpack gives you the best of both worlds by getting them something they can use and something they can play with.

Cons

• Not a True Hiking Pack – Just like many other packs in the toddler category, this pack will probably only work well on short day hikes.  

Click the link to get the price of the Naturally KIDS Toddler Packs. 

Best Backpack for Carrying a Toddler – Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Signature Series Child Carrier

If your kids aren’t trail-ready or you’re just not ready to let them go, the Kelty Child Carrier makes sure you have no excuses for getting out there. This pack is easy to remove (even by yourself) to let your little one get some steps in. 

Pros

• Safety – This pack comes with a 5 point harness and a roll cage for your child. Everest, here we come!

• Problem Solver – This helps you get your kiddos out in the great outdoors and exposed to nature at an early age.  

Cons

• Limited Use – You’re probably only going to get one, maybe two years of use out of this pack per child. 

Find the price of the Kelty Child Carrier here. 

5 Best Hiking Backpacks for Kids 

Now that your kids have graduated out of the less functional backpacks, it’s time to gear them up, ditch the stuffed animals, and watch in terror as they scurry across rock scrambles.

The best kids hiking backpack will carry water for hydration, food for their bellies, some overnight gear, and clothing.

Let’s check out your options.

Best Lightweight Daypack for Kids – Osprey Daylite Kid’s Backpack

The Osprey Daylite Kid’s Backpack is a lightweight pack ideal for a full-day hiking trip. The adjustable chest strap and adjustable shoulder straps allow the pack to fit snugly against the body to aid balance and stability. Since this pack is on the smaller side it’s best suited for most kids ranging from 3-6.

Pros

• Quality – If you want a pack that’s as tough as your kids and maybe a little tougher, Osprey packs deliver. They don’t skimp on quality just because it’s built for kiddos.

• Hydration Sleeve –  The Daylite pack comes with a hydration sleeve if you choose to add a 1.5L backpack water reservoir.  These are a great way to ensure your kids stay hydrated on long hikes.

• Storage – This pack is small and it’s supposed to be.  Osprey makes intelligent use of the storage compartments. The two mesh side pockets are great water bottle pockets or for snack storage. The main compartment is large enough to fit additional provisions and a few other items.

Cons

• Not for School – It’s not that it isn’t appropriate for school. The daylight backpack is compact, meant to fit tightly against your kid’s body so there isn’t ample room for folders, books, and trapper keepers….if those still a thing? 

Find different colors and pricing here Osprey Daylite Kid’s Backpack. 

Best Overnight Backpack for Kids – Gregory Mountain Products Icarus 30 Liter 

The Gregory Icarus 30L allows your kiddo to pack and haul all the necessities and maybe a few luxuries for day and overnight hikes. Complete with a dedicated hydration sleeve, sleeping bag compartment, and a max carry of 20lbs, this pack is a great intro to overnight hikes.

Pros

• VersaFit – Gregory’s adjustable suspension allows up to 4″ of adjustable torso length. In addition to the VersaFit technology, the breathable back, adjustable hip belt, and sternum strap ensure a snug and comfortable fit.

• Bells and Whistles – I’m a sucker for smart engineering and thoughtful design. Gregory delivers with the safety whistle built into the sternum strap, trekking pole storage, and reflective webbing loops.

Cons

• Size – This pack is on the smaller side for carrying everything they need for overnight hikes. But granted, you’re probably going to be carrying some of their stuff anyway. 

Check out the price for the Gregory Icarus 30L. 

Best Day Hiking Backpack for Kids – Osprey Jet 18 

The Osprey Jet 18 is ideal for day hiking.  Designed for kids from ages 8 to teenager, this pack comes with multiple mesh pockets, a large main compartment with drawstring closure, and a hydration reservoir sleeve for optional Osprey Hydraulics LT Reservoir.

Pros

• Quality – The Jet 18 pack won’t disappoint even the harshest critics. It’s a simple pack,  built with the same high quality and design as an adult pack. The Jet 18’s functionality and quality make it a great pack for your child’s collection.

