Last Updated on July 16, 2022 by Ariana Svenson
If you’re planning to take your children trekking, camping or on outdoor adventures, then there’s no doubt you need to find the best hiking backpacks for kids. Unless you want to carry all their stuff every time, that is. Although in our experience, you could end up doing just that anyway.
The top kids’ hiking backpacks have so many other uses besides when you go out walking. They can be used on a daily basis for school, or could be used to carry their sports kit or when going for a sleepover. You can also use them when taking camping trips or when heading out for the day – even if it’s only to the local park or beach. And, of course, backpacks can be a must when you go on holiday.
If you want a Kids’ Travel Backpack, check out this post.
This guide aims to help you find the best kids backpack for hiking to suit the needs of you and your family – as well as your budget. With so many hiking backpacks for kids on the market, it can be really challenging trying to choose just one – which is exactly why this article was written. As a solo parent of three children who travel all over the world, we’ve certainly put some of kids’ backpacks for hiking through their paces!
Whether you’re planning a trek across a National Park in the US, a walk through the Australian bush, or a trip across Europe that will involve lots of walking, this post will help you track down the ideal hiking backpack for your kids.
Covered is what to look for when picking a children’s hiking backpack for every member of the family, including size, capacity, comfort and lots of other features. We also delve into why you really need to get the best hiking backpack for kids you can afford, and take a look at the realities of packs for youths and toddlers.
By the end of this piece you should be well-equipped to choose between the awesome kids backpacking packs detailed here. Let’s begin by taking a look at what to look for when you’re planning to purchase hiking packs for kids.
In a hurry? This is our favourite kids’ hiking pack overall.
We like the Deuter Climber best because it’s a great all-rounder for day hikes or overnight treks. It offers great storage and a comfortable fit, and can be used with a hydration pack.
Want more Hiking Gear for Kids? Then take look at this post.
| Name | Capacity | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camelback Mini Mule | 1.5L | 7 colours, more water per sip, front pocket | Click Here |
| Camelbak Scout | 5L | Water reservoir, lots of pockets, safety whistle | Click Here |
| Deuter Kikki | 8L | Appeals to kids, 5 colours, comfortable | Click Here |
| Osprey Daylite | 10L | Mega seller, age 4 - 12, pocket with key clip | Click Here |
| North Face Recon Squash | 17L | Comfort back, water repellent, 6 colours | Click Here |
| Deuter Climber | 20L | Self-adjusting fit, outer loops, good storage | Click Here |
| Deuter Fox | 30L | Top brand, adjustable torso, hydration sleeve | Click Here |
| Osprey Ace | 38L | Ages 5 - 11, rain cover, stylish ombre design | Click Here |
| Deuter Fox | 40L | Large capacity, tough fabric, adjustable torso | Click Here |
| Gregory Wander | 50L | U-shaped zip, rain cover, comfortable back panel | Click Here |
What to Look for in a Kids’ Hiking Backpack
The best kids’ hiking backpacks don’t come cheap. So, it’s best to do your homework before you buy. These are the features that people – including us – find most helpful when investing in a boys’ or girls’ hiking backpack.
Size
When it comes to kids’ hiking packs, the key question to ask is this. Does the size of the pack equate to the size of the child? How about when they grow? Will the size make it suitable for the to carry?
Ideally you want to buy hiking or camping backpacks for kids that will last them for years. After which you may even be able to sell on – or give to a sibling, cousin or friend.
Capacity
The next thing to think about is what they really need to carry – as well as what a single-minded child might regard as essential. You might not think their favourite teddy bear needs to come along for the ride, but that might well think differently! Been there, done that.
Consider where you do – and on what sort of weather conditions. Carrying extra layers in case of cold or wet weather can add bulk, as can taking along a lot of snacks and drinks, for instance.
