Best Hiking Backpacks for Kids of 2024

BEST KID’S HIKING BACKPACK OVERALL

A technical pack that will keep up with your sprouting hiker, the Osprey Ace 50 offers maximum torso adjustment up to 5”, so it’ll last from their first backpacking trip until they’re a seasoned pro. Storage is a cinch with a separate sleeping bag compartment at the bottom of the pack, along with daisy chains for attaching various items to the outside. The integrated rain cover will keep gear dry, then stow away in its dedicated external pocket.

Finally, this pack offers all-day comfort for any trail adventure, featuring a mesh back panel, shoulder harness, and hip belt. Pop a hydration reservoir in the dedicated internal sleeve, and any young hiker will be prepared to tackle their first backpacking trip.

BEST BUDGET KID’S HIKING BACKPACK

With plenty of pockets and comfortable padding, older kids will love bringing their gear along on a backpacking trip in the REI Tarn 40. Hydration won’t be an issue with easy-access water bottle pockets and a dedicated slot for a reservoir. Budding hikers will be able to use the side compression straps to stabilize their load and stay balanced on the trail.

This pack is optimized for ultimate kid comfort, with a padded hip belt that offers even more pockets for snacks. Padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel further keep their back and shoulders feeling good even after putting in long miles, and the ventilation through the airflow channel on the back panel will cool kids down on hot days. Reflective accents on the zippers and lash loops will improve low-light visibility and ensure safety and security from before sunrise to after sunset.

For longer trips, the Tarn 65 provides extra capacity (+25L) to carry the additional stuff needed. 

BEST KID’S BACKPACK FOR LONGER TRIPS

As the years pass, the Gregory Wander’s adjustable torso will grow with your adventurous hiker, providing all the features of a full-size pack they’ll love without the bulk they don’t need. For rugged terrain, the suspended back panel optimizes airflow to cool them down when they’re working up a sweat, while the hydration sleeve provides an option for quick water access.

Comfort-wise, an adjustable hip belt ensures a secure and comfortable load, while the included fitted rain cover will keep their gear dry – no soaked sleeping bag to worry about. Organization is also thoughtful on this pack, from the full U-shaped zipper for convenient main compartment access to the front webbing attachment loops for attaching odds and ends. With plenty of pockets, an adjustable bungee attachment for trekking poles, and lower side pass-through straps for compression, this pack provides the space and stability for optimal balance and organization in the backcountry.

From mountain peaks to the depths of canyons, the Gregory Icarus will have your kid’s back. An adjustable torso up to 4” means you don’t have to worry about them growing out of this pack too quickly, while the breathable back panel will keep them cool on a long hike.

The Icarus is well-thought out in terms of organization, from the dedicated zippered pocket for the integrated raincover to the separate sleeping bag compartment. Two mesh side pockets have pass-through straps for over or under compression to keep your water bottles or gear strapped tight, while the reservoir sleeve adds more hydration capabilities. Combine all this with a large front stretch mesh pocket with more attachment points and a trekking pole loop with a bungee closure system, and your young adventurer will be able to find a secure place for everything they need.

From riding their bike around town to tagging along on a family hike, Deuter’s Junior Pack is ideal for the many adventures of kids age 5 and up. The back system is ventilated, with two countoured foam stripes that reduce contact surface with the back to maximize air circulation and breathability. The pack’s load is kept close to the body, staying secure to keep your young one balanced no matter the activity.

Kids are apt to lose things, but the external pockets on the Junior Pack are meant to minimize those losses. Stretchy external side pockets will keep water bottles snug in place, while small stash pockets on the front are zippered for easy and safe access to trinkets and snacks. Keep track of which bag is which by writing names inside on the name tag, and cinch down the easy-to-use lid straps to secure the pack load. Your hiker is good to go!

When your aspiring hiker is finally ready to hike on their own two feet, the fun pattern and included teddy bear on this pack will get them even more excited for their adventure. The shoulder straps and back panel are breathable mesh to prevent overheating from ruining the fun.

Organization is key to avoid losing your kid’s favorite toys and souvenirs in the woods, and this pack delivers with a large main compartment plus external mesh side pockets and a zippered front pocket. Spot your tot easily as the light fades with the Schmusebar’s reflective accents, and avoid any mix-ups on the playground with a customizable name tag.

This backpack was designed specifically for a comfortable fit for kids, using a slim and flexible back panel that adapts for children’s bodies. On the reinforced back panel, two body-hugging padded panels sandwich a channel that creates chimney-like ventilation. The Deuter Fox 40 is intended to last your child for years of abuse thanks to the quick and easy torso adjustment from 11-18 inches.

Comfort is also a key component of the design, as the ergonomic mesh shoulder harness is soft and breathable, while a flexible hip belt fits snugly. Load adjustment straps on the hip belt help with even load transfer to the hips, while the same straps on the shoulder harness increase stability. Side compression straps also assist with load carry, and cinch the top opening closed with the drawstring closure to secure items inside.

With the features and durability of an adult pack, the Osprey Jet 18 has everything a young hiker could want in their perfect size. The fixed top lid has a zippered pocket underneath to secure valuables, while mesh side pockets keep water bottles at the ready. While lacking a padded hip belt, this pack’s hip, sternum, and shoulder straps will still aid in balancing a lighter load. Stow your child’s phone in the harness pocket in case of emergencies, and stuff a reservoir in the external sleeve for easy hydration without the possibility of spilling water in the main compartment.