Last updated on February 9th, 2023 at 05:34 pm
Are you longing to get back to the trails, but fear your little ones won’t be able to endure? Outdoor adventuring with young children is not without obstacles, but a great carrier makes all the difference in the world. The best baby carrier for hiking allows your children to enjoy the experience while also providing comfort and safety.
Our Favorite Baby Carriers for Hiking Are...
Through lots of trial and error, we’ve narrowed down the candidates to the carriers in the following post. With the above criteria in mind, we’ve determined the following best baby carriers for hiking to stand out:
Best Framed Baby Carrier: Osprey Poco Plus
Our Favorite Frameless Carrier: Ergobaby 360 Omni Breeze
Best Budget Option: Lillebaby Complete All Season Baby Carrier
Learn how these carriers help eliminate a lot of tears for both kids and parents alike in the following in-depth reviews.
Comparison Table of Hiking Baby Carriers
First, we’ve placed all of our front runners into the table below for quick and easy reference. And, we go into detail on all of our contenders for best baby carrier for hiking in the review below.
As you may notice from the table above, there are a lot of unique traits that each carrier brings to the hike. Whether it’s short outings or long days on the trail, these carriers are more than capable of meeting your needs, but we delve into what sets each apart below.
1. Osprey Poco Plus
First, our favorite framed baby carrier, the Osprey Poco Plus offers a ton of great features to make your hiking experience most enjoyable.
For instance, it even features cord loops that can be attached to toys and pacifiers so you don’t have to worry about items being dropped along the way. This alone saves a ton of tears for both kiddos and parents alike.
For parents, the AirSpeed suspension provides adequate airflow for comfort and breathability. The 6″ torso adjustment makes sharing the load easy and comfortable.
Furthermore, the Poco Plus features an abundance of storage including hip-belt pockets, and cockpit side mesh pockets. There is also a front panel gear storage and an extra-large bottom pocket. So, there’s plenty of room for lunches, snacks, diapering needs, and extra clothes.
Built-in Sunshade
Importantly, this carrier protects baby from the harsh sun and wind.
In fact, the Osprey Poco Plus features a built-in sunshade that offers UPF 50+ UV protection at a whim.
Furthermore, the Poco Plus also features a mesh side shade to prevent sun creeping in from the sides.
Plus, it’s easy to store when you don’t need it, and easy to deploy when you do.
Safety aside, ensuring your child’s comfort while on the trail is one of the best ways to keep your kid smiling. We all know how cranky little ones can get when they’re hot and tired.
A little shade goes a long way on a hot, sunny day.
Up To 6" Of Torso Adjustability
In addition, the Osprey makes adjusting the pack between parents a breeze.
With up to six inches of torso adjustment and a fit-on-the-fly hip belt, this child carrier is easily adjustable.
So, anyone can take a turn hauling your precious cargo.
Furrthermore, there’s plenty of padding at the shoulders and hips for quality comfort.
Adjustable And Removable Stirrups
Finally, the Poco Plus offers adjustable and removable stirrups that add superb comfort for your young one.
These handy features offer leg support, as well as padding to add comfort and prevent circulation from being cut off.
In addition, they are adjustable to fit your child’s unique needs and will ensure their limbs won’t fall asleep.
Pros and Cons of the Osprey Poco Plus
Osprey Poco Plus PROS
- Adjustable fit with buckles at chest and waist
- Padded shoulders
- Tons of storage
- Hydration sleeve
- Removable and washable drool pad
- Sunshade
- Stirrups
- Lightweight at just under 8 lbs
- Cord loops for toys or bottles
- Double halo harness ensures they stay put
- Comfortable
Osprey Poco Plus CONS
- Pricey
- Can be difficult to maneuver with just one person
Who is The Osprey Poco Plus Perfect For?
The Osprey Poco Plus is the Cadillac version of hiking carriers. This child pack is perfect for anyone with a young child over 16 lbs and under 40 lbs. Additionally, the Poco Plus even offers room for a 1.5-liter hydration sleeve. While the Osprey Poco Plus is a little on the pricey side, it’s worth every penny.
2. Ergobaby 360 Omni Breeze
Next, our favorite frame-free carrier is the Ergobaby 360 Omni Breeze. The 360 Omni Breeze has a unique ability to adjust to four distinct carrying positions.
For instance, it can be worn on the front with your child either facing inward toward you, or outward. Plus, it also offers the option for back carry or side hip carry.
Even with its superior comfort and cooling technologies, we still feel that this is best for only shorter hikes.
Additionally, the 360 Omni Breeze is designed for both newborns and toddler, it can carry from 7 lbs to 45 lbs. So, you can get some fresh air with even a newborn.
Pads And Support
First and foremost, the Omni Breeze features cushioned shoulder straps, as well as padded lumbar support to provide you optimal comfort.