Are you looking for a pack for day hikes, or one that will carry all they need for longer trips? For a day pack, anything under 25 litres could be suitable. Whereas for longer hikes lasting several days, a hiking and camping backpack for kids may have a capacity of 30 or 40 litres plus.
Ergonomics
Comfort is absolutely essential when it comes to picking a kids’ camping backpack or hiking bag. Do you really expect them to bear the load themselves if the pack doesn’t fit well, or feels heavier than it could? Features to look for include adjustable shoulder straps and good padding to the back plus mesh for added ventilation. If it’s a larger back with more capacity, it may also feature adjustable hip of waist belts and have a sternum strap. These help to distribute the weight evenly.
For the biggest bags, there may also be a suspension system to hold the load away from the body. This makes it feel much lighter than it really is.
Compartments
The number and type of pockets and compartments on any backpack can really make or break the product. Above all you want a hiking pack for kids that lets them access what they want, when they want it – rather than coming to you because everything inside is a jumbled mess.
Too many pockets could add more weight than you want, however. Think about what they’ll carry and where it will go. Do you want a water bottle pocket or would you prefer space for a hydration pack? How many separate sections would be ideal?
Waterproofing
Depending on where you go, the best kids’ hiking backpack might really need to be water resistant and windproof. Features to look for include a water repellent finish to the fabric, or an integral or separate rain cover you can add over the top.
What’s the Difference Between a Kids’ and a Youth Hiking Backpack?
You may sometimes see youth hiking backpacks when shopping for kids’ hiking bags. However, it’s better to think of them as adult ones or kids’ models.
Really, a youth backpacking pack is called that simply because the manufacturer chooses to do so. You can buy adults and kids’ backpacking backpacks. Also, sometimes, with selected brands, you may be able to purchase youth versions.
Youth Hiking Backpacks
This is the case, for example, with the Gregory Wander and the North Face Recon Squash (as two of our top picks, these are both reviewed in more depth below).
So what’s the difference between a kids’ hiking bag and one that’s made for adults? Measurements, in short. The best hiking packs are always those that fit snugly and securely, so one made for kids will be shorter and narrower than the grown-up equivalent.
What about Hiking Backpacks for Toddlers?
What about a hiking backpack for a 3 year old – or indeed any child under school age? All we can say is – if people really think their toddler will carry a hiking backpack, then they must have better behaved kids than us. Either that or they’re deluded!
As with most things parenting and child related, things tend to change very fast. For example, hiking with babies and toddlers is entirely different from hiking with a school aged child. Trekking with a tween is also something different altogether. You can find all our Best Tips for Hiking with Toddlers right here.
When people search for hiking backpacks for toddlers, I do wonder if they are actually mean the type where you can carry the child in the pack? If so, you can find all the top Baby and Toddler Carriers for Hiking detailed here.
My kids have had, in turn, Tinkerbell, Dora the Explorer and Paw Patrol backpacks when they were 2 to 3 years old. They took great pride in carrying these for all of 10 minutes a time. Gosh, Tinkerbell even went to Bali with us! My son was so attached to that backpack, and so sure that he would carry it himself. What a mistake that was. It was awkward to wear and needed to be carried by hand most of the time!
If you are looking for a true hiking backpack for your toddler, be prepared for the fact that you are the one most likely to carry that backpack at least some of the hike (if not most of the way). I’m always happy if my toddler keeps walking, let alone trying to make them carry something as well.
Packable Backpacks for Toddlers
One option is to go for a collapsible pack that you can easily carry if they get tired of it. The Sea to Summit 20 litre pack is a good example. It folds down into the size of a tennis ball and weighs around 2.5 ounces. A stuff sack is included, so it’s the ideal hiking backpack for a 5 year old or under who gets bored easily.
Another suitable kids’ outdoor backpack is the folding one from Eco Chic. It comes in colourful floral, bee and animal designs that will appeal to children, and folds down into a compact pouch for carrying. It’s also eco-friendly as each one is made from four plastic bottles!
