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Baby Backpack Carriers
Baby backpack carriers are the undisputed leader when it comes to regular use for hiking and longer trips compared to all other types of baby carriers on the market. Don't be surprised to see hikers with babies in front carriers too, as they introduce their littlest ones to the sights and sounds of the wilderness. These kid carriers are ideal for the adventurous outdoor loving parent blessed with a new infant, but feeling trapped by the delicate duties it entails. With this knowledge, we recommend going with a brand that specializes in outdoor equipment, as well as child safety features. So strap your little ones in and take it to the trails once again, as you set out on an excursion the whole family can enjoy.
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| Baby backpack carriers are similar to hiking and camping-style backpacks, but with a seat for your baby instead of a storage compartment for gear. They come in a variety of sizes and models, with plenty of optional features. |
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Most are supported by a lightweight aluminum frame that helps distribute your child's weight evenly over your shoulders and hips which allows for better balance. Others, that are frameless, are just as effective, but more compact, lightweight, and rely on an elaborate suspension system to secure the child in comfortably. It’s really a matter of preference when it comes to choosing a baby backpack carrier that’s right for you.
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| Make sure to take into consideration your level of fitness, the duration and difficulty of hike, and your particular body size. We have provided some helpful information on the different types of baby backpack carriers available. |
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External Frame Baby Backpack Carriers
Most external frame baby backpack carriers are self-standing, making it easy to "drop" the child straight into the harness system. You can put your child in a baby backpack carrier as soon as he's ready to sit up on his own and hold his head up, usually at around age 5 or 6 months. Until then, stick with a front-style carrier. (Some front carriers convert to baby backpack carriers, too.)
Using a baby backpack carrier can take some getting used to. When you first buy one, take some time to make all the necessary adjustments for fit and comfort. If the weight isn't distributed properly, if your back instead of your hips and legs are bearing too much of the weight, for example, then you need to adjust the pack.
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Let's not forget that Kelty, the pioneer among baby backpack carriers, has been around for a long time and is still going strong today as well.
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Internal Frame Baby Backpack Carriers
The use of internal stays instead of an external frame in baby backpack carriers has some benefits and some drawbacks. The main benefit is that the pack is much lighter than an external frame pack of a similar volume. It also means the pack can be stowed more easily in a car or closet. The downside of not having an external frame is that you can't put the pack directly on the ground to load or unload the child, or to take a break. It is easiest to load a child into these baby backpack carriers if one parent is wearing the pack while the other secures the child into the harness system. We might add, that a nearby tree makes for a good prop-up when taking a break during hiking.
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We have found that the Deuter Kangakid Convertible Daypack Child Carrier  is one of the most brilliant designs for air travel or hiking with a small child when you also need a lot of room for gear! This multi-functional pack quickly transforms into a baby backpack carrier when your young explorer gets too tired to walk on!
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| Be aware that load carrying is also limited by the suspension design of the internal frame baby backpack carrier. Whereas an external frame pack from Kelty or Sherpani can carry 50 pounds or more, Deuter's recommended weight limit of 33 pounds for the KangaKid is pretty accurate. With clothes, diapers, wipes, food, etc., you actually will get closer to the 40 pound mark. The frame and suspension components of the KangaKid are plenty strong enough to handle the weight, but be careful of the torso fit, loads over 35 pounds may be uncomfortable for some pack users. This makes it an ideal choice for a younger infant or one lighter in weight. |
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Front-Style Carrier
A front carrier basically consists of two shoulder straps supporting a fabric seat. This carrier cuddles your baby against your chest and provides mobility and an incomparable feeling of closeness, as compared to baby backpack carriers. Baby doctors agree that front carriers or slings actually promote bonding and can also help lower the risk of postpartum depression for moms. What’s more is that many dads sing the praises of front carriers and slings because they provide the chance to spend long periods of one-on-one time with their infants.
These carriers can usually take you through the first several months of hiking in your baby's life. By the time your baby weighs 15 or 20 pounds, he/she may put too heavy a load on your shoulders and make it too cumbersome for hiking. If you buy a front carrier, get one that enables your baby to face both inward (to combat overstimulation and foster sleep) and outward (to allow him to take in the sights). The Baby Bjorn is a good example.
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Important Safety Features to Consider
Most importantly, make sure the baby backpack carrier is of sound design and quality structure and durability with all safety features intact for your child. There have been some recalls on baby backpack carriers, so make sure the leg holes are not too big that the child slips through, and ensure that the suspension harness is not one that could entangle your child.
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Here Are 5 Important Tips For Choosing a Baby Backpack Carrier
Comfort: You'll want to make sure that the pack is comfortable for you and your child. Try it on and make sure it's not too heavy. With your child inside, feel how the weight is distributed; does your neck or back feel strained, or does the weight sit nicely on your hips? Are all the straps (shoulder, waist) well padded?
Safety: Baby backpack carriers should have a safety harness for your child. One that clasps across his chest and over his shoulders is safest. Most have a five point harness system to secure your baby in.
Versatility: Choose a pack with an adjustable inside seat, so your child will be able to use it as he grows. A removable canopy is nice for sunny or drizzly days, and a removable plastic rain cover is handy for unexpected downpours. Some models offer lots of storage options, with pockets of all sizes for cell phones, water bottles, diapers, etc., and some have loops for attaching toys.
Easy to Use: Practice putting on and taking off the pack. Choose the baby backpack carrier that’s easiest for you to handle.
Easy to Clean: The fabric should be durable and easy to wipe clean. Some packs have fabric that's removable for washing.
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Finally, before doing a lot of walking with a baby backpack carrier, be in good physical shape. It's easy to underestimate, but you'll need a strong back, hips and quadriceps to lug around a baby. Stay within the recommended weight limits. When your child outgrows the baby backpack carrier, stop using it. And even though baby backpack carriers can give you the freedom to venture where strollers can't, lend extra caution hiking in areas where you won't have firm footing, such as hiking on wet rocks, big boulders, icy terrain, or manmade bridges over streams.
Happy trails to you as you travel along building strong family ties, thanks to baby backpack carriers!
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