Cons

• Day Hike Only – This bag is meant to be for day hiking and it performs well. If you plan on going on a significant amount of overnight hikes, it might not be enough.

Get Pricing on the Osprey Jet 18 here. 

Best Backpack for Kids under $100 – REI Co-op Tarn 40

The Tarn 40 from REI is an amazing value for under $100. This environmentally friendly and adjustable pack is made for kids with a torso length of 12-16”.  The Tarn 40 or big sister, the Tarn 65 are durable packs.  They are also highly functional and a purchase you can feel good about. 

Pros

• Value – This is a well-made pack from REI. Packed with tons of storage and made to be comfortable. 
• Environmentally Friendly – The tarn line is made from recycled materials and Bluedesign approved materials.

Cons

• Add Ons – Overall this pack is still a great value but be prepared to spend a little more to make this a fully functional multi-day pack. Be prepared to spend around $50 to add a hydration reservoir and a rain cover. 

Check out the pricing for the Tarn 40 and the Tarn 65. 

Best Overall Hiking Backpack for Kids – Deuter Fox 40 Kid’s Backpack

The Fox 40 from Deuter is the runaway bag I wished I had as a child. I may have made it farther than one block before turning back. 

When you see the padding on this pack it makes you feel like it wants to give you a hug. For kids 8 and up the Fox 40 is designed to be your child’s pack for years thanks to the adjustable torso length system.

Pros

• Everything – This is just a beautiful pack. It’s built with quality, functionality, and comfort. This pack has a separate sleeping bag compartment, all the pockets you could ask for, and even an SOS label with tips to save your life if things go south.

Cons

• Heavy – The pack itself comes in a little under 3lbs. Not too bad, but the potential to overload the pack thanks to all the space could cause unsafe hiking conditions. These packs are designed to help you distribute the weight, but if your child is new to hiking, this takes some practice.

Find the latest pricing for the Fox 40 from Deuter here. 

5 Best Hiking Backpacks for Teens 

I’m not going to pretend to know what a teenager wants or likes but I do know gear. And I’m slightly shorter than most teenagers. Those are some solid qualifications! 🤣

The idea of giving my soon-to-be teenager his hiking backpack for the next decade makes me a bit teary-eyed.  The thoughts of hikes we’ll go on together are memories worth living for. Each time I see that trusted pack of his it’ll conjure up these memories and encourage me to go make some more.

Best Versatile Backpack for Teens – Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L Daypack

Eddie Bauer’s Stowaway Packable 20L Daypack is a swiss army knife of backpacks. It comes in multiple color patterns for both boys and girls. Its versatility makes it a true do-anything pack for school, traveling, and yes…hiking.

Pros

• Value – Considering the versatility and the quality that comes with the Eddie Bauer, this pack is a great value on Amazon for under $25.  

Cons

• Limits – Yes, this pack is versatile but it does many things marginally well. For a teenager who travels, goes to school, and on occasional short hikes, this pack could be perfect. Not recommended for longer hikes.

Check out the other colors, styles and pricing for Eddie Bauer’s Stowaway Packable 20L Daypack. 

Best Multi-Purpose Hiking Backpack – Military Backpack for Work, School, Camping, Hunting, Hiking

This tactical travel backpack is a 3-day pack with so many compartments it may take you 3 days to find things. The pack is super durable, is water and tear-resistant, expandable, and highly functional. A great multi-purpose pack that shows off a cool military look.

Pros

• Value – For the right teenager, this is the perfect pack. It’s great for storing tools, computers, and for all sorts of hiking. Plus, it comes in at under $40. The pack also expands and is hydration compatible.

Cons

• Style – This style isn’t for everyone but it’s designed to be durable and functional. You need to know your audience.

This pack has a ton of features, 8 different styles and amazing pricing.  Check them out here tactical travel backpack. 