Additionally, you have the option of regular shoulder straps, or crossed shoulder straps if you’d rather.
furthermore, the shoulder pads sport an adjustable H-Strap to help evenly distribute the weight. We found this carrier to be incredibly comfortable and secure on all types of hikes.
SoftFlex Mesh
Additionally, the Omni Breeze touts rating as the number one carrier for optimal airflow.
For instance, its SoftFlex Mesh and waistbelt cutouts maximize airflow and keep you and your baby cool, dry, and comfortable.
Breastfeeding Capability
Still nursing? No problem.
The Omni Breeze makes breastfeeding easy and convenient.
Just loosen the straps and lower the baby into position. Then, reposition after feeding.
Plus, the UPF babyhood can be used for privacy if needed.
Pros and Cons of the Ergobaby 360 Omni Breeze
Ergobaby 360 Omni Breeze PROS
- Designed to grow with your child offering four different carrying positions
- Two storage pouches with expandable pockets
- Padded shoulders
- Good airflow
- UPF babyhood for sunshade and privacy
- Lightweight at almost 2 ¼ lbs
- Machine washable
- Affordable
Ergobaby 360 Omni Breeze CONS
- Not ideal for longer hikes
- Some complaints that the H-Strap is too high
Who Will Love The 360 Omni Breeze?
Parents will love this carrier for its lightweight, versatility, and cleanability. From newborn to toddler, this is a one-time purchase that grows with your child. We found this soft shell carrier is ideal for short outings. So, parents looking for a weekend of 1-2 hour hikes is the real target.
3. Lillebaby Complete All Season Baby Carrier
Next, our favorite budget carrier is the Lillebaby Complete All Season Baby Carrier. Surprisingly, at its price point ,the Lillebaby offers a ton of versatility. For example, this frameless carrier features a total of six different carrying positions and additionally offers both narrow and wide seating options.
In fact, this carrier is even great at providing support while eliminating the consequences of hip dysplasia.
Great Head Support
Unlike many carriers, the Lillebaby offers fantastic head support for younger infants while still offering the ability to look around.
In fact, the Lillebaby incorporates four inches of added support that can be folded down and snapped into place when not needed.
Furthermore, it also provides an additional cord support to tighten when your baby is sleeping to keep babies head from bouncing.
This not only provides great comfort for your little one but safety as well.
Traversing rugged terrain with a sleeping child can be cumbersome and cause you to lose your balance.
But, drawing the child’s head closer to your body keeps your baby safe, and helps you maintain your balance.
Hip Healthy
In addition, Lillebaby’s all-season carrier as a Hip-Healthy product certified by the Hip Dysplasia Institute.
In fact, this carrierr is recognized for promoting healthy hip development. And, this is particularly crucial during the first six months.
Hip dysplasia most often occurs in infants as a result of improper swaddles and baby carriers.
With Lillebaby’s knee-to-knee, healthy hip design, your child is seated in the best ergonomic position possible staving off unwanted injuries.
Lumbar Support
Furthermore, the added lumbar support goes a long way to alleviate back pain for the parent and assist in balancing weight.
Many mothers rave about the efficacy of the Lillebaby’s featured back support after wearing it for several hours.
For instance, the soft padded waistbelt minimizes back stress in the lumbar area.
For those that suffer from low back pain, this is a much-coveted quality feature.
Pros and Cons of the Lillebaby Complete All Season
Lillebaby Complete All Season PROS
- Extremely affordable
- Chest and waist strap
- Thick padded shoulders
- Promotes healthy hip development
- Removable sun hood
- Lumbar support
- Comfortable for many trail hours
- ‘temperature control panel’ keeps parent and baby cool
- option to upgrade for even more ventilation
Lillebaby Complete All Season CONS
- Minimal storage capacity
- Not always a good fit for baby
Who Will Love The Lillebaby Complete All Season Baby Carrier?
This carrier is definitely best almost exclusively for short excursions. Plus, its highly affordable. Users particularly interested in safety features may also appreciate the Lillebaby. For instance, with its Hip-Healthy certification, added head support and lumbar support, the Lillebaby is a great option for the safety conscious.
4. Deuter Kid Comfort
Another amazing contender for long days on the trail is the Deuter Kid Comfort. Made with 210 denier, ripstop threads, and PU coating, the Deuter Kid comfort is our most durable pack.
For instance, it features abrasion resistance and a durable frame with flexible, breakproof spring steel providing even distribution and maximum ventilation.
Additionally, for those that enjoy spending longer periods of time outdoors, the spring steel construction helps even out the weight distribution.
Finally, there’s sufficient storage for all your snacks, diapering needs, and sunscreen. Overall, the pack is fairly lightweight at 7 lbs 8 oz.
Maximum Comfort
Deuter Kid Comfort features VariFlex pull-forward hip fins, VariSlide back length and width adjustments, and an adjustable sternum belt.
