Choosing the right kids hiking travel backpack can make all the difference when preparing for outdoor adventures with your little ones. Lightweight, durable, and designed to fit small frames comfortably, these backpacks are perfect for day trips, hikes, and travel. We’ve tested and reviewed some of the best backpacks on the market to help you find the perfect one that balances functionality, style, and comfort for your child.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 9 Kids Hiking Travel Backpack Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 10L Mini Waterproof Hiking Backpack for Kids Ages 3-6, Lightweight Outdoor Travel Daypack
The 10L Mini Waterproof Hiking Backpack is designed specifically for kids aged 3 to 6, offering a perfect blend of compact size and durability. Its waterproof nylon fabric and reflective strips make it a reliable companion for all outdoor activities, from hiking to cycling.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight 10L capacity, perfect for small kids
- ✓ Waterproof material with reflective safety strips
- ✓ Compact dimensions (32 x 21 x 15 cm) suitable for toddlers
- ✓ Comfortable adjustable straps for a secure fit
- ✓ Durable construction ideal for daily use
Why We Recommend It
This backpack combines practicality with kid-friendly design. It fits all essential items without being bulky, and the waterproof feature ensures belongings stay dry in unpredictable weather. Parents appreciate the reflective strips for added safety during low-light conditions.
Best For
Young children ages 3 to 6 who need a small, reliable backpack for hiking, day trips, or outdoor play.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight for easy carrying
- Waterproof and weather resistant
- Reflective strips increase visibility and safety
- Durable and easy to clean
Cons:
- Limited capacity, not for older kids or longer trips
- Straps may feel a bit thin for some children
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I know it says it’s for kids but I am thrilled with this little backpack for taking day hikes with my dog! I took a chance on this while searching for something small, unobtrusive, and water resistant for PNW hikes that wasn’t $50-60+ and it’s perfect! I went through sooo many reviews and even order”
Customer Review: “I have one of these for each of my young kids and they love them. They are perfect size for toddlers up to 7/8 yr olds. I can easily fit, an extra pair of clothes, 2 water bottles, lots of snacks, and still have room to spare. My kids at 4 and 8 and have hiked many trails easily with these packed fu”
2. Osprey Daylite Jr. Kids Commuter Backpack in Space Travel Print, Lightweight and Durable
The Osprey Daylite Jr. backpack is a lightweight and durable choice designed with kids in mind. Its comfortable mesh harness and smart pocket layout make it ideal for daily adventures and travel, while the space travel print adds a fun touch.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Comfortable mesh harness for kids
- ✓ Multiple pockets including hydration sleeve compatibility
- ✓ Integrated grab handle for easy carrying
- ✓ Durable, lightweight construction
- ✓ Stylish and fun space travel design
Why We Recommend It
This backpack offers a well-thought-out design with comfort and convenience in mind. The hydration sleeve compatibility is a bonus for active kids, and the handle makes it easy for parents to grab quickly. Its build quality ensures it holds up well in daily use.
Best For
Active kids who want a fun, lightweight backpack for school, hikes, and daily trips.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ergonomic and comfortable to wear
- Durable materials and zippers
- Multiple compartments for organization
- Attractive design kids love
Cons:
- Limited capacity for larger items
- No dedicated rain cover included
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Perfect size that fits smaller books, snacks, a water bottle and a jacket for a weekend day trip. Nicely built and looks sharp for a young child. Light weight and good zipper with user friendly pull tabs.”
Customer Review: “This is a great starter bag for a kid, overall it seems durable and well made. It looks comfortable to wear. I do like the carry handle at the top that’s integrated with the straps. It has a main compartment that features a compatible hydration sleeve of the correct size if bought, it also has an ad”
3. Sunhiker 20L Lightweight Hiking Backpack for Men and Women, Ideal for Cycling and Outdoor Camping
The Sunhiker 20L Lightweight Hiking Backpack is a versatile option for older kids or even adults looking for a compact, lightweight pack. Its quality nylon fabric is waterproof, and it includes practical features like a chest strap and multiple compartments.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 20L capacity suitable for longer day trips
- ✓ Waterproof nylon fabric with durable zippers
- ✓ Comfortable padded back and shoulder straps
- ✓ Chest strap for added support and stability
- ✓ Multiple pockets for organization
Why We Recommend It
This backpack offers excellent value for those needing a slightly larger pack without sacrificing comfort or durability. Its waterproof material and secure fit make it a great travel companion for kids and adults alike.
