Did you know hiking with a toddler can burn up to 500 calories per hour? That’s right – carrying your little one on the trails can be an efficient workout.
How to carry a toddler while hiking is a crucial skill for outdoor-loving parents.
But it’s not as simple as just strapping them onto our back and hitting the path.
We need to plan well and use the right gear to ensure a safe and comfortable outdoor adventure for our children.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know to make your family hikes safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for both you and your little one.
Why Carrying a Toddler While Hiking is Important?
Hiking with little children is super fun, but sometimes it’s better to carry them instead of using a stroller.
Here’s why:
- Go Anywhere You can tackle any trail. Rocky paths? Streams? No problem! You’ll reach spots strollers can’t.
- See More Your kid gets the best view. They’ll spot animals, flowers, and cool stuff high up on your back.
- Talk More Chat about nature as you walk. Point out pine cones and birds. Your kid will learn new words.
- Get Fit Carrying your toddler is great exercise. You’ll build strong legs and core muscles while hiking.
- Stay Safe, Tricky trail parts? No worries. You can move quickly and keep your kid safe from danger.
- Easy Naps Tired tots can sleep on your back. You keep hiking while they rest in comfort.
- Hike Longer Kids in carriers often stay happy longer than in strollers. This means more trial time for you!
Bonus: Bond with your kid as you share outdoor adventures together.
Remember, hiking with toddlers is all about having fun and exploring together.
Carrying them can make the trip easier and more enjoyable for both of you!
Check out our new post about Waterproof Toddler Backpack for Hiking: Top Picks for 2024
Choosing the Right Carrier for Hiking with Your Toddler
Now, let’s talk gear. Selecting a good carrier is crucial when carrying a toddler while hiking.
The right carrier can make all the difference in your hiking experience.
Look for one that’s comfy for both you and your toddler, with good support and adjustability.
Here are some popular options:
- Framed Backpack Carriers: Ideal for longer hikes and older toddlers.
- Soft-Structured Carriers: Great for shorter hikes and younger toddlers.
- Hiking-Specific Baby Carriers: Designed with features like sun canopies and storage compartments.
Remember, the best toddler carrier is the one that fits your body and your toddler’s needs.
It’s worth trying a few to find your perfect match!
# Comparison Table: Toddler Hiking Carriers
| Carrier Type | Weight Limit | Best For | Key Features |
| Framed Backpack | Up to 50 lbs | Longer hikes, older toddlers | Storage space, kickstand |
| Soft-Structured | Up to 45 lbs | Shorter hikes, younger toddlers | Compact, versatile |
| Hiking-Specific | Varies | All-day hikes | Sun protection, hydration compatibility |
Can You Carry a Toddler in a Carrier or Backpack?
Yes, you can carry a toddler in a carrier or backpack.
It’s great for families who love to hike and explore. These special items keep your little one safe and comfy while you have your hands free.
They make long hikes easier for you and your toddler.
# Benefits of Using a Carrier or Backpack for Hiking
Using a carrier or backpack for hiking has many benefits:
- Hands-free mobility, making it easier to move on trails
- Even weight distribution, which is kinder to your back and shoulders
- Your toddler gets to see things from a higher view
- It’s safer for your child as they are securely fastened in
- It’s handy for longer hikes or outdoor fun with toddlers
# Choosing the Right Carrier Based on Your Child’s Weight and Age
It’s important to pick the right carrier or backpack for your toddler.
Soft structured carriers are good for newborns to toddlers.
Framed backpacks are better for older, heavier kids and are made for hiking.
Look for one that fits your child’s size and needs.
# Proper Positioning and Adjustments for Comfort and Safety
Getting the right fit is key for your toddler’s comfort and safety.
Make sure the straps are tight and the weight is spread out.
Adjust the carrier to support your child’s head and back.
Don’t forget to take breaks and adjust as needed to avoid discomfort.
# Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Toddler Carriers
To have a safe and fun hike, avoid these mistakes:
- Don’t overload the carrier with too much weight
- Always make sure the straps are tight and adjusted right
- Take breaks so your toddler can stretch and move
- Make sure your child is dressed for the weather
- Don’t forget snacks and water for long hikes
Is a Ring Sling Suitable for Older Toddlers?
Using a ring sling for hiking can be tricky as toddlers get bigger and heavier.
Ring slings are easy to put on and take off, but they might not provide enough support for long, hard hikes.
Hiking gear for toddlers and toddler hiking carriers must be chosen carefully for safety and comfort.
# Best Hiking Ring Slings Right Now
The “Ring Sling Baby Carrier 100% Cotton Muslin Infant Carrier—Grey Turquoise” is currently the best-selling and overall best hiking ring sling on Amazon.
This Ring Sling Baby Carrier is perfect for keeping your baby close and comfortable.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Soft and Safe: Made from 100% Turkish cotton, it’s super soft and safe for your baby. It’s been tested to make sure it meets all safety rules.
- Comfortable for All Seasons: The special fabric keeps your baby cool in summer and warm in winter.
- Easy to Use: You can adjust it to fit you and your baby just right. It works for babies from 8 to 25 pounds.
- Good for Bonding: Holding your baby close helps you connect and can even make breastfeeding easier.
- Hands-Free: You can carry your baby and still use both hands for other things.
- Two Colors in One: It’s grey on one side and turquoise on the other, so you can choose which color to show.
- No Ironing Needed: The fabric stays smooth without ironing.
- Comes with Instructions: We give you easy-to-follow directions on how to use it.
- Great Gift: It comes in a nice bag, making it perfect for baby showers.
- Free Bag Included: You get a free carry bag with your purchase.
This baby carrier is a simple, comfy way to keep your baby close while you go about your day.
# Ring Slings for Hiking: The Good and Bad Stuff
A ring sling is like a special scarf with rings that you use to carry a baby. Some people use them for hiking.
Here’s what’s good and not so good about it:
Good Things:
- It’s super light: A ring sling weighs little, so it’s easy to carry even when you’re not using it. It’s like having an extra T-shirt in your backpack.
- Easy to put on and take off: You can quickly put your baby in the sling or take them out. This is great if your kid wants to walk for a bit and then get carried again.
- Keeps baby close: Your baby is right next to you, so you can talk to them easily and show them cool stuff on the trail. It’s like giving them a big hug while you hike!
- Good for nursing: If your baby is hungry, you can feed them without stopping. This is super handy on long hikes.
- It doesn’t take up much space: You can roll it up really small when you’re not using it. It fits in your pocket or backpack easily.
- Works for different ages: You can also use a ring sling for little babies and bigger toddlers. Just change how you position them.
Not So Good Things:
- Might hurt your shoulder: All the weight is on one shoulder, which can start to hurt after a while, especially on long hikes.
- Can get hot: The fabric wraps around you and your baby, so you both might get sweaty on warm days.
- Harder with heavy kids: If your child is big or heavy, carrying them in a ring sling might be uncomfortable for a long time.
- It takes practice: Adjusting the sling just right at first can be tricky. You need to practice to make sure it’s safe and comfy.
- Not great for rough trails: On bumpy or steep paths, keeping your balance with a baby in a ring sling might be harder.
- Less storage: Unlike a backpack carrier, there’s no extra space to carry things like snacks or water bottles.
Ring slings can be cool for short hikes or walks, but some people might prefer a different kind of carrier for long or tough hikes.
It depends on what works best for you and your baby!
# Other Carrier Options for Older Toddlers (3+ years)
- Backpack carriers: These give strong support and spread out weight, making them perfect for baby carriers for hiking with older toddlers.
- Framed carriers: They have a solid frame to carry the child’s weight, making hikes longer and more comfy.
