Best Baby Carriers for Hiking of 2022

Updated on October 13, 2020

You want to share your love of hiking with the newest member of your family. The easiest way to make hiking a natural part of your family time is to get your baby used to your favorite activity from the very beginning. To do that, you need a reliable baby carrier, so that’s why we’ve put together this list of the best baby carriers for hiking.

These hiking baby carriers allow you to bring your baby to the trails from the first day you decide to bring them along until they can hike on their own two legs. Your little one can take in the smells, sights, and sounds of nature and maybe even get in a good nap from their safe perch, close to you. Find the baby carrier that suits your lifestyle!

For more of our top hiking gear recommendations, check out the Best Hiking Backpacks for Kids. 

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Quick Answer – The Best Baby Carriers for Hiking

Kelty Journey PerfectFit EliteView at REIOsprey Poco AG PlusView at AmazonDeuter Kid Comfort ProView at BackcountryDeuter Kid Comfort 1View at REIThule SaplingView at REIKelty Journey PerfectFIT SignatureView at BackcountryLÍLLÉbaby Complete All SeasonsView at AmazonChicco Smartsupport BackpackView at AmazonClevrplus Cross CountryView at AmazonLuvdbaby PremiumView at Amazon

 

Comparison Table – Best Baby Carrier for Hiking

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Name	Weight Limit	Style	Sunshade	Price	Rating	Review
Kelty Journey PerfectFit Elite	50 lb	Backpack	Yes	$$$	4.5	Read Review
Osprey Poco AG Plus	48.5 lb	Baby back carrier	Yes	$$$	4.5	Read Review
Deuter Kid Comfort Pro	48 lb 8 oz	Backpack	Yes	$$$	5.0	Read Review
Deuter Kid Comfort 1	48.5 lb	Backpack	No	$$	4.8	Read Review
Thule Sapling	48 lb	Back Child Carrier	Yes	$$$	4.3	Read Review
Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Signature	50 lb	Backpack	Yes	$$	4.3	Read Review
LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons	45 lb	Front and Back Carrier	No	$	4.3	Read Review
Chicco Smartsupport Backpack	40 lb	Backpack	Yes	$	4.4	Read Review
Clevrplus Cross Country	40 lb	Baby Back Carrier	Yes	$	4.3	Read Review
Luvdbaby Premium	40 lb	Backpack	Yes	$$	4.6	Read Review
Name	Weight Limit	Style	Sunshade	Price	Rating	Review

 

Reviews – The Best Hiking Baby Carriers

Kelty Journey PerfectFit Elite

Specs

Material: PolyesterWeight: 7 lb 4 ozStyle: BackpackWeight Limit: 50 lbSunshade: YesWaist Size: 33-51.5”

Features

Adjustable Suspension System, Load Lifter Straps, And Sternum Straps Distribute The Load Five-point Safety Harness And Roll Cage Protect Your Precious CargoBuilt-in Sunshade Alleviates Heat And Harmful UV RaysIncredible Storage Capacity Within The 9 Compartments, Including A Wipeable “Dirty” PocketWide Child Seat Base, Washable Drool Pad, And Adjustable Stirrups

BEST FOR: TOUGH TERRAIN

Your child’s safety is one of your main priorities in life right now, and compromising it isn’t an option. That’s why the Journey PerfectFIT Elite is one of your top choices, especially on unpredictable terrain. Similar to a car seat, the five-point safety harness keeps your baby from slipping one way or another. 

The carrier also incorporates a roll cage into its aluminum frame. This helps keep your baby unscathed if you happen to lose your footing. The reliable kickstand allows you to load and unload your baby by yourself without the struggle. Just note your child may not fit as well in the carrier with a winter coat as it’s designed more for mild to warm weather.

View at REIView at Backcountry

Osprey Poco AG Plus

Specs

Material: Ripstop nylonWeight: 7 lb 11 ozStyle: Baby back carrierWeight Limit: 48.5 lbSunshade: YesWaist Size: 24-50”

Features

Pressure-Relieving Suspension SystemPadded Cockpit With Adjustable Seat Height And StirrupsRemovable Drool Pad Catches Spit-UpFleece-Lined Child Safety HarnessSeven Storage Compartments Throughout

BEST FOR: LONG-TERM USE

This baby carrier grows with your child, accommodating little babies up to 40+ lb toddlers. You can adjust the seat height, harness, and stirrups each hiking season until your child is able to walk on his or her own. You can both collect memories from now until then.