Best For
Older kids or teens who want a lightweight, water-resistant backpack for hiking, cycling, or camping trips.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight yet spacious design
- Waterproof and durable materials
- Adjustable straps with chest buckle
- Good organizational compartments
Cons:
- Not specifically designed for kids, so may be slightly large for younger children
- Limited color options
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Nice, small, lightweight backpack, suitable for a quick day trip, day hike, or carrying supplies for an informal meeting, trip to the library, etc. Good number of pockets. I like that it has a chest strap, which many small packs don’t have. Would also make a good backpack for a kid. I don’t know how”
Customer Review: “I purchased this backpack for a trip overseas – wanted something small and easy to carry with an injured shoulder. The padding on the straps was just right and the ability to lock the chest strap took additional stress off of my shoulders. The two doubled zippered outer pockets provide plenty of r”
4. Osprey Daylite Jr. Lightweight Kids Hiking Backpack, Frost Moon Print, Perfect for Everyday Travel
The Osprey Daylite Jr. Frost Moon backpack is tailored for kids with a comfortable mesh harness and multiple pockets for essentials. Its soft foam padding and easy-grab handle make it a convenient choice for everyday travel and outdoor fun.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Comfortable die-cut foam and soft mesh harness
- ✓ Multiple pockets for water bottles and toys
- ✓ Integrated grab handle for easy carrying
- ✓ Durable and lightweight for everyday use
- ✓ Stylish Frost Moon print kids love
Why We Recommend It
This backpack is a reliable, kid-friendly option for daily adventures. It balances comfort and organization, making it easier for kids to carry their essentials independently.
Best For
Children who need a durable, comfortable backpack for school, travel, or light hiking.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ergonomic design for comfort
- Well-organized compartments
- Good quality materials
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- May be small for older kids
- No hydration reservoir included
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Perfect size that fits smaller books, snacks, a water bottle and a jacket for a weekend day trip. Nicely built and looks sharp for a young child. Light weight and good zipper with user friendly pull tabs.”
Customer Review: “This is a great starter bag for a kid, overall it seems durable and well made. It looks comfortable to wear. I do like the carry handle at the top that’s integrated with the straps. It has a main compartment that features a compatible hydration sleeve of the correct size if bought, it also has an ad”
5. The North Face Kids Court Jester Water-Repellent Travel Backpack, Spacious for Tweens and Young Teens
The North Face Kids Court Jester is a water-repellent backpack designed for tweens and young teens. It comes with a roomy compartment and a padded back panel for comfort, making it ideal for school, travel, and outdoor activities.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Water-repellent fabric for protection against the elements
- ✓ Padded back panel and shoulder straps for comfort
- ✓ Multiple compartments including a divider sleeve
- ✓ Sternum strap for added stability
- ✓ Kid-friendly size designed for tweens and young teens
Why We Recommend It
This backpack balances style and function with durable materials and ample space. It’s comfortable for longer wear and keeps belongings organized, making it a solid choice for older kids who want a reliable pack.
Best For
Tweens and young teens needing a spacious, durable backpack for school and travel.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Durable and water-resistant
- Comfortable padded straps and back panel
- Good organizational features
- Stylish and practical design
Cons:
- Heavier than smaller kids’ backpacks
- Limited color options
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The North Face backpack is very practical and durable. I like it because it has enough space to carry books, notebooks, or personal items, and at the same time it looks comfortable for everyday use. Its black design is simple but stylish, which makes it easy to match with anything. I think it is an “
Customer Review: “The North Face backpack is very practical and durable. I like it because it has enough space to carry books, notebooks, or personal items, and at the same time it looks comfortable for everyday use. Its black design is simple but stylish, which makes it easy to match with anything. I think it is an “
6. SKYSPER 15L Ergonomic Kids Travel Backpack for Ages 4-6, Breathable Multi-Compartment Daypack
The SKYSPER 15L Ergonomic Kids Travel Backpack offers a stylish and functional option for kids ages 4 to 6. With an ergonomic design and breathable materials, it ensures comfort during long wear, while multiple compartments keep items well organized.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ergonomic design with adjustable chest strap and waist belt
- ✓ Made with durable, water-resistant 600D muslin polyester and ripstop fabric
- ✓ Multiple compartments for effective organization
- ✓ Bright, fun colors that kids love
- ✓ Breathable padded shoulder straps for comfort
Why We Recommend It
This backpack strikes a great balance between style and functionality. Its ergonomic features help reduce strain on young backs, and the durable water-resistant fabric adds longevity for everyday use.
