The 10 Best Kids Hiking Backpack in 2023 – For Small Kids

Last Updated on March 1, 2023

Are you looking for best kids hiking backpack? Congratulation you are at the right place in the right moment! Today we are going to review some of the awesome kids hiking backpacks with practical pros and cons.

Unlike others, we don’t want to hide the drawbacks of products. And we all know everything has some positive and negative side. And every customer deserves to know the truth.

However, it is not easy to pick a hiking backpack for kids from the local shop or online market. Why? Because of a whole lot of options! One will be confused if he or she doesn’t have enough knowledge about backpacks fabrics.

Besides, there are differences in kids and adults backpacks. By considering every fact, we thought if we could review some product today that will help our readers to find out an effective one. So, this is our attempt to help you out.

Quick Answer – Top 10 Best Kids Hiking Backpack

1. The North Face Unisex Recon Squash

2. Osprey Youth Jet 18 Backpack

3. Camelbak Kid’s Scout Hydration Pack

4. Osprey Ace 38 Internal Frame Pack

5. Gregory Mountain Products Wander Backpack

6. Osprey Youth Jet 12 Backpack

7. Osprey Ace 50 Internal Frame Pack

8. Deuter Pico Kid’s School and Hiking Backpack

9. Osprey Unisex Ace 75

10. Gregory Mountain Products Wander Backpack

Reviews of the Best Kids Hiking Backpack

Most of the kid’s products are pricey, no offense. But for the money, they didn’t provide the quality one required. That’s so unfortunate. While making a list, we were surprised by tons of shits in the market available at a high price.

We know, everyone is not an expert in everything. If common people visit the market to pick a backpack, they will end up with a piece of crap. So, we decided to lessen their pain by researching ourselves.

We examined the entire kid’s backpack market to know which one is worth and which one is not. At last, we ended up with these ten ultimate products. All of those are high inbuilt quality and reasonably priced.

I am sure you will love to have one of those. Let’s not waste any more of your time instead of get straight to the best kids hiking backpack reviews quickly:

1. The North Face Unisex Recon Squash

The North Face Unisex Recon Squash (Youth) is a versatile option that is suitable for everyday school use as well as for outdoor trips like camping, hiking and so on.

It is made in the USA with premium quality Mesh, Nylon and Polyester materials. The backpack features a large main compartment that has a huge holding capacity.

Furthermore, it also has front mesh drop pocket and internal secure zipper pocket where one can keep all essential documents safe.

The bag also features youth-specific shoulder straps and easy to use sternum strap that will give comfort and balance properly. In the side mesh pocket, you can keep a water bottle.

The backpack also comes with foam back panel and reflective safety piping that add visibility. The built quality is fascinating, and the design is thoughtful.

Your kid will love to carry this one for a long time as it gives the comfort a kid requires. So, why are you waiting for? Pick before the stock turns out.

2. Osprey Youth Jet 18 Backpack

The Osprey Youth Jet 18 is a small backpack comes with foam back panel that is covered with breathable suspended mesh. Also, it is nicely padded with a comfortable shoulder strap.

The pack also features a wide and breathable hip belt too. So, you can understand they designed to provide the ultimate comfort to the kid.

This loading type backpack also comes with a lid that offers a zippered pocket on the top side and another zippered pocket underneath the lid.

Even, you will get another small smart stash pocket on the left shoulder. So, keeping important accessories and documents will never be a problem.

There are few other pockets included in the bag including side pockets for water bottle, large stretch pocket on front and another zippered pocket on the font.

In total, you will have seven pockets if you pick this bag. The design of the backpack is amazing, and it is made of premium quality nylon material.

This is a complete package for your kids on hiking or everyday use for schooling. Due to high popularity, the stock may have ended up soon. If you want one, pick before the stock expires.

3. Camelbak Kid’s Scout Hydration Pack

If you are looking for a backpack that is suitable for hiking, trekking, mountaineering and everyday use, I will suggest you consider the CamelBak Kid’s Scout Hydration Pack seriously.

It is ideal for regular use as well as for all outdoor trips. Why is it regarded as a multipurpose bag for kids and teens? Due to the relatively small size and lightweight.

The backpack is made of premium quality fabric and comes with kid-friendly color. It is designed thoughtfully to provide the ultimate comfort one need on outdoor trips.

The Camelbak Scout comes with foam made back panel that offers good support. The shoulder straps are also well-padded and comfortable. You will even get a chest strap for maximum balance and security.

The backpack offers a large main compartment, external water reservoir sleeve, mesh side pockets and front pockets with key clip. It also features reflective accents that provide visibility in low-light condition.

As it is designed for kids, so it also includes an emergency whistle. Overall, it is one of the best kids hiking backpack for outdoor trips as well as for regular use.

4. Osprey Ace 38 Internal Frame Pack

Tweens and young teens will love to have this Osprey Ace 38 Internal Frame Pack in their next adventure due to a high level of comfort and sexy appearance.

It is another amazing backpack that comes with an adjustable torso length. The bag will grow with your kid and will remain comfortable several years.

So, the backpack is a dollar saver! You don’t have to purchase a bigger one next year, that’s a promise. The Osprey Ace 38 comes with a fit-on-the-fly hip belt system.

Meaning, the hip belt is customizable according to your size. It has large main compartments along some additional pockets where you can keep everything well organized.

The most impressive feature it has is the built-in rain cover. Also, you will get bottom compression straps for a sleeping pad too. After considering all those features of the backpack, we can say it is one of the suitable options for 1 to 3-day backpacking trips.

Also, a kid can use the backpack in everyday need. The appearance of the backpack is pretty cool. I am highly obsessed with the cool color. If you love this one, don’t be late. The stock will expire soon.

5. Gregory Mountain Products Wander 70 Liter Youth Backpack

If you need a large backpack for at least a week’s trip or more, you should have the Gregory Mountain 70 Backpack in your collection. It is specially designed for long trips.

Though the size is big, still it’s suitable for youth and kids due to its standard weight. This backpack offers plenty of adjustability in the suspension system.

As we all know, kids grow every day, and while making this product, the manufacturer consider this fact seriously. So, it will also increase and fit with your child.

The backpack features external front zippered pocket and dual zipper hip belt pockets. Also, it has a zippered security pocket under the top lid with a key clip.

Furthermore, it has dual mesh water bottle pockets included. The shoulder straps are wide and comfortable. Though the size is big, still it is lightweight.

The Gregory Mountain 70 comes with free rain covers that will allow you to carry it in the rain. Also, it has an internal hydration sleeve included with hose management.

The look is good, and the features are cool as well. Its built quality is fantastic for the long run. So, don’t wait much, if you want to pick this one. The link is given below. Have a look!

6. Osprey Youth Jet 12 Backpack

Am I obsessed with the Osprey brand? That’s what you are wondering, no? What to do if Osprey made such amazing products?

In kids backpack industry, Osprey is one of the most reliable names with their practically designed products. This Osprey Youth Jet 12 Backpack is another example of their class.

First of all, look at the color combination. Don’t you think it looks killer? The design and color combo is the best thing about this Youth Jet 12.

It is an imported backpack made of premium quality nylon materials. The craftsmanship is world-class as well. If you need something for the long run, this is the ideal choice you can make.

Besides, the shoulder straps are wide and comfortable with a foamed back panel. The backpack features plenty of pockets for keeping everything well organized.

It comes with mesh side pockets where you can keep things that need quick access, for example, a water bottle. Besides, the main compartment can hold a lot of loads. You will also get zippered pockets to keep important things secure. The price is good for such quality.

7. Osprey Ace 50 Internal Frame Pack

Yet another Osprey product we have on our list! Actually, Osprey is leading the kid’s backpack market from the front. They provide quality that everyone requires.

That’s why they are considered as one of the most popular brands in this industry. The Osprey Ace 50 Internal Frame Pack is what you can call a true backpack for kids.

The look, built quality and price everything is perfect for this backpack. The pack comes with award-winning LightWire suspension as Osprey’s adult models.

The construction quality is amazing with high-quality materials making it one of the longest lasting backpack on the market. It features a soft back panel, comfortable shoulder harness, and meshes hip belt closure.

Those ensure safety, balance, stability, and comfort. In the backpack, you will get two zippered compartments in the removable top lid so that you can keep things organized.

There are two additional mesh side pockets included with a front mesh pocket. Those pockets offer quick storage options.

At the bottom of the main compartment, there is a separate sleeping bag compartment included. The torso is adjustable up to 5 inches. So, it is for those who want something for the long run!

8. Deuter Pico Kid’s School and Hiking Backpack

The Deuter Pico Kid’s Hiking Backpack with Super-Polytex waterproof coating is considered as one of the strongest backpacks on the market. It is pretty lightweight but highly durable.

Most of the kid loves this backpack not because of construction but because of the fun design. The Pico pack features bright color and cool animal patterns on the front.

It looks super fun. Besides, the shoulder straps are well-padded with soft edges and adjustable too. The main compartment is large enough along with several sides mesh pockets and zipper pockets.

Overall the quality of the backpack is decent in this price range. So, why are you waiting for? Present it to your kid and bring a big smile on his/her face!

9. Osprey Unisex Ace 75

Need adult backpacking features, functions, and technology in a kids backpack? Consider the Osprey Unisex Ace 75 in that case. It has all the features available one requires in outdoor still made for the kids.

The construction quality is amazing with high-quality fabrics along with excellent craftsmanship. It is designed to last. The backpack is designed with award-winning LightWire suspension like all the above Osprey products.

It features a mesh back panel, shoulder harness and hip belt that offer all-day comfort. Besides, there are plenty of pockets included with the main compartment.

You will get great storage options. The price of the product is not prohibitive. So, pick quickly before the stock turns out.

10. Gregory Mountain Products Wander Kid’s Backpack

Last but not the least, we have the Gregory Mountain Products Wander 50 Backpack in here that is the paragon of quality. The backpack is well constructed with 630D polyester Ballistic Lining and 200D Polyester Harness, Hipbelt that ensures its durability.

Furthermore, the item features VersaFit adjustable suspension. So, your baby will grow as tall as the backpack. No need to worry about another backpack in the next couple of years.

The backpack comes with easy to access the main compartment along with lots of pockets where the kid can keep all his necessities well organized. The back is comfortable as well as shoulder and chest strap. It is ideal for any outdoor trips. Besides, one can use it every day if he or she wishes to. The price is not prohibitive.

Kids Hiking Backpack FAQs

How to Pick Backpack for Kids Hiking?

Although selecting a kid’s hiking backpack is a little confusing, anyone can feasibly choose it after inspecting some key features. Below, we will describe those features that can help pick the right backpack for kids hiking.

Weight

We know that hiking is a strenuous activity, so hiking backpacks should be light, especially for kids. If you select a lightweight hiking backpack for your kids, they can hike faster and easier.

Size

All hiking backpacks aren’t ideal for kids, as most of them can’t stay stable while being fully packed.  Thus, experts recommend using backpacks, which volume is less than 24 liters. This kind of backpack is appropriate for day trips. For a more extended hiking trip like a two or three days hike, it will be best to choose backpacks with a volume of up to 35 liters. Anyway, this recommendation may vary depending on the hiking equipment size. Of course, we don’t recommend larger hiking backpacks for a child.

Harness

The harness is an essential feature of any hiking backpack. When looking for a kid’s hiking backpack, ensure that it comes with adjustable harnesses. As you know, children grow, and their backpacks should accommodate their growth by featuring adjustable harnesses.

Backpanel

High-quality hiking backpacks contain back panels that ensure excellent stability and breathability. Some backpacks feature air channels with their back panels to provide the highest level of breathability. Again, some manufacturers use mesh fabric to make back panels; thus, it ensures the best ventilation. Thus, you may now understand the importance of the back panels. You shouldn’t purchase any kid’s hiking backpack that has no back panels.

Pockets

Pockets are something without which a hiking backpack is incomplete. They allow users to keep hiking equipment organized. Thus, you need to check this feature as well before opting for any hiking backpack for kids.

What Size Backpack Does My Kid Need?

It is common for parents to know their kid’s clothing sizes. But when it comes to schoolbag, parents need to go beyond that trusty measuring. Instead, they take a measuring tape and measure the height and width of their child’s back. They do this to determine how larger bags they can carry comfortably.

However, most parents can’t properly get an accurate measurement. As a result, they can’t select the perfect-fit bag or hiking backpack. Below, we will discuss the correct way to measure any child’s back to get a correctly sized backpack.

First, take your measuring tape and find the maximum height of your children’s back. You can do that by measuring from their shoulder line to their waistline, and then you should add two inches. By adding extra inches, you ensure that the hiking backpack will sit two inches below their shoulders and up to three to four inches below their waist.

The most significant fact is that make sure the backpack sits center between shoulder blades. Thus, it can distribute weight on the back evenly. Now, it is time to measure the back’s width. For that, you should measure between the ridges of your kid’s shoulder blades. Like the height, you should add extra inches here as well. That’s how you should measure your kid’s back to know what size backpack they need.

What Should Kids Carry in Their Hiking Backpack?

Hiking with kids can be quite troublesome if you and your child both aren’t well prepared. Most parents think that kids don’t need to house a lot of hiking gear inside their backpacks. They shouldn’t do that; instead, they should let their kids carry little hiking gear.

That stated, your kids should pack their bags with a lot of essential gears such as hiking shoes, socks, sandals, sun protection, and most importantly, reusable water bottles. These are primary gears they should pack inside their backpacks. Apart from that, you can help them pack some of their clothing, hiking toys, and so on.

What Should a Kids Backpack Weight for Hiking?

We all know that carrying overloaded things can lead to severe health injuries like back pain, stiff necks, sore shoulders, etc. Even though we can tolerate such pain, our children can’t, and we will never allow them to carry anything that can hamper their health. So, we search for solutions to help our children prevent such pains. We wonder how heavier their backpacks should be.

Well, according to research, children shouldn’t carry a backpack more than ten to two percent of their weight. For instance, if a kid weighs around 50-pound, he/she should carry a maximum of 7.5-pound. However, besides ensuring the maximum weight, parents need to assure that the kid’s backpack can distribute weight evenly.

Final Words

It is not easy to choose things when it comes to kids! Every kid is different, and their choice is different. Besides choosing something also depend on the age of the kid and for the purpose too.

Suppose you have an eleven-year kid, you can’t buy the largest backpack for him, can you? That’s the idea. But before you shop, please show the picture to your kid otherwise he might hate the backpack! After all, the backpack is for kids!

All the backpacks we reviewed above are amazing in quality. Besides, those are reasonably priced and specially designed for kids. I am sure you already selected one from the above best kids hiking backpack list.

Just click the link below the product to check on the Amazon. It’s an easy task. But you should hurry up as the stock is limited. I am wrapping up right now. It feels great always to have feedback from you people.

We have a comment box here if you need to know anything about kids backpack feel free to comment. Also, give us your valuable advice about how we can improve our blog. We will meet again soon with other essential product reviews, outdoor tips, hacks and many more.

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Campbell John

Hi, I am John Campbell, an outdoor enthusiast. Just like you, I value the habitat, heritage and tradition of great outdoors. I do my best to make sure the correct research, writing, and photo are shown on Tacticalgearslab.com. Indeed, I am committed to preserving a great online experience for you.