Best Budget-Friendly Multi-Day Hiking Backpack for Teens – Mountaintop 55L/80L Hiking Backpack with Rain Cover

The Mountain Top Backpack comes in 55L for $58.99 up to 80L at $89.99.  You can add the hydration pack and trekking poles and still be under $140. 

That’s a pretty good value considering the pack already comes with a rain cover. Your young hiker will have everything they need to carry gear and traverse the great outdoors.

Pros

• Price – A pack of this size and with these features for under $60 is an amazing deal.
• Size – These packs can store a ton of gear internally and come equipped with attachments for hammocks, sleeping bags, and tents.
• Fit – Adjustable torso length, adjustable hip belt, and adjustable shoulder straps ensure a secure fit.

Cons

• Durability – Although this pack seems well made, I have concerns if it will hold up like some of the more popular brands.

Get pricing for the Mountain Top Backpack. 

Best Waterproof Backpack for Teens – Earth Pak Summit Dry Bag Backpack (35L/55L)

The Summit Backpack is ideal for the outdoor adventurer. If your teen is looking for complete waterproof protection for phones, laptops, and maybe your car keys, this pack does the trick. The heavy-duty material made to keep water out also adds another layer of bump protection for your gear. 

Pros

• Versatility – This pack isn’t just for the outdoors.  With plenty of storage, this pack works well for school and travel. 
• Waterproof – This pack would be a welcome gift for any teen that is an avid beachgoer, kayaker, or fisher.

Cons

• Aesthetics – The Summit is designed more for function than it is for fashion.  Its basic design may not appeal to everyone. 

Check out the price for the Summit Backpack. 

Best Overall Backpack for Teens – Gregory Mountain Products Wander 50 or 70 Kid’s Overnight Hiking Backpack

This backpack is so pretty you almost don’t even want to take it out. Not likely. The Wander comes in both 50L and 70L sizes. Both packs max out carrying weight at 40lbs. That makes these pretty good-sized packs built for longer backpacking trips.

Pros

• Functional – The wander has dual side pockets, a front mesh pocket, zippered pockets, adjustable suspension and hip belts, rain cover, and did I mention…a ton of space. Adjustable attachment loops are great for a sleeping pad and trekking poles.

• Quality – Gregory backpacks are known for their quality and they back it up.  Gregory offers a lifetime guarantee on their packs as long as the pack has been properly cared for and not abused.

Cons

• Price – This 70L pack will set you back $150-$200 while the 50L runs between $150 -$180.

Check out pricing for the Wander pack. 

How to Choose the Best Hiking Backpack for Your Kids

Choosing the best hiking backpack for your kids means understanding their size and activity type. And it may require purchasing more than one type of backpack. (A 70L pack is great for multi-day hikes but you wouldn’t want your kid wearing it on a day hike with narrow passages and rock scrambles.)

Size and Volume

Most packs are listed in terms of liters of available space or carrying capacity. Since we are not on the metric system in the United States we need to convert liters into time….. Say what? The experts at REI break it down for us;

• 20-30L = day hike
• 30-50L  = 1-3 days
• 50-80 = 3-5 days

So basically the size of the pack equates to how much gear you can carry which equates to how long you can survive in the wilderness. Easy-peasy, right? 

Adjustability (So it can grow with your child)

Paying between $100 – $200 for a child’s hiking backpack is easier to swallow when you know it adjusts to fit them for years. You also want a pack that makes it easy to adjust the suspension, shoulder straps, sternum straps, and hip belts to get a comfortable fit.

Price

Buying the most expensive hiking backpack doesn’t ensure your kids will love hiking or that you’ll get your money’s worth. We are in the fortunate position of having 2 boys and 2 girls. Most of our purchases like this get a 2nd life. That means we lean more to the quality side (Gregory, Osprey, Deuter).

Check out this pricing matrix to help you decide which is best for your budget.

Backpacking Age	Low Price	Best Value	High Price
Toddler (1-3)
Kid (3-12)
Teen (13 +)

Comfort

If I could give my younger self some advice from future me, it would be to stretch more, always buy comfortable shoes, and splurge on a comfortable mattress. 

