The Best Kids Hiking Backpacks For 2023

Scott Fisher By, Scott Fisher
Updated
Deuter Kikki Kid's Hiking Backpack
Image credit: Amazon.com

Summary

1. Best Overall: Deuter Kikki Kid's Hiking Backpack

It is designed with 2 contoured, air-channeled foam profiles, which provide maximum ventilation and support to your child's back. A channel between the pads further improves air circulation. The adjustable and padded shoulder straps ensure optimum comfort, even during longer walks. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: MOUNTAINTOP Kids Hiking Backpacks

This backpack is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. It is waterproof, lightweight, and designed with breathable fabrics to keep your children cool and comfortable while they explore nature. The adjustable straps provide a perfect fit for your child, and the bright colors are sure to make a statement. Read Review

3. Best Flexible: Ecodudo Little Kids Hiking Backpacks

Made of high-quality water resistant polyester fabric, this backpack is designed to provide children with maximum comfort and convenience. The adjustable padded shoulder straps and adjustable chest strap allow kids to adjust the bag to fit them perfectly, while the spacious interior and front pockets provide plenty of room for all their essentials. Read Review

4. Best Reliable: I IHAYNER Kids Hiking Backpacks

It has a zipper pocket for all their small items and is super lightweight, making it perfect for taking on outdoor adventures. It also has adjustable straps for a perfect fit every time. With its cute design, your little one will be sure to love this backpack! Read Review

5. Best Adjustable: THE NORTH FACE Kids Hiking Backpacks

These backpacks feature youth-specific shoulder straps and a hook-and-loop sternum strap for a secure, comfortable fit. With a comfortable stitched-foam back panel and lightweight construction, this backpack is perfect for day hikes and outdoor activities. Read Review

Are you a parent looking to get your child on the right path? Are you running out of ideas? Or maybe you’re just looking for tips on getting your family on the same page before they go on some quest for the perfect backpacking trip? Whatever the case, having the right backpacking backpack is essential to ensure your kids have nothing but fun when backpacking.

Whether you’re going solo or with a group, having a set of hands makes everything much more enjoyable. We’ve got everything from beginner and advanced backpacks to compact, big-game packs that can accommodate even the largest kids.

Our team had to focus on researching for 18 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. As a result, We think the best kids hiking backpacks is Deuter Kikki Kid's Hiking Backpack. The adjustable and padded shoulder straps ensure optimum comfort, even during long walks. Another choice for you is the MOUNTAINTOP Kids Hiking Backpacks. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide below.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Deuter Kikki Kid's Hiking Backpack
Our Score:
9.7
Deuter

AIRSTRIPES BACK SYSTEM: Deuter's Airstripes System is secure and snug, while offering effective ventilation; 2 contoured, air-channeled foam profiles are encased in a breathable Wide AirMesh lining that reduces the contact surface and optimizes air circulation; A channel between the pads further increases ventilation even while keeping the load close to the body.

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: The Kikki meets bluesign approval, meaning that it is produced in a way that saves valuable resources and has a minimum impact on people and the environment.

DURABILITY: Crafted from 600D PES, the Kikki Backpack is robust and lightweight; perfect for your little one.

DESIGNED FOR FUN: Perfect for kids ages 3 and up, the Kikki pack is made to look like a friendly little bear; Comes in fun, bright colors that kids will love and parents can easily spot across the playground

SOFT AND COMFORTABLE: Padded shoulder straps are fully adjustable and feature a chest strap to help little ones carry loads more comfortably

TOP Choice #2 MOUNTAINTOP Kids Hiking Backpacks
Our Score:
9.6
MOUNTAINTOP

🌱 Simple appearance, multicolor options is your kids perfect choice to carry it in class or studying in the library.

🌱 The ultra-light design can release children pressure, and the djustable and sturdy shoulder straps make this string backpack more comfortable and durable.

🌱 MOUNTAINTOP schoolbag designed for children which is made of water-resistant polyester ensure your items dry in light drizzle, while not in heavy rain, and the daypack is easy to maintain which have features durable zippers.

🌱Measuring is 7.5*6.7*14.6in, capacity of 8 liter, and has a name tag on the inside for convenience, ideal for children from 3 to 6 years old. PLEASE NOTE: Little backpack size is suitable for A4 paper but not folder.

🌱 Just the right size for little students, it has a front elastic mesh pocket, easy access to the item you need, 1 main compartment with wet & dry function, mesh side pocket to hold snacks toys and water bottles.

