If you are hitting the trails with small kids, you’re going to need a comfortable way to carry them. Child carriers for hiking come in a variety of price points and feature sets and allow everyone to enjoy the hike.
When looking for our carrier, we chose to balance cost and comfort which lead us to the Kelty Journey Perfectfit Signature. At around $280, the carrier is middle ground as far as price. There are more expensive carriers that are above $300, and some more affordable lightweight fabric options in the $100 range. We had a fabric carrier when our son was younger, and while we like it, we now needed something more substantial to support his growing weight.
Kelty Journey Perfectfit Signature
We purchased the Kelty Journey Perfectfit from Moosejaw. We chose the signature model of the Journey Perfectfit due to the inclusion of a sun shade and additional storage. A less expensive model is available for around $220, but it lacks the built-in shade and storage. A more expensive elite model is available with accommodations for a hydration pack.
When looking at our needs, we decided that the Kelty Journey Perfectfit was a good fit for us. We liked the built-in rain guard and the generous amount of storage in the pack. With a weight limit of 50 pounds, we knew that we would get enough use out of the pack to justify the cost. Additionally, the adjustable foot straps would allow our carrier to grow with our passengers.
Comfort and adjustability
We find the carrier relatively comfortable. It took us a few trips to figure out that we needed to tighten the belt and sternum strap on the carrier. Once we did that, it sat in a more comfortable position on our back. The sternum strap helps to distribute the weight and lift some of the pressure from your lower back. The shoulder straps and back surface are constructed with thick padding to keep things comfortable. Kelty’s PerfectFIT™ Suspension System can be quickly adjusted making it easy for parents to take turns wearing the carrier.
Sun and rain protection
The built-in sun shade has proven to come in handy for both sun and rain. We have been able to enjoy some drizzly fall days by using the Sun Shade to shield our son. The little one kept dry and happy while going along for the ride.
Safety Features
If you are concerned about hiking with a child, the 5-point safety harness and padded aluminum roll cage should ease your worries in the event of a fall. We also find that the buckles keep our son well secured regardless of his movement.
The Kelty Journey PerfectFit Signature Kid Carrier is a hiking pack for hanging onto precious cargo. A 5-point safety harness and padded aluminum roll cage secures your little on inside so you can explore the trail hands-free. The adjustable PerfectFit; Suspension System allows either pArent to wear the pack, so you can split carrying duties. The back pocket is large enough for the necessary toys, snacks and diapers and zippered hip pockets Are available for quick-access Items. Features of the Kelty Journey PerfectFit Signature Kid Carrier Zippered large lower compartment Integrated sunshade Multiple grab handles 2 Zippered hipbelt pockets Zippered pocket with internal organizationCost: $289 Check current price at Moosejaw.com
Weight Limit: 50 lbs.
Colors: green or Blue
Features:
- Fold out Stand
- Sun Shade
- Adjustable foot straps
- Plenty of pockets for snacks
