THE BEST TRAVEL BACKPACK FOR TODDLERS BUYING GUIDE
When traveling with toddlers or any kids, it’s best to use a backpack. Trust us; you would rather have a backpack, than a suitcase. That is why we created this buying guide to help you find the best travel backpack for toddlers.
If there is one thing we have learned by traveling the last year and a half, it is less is more. It is best to pack as little as possible to not only save money but to keep your sanity, especially when traveling with kids.
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This buying guide will also provide the best small backpacks for toddlers. We’ll provide everything you need to make the perfect decision for your next family vacation.
The best travel backpacks for toddlers will be comfortable, functional, lightweight, durable, and affordable. That is why we always try to offer the products that provide the most value at a reasonable price.
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BEST TRAVEL BACKPACK FOR TODDLERS
When looking for anything for our toddler, the most important thing for us is practicality. Since we are nomads, we are on a tight budget, and every purchase must serve a purpose.
We purchased a small travel backpack for our toddler, so he can be responsible for carrying his snack, diapers, and toys. So far, that plan has backfired.
We have been lugging around his backpack, but I am anxiously awaiting the day he can carry his things.
With his 3rd birthday approaching, I have spent the last few months researching the best travel backpacks for toddlers for when that day arrives. Based on months of research, here are the best bags for traveling with toddlers
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BEST TODDLER TRAVEL BACKPACK COMPARISON TABLE
We consider toddlers are kids under the age of 5-years-old. The best travel backpacks for toddlers are small, functional, comfortable, durable, and affordable.
These small backpacks for toddlers will allow your little ones to carry all of their favorite things. It’s big enough to make them feel like a big kid but small enough for their little bodies to handle.
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Last update on 2025-01-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
BEST TRAVEL BACKPACKS FOR TODDLERS
Mountaintop Toddler Backpack
The Mountaintop Toddler Backpack is the most versatile backpack on our list. It is the only backpack on our list that looks like a big kids’ backpack. There are over 20 designs to choose from to express your toddler’s personality
This can not only be used as a travel backpack for your toddler, but can be used to take to daycare, sleepovers, and visits to grandparents.
The mesh padded back and shoulder pads make this backpack comfortable for toddlers. One of the best features of this toddler backpack is the separate wet/dry compartments to keep clothes, just in case, your little one has an accident.
Based on the thousands of reviews on Amazon, the main complaint with this backpack is the size. If your little one is heading to kindergarten, this backpack will not work for you because it does not fit many of the folders and notebooks needed.
Pros
- Durable
- Versatile
- Comfortable
- Wet/Dry compartment
- Padded back
- Different designs available
Cons
- Small
- Capacity
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Skip Hop Toddler Backpack
The Skip Hop Toddler Backpack is the most popular and best-selling toddler backpack on our list. The different characters are cute and perfect for a toddler. There are so many designs to choose from ranging from zebras to unicorns.
It’s big enough to fit snacks, toys, a change of clothes, and a tablet. Just keep in mind this backpack is meant for toddlers, so it will not fit books if your little one is in kindergarten.
There is an insulated pocket to keep snacks, but there is also another pocket to store small items, such as chargers or crayons. It’s perfect for little one’s, so this is why it is my favorite travel backpack for toddlers.
The only thing that would make this bag perfect is if there was an additional water bottle holder on the side. I like the side pocket, but we need another one because we always have 2 sippy cups, just in case we can’t find one.
Also, there are some complaints that his toddler travel backpack does not fit taller toddlers. If your little one is on the tall side, you may want to consider a different backpack.
Pros
- Durable
- Versatile
- Comfortable
- Easy to clean
- Insulated pouch
Cons
- 1 cup holder
- Doesn’t for tall toddlers
- Doesn’t fit folder
The North Face Sprout
The North Face Sprout is the most expensive toddler travel backpack on our list. I am sure because the brand is very well known, so there is a premium for its logo.
Although I am not usually a fan of name-brand items, if you are looking for a long-lasting travel backpack for your toddler, this may be for you.
The lifetime warranty should ease your mind if you run into any problems with this backpack. This backpack is perfect for going hiking, camping, fishing, or spring break.
The multiple pockets make it easy for your toddler to store their toys and snacks where they want them.
Like many of the other toddler travel backpacks on our list, there are several complaints about the size. You have to keep in mind, this backpack is for toddlers, and is not large enough for school supplies.
A drawback of this toddler travel backpack is the lack of padding. For the price, I think this backpack should have padding on the shoulder pads and on the back.
