Top Ten Best Baby Backpack Carriers

Soft or Framed
There are 2 main styles of carrier: soft carriers such as slings and wraps which give very close contact to your baby but are not good for long periods of wearing. The second option is a hard or framed carrier. These are very strong, usually made out of aluminium and can carry 70lbs comfortably. They often have a built in stand so the backpack can be free-standing

Harness
Backpack carriers use a harness system to ensure your youngster can't fall out of the carrier. There are several types of harness:
--> The 5-point harness - found in many child car seats and strollers - has a strap coming up from underneath your child which connects to 2 shoulder straps and 2 leg straps.
--> The 3-point harness - same as the 5 point harness but without the leg / stomach straps
--> The H-harness - this is similar to the 5-point harness but does not have the crotch strap.

Support & Comfort
Most backpacks are padded to cushion your baby as you move about with the carrier. They should also offer head rest support for your baby. It is also important that the backpack is comfortable for you to wear and the carrier should have all the features of a good long distance backpack: Lumber support, good padding, ventilation system, wide, well padded shoulder straps.

Storage
Some backpack carriers has additional storage space built in. This can vary from a small cubby hole to the equivalent of a daypack. Do bear in mind though that this will be an additional weight added to the weight of your child.

Weight Capacity
Most front loading baby carriers have a maximum weight capacity of around 25lbs. Backpack baby carriers, on the other hand, can handle over double this amount with some versions able to carry a whopping 70lbs.

Torso Adjustment
People come in all shapes and sizes and the backpack carrier needs to be adjustable so that it is comfortable and fits well. This is essential for the safety of the passenger and the person doing the carrying.

Sun and Rain and Bugs
Most backpack carriers have the ability to attach a hood, sun canopy and or mosquito net. However, these items are usually sold separately. Check out the cost of these accessories as they are extremely important and not optional in the real world.

Other Features
Useful but not essential additional features to look out for include:
--> Bottle Holders - so you can access fluids while on the move
--> Mirrors - Yes mirrors! Some backpacks have the ability to attach mirrors so you can see your passenger.
--> Loops - anyone who has used a backpack will know that additional loops for tying things onto the backpack are a great feature. If the loops are set up high, they can even be used to attach toys to keep your youngster occupied.
--> Back ventilation system - some backpacks have 'breathing' systems built it to release the heat that builds up between you and the backpack
--> Easy Clean - accidents will happen but when they do a backpack carrier that is easy to clean will save you a lot of time and energy

The Kelty K.I.D.S. FC 3.0 Frame Child Carrier is the toughest and most well equipped of all the Baby Backpack Carriers that I've reviewed. It is perfect for a long hike in the woods or a quick walk down to the shops. The lightweight aluminium frame is supported by a high tech. suspension system with fully adjustable padded shoulder straps and hip belt. There is also a keep dry ventilation system ensures you don't overheat.

Your youngster will be in the lap of luxury in a fully padded frame with breathable fabric seat that can be removed for cleaning. Safety is ensured with a fully adjustable 5-point harness. Loading and unloading is made easy with the integrated kick-stand which features the patented No-Pinch hinges.

All weather conditions are catered for with the patented sun/rain hood. In addition to this there are a host of useful extras including: storage compartments, loops, zip-off diaper bag with shoulder straps, changing mat and cell phone pocket.

Features Include:
* Top-of-the-line child carrier with sophisticated suspension system
* Ventilated back panel, padded shoulder straps, and contoured hip belt
* Frame and seat are covered in breathable fabric to ensure all-day comfort
* 5-point adjustable child's harness; patented sun/rain hood; zip-off diaper bag
* 50-pound load limit; measures 15 x 30 x 19 inches (W x H x D); lifetime warranty

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The Vaude Butterfly Comfort 20 L Child Carrier Backpack is a multi-award winning high end carrier. Your child will feel like royalty in this very luxurious carrier that has adjustable head and neck support and a harness that can be tightened from outside the carrier with one hand. The torso support can be adjusted as your youngster grows so they can maintain a correct sitting position.

There are foot rests for baby and the Tergolight suspension system ensures a smooth ride and comfortable carry position for you no matter how long the hike is. A weather canopy and a changing bag are included in the deal and are stored in in the outer pocket.

