10 Best Hiking Baby Carriers 2026 in the United States

The Thule Sapling Child Carrier Backpack is a strong contender in the hiking baby carrier category, offering several notable features. The weight capacity is suitable for most children, and the carrier itself weighs 7 pounds, making it relatively lightweight for parents to carry.

Comfort is a major strength, with an ergonomic seat that provides ample under-leg support for the child and a ventilated back panel to keep both child and parent cool. The adjustable padded straps ensure a good fit for parents of various sizes, enhancing comfort during long hikes. Safety features include a self-standing frame, which provides stability when placing the carrier on the ground, and an easily deployable UPF 50 sunshade to protect the child from harmful UV rays. The removable, machine washable seat and drool pad make cleaning up simple and convenient.

Storage is well addressed with a 22L gear compartment accessible through side zippers, allowing parents to access their essentials without removing the pack. However, some accessories like additional storage or weather protection are sold separately, which could be a drawback for those looking for an all-inclusive package. The adjustability of the carrier is another positive, with features that can be tailored to suit different parents and children. The Thule Sapling Child Carrier Backpack excels in comfort, safety, and ease of use, with minor drawbacks related to the need for additional purchases for extra features.

The Osprey Poco LT Lightweight Child Carrier Backpack is designed with several thoughtful features that cater to both the child and the carrier's needs during hiking adventures. One of its standout features is the built-in sunshade, which offers UPF 50 sun protection and can be conveniently stored and deployed from a dedicated zippered pocket, ensuring your child is shielded from harmful rays. The lightweight folding frame is a patented stainless steel design that allows for easy travel and storage, thanks to its compact folding capability, while still providing a stable platform for your child when set down. This feature makes the carrier highly portable and practical for on-the-go families.

Additionally, the inclusion of large zippered pockets, stretch mesh compartments, and a zippered lower storage compartment provides ample storage space for essentials, which is a significant plus for hiking trips. Comfort seems to be well-addressed through the injection-molded AirScape Framesheet, which likely contributes to better ventilation and support for the carrier.

In summary, the Osprey Poco LT Lightweight Child Carrier Backpack offers convenience and portability with its innovative frame and ample storage options, making it a solid choice for hiking families.

The Osprey Poco SLT Lightweight Child Carrier Backpack is a compelling choice for parents who love hiking. One of its major strengths is the lightweight folding frame, which makes it easy to carry and store, without compromising on stability. The frame locks securely to provide a safe platform for the child. The adjustable fit feature is versatile, allowing for quick adjustments to suit different body types, which can be a big plus during hikes.

Additionally, the backpack includes practical storage options with zippered upper and lower compartments, and a hydration sleeve, making it convenient to carry essentials and stay hydrated on the go. When it comes to comfort and fit, the adjustable straps and torso length adjustment enhance comfort for the wearer. At a weight of 4.63 pounds, some may find it slightly on the heavier side compared to other models. The design and materials used promote breathability.

Safety is well addressed with the stable frame system. The ease of use is evident with features like adjustable straps and the folding frame, making it user-friendly for setting up and storing. In terms of customer feedback, the carrier has received positive reviews, averaging 4.2 out of 5 stars, indicating general satisfaction. This child carrier might not be the best for those looking for an ultra-light option, but it stands out for its durability, adjustability, and practical storage features. It is particularly suitable for parents looking for a robust and versatile hiking carrier for their child.