The right backpack can be a game-changer, whether your toddler is heading to daycare or gearing up for a new adventure.
Empower your child with a sense of independence while ensuring they have a durable and stylish means to carry their essentials.
We’ve meticulously curated a list of the 15 best toddler backpacks for boys and girls. We’ve researched, reviewed, and selected with your child’s best interests at heart.
- Adorable look
- Stuffed animal included
- Several designs to choose from
- BPA and phthalate-free
- Insulated pouch
- Roomy interior with side pocket
- Removable leash
- Small and lightweight
- Adjustable front strap for extra security
- 3D design
- Lightweight materials
- Included safety leash
- Insulated pocket for snacks
- Durable and easy to clean materials
- Safety harness included
- Made from non-toxic, eco-friendly materials
- Water-resistant exterior
- Adorable 3D unicorn design
- Cute theme
- Comfortable straps and front harness
- Included safety leash
- Bright colors
- Durable, water-resistant materials
- Easy to clean
- Fantastic space theme
- Ample room for supplies
- Comfortable to wear
- Fun mermaid theme
- Machine washable
- Side pockets and comfortable straps
Product Reviews
Delve into our list of the 15 top toddler backpacks on the market and see which backpack best aligns with your child’s style and needs.
Bag & Carry Animal Toy Toddler Backpack
Best Stuffed Animal Toddler Backpack
Delight your toddler with Bag & Carry’s multifunctional backpack. The cute backpack features a detachable stuffed animal — perfect for playtime and a comforting companion for daycare.
Parents are in love with the backpack itself, and we don’t disagree. Lightweight and designed with adjustable straps, it provides ample space for essential items.
Made from plush material, it stands at around 10 inches tall. Although it’s not the largest, there’s ample room for supplies, snacks, and extra clothes.
Pros
- Adorable look.
- Detachable stuffed animal included.
- Several designs to choose from.
- Spacious enough for daily essentials.
Cons
- Size might be too small for some.
Our Ratings
Skip Hop Toddler Backpack
Bee Fancy Toddler Backpack
Captivate your child’s imagination with Skip Hop’s bee-themed backpack. Ideal for daycare or visits to grandparents, this roomy backpack measures 12 inches in height and 11 inches in length.
A side pocket ensures quick access to water bottles or snacks, while the insulated compartment ensures their food remains fresh.
Designed with breathable materials and padded shoulder straps, it guarantees comfort throughout the day. One thing to note is that it isn’t machine-washable.
Pros
- BPA- and phthalate-free.
- Insulated pouch.
- Roomy interior with side pocket.
- Several designs available.
Cons
- Not machine washable.
Our Ratings
Skip Hop Toddler Leash And Harness Backpack
Best Backpack for Wandering Toddlers
Whether you’re running errands or going to the park, a leash is a fantastic way of keeping your toddler close. This backpack from Skip Hop comes with a detachable tether and adjustable front strap.
This backpack is for light travelers — it measures 7.5 inches in height and 9 inches in length. It has enough room for light clothes, wipes, and diapers.
The charming zoo-themed design offers a variety of animals to choose from, with our favorite being the dog.
Pros
- Detachable leash.
- Adjustable front strap for extra security.
- Small and lightweight — great for young toddlers.
- Seven designs to choose from.
Cons
- The front clip on the strap is a little tight to open and close.
- Name tag is not included on the inside.
Our Ratings
Dinosaur Daycare Toddler Backpack
Best Toddler Backpack for Daycare
Set your child apart with this dinosaur-themed backpack, specifically tailored for daycare use.
Boasting a comfortable size and weighing a mere 7.04 ounces, it offers generous storage space for all daycare essentials.
It is made from durable nylon and features a breathable mesh on the back and roomy side pockets for bottles.
Pros
- Engaging 3D design.
- Lightweight and durable material.
- Included safety leash.
- Several designs available.
Cons
- The strap may not be the sturdiest out there.
Our Ratings
Yodo Kids Insulated Toddler Backpack
Best Toddler Backpack for Snacks
Whether you’re going to the museum or the park, toddlers will need their snacks. This backpack from Yodo enables them to carry their own.
Thanks to an insulated pocket, snacks will stay fresh, and accidental spills won’t ruin the bag. The pocket consists of a BPA-free lining, capable of keeping the contents cool or warm for up to three hours.
On the sides of the backpack are additional mesh pockets for water and juice.
It’s a great size, measuring 8.5 inches by 10.5 inches.
Pros
- Insulated pocket for snacks.
- Durable materials — easy to clean.
- Fantastic size for small children.
- Safety harness included.
Cons
- More like a wearable cooler than a backpack for supplies.
Our Ratings
KK Crafts Waterproof Toddler Backpack
Best Unicorn Toddler Backpack
We’re crazy about unicorns, so this backpack from KK Crafts had to get a place on our list. It’s brightly colored pink and white, with a 3D unicorn horn and ears, suitable for children aged 2 to 6 years.