Hydration Packs for Toddlers
Some parents swear by a hydration pack like the kids’ Osprey Moki instead. It is designed solely for carrying water, and is thus so incredibly lightweight that they’re likely to forget it’s even there. Drinking water through the straw is also fun for little kids, and makes them feel like they’re having a real adventure.
An alternative to the Osprey one is the Camelbak Mini Mule. It’s also very lightweight and compact, and comes in some really attractive designs. If you want a hiking backpack for 4 year old, for instance, this could also be a genuinely practical option. (You can find more detail on this one below within the product listings section.)
Why Buy a Kids’ Hiking Backpack?
As we’ve shared on this blog, we’ve done our fair share of Hiking with Kids – and shared our top tips here. When your kids can finally carry their own water bottle, snacks and layers of clothes this does mean there’s less for parents to carry. Quite literally taking a load off your back. Unless of course you’re still carrying bags for the smaller siblings, like I have been.
At what age could a child be seriously expected to carry something? I think a hiking backpack for a 5 year old is probably the earliest age they might realistically be expected to carry a bag. Even then, you should still be prepared to clip it onto or slip it inside your own backpack.
My eldest is a responsible child (maybe all first kids are?) and she started reliably carrying a decent amount in her bag when she was aged around 7or 8. By age 11 she could physically carry a lot, but the constant eye rolling and complaints meant it was not something I generally opted for (even though I kept just the basics in her own hiking pack).
Before this I had dreamt that by the time my kids were 10 and upwards we’d be hiking a lot more for longer distances. However, I didn’t take into account two key factors. Which are A) they didn’t want to, and B) they’re pretty opinionated at that age! So at least pick a pack they’ll like and you might get somewhere.
Here are the 10 top hiking backpacks for kids, listed in order of capacity from smallest to biggest.
10 of the Best Hiking Backpacks for Kids
Camelbak Mini Mule 1.5L
For those who want a hydration backpack for children, the Camelback Mini Mule is our number one choice. It can hold 1.5 litres of water, and also has a handy zippered pocket on the front for storing other items. This one comes in 7 colours and patterns, including some stylish flame, racing and camo prints as well as plain shades. So there’s bound to be one your child will like. The clever Crux Reservoir also provides more water per sip without spillage.
The Mini Mule from Camelback also comes with reflective detailing, a safety whistle and a padded back panel with breathable mesh.
Pros:
- 7 designs
- More water per sip
- Front storage pocket
Cons:
- Carries little more than water
Click here to view the Camelback Mini Mule 1.5
Camelbak Scout 5L
If you want a small kids’ daypack for hiking that includes a hydration bladder, then take a look at the Camelbak Scout. The capacity is 5 litres, so it’s very light and comfortable for children to carry by themselves. It comes in a cool blue camo-style tropical print or a pretty pink and purple design. The included Scout hydration pack means there’s no need to carry a water bottle, so this is ideal for hands-free day hikes.
Other great features include reflective accents for visibility, mesh pockets to the sides, a daisy chain, a safety whistle on the sternum strap and a breathable back panel.
Pros:
- Hydration reservoir included
- Main compartment and extra pockets
- Safety whistle & reflective trim
Cons:
- Limited storage
Click here to view the Camelbak Scout 5
Deuter Kikki 8L
The Deuter Kikki is ideal for those seeking a toddler backpack that can hold more than a hydration pack. A cute bear design guarantees it appeals to the youngest kids, and this comes in blue, pink, green, red or teal. This one is suitable for kids from age 3, and will make it easy to spot your little one when they wander off the trails or when picking them up from daycare. A mesh back panel and padded shoulder straps ensure comfort for them when carrying.
Deuter have made sure this pack is eco-conscious and it has a range of inner and outer storage pockets.