Best For
Young children who need a comfortable, durable backpack for school, travel, or hiking.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ergonomic and breathable design
- Durable and water-resistant materials
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Adjustable straps for a secure fit
Cons:
- Colors may fade with extended sun exposure
- Some children may find the waist belt unnecessary
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great backpack. Very well made – excellent quality. Perfect for our 5 year.old. Just the right amount of compartments, He loves the emergency whistle clip. Thee body straps are helpful too.”
Customer Review: “Love this bag. Held up well. Love the pockets, fun color. Its prefect for my 5 year old”
7. MOUNTAINTOP 15L Lightweight Hiking Backpack for Kids Ages 5-7, Durable and Comfortable Design
The MOUNTAINTOP 15L Lightweight Hiking Backpack is sized perfectly for kids ages 5 to 7, featuring a durable build and ergonomic design. It’s well equipped with multiple compartments and comfortable straps for outdoor activities.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Sized for kids 5-7 years (25 x 15 x 40 cm)
- ✓ Durable construction with padded mesh shoulder straps
- ✓ Adjustable chest strap to distribute weight
- ✓ Multiple compartments including mesh side pockets
- ✓ Lightweight at just 0.8 lbs (0.35 kg)
Why We Recommend It
This backpack offers excellent comfort and durability for young adventurers. Its thoughtful design with multiple pockets supports organization, while the chest strap keeps the pack secure during active play.
Best For
Kids aged 5 to 7 who want a sturdy, lightweight backpack for school and outdoor hiking.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable padded straps and chest buckle
- Durable and lightweight
- Multiple compartments for easy organization
- Good size for young kids
Cons:
- Limited color options
- May be too small for older kids or longer trips
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This was perfect for my son at his outdoor preschool. Very small, but fits snack and water and changes of clothes, jacket.”
Customer Review: “This bag is really well made. The pockets have two zippers so it can be opened from any side. The chest strap is a must because it keeps the backpack from falling off the shoulders. The large pocket can fit a regular sized folder, snacks, and his water bottle. The side pocket for the water bottle fi”
8. SKYSPER Kid Travel Backpack for Boys and Girls, 16-Inch Daypack for Outdoor Adventures, Cyan
The SKYSPER Kid Travel Backpack is designed for outdoor adventures with ergonomic features and safety in mind. Reflective strips and a safety whistle add peace of mind, while breathable straps and multiple compartments keep kids comfortable and organized.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ergonomic mesh shoulder straps and soft back panel
- ✓ Spacious 15L capacity with multiple compartments
- ✓ Reflective strips and safety whistle for visibility
- ✓ Lightweight and durable design
- ✓ Suitable for boys and girls
Why We Recommend It
This backpack is a great choice for families who prioritize safety and comfort. The reflective elements and whistle are thoughtful additions that blend well with the pack’s practical design.
Best For
Kids who enjoy outdoor adventures and need a safe, comfortable backpack for day trips and hiking.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable ergonomic design
- Reflective safety features included
- Multiple compartments for organization
- Durable materials and lightweight
Cons:
- May be slightly large for younger toddlers
- Limited color options in some regions
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great little backpack, got this for my 6 year old for backpacking. Big on her but plenty of room to grow.”
Customer Review: “I really like the color, and it seems to be ergonomic, lightweight, I wish it would be a little bigger because I am using this as a school backpack for my son, you can’t fit many things in here, but as they mentioned it is a travel backpack. It’s a good quality item. I don’t know if I chose the righ”
9. SKYSPER 12L Kids School Backpack for Ages 4-8, Versatile for Travel, Camping, and Day Trips
The SKYSPER 12L Kids School Backpack is a lightweight and sturdy option for children ages 4 to 8. It’s designed for versatile use—whether for school, travel, or camping—with breathable straps and multiple pockets.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight, durable materials for everyday use
- ✓ Ventilated back panel and shoulder straps for comfort
- ✓ 12L capacity with multiple compartments
- ✓ Suitable for various activities like travel and camping
- ✓ Compact yet roomy enough for daily essentials
Why We Recommend It
This backpack offers a practical and comfortable solution for kids who need a versatile pack. Its breathable design and durable build make it a dependable choice for daily adventures.
Best For
Children ages 4-8 looking for a well-built backpack for school, travel, and outdoor activities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable ventilation for all-day wear
- Durable and lightweight construction
- Multiple compartments for easy organization
- Compact size suitable for kids
Cons:
- Not suitable for very large items
- Limited padding on straps for heavier loads
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My son loves this backpack. It’s not too big for him, but it still has plenty of space to hold his lunchbox, a few books, and other daily school items.The size is just right—comfortable to carry without looking bulky. The design is nice, and it feels durable enough for everyday use. Overall, it’s a “
Customer Review: “We’re going on a family trip & my 3 yr old great niece needed her own “personal item” to carry on the airplane. This backpack is well constructed and has the perfect amount of compartments. The material is highly quality & durable as well as the zippers. I likethat this backpack is narrower than so “
Complete Buying Guide for Kids Hiking Travel Backpack
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting a kids hiking travel backpack, comfort and fit are paramount. Look for adjustable padded straps and ergonomic designs that support smaller frames without causing strain. Material quality is also important — waterproof or water-resistant fabrics help protect belongings from rain and muddy conditions. Safety features like reflective strips and whistles can enhance visibility on trails. Finally, consider the pack’s size and compartments to ensure it meets your child’s needs without being too bulky.
Budget Planning
Kids backpacks vary in price depending on brand, materials, and features. It’s wise to set a budget that balances quality and affordability. Entry-level models focus on durability and basic features, while premium backpacks include ergonomic designs and added safety elements. Investing in a slightly higher-priced backpack can pay off in comfort and longevity, but there are also great budget-friendly options that perform well for casual use.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right backpack for your child’s hiking and travel adventures enhances their experience and encourages independence. Prioritize comfort, durability, and safety features that match your child’s activity level and age. With the wide range of options available, you can find a backpack that fits your budget and your child’s unique needs perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size backpack is best for kids?
A: A backpack with a capacity between 10 to 15 liters usually fits most kids comfortably, depending on their age and the length of the trip. Younger kids typically do better with smaller packs around 10L, while older children may prefer up to 20L.
Q: Should a kids hiking backpack be waterproof?
A: While not all kids’ backpacks are fully waterproof, water-resistant materials and waterproof covers help protect belongings during rain. Choosing a backpack with these features is beneficial for outdoor use.
Q: How do I ensure a backpack fits my child properly?
A: Look for backpacks with adjustable padded shoulder straps and chest or waist straps. The pack should sit comfortably on the child’s back without sagging or causing discomfort, distributing weight evenly.
Q: Can kids use adult hiking backpacks?
A: Adult backpacks are generally too large and heavy for children. It’s best to choose backpacks designed specifically for kids, as they offer appropriate sizing and features.
Q: What features improve safety on kids hiking backpacks?
A: Reflective strips, bright colors, and safety whistles are common safety features that increase visibility and allow children to signal for help if needed.
Choosing the perfect kids hiking travel backpack doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our detailed reviews and buying guide aim to equip you with all the info you need to make a confident choice. Whether you want the best waterproof option, the most ergonomic design, or a budget-friendly pick, there’s a backpack here to fit your child’s next outdoor adventure. Ready to gear up? Check prices and availability by clicking on the links above and start your next family hike prepared and comfortable!