A hiking backpack for toddler: What to look for in a backpack, plus our top 5 recommendations.
As the saying goes, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”—and for toddlers, that step is often taken with a hiking backpack in tow. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or a novice to the world of outdoor adventure, you’ve probably noticed the importance of having the right gear.
A toddler’s pack is no exception. With the right pack, your toddler will be comfortable, safe, and ready to explore the great outdoors.
In this article, we’ll take a look at five of the best toddler backpacks available, plus what to consider when choosing the right one for your kid.
In This Article
Key Takeaways
- The Deuter Schmusebar Backpack is a suitable option for preschoolers and toddlers.
- It offers comfort and even load distribution, ensuring a comfortable hiking experience for toddlers.
- The backpack features a 3D Airmesh lining for ventilation, keeping the toddler’s back cool and sweat-free.
- It has stretch side pockets for additional storage, allowing toddlers to carry their essentials while hiking.
Hiking Backpack For Toddlers: Our Top 5 Picks
Are you looking for the perfect hiking backpack for your toddler? Look no further! We’ve rounded up our top five picks to make sure your little one is comfortable and safe on all their outdoor adventures.
From the Bseash 10L Small Size Waterproof Kids Sport Backpack to the Deuter Schmusebar Backpack, you’ll be sure to find the perfect fit. We’ve also included the SKYSPER Small Kids Backpack, the MOUNTAINTOP Kids Backpack, and the IVYGREEN Little Kids Hiking Backpack for your consideration.
With any of these options, your toddler will be ready to hit the trails in no time!
Our #1 Recommendation: Bseash 10L Small Size Waterproof Kids Sport Backpack
- Note: The size of this backpack is relatively small and is not suitable for use as a school book bag.
- Capacity: 10L, Size: 32 x 21 x 15 cm (12.6 x 8.3 x 5.9 inches). Suitable for the objects with a maximum size of 10 inches. Suitable for Kids Height Under 4 feet. Advice for 3-6 year old children to use. PLEASE kindly confirm that the size is what you need. Manufacturer Minimum Age: 3 Years.
The Bseash 10L Small Size Waterproof Kids Sport Backpack is a great choice for toddlers looking for a lightweight, waterproof backpack for hiking. Made of durable polyester and nylon, this backpack is designed to last, with a nylon lining and zipper closure.
It has a capacity of 10L and is suitable for kids up to 4’ tall. The adjustable straps make it comfortable to carry, while the multiple pockets provide better organization.
This backpack is perfect for day hikes with a dog, as it can fit a hoodie, water bottle, snacks, and extra face masks. The mesh bottle holders on the sides securely hold water bottles.
It’s also great for hiking club activities, as it can fit a bentgo lunch box, hiking journal, swimsuit, small first aid kit, and water bottle with room to spare. Despite its small size, the multiple pockets offer plenty of room for all of these items.
Though this bag is relatively small and not suitable for use as a school book bag, it’s been praised for its construction, padded back and straps, and adjustable straps. It’s also been reported to keep contents dry in light drizzles. However, some users have had issues with stuck zippers and a tight lip over the main zipper.
Product Specs:
- Polyester & Nylon material
- Nylon lining
- Zipper closure
- Hand wash only
- Capacity: 10L
- Size: 322115cm (12.68.35.9 inches)
- Suitable for kids height under 4 feet
- Manufacturer Minimum Age: 3 Years
Pros:
- Durable and well-made construction
- Multiple pockets for better organization
- Adjustable straps for comfort
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Smaller than expected
- Issues with stuck zippers
- Tight lip over the main zipper
SKYSPER Small Kids Backpack
- Large Capacity & Easy Organisation: 9×4.7×13.8inch/23x12x35cm(LxWxH), 0.72LB/0.33KG. Kids backpack has a capacity of 10L, which is enough to hold daily necessities. Such as lunch box, books, toys, water bottle, pencils, etc. 3 Pockets are roomy for kids to organize easily, and 2 side velcro pockets for small items such as snacks.
