Best Kids Travel Backpack that Make Them Safe

24 Dec Best Kids Travel Backpack that Make Them Safe

As a parent who loves to travel, I know how important it is to keep my kids happy and engaged on our family adventures near and far. A key part of that is having the right gear, especially a durable, comfortable and spacious backpack made just for kids. The best kids travel backpack make it easy for children to stay organized and carry their own items in a stylish, personalized way.

From road trips to international destinations, having kids equipped with their own backpacks allows them to feel independent while keeping essentials like snacks, toys and books close at hand. The right backpack ensures your child will have what they need whether trekking through museums and historic sites or navigating airports and train stations. Versatile, thoughtfully designed and budget-friendly, these backpacks let kids focus on fun while parents focus on creating lasting memories together.

Key Features to Look For Best Kids Travel Backpack

Like their adult counterparts, the best travel backpacks for kids need to check some key boxes when it comes to comfort, durability and storage. Here’s what to look for:

Adjustable Straps

Kids grow, so adjustable shoulder and sternum straps ensure a customizable fit. Padded straps prevent digging and discomfort too.

Durable Materials

From playgrounds to screaming on rollercoasters, kids put their gear through a lot. Look for ripstop polyester or nylon exteriors that can withstand daily adventures.

Interior Organization

Pockets, pouches and compartments keep toys, snacks and treasures safe and tidy indoors and out. Bonus points for including a key leash so those tiny treasures never get lost.

Personality Plus

Letting kids pick their own backpack results in excited kiddos who can’t wait to hit the road. From solid colors to vibrant prints, choose a backpack that shows off their unique style.

Amazing Backpack Options

From tried-and-true classics every parent knows to brands designed just for kids, these 12 backpack options have room for nonstop family fun.

Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack

A favorite for school and travel, Pottery Barn Kids backpacks feature durable canvas or nylon paired with faux leather accents. The Mackenzie has handy exterior pockets, coordinating lunch bags available and comes in pops of color like “pool” blue.

• Durable cotton canvas exterior
• Padded, adjustable shoulder straps
• Interior mesh water bottle pockets
• Loop for attaching to rolling luggage

Skip Hop Zoo Little Kid & Toddler Backpack

If you’ve got tiny travelers, Skip Hop’s got you covered with their beloved Zoo line. Available as little kid (age 3+) and toddler (18 mos+) versions, these adorable animal-themed backpacks have handy details like nametags and attachments for pacifier cases. Peek-a-boo mesh means you can easily see inside.

• Rubberized bottom withstands being set down
• Front zippered pocket
• Name tag for identification
• Carry handle for easy tot transport

JanSport Hatchet Backpack

Trusted brand JanSport is known for making great adult backpacks, but their sturdy kids’ versions are awesome too. Available in a huge variety of colors and patterns, the Hatchet is made of durable polyester and has ergonomic S-curved shoulder straps plus a web haul handle.

• Side water bottle pocket
• Fully padded back panel
• Large main compartment fits books, clothes and more
• Lifetime warranty – these truly last!

LittleLife Kids Ultralight Ladybird Daysack

Winning awards across the pond for their smart designs specially made for kids, LittleLife backpacks are ultralight, durable and loaded with handy details. The Ladybird is sized just right for ages 4 to 7 and has a clinch-top to keep all their gear secure.

• YKK zips designed specifically for little hands
• Emergency whistle buckle
• Reflective square for visibility
• Attachment point for kid leashes
• Vegan-friendly materials

L.L. Bean Kids’ Pack, Medium

Available in four vibrant colors, L.L. Bean’s streamlined kids’ pack is crafted in the USA from their weatherproof nylon and has plenty of pockets. One is even specially sized for water bottles. Padded, heat-sealed seams ensure this bag is ready for all kinds of outdoor family adventures.

• U-shaped top opening provides easy access
• Reinforced stitching at stress points
• Mesh stuff sack included
• Interior safety whistle

State Mini Knox Backpack – Gold / Cotton Candy

Independent brand State Bags makes their stylish bags in the USA and gives a backpack to a local child in need for each one purchased. Available in three sizes, the Mini Knox edition has exciting loungewear vibes thanks to its soft-touch fabrication in juicy pink and gold.

