A baby carrier backpack is similar to a rucksack, but it has a seat where your baby or toddler sits, unlike a traditional baby carrier, which you wear on your front. As well as two shoulder straps, there's a belt that goes around your waist to spread their weight onto your hips, easing the burden on your back.
Back carriers are typically for little ones from six months of age. Before this, it is best to opt for a best baby sling that meets your requirements.
According to Katherine Walker, Service Development Manager at NCT, they say: "You can use a baby backpack carrier until your child is more confident at walking longer distances; this usually happens at approximately three years. Always check the weight restrictions of the bag to ensure your baby is safe, says Katherine.
A baby carrier enables you to carry your little one easily and leave the pushchair at home, which is useful if you're heading to a place where the terrain is unsuitable for wheels or where there is little space to manoeuvre a buggy. Many parents also find them good for holidays, as they're more practical for airports or sightseeing. They're also handy for public transport", says Katherine.
Best baby carrier backpacks at a glance
Whether you want to climb hills or keep your hands free on the high street, the best baby carrier backpack allows you to leave your baby's buggy behind and carry them comfortably instead. If you want a less bold carrier, as opposed to funky leopard print baby carriers, we've put together a list of the best that are tested by real parents.
How we test the best baby carrier backpacks
To find the best baby carrier backpacks out there, we teamed up with real parents just like you. Over the course of a month, our amazing mum testers tried out a range of carriers with their little ones, from newborns right through to toddlers. They didn’t just take them out for a stroll. They really lived with them. They clipped them on for school runs, weekend adventures, shopping trips, and even those quick dashes around the house. They checked how each carrier fitted into their daily routine, how comfy and secure their baby felt, and whether they’d actually recommend it to a fellow mum friend. We asked them to think about all the things that really matter, like how heavy or light the carrier felt, how easy it was to adjust and wear, how supportive it was for both baby and parent, and whether it felt like good value for money.
Their honest feedback helped us give each baby carrier backpack a star rating, making it easier for you to see which ones came out on top. Of course, the right baby carrier backpack for you will depend on your lifestyle, how you plan to use it, and what works best for your body and your baby. Some carriers, like the Osprey Poco LT or the Deuter Kid Comfort, are ideal for longer walks and outdoor adventures. They offer fantastic back support and built-in sunshades, which makes them great for active families. But they do tend to be bulkier and are more suited to all-day use rather than quick errands.
To help you make the right choice, we’ve included key details for each carrier, including how it fits, what age it's suitable for, and any standout features to know about. And finally, every carrier featured in our roundup meets high safety standards because nothing matters more than knowing your baby is safe and supported while you’re on the go.
Once our recommended products are chosen, we have a third-party system set up that aggregates all the different prices on the web for that product. This means we can see the latest prices from a range of suppliers and show you the best price and where to buy it from. Some of these retailers offer us a commission, which, if you click, helps support our work, but the primary focus of our system is making sure you can find the best price.
Because of the way our system is set up, this always means that choosing the best products comes first, then the retailer comes with whoever can offer you the best price. This way, we can guarantee our product recommendations are independent and free from retailer bias.
The best baby carrier backpacks for 2025
Our parent tester and keen walker, Kate, loved the Thule Sapling Backpack Carrier as it allowed her to comfortably and safely carry her son when on hikes.
She found the carrier easy to adjust and take on and off, which is a huge bonus if you're walking by yourself, as you don't have to rely on anyone else to help.
While fitting instructions are not quite clear on how the backpack should sit on you, after a few attempts and adjustments, Kate found what was comfiest for her.
Another huge bonus of this carrier is that 22-litre storage compartment, as it's big enough to carry all essentials without the need for an additional bag.
Read our full Thule Sapling Backpack Carrier review
Pros
- Is a lightweight design
- Plenty of space for storage too
- Can easily stand on the floor
Cons
- The fitting instructions are not quite clear on how it should sit on you
| Suitable for ages: | 6 months+ |
| Dimensions: | 35 x 31 x 73cm |
| Weight: | 2.3kg |
| Capacity: | 22L |
- Removable elements for machine washing
- 22-litre gear compartment
- Ventilated back panel
- UPF 50 sunshade
- Hydration-compatible design
It may have a trendy Osprey label, but there's more to this carrier than designer status. Its fold-flat frame is the standout feature, making it convenient to travel with and store. But once in use, it boasts an SPF 50 sunshade, drool pad, various pockets for carrying essentials, and a snug, adjustable seat for your little one.
Comfort for the wearer hasn't been compromised, either. "This carrier is worth every penny," said one mum reviewer. I'm 5'2" and have a bad back, so I was worried about using this carrier for my 19-month-old for a week-long camping trip, but my back didn't hurt from the carrier at all! It distributes the weight so comfortably, and it was worth the extra money to have the quality, extra storage, and comfort."