- Comfortable & Lightweight: The adjustable thickened shoulder straps and breathable soft padding offer support and comfort while the adjustable chest strap stabilizes the load throughout the day’s activities. And the core control belt is designed to control the center of gravity of books and other heavy objects so that they are close to the back, reducing the burden on the child’s shoulders and lumbar spine.
If you’re looking for a lightweight, waterproof backpack for your kid, the SKYSPER Small Kids Backpack is an excellent choice. It features a 10L capacity with 3 pockets for easy organization.
The adjustable shoulder straps and chest strap provide comfort and support, while the core control belt reduces the burden on your child’s shoulders and spine. It also has reflective strips for safety, a chest whistle buckle for easy calling, and a built-in name tag for easy identification.
It’s made of 600D polyester, lightweight and easy to clean with smooth SBS zippers. It’s suitable for children aged 3-6, making it perfect for school and outdoor activities.
The size is just right for toddlers aged 2-6, making it a great choice for travel. It fits an iPad, Nintendo Switch, notebooks, and small toys, and still has enough room to store water bottles and snacks.
This travel-friendly size encourages your kid to pack only their essentials, making it easier for them to explore the world around them.
Product Specs:
- 10L capacity
- 3 pockets
- 2 side velcro pockets
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Core control belt
- Reflective strips
- Chest whistle buckle
- Built-in name tag
- 600D polyester
- Smooth SBS zippers
Pros:
- Lightweight and waterproof
- Comfort and support
- Safety features
- Travel-friendly size
- Fits iPads, Nintendo Switch, pencils, and small toys
Cons:
- Zips feel rough and fragile
- No water bottle pockets
MOUNTAINTOP Kids Backpack
- 🌱 MOUNTAINTOP schoolbag designed for children which is made of water-resistant polyester ensure your items dry in light drizzle, while not in heavy rain, and the daypack is easy to maintain which have features durable zippers.
- 🌱 The kids backpack size is 7.5*6.7*14.6in, capacity of 8 liter, and has a name tag on the inside for convenience, ideal for preschool, kindergarden and for your toddler, kids, boys girls.
This Mountaintop Kids Backpack is perfect for kids of all ages. It offers a lightweight design with water-resistant materials and adjustable straps for ultimate comfort. The backpack has a size of 7.56.714.6in and a capacity of 8 liters, making it the ideal choice for preschool, kindergarten, and toddlers.
It features a front elastic mesh pocket and a main compartment with wet & dry function. Additionally, it has a name tag on the inside for convenience. The mesh side pockets are perfect for snacks, toys, and water bottles.
The adjustable and sturdy shoulder straps ensure durability. The ultra-light design helps to reduce the pressure on those little shoulders. Plus, it comes in multiple colors to suit any personality.
This backpack is perfect for airport travel, day camps, and other activities. It’s lightweight enough for a 4-year-old to carry with toys. However, it may not hold a regular-sized folder or sheets/pillow for daycare.
It has been used on multiple flights with toys, food, and drawing supplies, and it has held up well for tough use by little kids.
Product Specs:
- Size: 7.56.714.6in
- Capacity: 8 liters
- Materials: Water-resistant polyester
- Features: Name tag, front elastic mesh pocket, main compartment with wet & dry function, mesh side pocket, adjustable and sturdy shoulder straps
Pros:
- Perfect for preschool, kindergarten, and toddlers
- Lightweight design
- Water-resistant materials
- Adjustable and sturdy shoulder straps
- Multiple color options
Cons:
- May not be able to fit a regular-sized folder or sheets/pillow
- Corners of a folder may bend over time
- May not be able to fit a lunch bag if there are other items inside
IVYGREEN Little Kids Hiking Backpack
- Made of water-resistant polyester fabric. Lightweight and firm enough. Design for kids 3 to 8 years old as their own travel backpack, also for adults who need a small pack
- Padded shoulder straps with a chest strap can offer comfortable support on the back, perfect for a day hiking, camping, going to the theme parks, visiting a zoo/museum, going on a road trip, or other outdoor adventures
IvyGreen’s Little Kids backpack is perfect for hiking, camping, theme parks, and other outdoor adventures. Made of water-resistant polyester fabric, this lightweight and firm backpack is designed for kids aged 3 to 8 years old, but is also suitable for adults who need a smaller pack.