Collectively, these features ensure the best fit with personalized comfort, an evenly distributed load, and a secure carrier.
Thanks to the frame construction, the airy back mesh creates plenty of space between the pack and the user.
For instance, the padded shoulder straps and hip belt are perforated to provide maximum breathability and airflow maximizing comfort.
This results in 25% less persperation and promotes adequate airflow, which in turn improves endurance.
Adjustable Seat And Foot Rest
Furthermore, this carrier has unique features to maximize comfort and provide a smooth ride.
For instance, parents can adjusting the cushion width to set the seat height to babies comfort level.
Additionally, the Kid Comfort’s footrests are also adjustable.
In addition, the Kid Comfort features a detachable sunroof.
So, simply attach the sunroof, and your kiddo has a nice, comfortable, shady spot to relax and enjoy the ride.
Great Child Safety Features
Moreover, we just love the security and peace of mind the Kid Comfort grants hikers. For instance, the security and safety features of the cockpit are some of the finest on the market.
In fact, some parents have even reported falling on the trail while their kids remain unscathed.
Finally, the Deuter Kid Comfort utilizes Durable Water Repellent that is not harmful to your health, your child’s health, or the environment.
The water repellent causes water to bead and run off making your carrier water resistant.
In fact, Deuter has made a pledge to keep all of their products PFC free, which is great news for growing children.
Pros and Cons of the Deuter Kid Comfort
Deuter Kid Comfort PROS
- Adjustable chest buckle and waist strap
- Ventilated and padded shoulder straps
- Plenty of storage
- Superb airflow
- Easily attachable sunroof
- Room for a water bladder
- Tip resistant kickstand
- Easy to adjust for any torso length
Deuter Kid Comfort CONS
- Expensive
- Some users find it uncomfortable
- Can be challenging to maneuver for just one person
Who Would This Carrier be Perfect For?
The Deuter Kid Comfort is a great carrier for people who enjoy longer hikes. Particularly, for those that want the best security and comfort for their children. While one parent can maneuver the pack, it’s certainly easier with two.
5. Osprey Poco LT
Another great option for the trail is the Osprey Poco LT. This model is very similar to the Poco Plus. For instance, you get all the same features, but with less storage at a more affordable price.
In fact, its limited storage includes an extra large lower zippered compartment and a zippered main compartment. As well, it has a small mesh hip belt pocket for minuscule items.
Compactable
Firstly, the Poco LT is a nice compact child carrier and works well in tight spaces.
In fact, it has a unique stow-away harness and hip belt, as well as a lightweight folding frame.
These features make it super easy for both transportation and storage.
In addition, The Poco LT is nicely streamlined so you won’t have to worry about bumping into people or getting hung up on limbs on the trail.
Ventilated Suspension
Additionally, this carrier has amazing ventilation.
For instance, the Poco LT AirScape back panel features extra deep foam ridges that provide added ventilation to keep you cool.
Plus, the harness provides adjustment capabilities making it easy to fit when transitioning from one wearer to the next.
As a result, quick adjustability and AirScape suspension mean breathability and comfort for all.
Deluxe Child Cockpit
Finally, the Poco LT has one of the safest, most secure and most comfortable child cockpit.
The Poco LT features a double Halo harness and child seat surrounded by a fully padded frame and soft contact surfaces.
In addition, the child seat offers adjustable Velcro settings for height adjustments to give your kiddo the perfect view. Plus, there’s also a fully washable drool pad.
If you’re looking for a carrier with great comfort, durability, and safety while being easy on the budget, the Poco LT may be the winner.
Pros and Cons of the Osprey Poco LT
Osprey Poco LT PROS
- Padded and adjustable shoulder pads
- Padded chest and waist straps
- UPF 50 sun protection
- Collapses for easy storage
- Good airflow
- Deluxe cockpit
- Hydration sleeve that fits up to 3 liters
Osprey Poco LT CONS
- Not ideal for longer hikes
- Not as much storage as other carriers
- No foot stirrups
Who Would This Carrier be Perfect For?
The Poco LT is a great option for crowded and tight spaces and short hikes. If you hike on narrow trails or crowded lookouts, then this is the pack for you. It’s also an excellent option for those that don’t have a lot of storage space in their home or vehicle. When compared to other carriers, the pack size of the Poco LT is much smaller than some of the other bigger, bulkier ones.
6. Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite
Finally, last but not least, The Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite comes with a whopping 26 liters of storage and 9 different compartments.
If you’re a little obsessive-compulsive, or just an over-packer, this might be the one for you.
It even features a compartment specifically designed for your “dirties” that need to be packed out.
Additionally, there’s leg protection to prevent chaffing, as well as a removable and washable drool pad.
Your little one can ride safely and comfortably for days with adjustable seating, leg stirrups, 360-degree padding, and sun protection.