TOP Choice #3 Ecodudo Little Kids Hiking Backpacks
Our Score:
9.4
Ecodudo

12 Month Warranty: Please contact us if there is any quality problems with your backpack, we will solve it as soon as possible. (Recommended for children 3-years of age and above.)

Perfect Small Size: very suitable for the figure and body shape of toddler kids, and the capacity is just right for them! Perfect for children’s daily activities: going out to play or going to school.

Approx Dimensions: 11.8H*4.7W*9L inch (Can't fit A4 size book).

The main inner compartment of the backpack can put kids's books and other stuffs, such as toys and snacks. The adjustable padded shoulder straps offer support and comfort while the adjustable chest strap stabilizes the load throughout the day's activities.

Material: Mostly are made of high-quality water resistant polyester fabric, durable to use and it is not easy to get dirt. The backpack is small and exquisite, kids will not feel any burden while carrying this backpack, perfect for children going out for hiking, travelling, and going daycare center.

4 I IHAYNER Kids Hiking Backpacks
Our Score:
9.3
I IHAYNER

Super cute toddler leash backpack. Lovely and cool bear backpacks, great gift for little kids with lovely animal attractive design, perfect for children going out for hiking, travel, and daycare center.

Warm tips: If you want to fill a lot of things like children clothes, bottles, snacks, cups or your other stuffs, I don't think this bag is suitable for you. First, don't let the children get too much weight. And then if you travel or hiking with children to parks, beaches, you can let them choose a few pieces of favorite snacks, toys and put them into their own backpacks and carry it by themself. They will feel a sense of achievement and happy. The other heavy things, the parents can carry.

Long detachable leash. Allow your little cute toddlers to move around freely while still having complete control of their direction! Remove the leash to turn their harness into a zipper pocket regular cute backpack.

Size: 20*12*26cm/7.8*4.7*10in. Weight: 0.2kg/0.4lb.

This toddler backpack fits for 1-2 years old kids, or height below 3.2 feet. Super light weight, more comfortable for your children.

5 THE NORTH FACE Kids Hiking Backpacks
Our Score:
9.2
THE NORTH FACE

DESIGNED FOR KIDS. The Youth Sprout pack is purpose-built to help kids fall in love with the outdoors. With a youth-specific fit and multiple pockets for storing trail finds, they'll be free to focus on the amazing adventures to come.

COMFORTABLE CARRY. A comfortable stitched-foam back panel ensures your kid can easily carry this backpack to and from school, while a reflective bike-light loop adds additional protection on their walk home from school.

TAKE ON THE DAY. An essential life staple, this daypack is a go-to classic for school, hiking or just little adventures. Pair it with your explorer's favorite tee, hoodie or jacket and they'll proudly wear the badge of exploration with The North Face.

TECH SPECS. Dimensions: 11.5" x 8.5" x 5" (29 cm x 22 cm x 12.5 cm). Volume: 10 Liters. Fabric: 600D 100% recycled polyester with non-PFC durable water-repellent (non-PFC DWR) finish.

TOTAL ORGANIZATION. An external, secure-zip pocket holds their smaller trinkets, while mesh water bottle pockets can double as treasure keepers. Plus, an internal name label means they'll never lose their bag again.

6 JanSport Half Pint Mini Kids Hiking Backpacks
Our Score:
9.1
JanSport

Ready For Adventure: Always Be Ready For Grab-And-Go Adventures With The Half Pint Mini Backpack From Jansport! This Exclusive Men'S And Women'S Small Backpack Purse Provides Convenient, Lightweight Functionality That You Can Depend On Anywhere.

Space For Essentials: This Jansport Backpack For Girls, Boys And Adults Features A Spacious, Single Main Compartment To Hold Your Wallet, Phone, Tablet And Larger Essentials, And Each Little Backpack Has A Front Stash Pocket For Smaller Items.

Stylish And Durable: This Miniature Purse Backpack Has A Classic Style Perfect For Anyone, And Our Cute Mini Backpack Is Made With 100% Recycled 600-Denier Main Body Fabric To Ensure It Is Durable, Sturdy And Ready For Any Of Life'S Adventures!

All Day Comfort: Perfect For Quick, Everyday Adventures, This Mini Backpack Purse For Women And Men Features Sturdy, Adjustable Shoulder Straps For Long-Lasting Comfort At The Store Or Coffee Shop, And A Web Haul Handle For Convenient Grab And Go.

American Tradition: For Over 50 Years, Jansport Has Been Committed To Creating High-Quality Mini Backpacks For Girls, Boys And Adults, And Vacation Essentials. This Small Backpack For Men And Women Is Ideal For Traveling, Coffee Runs And More.