Features Include:
* height adjustable torso support
* non-reachable footing joint
* adjustable headrest with cover
* belts can be reached from outside
* handles on front and back
(back handle works as head protection)
* soft washable covers
* spacious floor compartment
* foot supports
* changing mat
* sun and rain protection
* Fabrics 300 D Honeycomb Ripstop Polyester PU coated

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The Ergo baby Performance Carrier has been specifically designed for active parents. It has a high-performance exterior fabric which can handle all weathers. Underneath is a breathable mesh lining which removes excess heat from between you and baby and this is enhanced by a cooling panel. The frame is lightweight and very durable and can accommodate babies from newborn (with the infant insert) to about 70lbs.

Features Include:
* Durable, lightweight, and breathable fabric (1/3 lighter that the Standard ERGObaby carrier)
* Durable, water repellant outer layer, ideal for outdoor activities
* Breathable mesh lining, keeping babies and parents cooler and more comfortable
* COOLMAX® lining for extra wicking
* Accommodates babies from *newborn (*with infant insert) to 70 lbs
* Specifically designed for active parents
* Highly breathable fabrics with cotton wicking lining
* Can be used on hip, front and back
* Supports the correct ergonomic position for both babies and parents
* Lightweight with no metal frame to dig in
* Easily adjusted to fit both parents
* Strong, highly tested buckles
* Sleep hood to stop wobbly heads that extends as your baby grows
* Contoured shoulder straps for comfort
* Machine washable

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The Lillebaby 5 Position Everywear Baby Carrier is a sleek and stylish carrier that provides excellent comfort and support for your passenger. The power of this carrier is in its versatility, it can be worn in 5 different position: front face in, front face out, back, hip and cradle hold.

You can start using this carrier when your baby is just 7lbs in the heart to heart (front face in) position. There is a removable neck support to provide extra stability. As your baby grows and becomes more curious, simply set them in the front face out position so they can see the world around them.

The cradle hold position is ideal for supporting your baby in their first 3 months but required the cradle insert which is sold separately. The hip and back positions allow complete flexibility of use and allow you to get on with your busy day while keeping your young one close

Features Include:
* Comfortable ergonomic design!
* Only carrier that offers every carrying function, including a true hip carrier function
* Longest lifespan
* Adjustable seat for correct ergonomic carrying at every age
* Max adjustability, fits the petite to tall.
* Light weight

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The Kokopax Eco Classic Carrier is made from eco-friendly materials and is an extremely safe carrier. The aluminium frame is very lightweight at just 3lbs. yet strong and the shoulder straps and waist belt are well padded. There is a 5-point harness and a kick-stand to make loading and unloading easy and once loaded your baby will have a 360 degree view of the world at your eye height. The carrier fabric is 100% cotton canvas and is printed using eco-friendly dyes. When folded, the carrier fits in airline overhead bins and has it's own carry bag.

Features Include:
* Positions baby at eye level
* Baby can interact with parent and has 360 degree world view
* Easy to load and unload
* Extremely lightweight
* Padded waist belt
* made with 100% cotton canvas
* anodized aluminum frame
* comfortable shoulder straps
* adjustable frame to fit individual user
* padded waist support
* hip belt for added comfort
* handy storage pocket with magnetic closure
* kickstand for easy loading
* 5-pt. safety harness
* ties to secure pax protector%u2122
* toy ring to attach koko%u2122 or other toys
* weighs approximately 3 lbs.
* fits in airline overhead bins
* for use from 6 months to 2 years (or up to 35 pounds)
* patent pending
* certified by the JPMA to the ASTM F2549-09 Frame Child Carrier standard
* includes koko%u2122 carry bag

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The Littlelife Ultra Light Convertible Child Carrier is compact, very lightweight and good storage capacity. At its heart is a LittleLife child seat. This is connected to a slim frame and an Anchor Point for safety. There is a removable face protection pad

For the driver there is a fully padded back support system, ergonomically designed padded top grab handles and reflective piping to increase visibility. The The whole bag can be zipped up into a standard daypack that meets airline hand luggage regulations.