Pros:
- Appealing design
- Comfortable to carry
- Choice of 5 colours
Cons:
- Will be outgrown
Click here to view the Deuter Kikki 8
Osprey Daylite 10L
The adult version of the Osprey Daylite is a mega seller and the kids’ Daylite is pretty popular too. It’s a compact pack designed for kids aged between 4 and 12, so it could last them for years. This one’s made for everyday life, so it has many uses beyond the trails.
You can pick between a green leaf design and a plain red with purple trim. This kids’ rucksack has mesh side pockets for water bottles or snacks, a front compartment with key clip and an inside sleeve that can be used for a hydration bladder. With a 10 litre capacity, the kids’ Osprey Daylite is good for school or sports as well as day hikes.
Pros:
- Mega popular range
- Suits age 4 to 12
- Outer pocket with key clip
Cons:
- Only 2 colour options
Click here to view the Osprey Daylite 10
North Face Recon Squash 17L
The Recon Squash from North Face is another multi-purpose backpack that’s specially made for kids. It comes in a range of plain and patterned designs and has lots of practical features to recommend it. A stitched, padded back panel adds comfort, while the grab handle to the top makes it easy to use on the go. There are water bottle pockets, a slot for a name label and reflective accents for safety.
The fabric has a water repellent finish and this pack is ideal for sports, sleepovers and school as well as hiking.
Pros:
- 6 colours and designs
- Comfort back panel
- Water repellent fabric
Cons:
- More for everyday than outdoor life
Click here to view the North Face Recon Squash 17
Deuter Junior 18L
If you want a day pack that’s a bit bigger, the Deuter Junior is definitely worthy of consideration. It’s a serious rucksack for kids with all the features you’d expect on an adult version. These include a snug, secure fit enabled by the adjustable sternum belt, mesh ventilation panels and an adaptive system that adjusts automatically. There are also two daisy chains, loops on the hip belt and two side pockets.
Pros:
- Outer attachment points
- Self-adjusting fit system
- Good amount of storage
Cons:
- Functional looks
Click here to view the Deuter Jumior
Deuter Fox 30L
This Deuter kids’ backpack is mega popular – and deservedly so. With a 30 litre capacity, it’s ideal for longer trips, such as those involving overnight stays and camping out. It could also be used as a daypack by older kids who don’t mind carrying their siblings’ stuff or when you need to pack a lot of food and spare clothing for all-day hikes.
Deuter’s AirMesh system helps to ease the load, while the VariQuick back system means the length can be adjusted simply. This means the pack grows with your child. There is a compartment for a 3 litre hydration reservoir and it’s made from ultra tough rip stop fabric. Padded hip fins and a sternum strap ensure the load is evenly spread.
Pros:
- Top brand
- Adjustable torso length
- Hydration reservoir section
Cons:
- Limited capacity for camping trips
Click here to view the Deuter Fox 30
Osprey Ace 38L
Osprey makes some of the finest outdoor products around and the Ace 38 comes with an adjustable torso length so it can be made to fit each wearer perfectly. This one is available in blue or orange, and both feature a stylish ombre effect finish. There are straps for a sleeping pad plus a separate compartment for carrying a sleeping bag. A reservoir sleeve is also included, as is a detachable rain cover for those want a kids’ waterproof backpack.
Osprey’s recommended age range for this pack is 5 to 11, so you could get 6 years of use out of this if you buy it when your child reaches the age of 5.
Pros:
- Blue or orange ombre
- Removable rain cover
- Suits kids aged 5 to 11
Cons:
- Relatively pricey
Click here to view the Osprey Ace 38
Deuter Fox 40L
We’re including this as well as the Fox 30 litre model because these Deuter packs are really hard to beat. A 40 litre pack is great for longer trips lasting more than a day, and you could camp out for a long weekend or even a week with this one to stash all their stuff in.
The super tough fabric is water and abrasion resistant, and made to last the distance. With a larger pack like this, the adjustable torso length is a necessity to achieve the right fit for your growing child. There is also a sleeve for a 3 litre hydration system.
