Looking for the top baby carriers for for hiking trips?
Perfect, you’re in the right place!
In this BabySchooling guide, you will learn the following:
- Our recommended and favorite carriers to go hiking with your baby
- Detailed research on the high-quality hiking baby carriers and their pros and cons
- And much more!
Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about each and specific details!
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Our Overall #1 Rated Pick
(updated as of 2/6/2020)
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Deuter Kid Comfort Pro
- Padded shoulder straps
- 48 pounds weight capacity
- Adjustable waist belt made for all shapes and sizes
Not a new name in the field of outdoor accessories, Deuter comfort has managed to get itself recognized as the pioneer of outdoor accessories by creating high-quality products.
With a history of serving customers through trendy and classy products and a vision of outdoing itself through better and enhanced performance, this brand keeps on growing every day with uncountable loyal customers.
It is no surprise that extensive and reliable research has shown that the children backpack by Deuter Kid Comfort is the most favorite item for both parents and toddlers.
The first look at this hiking backpack will fool you into thinking that it is like all other similar products, however that is not the case. The carrier is filled with soft foaming which will protect your body from every sort of negative impact.
Toddlers feel extra safe in this carrier as it allows them a good view and lets them fulfill their curiosity about knowing about the outside world. The carrier is so comfy that after a long day, the moment you place your baby in it-they will go into instant deep sleep.
This carrier does not have any complicated coverings and hence putting the babies in and taking them out is a hassle-free task.
Deuter Kid Comfort has been divided into different compartments and each compartment has a specific purpose. The features of this carrier are not only to facilitate the movement of children, but it also has features which would satisfy the parents as well.
For instance, the hip belt of these carriers is free size and thus accommodates people of every body shape and size. Even though you are using the carrier, at the end of the day you still have the burden of the young ones on your shoulders (literally!) and this could get tiring.
The Deuter comfort baby hiking carrier is lightweight and will make you feel as if you are carrying something as light as a feather.
Top Best Baby Carriers for Hiking
Short on time? We understand. Check out this quick overview of our favorite baby carriers for hiking.
- Deuter Kid Comfort Pro
- ClevrPlus Cross Country Baby Backpack
- Thule Sapling Child Carrier
- Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier
- Kelty Journey Perfectfit Child Carrier
What Is A Baby Carrier Made For Hiking (Are They Any Different)?
The philosophy behind a regular baby backpack carriers and a hiking baby carrier is the same that is to provide you with the ease of carrying your bundle of joy in a safer and secure way. However, both of these devices are constructed in a manner that makes them different from each other.
A hiking baby carrier has a heavy-duty and an ergonomic frame and adjustability that we do not find in a regular carrier. Moreover, since a regular carrier is designed to be used in a different environment, therefore, it has less storage space and not many advanced features that we find in hiking baby carriers.
These differences are the main cause of a drastic difference in the price of these products. A regular carrier is less expensive and that is why many people prefer to use them for hiking as well and save money. Hiking carriers tend to be a bit pricey but they are a life-long item.
Read Also:What are the best baby carriers for dads?
Should You Even Use a Baby Carrier While Hiking?
Yes, using a baby carrier during day hikes is the wisest choice you would make. Hiking, trekking, and camping are all adventurous activities, and more than that they are done in places that are out of your comfort zone and completely new for the little one.
While you might be a seasoned and experienced hiker yourself, there is no guarantee that things will go smoothly with a baby in such an environment especially if you make the mistake of going without a carrier.
Like regular carriers, the biggest benefit of a hiking carrier is that it will give the wearer the opportunity to get out, rather than fretting about leaving your young one behind with a nanny-you can easily pick them up and make them a part of your journey. You still might be skeptical about this decision as taking babies along means taking their toy friends and accessories-well, a hiking carrier is an answer to that as well.
All hiking carriers are designed to bear not only the weight of your baby but, additionally they have several mesh pockets, water bottle holders, and zippered compartment which can be used for storing items. Another concern you might have could be that going on hiking with babies, their carriers, and their stuff means an awful amount of weight on your back and it might just ruin the entire purpose of hiking by making you tired.
Read Also: Which baby carrier is good for a bad lower back?
That is a genuine concern and that is all the more reason why you should use a baby carrier while hiking. Carriers are intended to be lightweight and easy to carry so that you can enjoy a perfect family outing.
Are There Different Types of Baby Carriers For Hiking?
Hiking baby carriers can be categorized into the following types:
Soft carriers
You can use the soft cloth panel of these carriers to fasten the baby against your body. The shoulder straps are padded and so is the waist belt. You can tighten it up with clips or belts.
