We took our 5-year-old backpacking for the first time last summer and wish we would have instead had one from German-gear maker Jack Wolfskin. This brand of trekking pack includes many of the same features as adult ones, and come in a variety of sizes.
The Pioneer 22 model (found on the brand’s central website) has a main compartment with a cord closure and lid to keep gear in place. And there’s a water bladder pouch, straps for trekking poles, stretchy external mesh pockets for water bottles and snacks, and an integrated rain cover. On the brand’s U.S. online retailer site, a comparable model is the kids’ Explorer 20, which includes a front pocket.
The pack is fully height adjustable, well ventilated, and has adjustable sternum and waist belt straps to fit little bodies snuggly.
SRP: $39.95-69.95. Us.jackwolfskin.com
Find more gear ideas, reviews, and recommendations in the Gear Room department.