Pros
- Durable
- Versatile
- Comfortable
- Lifetime warranty
- Capacity
Cons
- Expensive
- Doesn’t fit folder
- No padding
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ZHUANNIAN Toddlers Dinosaur Backpack
The ZHUANNIAN Toddlers Dinosaur Backpack is the only small toddler backpack that doesn’t have a water bottle holder, but it was too cute not to include. If your little one likes dinosaurs, this is the perfect travel backpack for your toddler.
The shoulders on this backpack are padded to make your little one more comfortable. This bag is made with nylon material making it easy for you to clean when needed.
There is enough room to fit the toddler items needed, not folders, books, a blanket, or clothes. The separate compartment is perfect for extra diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes.
Remember, this is a small backpack meant for toddlers, so not much will fit inside. This is perfect for younger kids, such as two or three years old. This is the perfect travel backpack for toddlers, especially when they get to the big kid phase.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Padded back
- Leash included
Cons
- Small
- Capacity
- Shoulder adjustments
KK Craft Toddler Backpack
I must admit I am a sucker for cute animal backpacks. The KK Craft Toddler Backpack dinosaur bag is my favorite design. This small toddler backpack is so cute. I want to get this toddler backpack for my little one when he is old enough to carry it.
It is large enough to fit the things a toddler would need like toys, a tablet, snacks, and a few extra diapers or pull-ups. This small backpack is just too cute. If you need to store items like clothes, blankets, and toys, I recommend a larger bag.
I do have a few small complaints about this small backpack for toddlers. I’d prefer it if the shoulder straps had more cushion to make it more comfortable for young toddlers. Also, it would be nice if the front pocket was insulated, for snacks.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Two side pockets
- Capacity
- Different designs
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Small side pockets
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BEST KIDS TRAVEL BACKPACK COMPARISON TABLE
Last update on 2025-01-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
BEST TRAVEL BACKPACKS FOR BIG KIDS
Much like the toddler travel backpacks listed above, our list of the best kids’ travel backpacks is based on the same criteria.
For this section of our buying guide, we have only included travel backpacks that would be suitable for kids over 5 years old.
Since these travel backpacks are for older kids, they have a higher capacity and are large enough to fit textbooks for school.
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High Sierra Loop Backpack
The High Sierra Loop Backpack is one of the most popular backpacks for kids. There are a lot of designs and colors to choose from, so your kids can have what they are looking for in the perfect travel backpack.
The adjustable compression straps make it easier to stuff more inside, especially if you decide to go carry-on only while traveling with your kids. There is also an attachment clip on the front, that can be used to hang anything they need.
The side pockets are great for reusable water bottles, juice, or anything else they need to carry. What many parents love are the numerous pockets, which make it easier to organize.
There are four sections, so there is plenty of room to get everything they need for a family vacation inside. Honestly, I couldn’t find anything negative about this travel backpack, except for the price.
Outside of being slightly more expensive than the other travel backpacks on our list, this is our favorite travel bag for kids.
Pros
- Durable
- Capacity
- A lot of designs to choose from
- Comfortable
- Size
Cons
- Expensive
Reusable Water Bottles for Kids
Last update on 2025-01-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Fjallraven, Kanken Mini Classic Backpack
The Fjallraven, Kanken Mini Classic Backpack is a popular travel backpack for kids and adults. Many parents love the look and overall design.
The one thing that I like about this travel backpack is the quick access to everything. This backpack opens completely, so you can see everything inside, without having to search for it.
There is a name and address label sewn on the inside, so if your little one loses their backpack, it can be returned. The two side pockets are perfect for extra storage, but they aren’t great to hold drink bottles.
Something to note is the sitting pad, which helps this backpack stand straight. This version of the backpack is smaller, but there are other models for adults, which many travelers love.
One of the major drawbacks of using this backpack to travel with kids is the lack of padding. Your kids will likely get tired of carrying this backpack on their shoulders for hours at a time.
Pros
- Reflective Logo
- Dirt resistant
- High capacity
- Large main compartment
- Lots of color options
Cons
- Expensive
- No padding/cushion
Fjallraven Backpacks
Last update on 2025-01-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Osprey Daylite Kid’s Backpack
Osprey is one of the most popular and well-known backpack brands and is a popular choice for backpackers. If you are an active family that enjoys the outdoors, the Osprey Daylite Kid’s Backpack is the perfect travel backpack for your kids.