These carriers are used by a lot of parents as they are less costly and with the benefits it gives; it is sure worth every dime. Similarly, you can adjust these carriers and wear them in the front or on your back, either way, they will give you easy access to the young ones.
Also, these carriers are multipurpose and hence they are not only to be used for hiking, rather you can use them in other settings as well. One reason why many users feel comfortable with these carriers is that they consider these carriers to be easy to use and do not have any complicated features.
Read Also:Which baby carrier is good for breastfeeding your baby?
Framed hiking baby bag packs
The framed hiking baby carriers represent a modern version of traditional hiking baby carriers. The main difference between these baby carriers and soft carriers is that these have a seat with a suspension system.
The biggest advantage of these carriers is that they offer a lot more space in comparison to other carriers. Similarly, there are good quality accessories that will provide safety to the little ones from changing and unpredictable weather conditions.
Soft wrap
These traditional carriers consist of a long piece of material that you can wrap around your body and put your baby in it.
Meh dai or Mei Tai
A famous commodity used in Asian countries, it consists mainly of a panel of fabric which you can tie around the baby. It has two padded straps that can be placed around the waist and also two shoulder padded straps.
What To Look For When Buying A Baby Carrier For Hiking?
Finding the perfect baby hiking carrier for your little ones can be stressful and frustrating. To help you in your search we have compiled a list of features which you should look out for in a carrier:
- Fabric-most baby carriers are made from nylon, however, when you are selecting a carrier, choose a carrier that has a material that can be cleaned easily and is moisture resistant.
- Fasteners-the the main feature that makes a carrier special is buckles, fasteners, and straps. Buckles should be of high quality and adjustable. Moreover, these buckles and fasteners should be so strong that the little ones cannot easily open them.
- Storage pocket-a carrier with a sufficient amount of pockets and storage facility is the one you should buy instantly. Zippered pouches are ideal as things will not fall out from them. Pockets with plastic lining are useful for storing damp objects.
- Sun/weather shield-every parent wants to keep their babies from every sort of harmful element. Baby skin is very sensitive and needs extreme care-therefore, many carriers are built with sun/weather shield. However, if your selected carrier does not have a sun shield then you can buy those individually and add it.
- Leg openings– a very important factor is that a carrier should have leg-openings. These openings should not be so big and wide that the baby can slip out.
- Padding-the metal frame of the carrier should be padded, this padding should be soft and comfortable but not mushy.
Are Baby Carriers Safe While On Hikes?
Yes! Baby carriers are safe to use for hiking.
The main purpose of the production of these carriers is to ensure your and the child’s safety. However, you should not keep your hopes on a carrier without doing any research.
A carrier with cheap quality material, faulty construction, fewer features is of no use, and a worthless investment and also an uncalculated risk. A safe carrier must have a lightweight, strong frame, sturdy seating, adjustable and padded straps, and belts.
Professionals have recommended that if your infant has a serious illness then you should avoid using a carrier. Mothers should also avoid carrying the baby or older children back through carriers if they are still in their postpartum period.
Products Reviewed
Deuter Kid Comfort Pro
Deuter Comfort Company is one of the leading brands for baby products. Their outdoor items are second to none and have become essential for every family with young ones. Their hiking carrier pro series is a recent addition to their ever-growing family of baby accessories.
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The pro is easy to wear and has adjustable and padded shoulder straps. For increased airflow, the straps are ventilated. A new feature has been added to the padded waistband known as “vari-flex”.
This feature lets the pack move freely and independently from the waistband. You can adjust the waistband with forward pull-straps. The back of this carrier also has padding and breathable mesh which will allow better airflow.
The storage capacity of this bag pack is amazing. The different pockets and storage pouches will give you space sufficient enough to fit anything.
Moreover, to keep you healthy and hydrated-there are pockets with water bottles on either side of the pack which you can reach to easily.
The child seat of this carrier is spacious and can be adjusted through the adjustment option under the face pad. The face pad is soft and thick; you can remove it easily and clean it up.
Additionally, you get a canopy with this carrier to protect the young ones from harsh weather conditions, this canopy is easy to attach and detach.
Pros
- It comes with maximum storage capacity.
- The seat of the carrier can be adjusted.
- The padded straps provide comfort in wearing
Cons
- It gets uncomfortable to wear with heavier children.
- The slim design of some of the pouches makes it difficult to place things in.
Clevrplus cross country baby backpack
Clevrplus is famous for its uncompromising quality control system when it comes to baby products; their new cross country baby bag pack is no exception to this rule.
The frame of this carrier is 5.5 pounds but it is strong enough to carry the weight of the baby and more.