It’s similar with a backpack. Imagine your kid’s got an uncomfortable pack. How motivated will your child be to get out and hike if their pack is a torture device? Yuck!

Comfort items to look for when choosing a pack…

• Nicely Padded Back Panel – Either a foam back panel, mesh back panel, or a combination of the two.
• Back Panel Cooling Technology – Sweaty back is a problem, not a pop song. 🤣 Backpacking companies offer mesh, ventilated backs, and even odor-fighting strategies.
• Adjustable Shoulder Straps – The shoulder straps should wrap around the back of your child’s shoulder about 2″-3″.  The adjustable straps help you fine-tune this fit.
• Padded Shoulder Straps – Gotta have ’em! It’s evil not too.
• Adjustable Hip Belt – Packs with hip belts are meant to be worn with most of the weight riding on the hips. This belt is used to tighten the load to the body.
• Padded Hip Belt – Pad it all! Seriously, I’m pro-padding especially when we’re talking about friction. Friction = blisters and blisters are a hiker’s nemesis.
• Adjustable Sternum Strap – This strap is another spot to tighten the load to the body.  These should be self-adjustable and have a clip to quickly to unfasten.
• Adjustable Suspension – This ensures the pack will grow with your child and be well suited for the next one.
• Easy Access Pockets – If you’re carrying a larger pack, it’s quite a task taking it on and off. Easy access pockets are great for high-use items like phones, snacks, or bear spray. Hip belt pockets or any type of stash pocket are nice to have as well.
• Compression Straps – These straps help tighten the load of the backpack. This allows the pack weight to be held closer to the body without shifting as you walk.
• Proper Fit – You could find a pack with all these features and it may still not fit right.  So be patient as you go through the adjustments, check to see if you are overloaded or unbalanced.

 If your pack still doesn’t fit, you may need to try another brand. A backpacking pack is a lot like a pair of running shoes. You have to find the type that fits “YOU” best or in this case your kiddo.

Features to Look for in Kids Backpacks

Backpacks for kids should have all of the features that adjust for comfort.  Proper storage for day hikes and proper storage for overnight trips are quite different. 

Here are some features to look for between the two types and a deeper dive into other features. 

Waist Belt

Waist belts help keep the pack tight and snug up against the body. These aren’t a must-have for day packs but for longer multi-day hikes you’ll want to have something to fasten around your waist and hips. 

Pockets

You can never have too many pockets in your backpack. Side mesh pockets are ideal for quick access to water bottles, snacks, or bear spray. 

It’s also good to look at the main pocket where you’ll pack your gear. A top-loading main compartment is more secure but a front-loading main compartment makes it a lot easier to find your stuff.

Chest or Sternum Strap

Most packs come with a chest or sternum strap. This strap keeps the load tight to the body as your body shifts side to side between steps. 

The sternum strap also balances the load between the shoulder straps. Many manufacturers even include a built-in emergency whistle in the sternum strap. Love it!

Daisy Chains

The little loops on the outside of the pack are daisy chains.  They are also used to attach carabiners and other items. You can also thread your fingers through them and carry your kid like a suitcase!

Sleeping Bag Compartment

For multi-day hikes, you’ll want your pack to have a sleeping bag compartment or at least the ability to securely attach a sleeping bag.  These compartments are typically found at the bottom of a backpacking pack. 

Internal Frame

Back in the day, which according to Dane Cook was a Wednesday, backpack frames were on the outside of the pack.  Nowadays, most packs come with an internal frame shaped like the curve of a back. These frames increase stability and hold the shape of the pack when carrying heavy loads. 

Water Bottle or Hydration Bottle Pockets

It’s a scary feeling running low or out of the water on a long hike. The consensus is you need about 1/2 a liter for every hour of hiking. 

TIME FOR MORE MATH! If you and your kiddos are hiking an average of two miles an hour on a moderate to strenuous hike, you would need this much water. 

 Related: Learn how to purify water while backpacking!