Durable small and compact size backpack

Easy access front pocket with hidden zipper closure

Dimensions 10" x 3.5" x 13" (LxWxH)

Weighing in at 8.8 ounces (250g), this ultra lightweight backpack is one of the easiest things to wear and carry

Available in a multitude of colors to fit your personal style

8 Fjallraven Kids Hiking Backpacks
Our Score:
8.8
Fjallraven

PRACTICAL: 20 L of storage space for everything you need (and some things you don't). Measures 16.9" (43 cm) x 10.2" (26 cm) x 5.9" (15 cm). Weighs 1.5 lbs.

FUNCTIONAL: Stash your laptop (up to 15") in the padded sleeve, your trail gear in the main compartment, your keys and small essentials in the front zippered pocket, and a snack or two in the quick-access lid pocket.

COMFORTABLE: The padded shoulder straps and back panel protect your back from your pack's contents so you can travel comfortably.

EVERYWHERE: Biking to work but hiking it up later? The Greenland Top is your pack. It's designed to be just as comfortable on the trail as it is on the streets.

DURABLE: Meet the material: G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco S. It's a tougher version of the G-1000 Original you know and love, plus it's made with recycled and organic materials.

9 MOUNTAINTOP Kids Hiking Backpacks
Our Score:
8.4
MOUNTAINTOP

⭐Adjustable chest strap and hip belt : The chest strap provides extra stability and effectively reduces the pressure on the child's shoulders and waist, making the child feel more comfortable and relaxed.

⭐Best Use: Suitable for school, day trip, hiking, sports, shopping. Ideal for school backpacks for boys and girls, outdoor sports backpacks, leisure backpacks and travel backpacks for children and teenagers.

⭐Large capacity: enough to hold all the items the child wants to take with them. The backpack offers space for A4 magazines, books, stationery, iPad, clothing, lunch box, drinking bottle, etc.

⭐Ergonomic design : Padded and breathable mesh shoulder straps provide padded comfort. Promote air circulation along your shoulders and back.

⭐Material: High Quality Polyester Waterproof. Size: 33 x 16 x 45cm, 20 liters. Weight: 0.87kg. This lightweight school backpack girls boys is perfect for kids to go to school or for everyday use.

PATTERN COORDINATES WITH OTHER WILDKIN AND OLIVE KIDS ITEMS – Make a theme out of it! This backpack for girls and boys is part of our Olive Kids collection. Each bookbags for teen boys and girls was designed to coordinate with other Wildkin items. From nap mats to lunch bags, your child will love having their favorite book bags for teenage girls and boys designs with them on the go. Your little one will be the talk of the playground with a Wildkin 12 Inch mini backpack for girls and boys!

THE PERFECT SIZE – Fill it up! The 12 Inch travel bag backpack’s just-right size means you can bring the school supplies and snacks. This small backpack measures 12.5 x 10.5 x 7.5 inches, with two zippered compartments this travel backpack is perfect for preschool, daycare, and day trips. Wildkin’s travel backpacks for kids feature name tag inside, heavy-duty zippers, straps, buckles, and front pocket reflective piping. Food-safe front compartment, side mesh pocket for drinks, and water bottles.

PLAYGROUND APPROVED – At Wildkin, we know that details matter to you and your child, we made sure that our kids backpacks were designed with that in mind. Featuring vibrant patterns school backpack your child will love this boys and girls backpack fun new addition to their school and travel gear. Eye-catching bookbags for boys and girls patterns and functional design, Two padded, adjustable shoulder straps, while the top handle is perfect for hanging in a cubby.

MOM’S CHOICE AWARDEE - Wildkin is a recipient of the prestigious Mom’s Choice Award. The MCA evaluates products created for parents and is globally recognized for establishing the benchmark of excellence in family-friendly products. Using a rigorous evaluation process, we are scored on quality, design, educational value, originality, appeal & cost. Around the world, parents, educators, & retailers trust the MCA Excellence seal when selecting quality products/services for families and children.

BACKPACK AND LUNCH BOX IN ONE – Bring on the snacks! With Wildkin’s 12 inch back pack you don’t have to worry about weighing your little one down with a bulky lunch box. Keep snacks or lunch in the insulated front pocket, measuring 9 x 8.5 x 2 inches. Like many other Wildkin products, the cool backpacks for school were designed to be multifunctional, which is why many of our customers opt to use the toddler backpack as a diaper bag! Perfect for packing diapers, wipes, and changing clothes.

Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best kids hiking backpacks?

