Kids Hiking Backpacks: How to Choose the Right Size for Your Child
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Choosing the right kids hiking backpack isn’t about picking the biggest or most expensive option.
It’s about matching the backpack to your child’s age, size, and how they move outdoors.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to choose the best kids hiking backpack for hiking, camping, school excursions, and everyday outdoor adventures in Australia.
🧭 Kids Hiking Backpack Size Guide (Quick Overview)
- 12L kids hiking backpack → first hiking packs / younger kids
- 11–12L performance packs → active, fast-moving kids
- 15L kids hiking backpack → balanced day hiking
- 18L kids hiking backpack → full-day adventures
- 20L kids hiking backpack → camps and longer hikes
This isn’t just about capacity — it’s about how your child uses the pack on the trail.
👶 4–6 years: First kids hiking backpack (Australia)
At this age, children are just starting to carry their own gear on short bushwalks, park visits, and family hikes.
Best kids hiking backpack:
Osprey Jet 12 Kids Hiking Backpack
Best for:
- Short bushwalks and nature walks
- Day trips and outdoor play
- Carrying snacks, water, and a light jacket
Why this size works:
A 12L kids backpack is light, simple, and sized for smaller frames - making it more likely your child will actually carry it.
🏃 6–8 years: Active kids hiking backpacks
Some kids at this age are constantly moving - riding bikes, climbing, and exploring trails.
Best kids hiking backpack:
Osprey Talon Jr Kids Hiking Backpack
Best for:
- Active outdoor play
- Bike rides and light hikes
- Kids who prefer a lightweight backpack
Why it works:
This style of kids hiking backpack is designed for movement, with a close fit that reduces bounce on uneven ground.
🥾 6–10 years: Balanced day hiking backpacks
This is the most common stage for kids hiking backpacks in Australia — school excursions, family hikes, and day walks.
Best kids hiking backpack:
Tatonka Wokin 15 Kids Hiking Backpack
Best for:
- Full-day hiking
- School camps and excursions
- Carrying lunch, jacket, and water
Why it works:
A 15L kids hiking backpack balances space and comfort, making it ideal for all-day outdoor use.
🌄 8–12 years: Full-day kids hiking backpacks
Older kids need more space for longer hikes, travel, and independent outdoor adventures.
Best kids hiking backpack:
Osprey Jet 18 Kids Hiking Backpack
Best for:
- Full-day hikes
- Travel and outdoor trips
- Carrying extra layers and gear
Why it works:
An 18L kids hiking backpack gives more capacity without becoming too large or uncomfortable.
🏕️ 10+ years: Kids hiking backpacks for camps and longer trips
At this stage, kids may be carrying gear for school camps or longer hiking days.
Best kids hiking backpack:
Tatonka Mani 20 Kids Hiking Backpack
Best for:
- School camps
- Longer hiking days
- Carrying more personal gear
Why it works:
A 20L kids hiking backpack is closer to a small trekking pack, ideal for longer outdoor adventures.
🧠 How to choose the right kids hiking backpack
If you’re unsure which size to choose:
- Choose a smaller kids hiking backpack for younger or less experienced children
- Choose a larger backpack only for longer hikes or camps
- Fit and comfort matter more than litres
A properly fitted kids hiking backpack will always outperform a larger, poorly fitting one.
🏔️ Why choosing the right kids hiking backpack matters
The right backpack helps children:
- Carry their own gear comfortably
- Stay outdoors longer without fatigue
- Build independence and confidence
- Enjoy hiking and outdoor activities more
In Australia, where family hiking, camping, and outdoor play are common, the right kids hiking backpack makes a big difference.
🛍️ Shop Kids Hiking Backpacks
Explore the full range of kids hiking backpacks at Trailsprout: