Kid carrying packs

[bedellympian]

Just had our first and we have an old carrier pack a friend passed on, however I would love to be able to do a lot of longish hikes with the kiddo (maybe with extra weight) and am curious if people have things to consider or models that they find really good.

[JasonG]

We used a Sherpani Rhumba for our kids and it was great on long hikes and overnights.   If you can find one used I would recommend it since they aren't made any longer....

[DPS]

I was running up Mt. Si once and saw guy with a plastic lawn chair strapped to his back with ~9 y.o. kid sitting in it. 

[Stinkydog]

I abused the crap out of a couple of Kelty packs, over a span of 3 kids.   The ones with the aluminum frame...

   The first pack eventually failed at the plastic hinges where the rear set of legs swings open to hold the pack up when it's on the ground. I think the bottom section of the legs got kicked a lot, as the kids got bigger.

A friend gave me theirs as a replacement, and I still have it hanging in the garage.  They held up over many hundreds of miles and trips overseas including bigger overnight backpacking trips where they were overloaded with extra gear or a bigger kid.

I'm of the opinion that the most important quality in a backpack is the way it fits your body personally - but those Keltys worked great for me.

 

[olyclimber]

i remember carrying ulee up the old Mailbox Peak trail.  he peed down my back. it was memorable.  he also yelled at me most of the way, telling me which way to go.  the pack strategically placed his head by my ears. 

 I think it was a Kelty.   it was pretty comfortable.

[JasonG]

It might not block pee, but this one looks quite nice:  https://www.deuter.com/us-en/shop/backpacks/p226112-child-carrier-kid-comfort

[bargainhunter]

I cannot recommend the Deuter Kid Comfort II Carrier more highly! [This is for toddlers and up though. For a newborn you'll want a chest sling/papoose.] The Deuter was incredible and durable and really well designed. It handles heavy weight (whiney kids too lazy to walk) with well-thought-out straps, waist belt, load adjustments with plenty of pockets etc for diapers, blankets, Scooby snacks etc. Not cheap but worth it.That flip out kick stand that turns it into a chair (for the kid) is essential during breaks as they can keep snoozing comfortably in it when it's not on your back.  I got two for my kids from Steep and Cheap for half off. Splurge for the rain and sun cover accessories. I gave my two away, otherwise I would give one to you. 

Edited September 27, 2021 by bargainhunter