Whether you're planning a full-on expedition through the woods or just a jaunt across town, a baby backpack can be a fun and convenient way to carry your child.
Most babies enjoy riding on your back. It gives them a better view of the world and puts their head right next to yours. Plus, you get both hands free, which is always helpful.
With a backpack, you can go more places than you could pushing a stroller. And though many parents rely on a soft-sided baby carrier, a structured backpack can be more comfortable on longer trips.
Baby backpacks are similar to camping-style backpacks, but with a seat for your baby instead of a storage compartment for gear. They come in a variety of sizes and models, with plenty of optional features. Most are built around a lightweight aluminum frame that distributes your child's weight across your shoulders and hips.
A baby can sit in a pack as soon as he can sit up on his own – usually at around 5 or 6 months. Until then, stick with a front carrier. (Some front carriers convert to back carriers for older babies.)
Many backpack manufacturers say you can haul your child in a pack until he weighs as much as 40 pounds, but unless you're a sherpa in training, you and your back probably won't want to. Once kids get that heavy, many parents pack away their backpacks.
When you first buy a baby backpack, take some time to make all the necessary adjustments for fit and comfort. It's important to adjust the backpack so your hips and legs bear most of the weight, not your back. If it's not comfortable, tighten or loosen the straps until you get the perfect fit.
Backpacks have a few downsides: It's hard to remove a sleeping child without waking him. And you can't see your little one very well when he's on your back. (Children have been known to grab things off store shelves.) Backpacks can also be a bit cumbersome to put on and take off.
What to look for when buying
Safety: Make sure the backpack has a sturdy restraint system for your child. The safest models have five-point harnesses that feature waist belts, straps that go over the shoulders, and a crotch strap.
Also take good look at the leg openings; these gaps are always pretty big, but double-check that they aren’t so large that your baby could slip through. Some packs have reflective strips, which you'll want if you're out and about at night. (Of course you can always add these if your favorite model isn't equipped with them.)
Comfort: Make sure that the pack is comfortable for both you and your little passenger. Try it on with your child inside and check that it's not too heavy. Feel how the weight is distributed — does your neck or back feel strained, or does the weight sit nicely on your hips? Are all the shoulder straps and hip belt well padded? Is there a chest strap to take the weight off your shoulders and prevent you from slouching? If you have back trouble, look for a pack with a lumbar pad for added support at the back of the waist belt.Also note whether the leg openings and top of the carrier are padded for your child's comfort. Is the fabric soft enough not to irritate your child's skin? Will it be cool on a hot day? (Mesh fabric helps with air circulation, for example.)
Versatility: Choose a pack with an adjustable inside seat, so your child will be able to use it as he grows. A removable canopy is nice for sunny or drizzly days, and a detachable plastic rain cover is handy for unexpected downpours. Some models offer pockets for storing cell phones, water bottles, diapers, and more, and some have loops for attaching toys.
Simplicity: Practice putting on and taking off the pack. Make sure it has a support stand, so you can prop it on a table or on the ground while you load your baby and then put it on your back. The stand should lock firmly and be stable enough to keep your child from tipping over too easily. Some models have stands that automatically open up when you take your arms out of the pack
Check to see that all the straps are easily adjustable, especially if other adults plan to use the pack. If it's too cumbersome to change, you'll want to choose another pack or buy one for each parent or caregiver who wants to use a backpack.
Maintenance: The fabric should be durable and easy to wipe clean. With some packs, you can remove the fabric to wash it.
What it's going to cost you
Baby backpacks usually run from $30 to $100 or more, depending on the brand and special features.