These kids’ travel backpack has a hydration bladder that can be used to keep your little one hydrated for long days outside. One of the best things about this kid’s backpack is the lifetime warranty.
If you have any problems with this bag, you can contact customer service, and they will help replace your travel backpack.
The only negative for this back is the lack of reflective lining to make it easier to see at night. Since this is a travel backpack that is often used for outdoor activity the extra safety measure would be a good idea.
Pros
- Durable
- Lifetime warranty
- Interior sleeve for hydration
- Two water bottle pockets
- Customer service
Cons
- No reflective lining
Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack
The Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack isn’t a kids’ backpack, but it is so lightweight and functional that I wanted to include it on the list. I
f you are looking for an adult backpack for your little ones that are durable, affordable, lightweight, and have a large capacity then this is the perfect travel backpack.
The shoulder straps are mesh, although they do not have padding they are lightweight breathable for comfort. Based on the reviews the latest improvements are a hit with active backpackers. You can take this travel bag hiking for the day without any problems.
This backpack folds into an inner pocket the can easily fit in your luggage if needed. How awesome is that?
If you believe your kids are ready for a grown-up travel backpack, then this is the bag to try. Plus it’s affordable, so if you decided you do not like it you won’t have to spend a fortune.
There are complaints in the reviews about the inside of the bag. Several people have reported the inside melting in extreme heat.
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Strong zipper
- Different color options
- Compact
- Large main compartment
- Comfortable
Cons
- No reflective lining
- Interior issues
Mountaintop Kids Backpack
The Mountaintop Kids Backpack is our favorite overall pick for the best kids’ travel backpack. This backpack is perfect for not only travel but your little ones heading to school. Unlike the toddler travel backpacks, this one can fit everything they need for school.
What I love about this backpack is its durability and size. An added plus is all of the different available color options.
Like the other backpacks on our list, there are complaints about the size. Keep in mind these backpacks are for smaller kids, not older children. If you are looking for a larger backpack, I recommend finding something full-size.
Pros
- Different color options
- Extra mesh pocket
- Large main compartment
- Several pockets
- Comfortable
Cons
- Size
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING THE BEST TRAVEL BACKPACK FOR TODDLERS
Size
We’ve always said the most important thing about kids’ travel gear is that it is portable, affordable, and durable. A lightweight travel backpack is important for not only kids but adults.
Kids travel backpacks need to be small enough to fit their bodies, but large enough to hold everything they need while traveling.
Comfort
I put comfort high on the list of considering when buying the best travel backpack for kids because it is one of the most important factors. What’s the point of getting a backpack that your kids do not want to wear because it is uncomfortable?
That is why I believe you should always look for shoulder pads when considering the perfect backpack for your kids. Padded shoulders make it easier to wear a backpack for long periods.
We all know we do not want a cranky toddler on our hands because they do not want to carry their backpack or are in pain.
Capacity
Depending on the age of your kids, the importance of capacity will vary.
If you are looking for a travel backpack for a toddler, the capacity can be less because most of their items are lightweight. A backpack with a large compartment and a few pockets for toddlers under 4 years old.
On the contrary, if you are looking for a travel backpack for an older kid, I’d recommend a higher capacity they can carry comfortably. This will allow them to fit heavier items inside the backpack for longer trips or use them as an everyday backpack for school.
A lot of pockets are necessary if the main compartment is large enough to fit everything they need.
Durability
Durability is important when it comes to buying anything for kids because they can be rough sometimes. We want our travel gear to last as long as possible.
You want to have a backpack that has strong material such as nylon with YKK-grade zippers. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve seen a zipper that wasn’t YKK in quite some time.
Water-Resistant
The weather is unpredictable, so you don’t want to get caught outside in a downpour with a backpack that is not water-resistant. This means that the material will repel the water keeping your kid’s clothes, toys, paper, and snacks dry.
Trust us, we’ve learned from personal experience that cute isn’t always functional when our toddler’s travel back got soaked with his tablet inside.
Drink Holder
I think a drink holder is a basic feature for not only travel backpacks for children, but for adults too. It just makes getting to your drink easier and doesn’t take up additional space in your backpack.
Plus, if your toddler is anything like ours, he likes to have his drink close, so trying to get inside the bag will lead to an unnecessary tantrum. We try to have his drink ready to go when needed, especially while we are traveling.
If possible, two drink holders would be ideal for toddler backpacks. We like to have separate juice and water cups for our little ones.
If your toddler still drinks milk, it would be nice to have different holders for them while traveling.