• High quality YKK zippers
• Secret side stash pocket
• 15” laptop sleeve pocket
• One backpack donated for each purchased

Bugaboo Bee Kids Backpack

Cleverly designed diaper bags and sturdy luggage make Bugaboo a trusted travel companion for parents. Now kids can get in on the thoughtful details with the bright and cheerful Bee backpack. It has handy attachment points for linking to Bugaboo strollers and luggage plus a monkey keychain zipper pull.

• Integrated luggage strap
• Internal name and address tag
• Main compartment + front organizer pocket
• Made from bluesign® approved materials

Wildkin Kids Original Backpack

Specializing in gear for kids on the go, Wildkin backpacks are parent-designed and kid-approved. This classic edition is sized just right for ages 4 to 8 and is made from durable, wipeable nylon. Pick from dozens of fun patterns and animal designs that kids will “rawr” over.

• Top handle and secure clip closure
• Interior mesh pocket
• Reinforced stitching on straps
• Lifetime guarantee

Stephen Joseph Quilted Dino Backpack

Trusted brand Stephen Joseph lets kids unleash their inner dinosaur adventurer with this vibrant quilted backpack. It’s sized for ages 2-6 and has handy details like a name tag and loop for attaching to a kid leash or luggage. Choose from over a dozen colorful dinosaur designs.

• Machine washable
• Adjustable shoulder straps
• Zippered main compartment
• Exterior side pocket

Lekebaby Shark Kids Backpack

This adorable smiley shark backpack based on the uber-popular kids song is sized for toddlers and little kids. It’s made from water-resistant oxford fabric and has adjustable straps so even tiny tots can wear it comfortably. A zippered front pocket keeps essentials handy.

• Reinforced fin-shaped carry handle
• Durable tight weave oxford fabric
• Fun smiling shark smile design
• Great for ages 12 months to age 6

Hudson Baby Convertible Backpack

Trusted brand Hudson Baby makes this versatile backpack that converts into a convenient over-the-shoulder diaper bag. Sized for ages 9 mos to 5 years, it has slip pockets to keep bottles upright, a name card and sturdy metal feet on the bottom to keep it standing.

• Wipe clean polyester exterior
• Machine washable
• Converts from backpack to shoulder bag
• Matching changing pad included

Versatility is Key Backpacks help set kids up for success on family adventures, providing comfort and independence on the go. Look for versatility in sizing, storage options and even style, as many backpacks today convert between traditional carry options and handy shoulder bags.

Personal touches like customization through patches and pins allow kids to put their own stamp on gear. Seek out quality materials from brands that stand behind their products, often offering generous return windows and lifetime guarantees in case of defects.

The Right Gear for Family Adventure

Having kids equipped with well-fitting, personalized backpacks suited for their age sets the tone for engaging travels together as a family. Choosing the best kids travel backpack connect means more opportunities for independence and fun. Packed with their choices of must-have items, these backpacks become loveable companions wherever the journey leads.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is a kids backpack best for?

Look for toddler backpacks starting around 18 months when children begin walking steadily. Backpacks with small loads are great for developing muscles as they prepare for preschool. Most standard kids backpacks size up through ages 7 or 8.

What should kids carry in their backpack?

Let your child take the lead! Ideal items include: spare clothes, diapers, snacks, small toys, books, coloring supplies and electronics like iPads. Some may want to stash treasures like rocks, grass or sticks too – packaging tape can help contain these!

How heavy should a child’s backpack be?

As a general rule, aim for no more than 10-15% of their body weight including the weight of the loaded pack itself. Watch for signs of discomfort and remind kids to bend at the knees when picking up their bag.

Can kids use hiking backpacks?

Hiking-specific child carrier backpacks with integrated seats are ideal for hitting trails with pre-schoolers but limit storage space. For older kids who can walk longer distances, mini versions of adult hiking packs that distribute weight well work great.

When should kids carry their own backpack?

As soon as they express interest! Having their own personalized backpack boosts independence and engagement. Letting toddlers try them on, packing their own toys and making the choice to carry it or not gives them ownership.