- Soft-structured carriers: Some are made for toddlers and preschoolers, mixing comfort with support.
Choosing between a ring sling and other toddler hiking carriers depends on your child’s needs, the hike’s length and difficulty, and your comfort and strength.
Best Hiking Carriers for Toddlers
Choosing the right carrier for hiking with your toddler is key.
After lots of research and testing, some carriers stand out. They offer great comfort and safety for long hikes.
# Top Recommended Hiking Carriers
| Child Carrier | Price | Weight Capacity | Storage Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osprey Poco Plus | $200 – $300 | 48 lbs | 26 L |
| Deuter Kid Comfort | $260 – $320 | 48.5 lbs | 14 L |
| Kelty Journey PerfectFIT | $300 – $329 | 50 lbs | 17 L |
| ClevrPlus Cross Country | $100 – $110 | 5.5 pounds | unknown |
| besrey Baby Backpack Carrier | $139 | 44 lbs | unknown |
The Osprey Poco Plus, Deuter Kid Comfort, and Kelty Journey PerfectFIT are our top picks. The Osprey Poco Plus costs $320 and holds up to 48 lbs. It has 26 L of storage.
The Deuter Kid Comfort costs $320 and can carry up to 48.5 lbs. It has 14 L of storage. The Kelty Journey PerfectFIT costs $329 and can hold 50 lbs. It has 17 L of storage.
Other great choices are the Clevrplus Cross Country and Osprey Poco Plus.
# Carrier Features That Make a Difference
When picking a carrier, look for comfort and convenience features. Ergonomic designs and plenty of padding are important.
They help spread the weight and keep your child cool and comfy.
# How to Choose the Best Carrier for Long Hikes
When choosing a carrier, consider your child’s weight and age. The carrier should fit your child well and offer support.
Also, consider storage, weather protection, and ease of use for a great hike.
| Carrier | Weight | Weight Capacity | Storage Capacity |
| Osprey Poco Plus | 7 lbs 14.4 oz | 48 lbs | 26 L |
| Deuter Kid Comfort | 7 lbs 2 oz | 48.5 lbs | 14 L |
| Kelty Journey PerfectFIT | 6 lbs 6 oz | 50 lbs | 17 L |
| Thule Sapling | 7 lbs 8 oz | 48 lbs | 22 L |
| Phil&Teds Escape Child Carrier | 7 lbs | 40 lbs | 30 L |
You can choose the best one by looking at the top carriers and their features. This will keep your toddler safe and happy on your adventures.
This “ClevrPlus Deluxe Adjustable Baby Carrier Outdoor Hiking Child Backpack Camping” is the best carrier for long hikes. (10% instant coupon on Amzon.com now)
Tips for Carrying Toddlers Comfortably While Hiking
Hiking with a toddler is fun, but you must be comfortable. Use the right comfortable toddler carriers and smart strategies.
This way, you won’t feel pain while carrying toddlers, and everyone will have fun.
# Avoiding Back Pain When Carrying Toddlers
Choosing a carrier that supports your back is key. Look for comfortable toddler carriers with padded straps and a strong waist belt.
Make sure it spreads the weight well.
Also, adjust the carrier right to keep you standing up straight. This helps avoid back pain.
# Balancing Weight and Frequent Breaks During the Hike
Try to balance breaks and hiking distance by letting your toddler walk. This cuts down on back strain and makes the hike fun for toddlers. They get to see new things.
Remember to take breaks to rest, drink water, and eat. This is good for you and your little one.
“Carrying a fully loaded pack with a front carrier was tolerably comfortable during a trip to Thorp Lake.”
You’ll have a great time hiking by using these tips and the right comfortable toddler carriers. You and your toddler will make memories on the trail.
Can You Use a Stroller for Hiking?
Hiking strollers are not the top pick for serious hikers, but they sometimes work well. Look for a stroller made for hiking trails to handle rough paths.