How to Fit Your Child for a Backpack

How to measure torso length

Sizing hiking backpacks is primarily based on torso length. Even if you plan on getting a pack that is adjustable, you’ll still want to measure your child. Getting the best fit requires measuring your child’s torso and insuring the pack you are purchasing accommodates your child’s current and future needs. 

How to adjust the backpack

You’ll want to have some gear loaded in the pack when making your initial fit adjustments. It may take your child a while and several adjustments to get the initial fit right. Sierra Trading Post shares a sub-2-minute video on how to properly adjust a backpacking pack.

How to pack the backpack

Just because you got everything to fit, doesn’t mean you packed properly.  Pack sleeping bags, pillows, and additional clothing followed by additional water and food. Lastly pack your snacks, emergency items, and bathroom goodies for quick access. 

*Here’s the lowdown on packing a backpack like a pro.

How Much Weight Can My Kids Carry In a Backpack While Hiking?

The best advice is to only allow your child to carry the weight that is safe and comfortable for them. Your child’s age/experience, weight, type of hike, and length of the hike all factor into how much weight your child can and should carry. 

If you’re starting them real young, like under 3, you want them carrying as little as possible (like a pack with a toy just to get them used to carrying a pack).  

Any amount of weight being carried by a toddler of this age is going to throw off their balance. But as your kids grow and become more confident hikers, you can look to add more weight.  

For pro hikers, the guidance is 10% to 20% of the hiker’s weight.

Kids Backpacking Packs FAQs

How do I choose a kid’s hiking backpack?

It comes down to budget and how much use the backpack will get. Don’t spend a ton of money if you don’t plan on making hiking a regular thing. 

I love getting out in the woods by myself but I equally enjoy being out there with my kids.  Seeing them find all sorts of creatures is pure joy. Avid hikers may opt for multiple packs such as a hydration pack, day pack, and a full multi-day hiking backpack. 

Which brand of hiking backpacks is the best?

My three favorites are Gregory, Deuter, and Osprey in no particular order.  All will deliver a high-quality pack with all the features your kid needs to hit the trail for day hikes or multi-day adventures. REI, Kelty, and The North Face are three more brands worth checking out. 

What age is a good age to start backpacking?

Start with hiking outdoors as soon as they can walk and the weather permits. Your hikes will take an extra-long time at this age as your toddler literally smells all the roses.  The outdoors are a great place to explore for young children and it reminds us to slow down and take in all around us. 

As I’ve suggested early, start them with a light pack they enjoy. Encourage the importance of the pack and that they are helping. 

Slowly add more weight as your child grows and their mastery of walking and hiking continues (ages 4+). Load the pack to your child’s comfort level and never overload their pack. 

How far can young kids hike?

In my article 9 Best Kids Hiking Boots and Shoes, I wrote about young Juniper who completed the Appalachian Trail at the age of 4! That’s 2,176 miles! So how far can young kids hike? 

But don’t do the Appalachian Trail for your first hike. Start small and gradually go farther.

What should kids carry backpacking?

Start with water, snacks, and a change of clothes. Then as they get bigger, gradually add in some more camping gear.

Check out the article 25 Tips to Make Backpacking With Kids a Breeze! for some more ideas.

Enjoy Backpacking With Your Kids

Getting your kids in the right hiking backpack allows you to take on longer distances or even dare to do an overnight hike. Being in the outdoors exploring is such a great way to teach your kids, strengthen your relationship, and have some fun!

For more tips on backpacking with kids check out these articles

• 7 Leave No Trace Principles for Backpacking and Camping (+FREE PDF Printable for Kids)
• 9 Essential Backpacking Safety Tips
• Backpacker Survivor Skills

• About
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Stacy Bressler

Stacy Bressler is an avid outdoorswoman, wife, and mother of three who lives in Jackson, Wyoming. She loves all things camping and enjoys sharing helpful tips, fun activities and laughable learning experiences she finds along the way! Navigating the outdoor life through the lens of humor and positivity, she chronicles it all on her website "The Crazy Outdoor Mama"

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