It comes with padded shoulder straps and a chest strap for comfortable support, plus plenty of space inside for clothing, hats, water bottles, snacks, and other essentials.
Safety features include a toy whistle on the chest strap and reflective strips. The backpack is available in two sizes: small (14.5”x9.0”x6.0”) and medium (15.5”x10.0”x7.0”). The small size is suitable for toddlers and light hiking trips, while the medium size can accommodate more items and is suitable for little kids.
The backpack has a zipper pocket on the front with a smaller mesh pocket inside, a deep slip pocket, and mesh bottle/umbrella pockets on each side. The straps are padded and adjustable, while the chest strap prevents the bag from sliding.
Dual zipper pulls on the main zipper and a D ring on the front make this backpack user-friendly. It has also received positive reviews for its features and design.
Product Specs:
- Made of water-resistant polyester fabric
- Designed for kids 3 to 8 years old, also suitable for adults who need a small pack
- Padded shoulder straps with a chest strap for comfortable support
- Small size: 14.5 inches x 9.0 inches x 6.0 inches, capacity: 14L
- Medium size: 15.5 inches x 10.0 inches x 7.0 inches, capacity: 20L
Pros:
- Lightweight and firm enough
- Perfect for day hiking, camping, theme parks, zoo/museum visits, and other outdoor adventures
- Plenty of space inside for clothing, hat, water bottle, snacks, and other essentials
- Safety features include a toy whistle on the chest strap and reflective strips
- User-friendly features and design
Cons:
- Thin fabric, not expected to last long
- Limited pockets
Deuter Schmusebar Backpack
- DESIGNED FOR: The Schumusebar is perfect for kids ages 3 and up who love adventure; ideal as a daypack, hiking backpack or trekking rucksack. With many fun designs to choose from including pirate ship, forest, butterfly, princess & unicorn and bears.
- CONTACT SYSTEM: The ergonomically shaped back cushions of the Contact System hug the back and distribute the weight of heavy loads evenly, relieving the back for ensured comfort and even load transfer.
Deuter’s Schmusebar Backpack is perfect for kids aged 3 and up, offering a comfortable and even load distribution, 3D Airmesh lining for ventilation, and stretch side pockets for extra storage. Crafted from 600D PES for durability, this backpack is ideal for daily use, hiking, and trekking.
It comes in a variety of fun designs and features a Contact System to provide comfort and ensure an even weight distribution.
The 3D Airmesh lining keeps your child cool and comfortable, and the stretch side pockets are great for additional storage. This backpack is lightweight at just 10.2 ounces and is suitable for preschoolers and toddlers. With dimensions of 6.3 x 7.87 x 12.6 inches, it has plenty of room to store everyday items.
The Deuter Schmusebar Backpack is easy to use and provides freedom and security for your child. It’s perfect for day trips, hikes, and treks.
Product Specs:
- Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 7.87 x 12.6 inches
- Item Weight: 10.2 ounces
- Department: Youth
- Manufacturer: Deuter
- ASIN: B07NZ669S8
- Item model number: 361202023110
Pros:
- Various fun designs to choose from
- Comfort and even load distribution
- 3D Airmesh lining for ventilation
- Stretch side pockets for additional storage
- Lightweight and durable
- Suitable for preschoolers and toddlers
Cons:
- No product warranty information available
Why Get A Backpack For Your Toddler
Giving your toddler a backpack helps them take ownership of their outdoor experience, and teaches them responsibility for nature.