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Like every carrier, this also has shoulder straps and waistbands, but these straps and bands stand out as they are padded with lumbar padding which absorbs the body heat, sweat, and moisture and keep you cool.
You do not need to worry about the unpredictability of weather when wearing this carrier, as it has a canopy that will guard you and your little rider from scorching heat and rain. With the foot stirrups and additional safety belt, you can be assured that your little one is in a safe space.
This carrier can be used for children up to 4 years, you can adjust the seat according to the growing height of your child. The seat has a drool pad that is soft and comfortable as well as a headrest for napping.
Pros
- It can be used for children aged up to 4 years.
- It also has a one year warranty.
- It comes in different colors.
Cons
- The pockets have fragile zippers.
- The stitching quality of the Velcro is poor.
Thule Sapling Child Carrier
If you are looking for a hiking baby carrier that is affordable and has various features, then the Thule Sapling Child Carrier is the perfect candidate.
The storage capacity of this carrier is designed to be humongous as it has two main storage compartments consisting of an upper detachable backpack and a lower storage compartment.
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You can use the upper compartment for heavier and bigger items whereas; the lower compartment should be reserved for keeping smaller and lighter products. You also get two pockets on the hip belt which can be used to keep essentials.
With a capacity of bearing weight up to 48 pounds, these carriers are easy to wear and extremely comfortable. They can be adjusted according to the height of the users and you can easily switch them up with your partner without going through the hassle of tiring and lengthy adjustment procedures.
The kickstand of this carrier is a winner and has been the most favorite feature of parents. The sturdy kickstand can be used to let the child relax also as you take a break from intensive hiking.
Pros
- It has a sturdy kickstand
- It can bear weight up to 48 pounds.
- It comes with two spacious storage compartments.
Cons
- The kickstand is difficult to deploy.
Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier
The vibrantly colorful, comfortable to wear Osprey Poco child carrier is a must-have item to enjoy long hikes and trekking trips.
The cockpit is well built and is comfortable for the little one to sit. You can adjust the seat up and down easily and the straps are padded, soft, and convenient to close and open.
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Moreover, for ease of your child-this carrier has a foot stirrup which has utility since children can stretch and move their legs with ease.
This carrier has an in-built sunshade, which can be deployed easily and quickly. This sunshade will keep your child feeling cool and protected from the extreme sunlight.
You can store up all baby products and essentials, in the wide and large pockets and storage compartments. The bottom frame has a big storage area with another storage area behind the child’s cockpit.
This carrier has a drool pad that will keep your child neat and clean from drool and spit. You can easily remove this pad and clean it with ease.
Pros
- The hip belts have strong zips.
- It has a built-in sunshade.
Cons
- The zippered pockets on the hip belt are too small.
Kelty Journey Perfectfit Child Carrier
The Kelty Child carrier has been selected by users as the most compact and extremely affordable item to have for a happy hike with the young ones.
The aluminum frame of this carrier is lightweight and reliable. The mesh coverings and straps make this carrier extremely comfortable to wear and easy to carry and walk around.
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Additionally, the frame is also foldable and the weight distribution is excellent.
It has multiple handles which will give you a strong grip over the item and allow you to lift it and carry it with convenience.
The cockpit is designed with a soft and smooth material and will instantly become the favorite spot for your baby. The sides of the cockpit have a mesh hip belt with pockets to keep and store items.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to wear.
- It will give you the security of a strong grip with its multiple handles.
Cons
- It does not have a canopy for protection from sunlight and rain.
Our Top Pick: Deuter Kid Comfort Pro
Not a new name in the field of outdoor accessories, Deuter comfort has managed to get itself recognized as the pioneer of outdoor accessories by creating high-quality products.
With a history of serving customers through trendy and classy products and a vision of outdoing itself through better and enhanced performance, this brand keeps on growing every day with uncountable loyal customers.
It is no surprise that extensive and reliable research has shown that the children backpack by Deuter Kid Comfort is the most favorite item for both parents and toddlers.
The first look at this hiking backpack will fool you into thinking that it is like all other similar products, however that is not the case. The carrier is filled with soft foaming which will protect your body from every sort of negative impact.
[amazon box=”B07JP4B9V8″ template=”widget-vertical” title=” ” tracking_id=”bbyschool-10-20″ button=”none” description=” “]
Final Thoughts…
A hiking baby carrier has been one of the most innovative inventions in the field of baby products. These carriers have made it easy for parents to go out and about with their little ones and enjoy a perfect family day out.
Our recommended products will give you the confidence to roam freely thanks to the safety they provide. We hope that this guide has assisted you in making the right choice and that you are as excited as we are for your “baby’s day out” trip.