Pros:
- Large enough for longer treks
- Adjustable torso length
- Ultra tough fabric
Cons:
- Top access to main compartment
Click here to view the Deuter Fox 40
Gregory Wander 50L
This pack from Gregory Mountain Products has a 50 litre capacity, so it can see any child, tween or teen through a longer trek. There are four inches of torso adjustment to play with, so it’s pretty easy to achieve the ideal fit.
The U-shaped zip can be a godsend when you want to locate something quickly, while the padded, breathable back panel means it’s comfortable to carry all day long. You can pick between a neutral bag and a bright red – the former would hide dirt better while the latter offers superior visibility on the trails.
A rain cover is included with this one and it also has outer loops, side pockets and a front stuff compartment too.
Pros:
- Easy access U-shaped zip
- Padded, breathable back panel
- Rain cover included
Cons:
- May be too big for smaller kids
Click here to view the Gregory Wander
2 of the Best Kids Hiking Backpacks in Australia
If you want to buy hiking backpacks for kids in Australia and you can’t wait for delivery from overseas, here are our two top picks that are shipped from within the country.
Vibrelli Hydration Dackpack
Small backpacks are ideal for young kids – and surely the best hiking backpack in Australia is one that can delivery plenty of water in this hot climate? This Vibrelli one does exactly that, and has several storage areas as well as the hydration bladder sleeve.
This ultra lightweight pack is made to last, promises no plastic taste when drinking water from it and comes with a 5 year warranty.
Pros:
- 5 year guarantee
- Various storage areas
- Ultra lightweight
Cons:
- Lesser known brand
Click here to view this Vibrelli backpack on Amazon Australia
Zomake Packable Backpack 25L
This folding backpack is ideal for kids as well as adults, and packs down onto a neat little punch for carrying. It’s therefore ideal when the grown-ups might well end up taking on the load. If you want a kids hiking backpack fast, this one can be delivered the next day.
There are 9 colours available and it comes with various useful mesh and zippered pockets to the outer for water bottles and other items. The fabric is tear and water resistant, so it’s great for beach days too.
Pros:
- 7 colours
- Great value price
- Good range of pockets
Cons:
- Not the sturdiest backpack
Click here to view this Zomake backpack on Amazon Australia
Further Things to Consider Regarding Kids’ Hiking Packs
Before we conclude this post, there are a couple of other matters worth raising when talking about buying a hiking bag for kids. These are the potential resale value of the pack and how to pack efficiently.
Resale
Though the best kid hiking backpack might cost you an arm and a leg, don’t forget that a good one will last and last – so long that you can even sell it on when you’re finished with it if you’d like to.
A comfortable, durable, well-made pack will always fetch a decent resale price, as it means someone else can avoid paying the full value commanded when the bag is brand new. Alternatively you may be able to pass the backpack onto a younger sibling – which may be something to bear in mind when picking the design!
Packing
If it’s a larger pack, it’s well worth paying some attention to packing it properly. Loading heavier items at the bottom is always wise (not least so they don’t crush other things), and do try to achieve an even weight distribution. Every little helps when you’re expecting a child to carry it!
If they have a sleeping bag to carry, the best place for this is between the main section and the lid. Hanging it from the pack can affect the wearer’s balance – and therefore their comfort level. Which again means you might end up carrying the load!
Ideally you want a pack that will be filled more-or-less to capacity. This ensures a good fit, just as the manufacturer intended.
The Verdict – The Best Hiking Backpacks for Kids
We hope this post has helped you find the best travel backpacks for your kids. Whether you tend to do day hikes or are headed for a longer outdoor adventure, having the right hiking backpack for a 5 year old, 8 year old, tween or teen can make all the difference to everyone’s enjoyment of the trip!
If you’re a busy mum like me, why not discover the Best Backpacks for Moms in this guide?
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