The carrier is pricier than other options but worth the investment if you're going to use it often, according to another reviewer: "There is ample room for essentials, and the straps adjust for a perfect fit. The carrier is attractively designed and very durable and is easy to keep clean because of the dark colors. It is well worth the expense as it will last you well beyond the child's outgrowing and you can keep in the family for a long time."
At 2.31kg it's neither the lightest nor heaviest carrier in our round-up but this does include a stand.
Read our full Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier review
Pros
- Fold-flat frame for convenient transportation and storage
- Adjustable back system to cater to individual wearers
- sun shade included
- Good number of pockets
Cons
- More expensive than many other carriers
- No rain protection included. You can buy a rain cover separately.
| Weight of carrier: | 2.31kg |
| Suitable for child weight: | 23-48.5 pounds |
| Adjustability: | Yes |
| Washable: | Handwash |
| Size: | 71 x 38 x 45cm |
- Built-in sunshade: UPF 50+ rated, integrated and deployable to protect your child from UV rays.
- Child cockpit with harness system: Soft, ventilated and secure seat with adjustable 5-point harness for safety.
- Adjustable child seat height: Ensures the best fit as your child grows.
- Foot stirrups: Help position the child comfortably and reduce leg fatigue.
When it comes to good design, value for money and comfort, the LittleLife Ranger S2 Child Carrier ticks all the right boxes for parents. There are fewer pockets and storage spaces than in other carriers, but we love this one for travelling because it is lightweight at just 1.7kg. So, whether you're strolling around a museum with your child or going on your first beach trip, this baby carrier backpack is essential for any long wear.
The Ranger S2 Carrier was tried and tested by mum, Kate Gillies, who said: "The shoulder straps are good quality, plus it's lightweight, slimline and comfortable for longer walks. One drawback is that it doesn't stand up on its own, but at the price, I can live with that. This backpack carrier is perfect for either caregiver, as the straps can be adjusted to suit the person wearing it. We found this is a great option for parents who plan to use it all day, as it is very lightweight. We also like that you can buy additional accessories if you need them."
Any less than brilliant reviews tended to come from mums who are of shorter height and find it difficult to balance whilst wearing it. Just something to keep in mind.
Read our full LittleLife Ranger S2 Baby Carrier review
Pros
- Super-lightweight, easy-to-use child back carrier.
- Suitable for children aged 6 months to 3 years.
Cons
- It doesn't stand on its own
- Some shorter height mums reported difficulty with balance
| Item weight: | 1.7 kg |
| Adjustability: | Yes |
| Maximum weight: | 20 Kg |
| Care instructions: | Hand wash |
| Material: | Nylon |
| Fasten type: | Buckle |
- Fully adjustable back system
- 5-point harness with anchor point
Best budget baby carrier backpack
Natural Baby Shower www.kiddies-kingdom.com
As well as carrying your toddler, these backpacks should be able to store bottles, nappies and a spare change of clothes for your little one. We like that this has space for all your kids' essentials, as it includes a bottle holder and pockets.
That said, our favourite thing about this phil&teds Parade Baby Carrier is that it comes with a detachable backpack for tots to wear when walking. The phil+teds Parade Carrier was tried and tested by mum, Nikki Hunt. She said: "My favourite! There's no headrest for naps, but it's lightweight and compact when folded, so fab for popping in my small car boot. It's comfortable and simple to adjust – the harness is easy to fasten. I can reach the support leg unaided, and there's plenty of storage space. Emmy loved being able to fill the little bag with all her 'treasures' too."
The frame of the carrier is reportedly a little uncomfortable in the lower back for a few wearers, and another says there is space between a smaller child and your back, even at the tightest setting, which makes the wearer lean forward.
Pros
- Compact & light - weighs only 4.4 lbs., but carries children up to 40 lbs.
- Adjustable - easily adjustable parent & child harness for a secure fit to different bodies and ages.
- three colour options
- Comes with a child backpack
- Plenty of storage for necessities on trips
Cons
- Stand is unstable
- A few reviewers say the metal frame is uncomfortable against the wearer's lower back
| Item weight: | 2kg |
| Adjustability: | Yes |
| Maximum weight: | 39.7 Pounds |
| Care instructions: | Hand Wash Only |
| Material: | Polyester |
| Fasten type: | Buckle |
- Free standing
- Active-ergo fit harness system
- Padded shoulder & hip belts
Like an adventure? With a sun shade, waterproof fabric and side pockets for all the bits you may need on a walk, this one is for fans of the great outdoors! Boasting a ventilated back, comfortable waist belt, padded shoulder straps and a height-adjustable seat for your child, it's made with sturdiness in mind. It even has a stand for when you put it on the ground. Having said that, it's not one of the lightest options."I bought this as a gift for my son, who is 6ft and well built," said one grandma. "He's delighted overall with the product but said the waist strap could be more generous! Apart from that, he said it's a great product - well made and very comfortable when on."