Safety Harness And Roll Cage
Firstly, the PerfectFIT Elite will help alleviate all your fears when traversing rugged terrain.
The PerfectFIT features a 5-point safety harness to ensure your child is safely secured.
Additionally, the Kelty Journey sports an aluminum roll cage that keeps the carrier from tipping while loading your cargo.
Plus, we found that this carrier also features a plethora of grab handles making it super easy to grab and lift.
As a result, the PerfectFIT Elite is a great option even when you need to stop for a break.
You can remove the Journey Elite for a rest, and your little one can remain seated in the pack.
And, you have the comfort of knowing that your little one remains safe and sound.
The adjustable stirrups also provide a bit of added comfort for your passenger.
Furthermore, the adjustable torso fit is one of the easiest mechanisms on the market.
So, it won’t slow you down when you need to pass the carrier from one person to the next. This allows you to conveniently share the load without losing a great deal of time.
Tons Of Storage
In addition, the PerfectFIT Elite also offers quite a bit of storage right at your fingertips for accessing all of your immediate needs.
For example, this carrier features two hip belt zippered pockets, two hip belt stretch mesh pockets, and an organizer pocket with key fob.
Plus, one of the zippered hip belt pockets even expands to hold a water bottle.
Additionally, it has a large external pocket with interior stitched pockets for diapering needs, snacks and lunches, and sunscreen.
And, the zippered compartment is also a great addition for all your dirty diapers, clothes, and wipes. It’s most useful during your ‘leave no trace’ adventures.
And, not only does it have a hydration sleeve, but it also features a water bottle holder for additional water capacity.
Built In Sunshade
Finally, the PerfectFIT Elite offers an integrated, built-in sun shade so you won’t ever have to worry about leaving it behind.
For instance, simply unzip the section right behind your little one’s head, pull it out, and snap it in place.
When you’re done using it, just unclip it and feed it back into its pouch.
We find an attached sunshade to be superior than detachable, mainly because reattaching can be cumbersome during the journey.
Pros and Cons of the Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite
Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite PROS
- Easily adjustable waist and chest straps
- Good airflow
- Integrated sunshade
- Hydration pack and water bottle holder
- Comfortable
- Plenty of storage
- Lightweight at 7 lbs 4 oz
Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite CONS
- Shoulder straps are a bit narrow
- Expensive
Who Would This Carrier be Perfect For?
For those families that would like to enjoy multi-day hikes, this pack is awesome. Not nearly as heavy as it looks, the Kelty offers plenty of storage for multi-day use. As well, it offers lots of features to help both you and your child feel safe and secure. For the all day or overnight adventures, the Kelty PerfectFIT Elite is by far my favorite.
What Makes a Great Baby Carrier for Hikers?
Now, while there are a ton of baby carriers on the market, most aren’t designed with hiking in mind. Finding the right one can be an overwhelming process, as well as a hefty investment.
So, to help, we’ve delineated some key features worth looking for to ensure you get a solid purchase. Here are the criteria we use when rating carriers for hikes:
- Comfortable Fit: The best carrier will fit the length of your and your partner’s torso with the ability to adjust fit. For minimal back stress it will also need to buckle at the chest and wrap or buckle around the waist for added support. Padded shoulder straps and hip padding is also ideal.
- Style: Baby carriers come in soft frameless and rigid framed models. We find soft carriers to be ideal for short hikes, and framed carriers to be best for long day hikes, especially since they feature more storage and are easy on the back. We do, however, feel that sling-style carriers are not ideal for hiking, as they hang your child’s weight unevenly on one shoulder.
- Breathability: Additionally, you’ll likely be hiking in the summer months with baby, and thus should seek out a carrier with good airflow or mesh/sweat wicking materials where needed.
- Features: From experience, a sunshade is a necessity for shielding children from the elements and the sun. Additionally, some models feature space for a hydration bladder and storage for essentials. Furthermore, we prefer carriers with space for lunch, snacks, a couple diaper changes, and sunscreen.
We love the carriers that made our top 6 best baby carriers for hiking. However, if you’re still shopping, make sure to test out a carrier’s adjustments sand storage capacity on a dry run before the big hike. And, be sure to read the directions for safely securing baby.
Hit The Trails Baby!
There’s no greater experience than enjoying the outdoors together as a family. However, any experienced parent understands that meltdowns can happen in the most inconvenient places. When we have little ones, sometimes we just need a little extra help. Baby carriers are a godsend, especially on the trails.
And, having kids doesn’t mean you have to put an end to your outdoor adventuring. If anything, it should make the experience all the more rewarding. Imagine how many firsts and aha moments you get to have with your cherished darlings out on the trail. So, if you’ve been waiting for your kids to ‘get old enough,’ stop waiting. There’s no such thing as too young. Grab a carrier and get to it!
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