Please follow the bellow points before selecting the best kids hiking backpacks:

Water Resistance

Children spill everything. This happens. We poured 3 ounces water onto each backpack to see if it would withstand spills. We checked for wetness on the interior of each bag after five minutes. Our top choices were all bone dry inside.

Zippers

Make sure to test the zippers. Check that they are not caught on fabric, and are simple to open and close. If your child is outside waiting in the rain for the bus, fabric flats will protect zippers. Consider a waterproof backpack for kids if it is necessary due to the weather. A waterproof backpack for school is a smart investment as zippers are susceptible to rusting. Fashion backpacks are more likely to be equipped with buckles and other hardware, which I don't think is necessary for book bags.

Durability

The backpack your child uses every day will be a major asset. It will also take some abuse over the school year. Make sure you choose a quality bag that can last from fall through summer. Make sure you check the zippers for tightness and that the straps don't fray or flatten over time.
You can also wash your child's backpack in the washer, as it will get dirtier over time, particularly if they are younger.

Style

In the eyes of your child, last but not least. The backpack is an important item at school. Kids see it as an extension of their self ...).. We wouldn't advise them to spend hundreds of dollars on designer backpacks, but they are important for school-age children. Talk to your child about the clothes their classmates wear and try to notice their choices. It is important to do your research to find backpacks that are accepted (as opposed social death).

Material

Trendy backpacks are a popular choice for kids. Here's where you can get creative. Popular backpack brands offer a variety of fabric options and colors that allow you to mix quality and style. You will find a cute school backpack that your child loves. While stylish backpacks can be cute, lightweight backpacks made of breathable materials are also great for our little ones during school.

Strap

You should look for straps that are adjustable, wide-shoulder, and padded. The weight distribution is also improved by having straps that run across your chest and around the waist. Two straps should be used for kids backpacks to school. Make sure that they are comfortable with both. Single-strap backpacks are not appropriate.

Padding

The back panel should and should have foam padding. While most backpacks come with padding, it is a good idea if you press the foam to see if it returns to its original form. The foam should not pop, crackle or curl.

Ergonomics And Size

To ensure that your backpack is appropriate for their height and weight, consider the following: According to the National Safety Council, a backpack for children should not exceed four inches from their waist. An ideal backpack should have adjustable, padded straps to distribute weight evenly, whether the child is carrying one book, a lunchbox, or multiple books and notebooks.
You can also look for backpacks with multiple pockets or compartments, as well as a padded back and waist strap.

Safety

Many backpacks for kids have glow-in the-dark details and reflective strips. Look for backpacks with removable reins or a handle at the top to provide extra support while they move around.

Functionality

While your child might be focused on how the backpack looks, you need to pay more attention to its functionality. You should ensure that the backpack has sufficient pockets and compartments to store all your supplies. You should also check its materials if the bag will be used for other purposes than school like hiking and travel.

FAQs

What are the advantages of kids hiking backpacks?

Kids hiking backpacks provide a number of advantages for young hikers. They are designed to provide the proper support and comfort for a child’s body, are lightweight, and offer plenty of space for snacks, water, and other essentials. Additionally, they are designed with adjustable straps, so they can be adjusted to fit your child as they grow.

What should I look for when buying a hiking backpack for kids?

When shopping for a hiking backpack for kids, look for one with adjustable straps for a comfortable fit, a chest and/or waist strap for stability, and multiple pockets for storage of snacks, water, and other items. It should also be lightweight and made of durable materials.

How do I know what size backpack to buy?

The size of the backpack should be determined by your child’s torso length. To measure your child’s torso length, have them stand upright and measure from the base of the neck all the way down to the top of the hip. Use this measurement to determine the right size backpack for your child.

What items should I pack in my child’s backpack?

When packing your child’s backpack for a hike, it’s important to include the essentials such as snacks, plenty of water, a map, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a whistle, and extra clothing. Other items such as a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera may also be helpful.

In general, it's difficult to say who creates the best kids hiking backpacks since each firm has unique qualities, features, and pricing points that set them apart from the competition. We only suggest products from the most outstanding manufacturers on our site, so you can rest assured about their quality.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require assistance with your problems. Wish you a happy shopping!


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About Scott Fisher

Scott Fisher
Scott Fisher is a professional in-home renovation and elegant designer. He is highly interactive on Sanford Artedventures's website as editor. In his role, He provides valuable insight and feedback and approaches each article with the passion to followers who need it most. Scott also has worked on countless projects throughout the United States, and he prides himself on his ability to work with practically any client.

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