We particularly love the sun shield, which helps to keep your child safe in the sun. This is the perfect baby backpack carrier for hikers and accompanying little ones aged one and above.
Read our full Kids Baby Carrier Deuter Comfort Plus review
Pros
- Adjustable seat
- Breathable material
- Great for hiking
Cons
- Only one colour option
- Suitable from one year old, not sooner
| Item weight: | 2.75 kg |
| Adjustability: | Yes |
| Maximum weight: | 18kg |
| Suitable from: | one year old |
- Sun shield
- Adjustable seat
Best baby carrier backpack for storage
AmazonMother&Baby Award: Silver
Designed for ultimate convenience, practicality and security, the Cross Country S4 will see trips from the city to hikes in the country, all with baby on board. Made from lightweight and breathable nylon, both you and your baby will be nothing but comfortable due to its carefully designed backpack system. We loved the improved fabrics and airflow shoulder straps compared to previous versions. This baby carrier felt comfortable and would be perfect for days out. It even comes with additional accessories, including a sunshade and a viewing mirror for their protection. This design is suitable from 6 months old and can be used until three years old - no wonder it tops our list.
It's not the lightest carrier of the bunch, but reviews are overwhelmingly and unsurprisingly positive. "Glad I got this one over a lighter weight one, as the extra storage is really helpful for taking changing stuff, spare clothes, etc," said mum. "It's a really easy-to-use design and feels very secure."
Our own Mother&Baby reviewer said: "Overall, I really like the carrier. It looks good, is easy to use, and a lot of thought has gone into the design regarding pockets, sunshade and little extras such as the face cushion. It's quite big but can fit in the boot of a car or on the back seat. It takes some practice to lift onto your back with your child in, but I got the hang of it quite quickly, although I found it harder to remove him."
Read our full Cross Country S4 Child Carrier review
Pros
- Longevity of use - suitable from six months to three years old
- Sun shade, foot stirrups and viewing mirror included.
- 2.5kg in weight, so not too heavy
Cons
- Tricky to store as it's bulky
| Age suitability: | 6 months - 3 years (2kg to 20kg) |
| Number of carrying positions: | 1 - backpack mode |
| Material: | Nylon |
| Fasten type: | X-buckle harness |
| Weight range: | Up to 20kg |
| Machine washable: | No |
| Weight of carrier: | 2.5kg |
- Sunshade
- Foot stirrups and viewing mirror included
FAQ's
What age can my baby use a carrier backpack?
Your baby can use a carrier backpack from around 6 months old, once they can sit up on their own without support.
Are baby carrier backpacks safe?
Yes, they are safe when used correctly. Always fasten all straps properly, make sure your baby’s back and neck are supported, and follow safety guidelines.
Are they good for hiking or just short walks?
They are great for both. Some are designed for long hikes with strong support and storage, while others are better for shorter walks.
What should I consider when choosing the right baby carrier backpack for me?
Before purchasing a baby carrier backpack, you need to decide where you will be wearing it most. Those with more features might be great for longer hikes or if you want to carry your youngster for more than a few hours at a festival, but their dimensions can make them a big piece of kit to store. If you're only going to be using it to pop to the shops or on holiday, a more compact model might be better for you.
Weight: Another consideration is the weight of the carrier. You might think that all those extra features are great, but they all add weight to the carrier on top of the load of your increasingly heavy toddler. So, think carefully about what features you really want and whether they're worth the extra weight.
Where would you use a baby carrier backpack? If you plan to use your backpack carrier abroad, you will want to get a carrier with sun protection for your baby. Similarly, if you are planning on hiking with your little one on your back, you will need to ensure that the carrier is made of breathable material.
Adjustability: If both you and your partner plan to wear the carrier, you will need to ensure that the carrier is adjustable. This will bring comfort to both the wearer and your baby. As your child grows, the backpack carrier will need to be adjusted to ensure your little one is at the correct height.
Check the specifications: If you speak to parents of older children, the biggest reason they didn't get their money's worth from a carrier was because it proved too tricky to get their child into it and then lift them onto and off their back. So, this is a piece of baby gear that's worth noting the dimensions and weight.
About the expert
Katherine Walker is the Service Development Manager at NCT. She has a BA (Hons) Birth and Beyond Educator and a Post Graduate certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, making her a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Katherine is now the Service Development Manager at NCT, where she oversees parent insight and evaluation and uses these insights to improve services for all parents.
About the author
Samantha Ball is a Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of two, aged seven and three, and is currently expecting her third. She loves searching for the best and current trending products for little ones. She loves to bake, but spends most of her free time between football and ballet classes.