You’ll notice you can handle the accumulating miles through the years too. Just think: as your child gets bigger, your hiking muscles gradually get stronger. You can think of your kid as your training partner. At the same time, the top-notch suspension system, padded straps, and padded hip belt take it easy on your back so those miles are more pleasure than pressure.

View at Amazon

Deuter Kid Comfort Pro

Specs

Material: Polyamide PolyesterWeight: 8 lb 5 ozStyle: BackpackWeight Limit: 48 lb 8 ozSunshade: YesWaist Size: 24-54”

Features

Back-saving Suspension System, Arched Frame, And Padded Load Adjustment StrapsEasy Adjustable Torso Length (15-20”)Removable Day Pack And Numerous Pockets ThroughoutHeight- And Width-Adjustable Baby SeatRemovable Side Cushions And Pillow Promote Trail Naps

BEST FOR: HOT-WEATHER HIKING

Carrying a child on a summer day sounds stifling, but the right child carrier can make that trip totally doable. The sunshade, ventilated cabin, and breathable back and straps keep airflow moving so neither you nor your passenger overheats in hot weather. The long side compartment holds your water bladder too, so you both stay hydrated. 

Feel free to plan an all-day excursion while you’re at it. The removable day pack and collection of pockets hold everything you could possibly need, from diapers to lunches. Your baby can even take a nap behind you inside the cushy cockpit. See that? No more cutting your plans short to get home for naptime!

View at Backcountry

Deuter Kid Comfort 1

Specs

Material: PolyesterWeight: 5 lb 7 ozStyle: BackpackWeight Limit: 48.5 lbSunshade: NoWaist Size: 22-56”

Features

Specialty Ventilated Back System Promotes AirflowAdjustable Back And Seat Height For Baby And MeFive-Point Safety Harness Grows With Your ChildStorage Includes A Large Main Compartment, Front Pocket, And Mesh PocketSelf-Supported Aluminum Kickstand

BEST FOR: RURAL TO URBAN ADVENTURES

Pushing a stroller through crowded parks and pavement can be a hassle. And the Kid Comfort 1 is your ticket out of strollering. Carrying your kid on your back is way more convenient–and cooler–than the constant stroller hustle. Plus your kid will get a kick out of riding on mommy or daddy’s back.

When you run away to the trails on the weekend, you can grab your trusty Kid Comfort 1 for that too. You should have enough oomph and storage for at least a half-day in the woods. The only drawback is this version doesn’t come with a sunshade but it has a spot for one, which you can purchase separately.

View at REI

Thule Sapling

Specs

Material: NylonWeight: 7 lb 8 ozStyle: Back Child CarrierWeight Limit: 48 lbSunshade: YesWaist Size: 27-49”

Features

Adjustable Torso Length, Load Stabilizer Straps, And Hip Belt For Shared CarryingErgonomic Child Seat With Adjustable Stirrups Provides Thigh SupportTop- And Side-Loading CapabilitiesPull-Out Sunroof Shades Them From The Peak SunComes With A Large Front Pocket, Hip Belt Pockets, And A Water Reservoir Sleeve

BEST FOR: ONE-PERSON LOADING

One of the drawbacks of many child carriers is that you often need help to load your child in and out of the carrier. Not so with the Sapling. You can load your child from either the side or the top by yourself. The aluminum kickstand helps with the process too. You can set the pack firmly on the ground to get your baby in and out.

Most of the main pockets are within reach for you too, so you don’t have to stop or ask someone else every time you need something. If you plan to do a lot of hiking or sightseeing by yourself, this would be an ideal choice. However, if someone else does come along and share the carrying duties with you, then everything can be adjusted to their size too.