A backpack provides them with a sense of belonging and encourages them to learn how to be self-sufficient.
Plus, it trains them to be prepared for any hike, as an adult would be.
What To Look For In A Toddler Packpack
When it comes to selecting a toddler backpack, there are a few key factors to consider.
| Benefits | Safety Features |
|---|---|
| Durable construction | Adjustable straps |
| Padded back and shoulder straps | Reflective safety strips |
| Design options | Child-sized straps |
| Weatherproof material | Waist and chest straps |
First and foremost, age and size are important for ensuring safety and comfort during hikes. Make sure the backpack is proportionate to your child’s frame and age-appropriate.
Also, check the volume and capacity of the bag to make sure it can hold all the essentials. Adjustability is essential too, as this ensures the backpack can be used for a longer period of time.
Lastly, consider your budget – look for a backpack that is both affordable and functional. Keep in mind safety features, age considerations, size concerns, and comfort level to make the most out of your outdoor adventure.
What To Pack In Your Childs Backpack
Packing the right items in your child’s backpack is essential for a successful outdoor adventure! A lightweight backpack with comfort features is key, as well as age appropriate designs and safety considerations.
To provide your toddler with an enjoyable and safe outdoor experience, here are three things to consider packing in their backpack:
- Snacks – Make sure to include some healthy snacks such as protein bars, trail mix, or fruit.
- First Aid Kit – A first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and bug spray.
- Sun Protection – A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for protecting your child from the sun.
- Their favorite toy or stuffed animal
- Ipad or electronic device (although our recommendation is to leave those behind so you child will learn to love the outdoors)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Backpacks For Toddlers
Does this hiking backpack for toddlers come with a zippered pocket?
Yes, most hiking backpack for toddlers is equipped with a convenient zippered pocket. The zippered pocket allows you to securely store essential items such as snacks, small toys, or personal belongings that you may need quick access to during your hiking adventures.
Does this backpack provide lots of storage space?
Absolutely! This hiking backpacks we reviewed have ample storage space to accommodate all the essentials needed for a hiking trip. In addition to the main compartment, which can hold extra clothing layers, snacks, or water bottles, there are multiple pockets and compartments to organize smaller items and keep them easily accessible during your adventures.
Is there a specific age range for this hiking backpack?
While these hiking backpack iare designed for toddlers, it is important to note that every child’s development and physical abilities vary. Generally, this backpack is suitable for toddlers aged 2 to 5 years. However, it is crucial to consider your toddler’s size, comfort, and ability to handle the backpack’s weight before embarking on any outdoor activity.
Can this backpack be adjusted for a perfect fit?
Yes, but make sure to check product specification for details. Each of these hiking backpack for toddlers features adjustable shoulder straps and a chest strap, allowing you to customize the fit according to your child’s size and comfort. It ensures a secure and snug fit, preventing the backpack from sliding or causing discomfort during hiking trips.
Is this hiking backpack suitable for other outdoor activities apart from hiking?
Absolutely! This versatile hiking backpack for toddlers is suitable for various outdoor activities beyond hiking. It can be used for family picnics, day trips to the park, or even as a school bag. Its functionality, durability, and ample storage make it a reliable companion for any adventure or everyday use.
Do these Backpacks Come With a Warranty?
You will have to check with each specific manufacturer, but most offer a guarantee on the materials used and weight capacity. Customers have given positive reviews about the quality of the backpacks we reviewed.
Before You Go
Ending your search for the perfect hiking backpack for your toddler doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With our top 5 picks and a few simple guidelines, you can find the perfect pack for your little explorer.
You’ll be packing them up in no time, ready to embark on a journey of discovery. Think of it as launching them on a voyage of discovery, just like sending a ship off into the horizon.
With the right backpack, your child will be ready for any adventure that comes their way.
- Skurka, Andrew (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- Audible Audiobook
- Katie Gerber (Author) – Marie Jenkins (Narrator)
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