Features Include:
* Anatomically shaped child seat
* Soft face protection pad (removable)
* Reflective piping for increased visibility
* Large front pocket for accessories etc.
* Padded top grab handles to ease lifting
* Anchor Point for stability
* Static padded backsystem
* Complies to BS EN 13209-1: 2004
* Weight: 2.0 Kg
* Maximum Weight Load: 15 Kg
* Dimensions: 28 (w) x 22 (d) x 55(h) cm
* Suitable for Ages: 6 months - 3 years

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The phil&teds Metro Child Carrier is uber lightweight at under 5lbs and the aluminium frame can handle a load of 40lbs. The fully padded seat has a very adjustable 5-point harness. The built-in changing changing mat is well padded to protect baby no matter where you are when a change is needed.

The back length and waist harness can be adjusted very easily to fit you perfectly. There is a kick stand to make loading and unloading a sinch. The carrier is made from rip-resistant waterproof fabric and comes with a removable rain and wind cover as well as a separate sun hood to keep those dagerous rays at bay.

Features Include:
* Feather weight and compact
* Base loading technology
* Change pad included
* 5 point safety harness
* Sun hood with rain cover included
* 3 months to 3 years
* Safety Certified:
EN13209-1: 2004 - Europe
ASTM F2549-06 - USA

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The Deuter KangaKid (2011) Child Carrier looks like a normal day pack until you unzip the compartment nearest to your back to reveal a child carrier capable of holding a 33lb load. Your passenger is held in place with a 4-point harness managed by Deuter's extremely easy access system. This is the only child carrier I have reviewed that allows you to load your child from the side rather than from the top. Very clever!

Features Include:
* Material: Super-Polytex/Duratex
* Suspension: [Alpine Back System] Ergonomic shoulder straps, contoured waist belt
* Back Panel: Foam strips and 3-D air mesh
* Storage Capacity: 1850cu in (Dimensions - 21 x 13 x 11 inches)
* Recommended Child Weight: Up to 33lb
* Backpack Weight: 4lb 7oz
* Spacious main compartment
* Two front pockets
* Child safety belt
* Aluminium stays support the child seat and back system
* Warranty: Lifetime

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The Sherpani Rumba Superlight Child Carrier is made from 67% recycled nylon fabric on an aluminium frame that can support upto 55lbs. There is a 5 point harness and fully adjustable child seat enhanced by a soft foam chest plate that holds and supports your child. The child seat can be adjusted to allow for a growing passenger. There are even adjustable stirrups! There is also a detachable sun/rain cover.

A moulded foam back panel provides flexibility and a kick-stand makes for easy loading and unloading. Your back is supported by a thick lumber pad and perforated padded shoulder and waist straps add extra comfort and support.

As for storage, the Rumba Superlight as loads: There is a large pocket underneath the child seat; An elastic mesh front pocket; The hipbelt has dedicated pockets for small valuables, a water bottle and a cell phone.

Features Include:
* Interior organization
* Interior floral lining
* Water bottle pocket
* Adjustable shoulder strap
* Nylon fabric
* Earth Friendly - 67% Recycled Fabric
* Exclusive Five Point Chest Plate
* Load lifters and stabilizer straps
* Large mesh back pocket
* Lower storage compartment
* Stirrups for improved child's leg circulation
* Fits torso sizes 17"-20"
* Waist belt fits 29" - 42" waist
* Rated to carry 55 lbs
* 1500 cubic inches
* 4 lb. 12 oz.
* 12.5in x 28.5in x 12in
* Matching topper/sunshade and storm cover included

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The Littlelife Freedom Child Carrier has been re-designed for 2011 and combines lightweight and comfort for long hikes or short trips to the shops. There is a fully adjustable Airflow back system which allows airflow between you and the backpack. This is a very good backpack and the feature list is very impressive.

Features Include:
* NEW Space-Saver Frame
* NEW Anatomically shaped child seat for 2011
* Soft face protection pad (removable)
* Toy loops for attaching items that may get lost
* Large front pocket for drinks and snacks
* Reflective piping for increased visibility
* Large base pocket for accessories etc.
* Top & side grab handles to ease lifting
* Pivoting waistbelt for added mobility
* Anchor Point for stability
* Adjustable Airflow backsystem
* Sun Shade included
* Complies to BS EN 13209-1: 2004
* Weight: 2.4kg (5lbs.5oz.)
* Maximum Weight Load: 20 Kg (44lbs.)
* Dimensions: 12¼x13¾x27½"
* Suitable for Ages: 6 months - 3 years

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