View at REI

Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Signature

Specs

Material: PolyesterWeight: 6 lb 6 ozStyle: BackpackWeight Limit: 50 lbSunshade: YesWaist Size: 34-51.5”

Features

Five-Point Harness And Padded, Aluminum-Framed Roll CagePlush Cabin With Wide Child Seat Base And Adjustable Stirrups Integrated Sunshade Provides Sun ProtectionSuspension System, Load-Lifter Straps, And Sternum Straps Distribute The WeightComes With A Zippered Main Compartment And 3 Additional Pockets

BEST FOR: LONG-DISTANCE HIKES

If you think you can’t manage a long-distance hike with a child on your back, you haven’t tried the Journey PerfectFIT Signature carrier yet. The carrier does everything it can to relieve pressure on your back. It has a suspension system and load-lifter straps absorb impact from every step while the sternum straps and waist belt take some of the weight off your shoulders.

If you happen to lose your footing, the built-in roll cage helps keep your kid from jostling around. Even on solid ground, the cocoon-like effect of the roll cage and sun flap help your baby feel secure enough to fall asleep. No more missed nap times!

View at Backcountry

LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons

Specs

Material: CottonWeight: 1.6 lbStyle: Front and Back CarrierWeight Limit: 45 lbSunshade: NoWaist Size: up to 52”

Features

Six Ergonomic Carrying Positions: Fetal, Infant Inward, Toddler Inward, Outward, Hip, BackAdjustable Side Panels For Healthy Hip PositioningLarge Storage Pocket For Baby EssentialsHeadrest And Removable Sleeping HoodPadded Adjustable Straps And Lumbar Support For Parents

BEST FOR: SHORT VENTURES WITH AN INFANT

As a new parent, just taking a walk around the block is a “hike” for you. You still want to get outside with your baby, but you’re not quite ready to venture into the wilderness yet. That’s the LÍLLÉbaby sweet spot. You can take a quiet stroll on paved park pathways to get out of the house while you nuzzle your baby close. Though this isn’t your traditional hiking carrier, many parents prefer a carrier like this on the trails to hold their babies close and keep their heads protected.

You can certainly keep carrying your child as they grow too. The 45 lb capacity lets you give your toddler a piggyback ride through your local trails when they get too tired to walk. You may not bring this carrier on long trips, but short casual strolls are just as sweet.

View at Amazon

Chicco Smartsupport Backpack

Specs

Material: unknownWeight: 6 lb 6 ozStyle: BackpackWeight Limit: 40 lbSunshade: YesWaist Size: unknown

Features

Adjustable Seat Positions And Five-Point HarnessTechnical Lumbar Padding For Back SupportAdjustable, Padded Shoulder And Hip StrapsLightweight Aluminum Frame Folds Flat For StoragePull-Out Sunroof Provides Shade

BEST FOR: CURIOUS, ALERT KIDS

This baby carrier gives your child a little extra wiggle room and holds them up higher, which is perfect for kids who love to look around. This pack is just like a stroller you wear on your back, minus the wheels. Just think about how much easier it is to navigate through trails or crowds without a set of wheels.

You do have to sacrifice some storage though, unless your partner carries a bag separately. This baby carrier doesn’t have any pockets, but you could strap a small pack to the aluminum frame if you wanted. Otherwise, maybe you’re the type who prefers not to bring so much stuff. In that case, this child carrier is your minimalistic ally.

View at Amazon

Clevrplus Cross Country

Specs

Material: Oxford ClothWeight: 5 lb 6 ozStyle: Baby Back CarrierWeight Limit: 40 lbSunshade: YesWaist Size: up to 50”

Features

Adjustable Seat Height, Safety Belt, And Foot Straps Removable Sunshade With Rain Flaps For Erratic WeatherThick Padding On The Shoulder Straps, Lumbar Pad, And Hip BeltComes With Mesh Bottle Pockets, Hip Belt Pockets, And Below-Deck StorageWashable Drool Pad/Chin Rest

BEST FOR: WET CONDITIONS

This cross-country backpack grows with your child from the time they’re 9 months to 4 years old or 33 lbs. The foot and seat straps extend to accommodate a growing child. Hopefully by the time they’re 5, your child has earned their own trail legs so you no longer have to carry them.

The cool thing about this pack is that it provides shade from the sun and complete coverage from the rain, without sacrificing the view. The clear storm flaps keep your baby dry and entertained so you don’t have to hightail it back to the car every time the skies open.

