Why the Kelty Back Country Child Carrier Was Well Worth the Money

My husband and I love the outdoors; even when I was pregnant we still did some hiking. But what happens when you have a baby? The good news is that you can still go hiking. Before the baby can hold itself up, one of those sling-like carriers that goes in front is necessary. But once she or he can sit up without help, it’s time to look into a backpack. And the Kelty Back Country Child Carrier is just the thing.

Kelty is already well known for its sturdy packs and innovations on for comfort. And now you can carry your child in security and comfort with the Kelty Back Country Child Carrier. The pack has an adjustable carrier cockpit that allows you to adjust the position so that your baby is secure, but not too tightly restricted. Kelty’s patented sun/rain hood arches over the cockpit, protecting from the elements.

The Back Country also features plenty of comforts for the carrier. It has a 3-layer padded waist belt, as well as should straps. Both the straps and the belt are contoured, molded, and adjustable. There is also 3M reflective tape for low light conditions. But perhaps one of the best conveniences this product features is the kickstand. The kickstand automatically deploys when you set the pack down, supporting the pack and the child in it while the carrier takes a rest. And because of the clever design of the kickstand, there is no need to mess with the pack. Just ease it off your shoulders and set it down.

A small removable pack is zipped to the back on some models, allowing you to stash some things like food, maps, and small first aid items on the pack itself. While the packs capacity would not sustain you on an overnight trip, it is more than adequate for a day hike. The main drawback to the backpack mainly involves the limitations is places on long hiking trips. If one person has the child carrier strapped to his or her back, the other must be in charge of all of the supplies. This can limit an expedition to two nights, three if there is not much need for heavy equipment. The good news is that there is enough room at the bottom of the carrier to strap some equipment, like a blanket roll or some other gear. Unfortunately, you have to jury-rig this solution yourself, as the necessary ties are not available on the pack.

Over all, the Kelty Back Country Child Carrier is an excellent choice for a child carrier on a hike. It holds up to 80 pounds, and it is sturdy and reasonably priced at between $150 and $190. It is more comfortable that other packs we looked at, and the extra features of the hood, small backpack, and kickstand only add to its appeal. In fact, my husband finds it so comfortable that he even uses it to carry our son around while he does household chores, like vacuuming.