# When Strollers Are Suitable for Hiking Trails
Strollers are great for hiking with toddlers on smooth trails. They keep your child safe and comfy, allowing you to walk more without carrying them.
This is super helpful if your toddler gets tired or wants a break from walking on the hike.
# Strollers for Hiking with Little Kids: Good and Bad Things
When you want to go hiking with a small kid, you might think about using a stroller.
Here are some good and bad things about it:
Good Things:
- You can carry lots of stuff: Strollers have baskets for snacks, water, and extra clothes.
- It’s comfy for the kid: They can sit and rest while looking at nature.
- It’s smooth on nice paths: You can walk farther without getting tired.
- It’s safe: Strollers have seat belts and are strong to protect kids.
Bad Things:
- It doesn’t work on bumpy trails: Strollers are hard to push on rocky or steep paths.
- It’s big: Sometimes it’s hard to fit a stroller in small spaces.
- It can be tiring: Pushing a stroller up hills can make you tired.
- You might not talk as much: When kids are in a stroller, you might not talk to them as much as when you carry them.
So, think about where you’re going and what’s best for you and your kid before you decide to use a stroller for hiking.
# Best Strollers for Hiking on Different Types of Terrain
Pick one made for toddler hiking shoes for a better hike with a stroller. Look for big tires, strong frames, and adjustable suspension. This helps with different terrain types.
Brands like BOB and Thule make great hiking strollers. They work well on many trails.
Using a stroller for hiking depends on the trail, your child’s age and weight, and what you like. The right stroller for hiking trails makes hiking with toddlers fun. You can explore the outdoors together.
Safe Ways to Carry Toddlers on Long Hikes
Their safety and comfort are key when you go on long hikes with a toddler. It’s important to spread their weight evenly on your body. This helps you stay balanced and safe.
Also, make sure to adjust the carrier’s straps and padding often. This keeps you and your toddler comfortable and supported.
Read more safety tips from the National Park Service’s family hiking safety guide. This article offers crucial safety tips for families hiking with young children, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.
# Keeping Your Toddler Secure in the Carrier
It’s vital to keep your toddler safe in the carrier. Always check the straps and buckles to make sure they fit well, as this prevents them from falling out.
Look for a carrier with padded straps and a waist belt. These features help keep your toddler stable and secure, making the hike comfortable and safe for both of you.
# What to Do When Your Toddler Wants to Walk During the Hike
Toddlers often want to walk on hikes. It’s important to let them while keeping safety in mind. Try carrying them sometimes and letting them walk at others.
Take breaks often to help them not get too tired. This way, they can be independent, and you can avoid their exhaustion. It makes the hike fun for everyone.
Always put your toddler’s safety first on hikes. You’ll have a great time together by managing their weight, keeping them secure, and watching their energy. It’s a chance to make memories outdoors.
Tips for Comfortable Hiking with Your Toddler
- Start small: Begin with shorter hikes to build endurance
- Take frequent breaks: Allow your toddler to stretch and explore
- Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water for both you and your child
- Pack smart: Bring snacks, diapers, and a change of clothes
- Choose appropriate trails: Stick to well-maintained paths suitable for families
Engaging Your Toddler During the Hike
Learning how to carry a toddler while hiking also involves keeping them entertained. Try these ideas:
- Play “I Spy” with nature objects
- Sing hiking songs together
- Teach them about plants and animals you encounter
Common Challenges and Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
| Toddler gets restless | Take breaks, and let them walk when safe |
| Carrier feels heavy | Adjust straps, strengthen core muscles |
| Weather changes | Bring layers, and check the forecast beforehand |
Last Words
Learning to carry a toddler while hiking opens up a world of outdoor adventures for your family. By choosing the right carrier, prioritizing safety, and making the experience engaging for your little one, you’ll create lasting memories and foster a love for nature that can last a lifetime.
Remember, every family and child is different, so don’t be afraid to adapt these tips to suit your needs. Happy hiking!