View at Amazon

Luvdbaby Premium

Specs

Material: Ripstop PolyesterWeight: 6 lb 6 ozStyle: BackpackWeight Limit: 40 lbSunshade: YesWaist Size: unknown

Features

Waterproof Fabric And A Rain Hood Block The ElementsAdjustable Safety Straps And Stirrups Grow With Your ChildErgonomic Suspension System, Padded Straps, And Load-Bearing Belt Support Your BackComes With A Diaper Changing Pad And A Thermal Bottle PocketSelf-Supported Kickstand

BEST FOR: WETLANDS HIKING

If you’re headed to rainy climates in places like Ireland or Oregon, then you need to be prepared for rain with a baby carrier like this. The carrier keeps your baby safely behind you when you’re traipsing through slippery crags. The roof and storm flaps keep them isolated from the storms too.

Neither rain (and a crabby baby) nor a sore back can slow you down. The ergonomic, adjustable torso length helps you get the exact fit. Then, the suspension system distributes the load so you don’t tire from carrying your child. To boot, you get lots of padding and ventilation to prevent sweat and sore spots.

View at Amazon

 

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING BABY CARRIERS FOR HIKING

 

SAFETY

Safety harnesses are just as important for baby carriers as they are for strollers and car seats. With a five-point system, your child can’t slip out any which way they lean, so that’s why most child carriers have them. Roll cages are another feature that might be important to you. They prevent your child from getting hurt if you take an accidental spill on the trail.

Finally, your baby’s head control is one of the most important safety considerations to make in terms of a child carrier. Most of the carriers on this list are appropriate for babies over 9 months with good head control. The LÍLLÉbaby is the only carrier for infants without head control. Here’s a comprehensive guide to baby carrier safety, all of which apply to hiking carriers.

 

WEIGHT

If you’ve been hiking for any length of time, you know that every ounce you carry affects your stamina. That goes for your baby and child carrier too. The less accumulated weight the better, so make sure to take the weight of your pack, your child, and all the gear you need into consideration. 

 

WEIGHT LIMIT

The weight limit on your child carrier indicates the max weight the pack can hold, including your gear and your child. Make sure you have enough wiggle room to accommodate everything you need.

 

STORAGE

Babies require lots of stuff, but you don’t want to haul a cooler and a diaper bag on your hike. That’s why built-in storage on your child carrier is so important. Think about what you absolutely need to have (diapers, bottles, food, etc) and make sure your chosen carrier can accommodate it all.

 

WEATHER

Some of the carriers here are more appropriate for hot weather with sun shades and breathable material. Others are made for wet conditions with waterproof fabric and rain shields. You can make your decision based on what type of weather you like to hike in or expect to encounter.

 

ADJUSTABILITY

Most child carriers adjust for both you and your baby. The straps, seat positions, and stirrups expand as your child gets older. The height and width of the carrier and waist belt should adjust to accommodate yours and your partner’s sizes.

 

 

FEATURES EXPLAINED

 

KICKSTAND

A kickstand is an aluminum bar you can pull out to prop your child carrier on the ground, just like a kickstand on a bike. The kickstand keeps the pack from toppling over and makes it easier to put your child in and take them out.

 

COCKPIT/CABIN

The inside of the baby carrier, where your baby sits, is often called the cockpit or cabin. Many parents desire a breathable, padded cabin that keeps their child in a natural position.

 

POLYAMIDE POLYESTER

Polyamide polyester is a durable type of polyester often used for parachutes due to its tear-resistant, reliable qualities.

 

OXFORD CLOTH 

Oxford cloth is another strong, thick type of woven material often used to make tents and flags. 

The outdoor-proof, weather-resistant material is perfect for child carriers.

 

SUNSHADE

A sunshade provides your baby with shade and some protection from the midday sun. The sunshades on baby carriers typically pull out just like an umbrella shade on a stroller.  

 

ROLL CAGE

A roll cage usually consists of an aluminum frame surrounded by fabric that provides a barrier around your child in case you trip and fall.

READ MORE

For more of our top hiking & backpacking gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer’s guides:

Best Hiking Backpacks

Best Backpacking Tents

Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads

Best Backpacking Stoves

Best Hiking Boots For Men (and Women)

Best Hiking Shoes For Men (and Women)

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