Made from environmentally-friendly materials, it’s free from BPA, phthalate, and PVC — safe for use with small children. It consists of a soft, neoprene material, which is water-resistant, elastic, and lightweight. It will protect your little one’s stuff from dust and spills.
It’s a roomy backpack, measuring 10.2 inches in height. There’s space for small books, clothes, and diapers.
Pros
- Made from non-toxic, eco-friendly materials.
- Water-resistant exterior.
- Adorable 3D unicorn design.
- Fantastic size.
Cons
- The side pockets aren’t elastic, so fitting cups in is challenging.
Our Ratings
Alphabetz Butterfly Toddler Backpack with Leash
Best Toddler Backpack for Girls
Make her day sparkle with this Alphatbetz butterfly-themed backpack. Also available in muffin unicorn motifs, the bag is colorful and bright — fantastic for little girls going to daycare.
Tailored for children aged 1 to 5, its comfortable and adjustable straps and safety harness ensure a snug fit.
Pros
- Cute theme.
- Comfortable straps and front harness.
- Safety leash included.
- Plenty of pockets for stuff.
Cons
- The included leash is quite short.
Our Ratings
Hipiwe Owl Toddler Backpack
Best Toddler Backpack For Animal Lovers
If your toddler loves animals, this one might be a hit. This backpack from Hipiwe is available in several animal themes, such as penguin, giraffe, puppy, monkey, and tiger.
This backpack is durable and is made from lightweight material, excellent for daycare. We appreciate that it’s easy to clean and the exterior is water-resistant.
It measures 9.84 inches in height and has ample room for essential supplies. Plus, your little one will look stylish.
Pros
- Vibrant animal designs to choose from.
- Durable, water-resistant materials.
- Great size.
- Easy to clean.
Cons
- Might not be suitable for taller kids.
Our Ratings
Yisibo Rocket Toddler Backpack With Safety Leash
Best Toddler Backpack for the Aspiring Astronaut
For toddlers who are fascinated by space, we found this backpack from Yisibo. It’s decked out in an adorable space shuttle theme with a transparent front pocket for toys.
There are wide padded straps and a front chest harness that are fully adjustable for comfort. The zippers are coated in rubber, making them easy for small hands to grip.
The backpack is made from eco-friendly neoprene, which is both lightweight and water-resistant. Plus, you’ll receive an included leash to keep your toddler close.
Pros
- Fantastic space theme.
- Ample room for supplies.
- Comfortable to wear.
- Rubberized zippers.
Cons
- No side pockets for bottles or drinks.
Our Ratings
Stephen Joseph Little Sidekick Backpack
Best Toddler Backpack for Mermaid Fans
Stephen Joseph’s mermaid backpack is a splash of fun! The captivating 3D design brings mermaid dreams to life.
We applaud the machine-washable materials — with toddlers, things get messy fast.
Ensuring comfort, the straps are padded, and the side mesh pockets are excellent for drinks.
Pros
- Fun mermaid theme.
- It’s machine washable.
- Side pockets.
- Comfortable straps.
Cons
- Mesh pockets are on the small side.
Our Ratings
J World Kids Rolling Backpack
Most Versatile Toddler Backpack
This two-in-one backpack is incredibly versatile. Your toddler can use it as a regular backpack or as a rolling luggage bag. It’s a fantastic size for daycare, measuring 16 inches by 12 inches.
It has spacious compartments and an inner zip pocket. Moreover, it comes with an insulated lunch bag.
The padded back and straps ensure maximum comfort for your little one.
Pros
- Can be used in two ways.
- Ample storage for essentials.
- Comes with insulated lunch bag.
- Comfortable to wear.
Cons
- Might be small for kids over ten years.
Our Ratings
MomMore Fashion Toddler Backpack
Most Fashionable Toddler Backpack
If you’re looking for something fashionable, as opposed to childish, this backpack is a good option. It’s a small, lightweight bag, great for outings and daycare.
The backpack is available in three colors and is made from water-resistant oxford fabric. It’s effortless to clean and machine washable. Included is a 38.9-inch leash for when you want more control over your little one.
Pros
- Simple yet stylish.
- Roomy compartment for stuff.
- Available in three colors.
- Durable, water-resistant materials.
Cons
- The straps are long and require a fair amount of adjusting.
Our Ratings
Mountaintop Toddler Backpack
Best Toddler Backpack for Outdoorsy Toddlers
For the young nature enthusiast, Mountaintop’s toddler backpack is an ideal companion. Light and designed for toddlers aged 2 to 4, this backpack boasts an easy-to-use YKK buckle.
It is padded for comfort and integrated with mesh for breathability; perfect for short hikes or park visits.
It can comfortably fit the essentials like a water bottle, snacks, and a change of clothing. Plus, the variety of colors ensures your toddler treks in style.
Pros
- Lightweight; tailored for outdoor adventures.
- Easy-to-use buckle.
- Comfortable materials.
- Included name tag.
Cons
- Not suitable for carrying folders or large items.
Our Ratings
Hipiwe Little Kid Toddler Backpack
Best Giraffe-Themed Toddler Backpack
For toddlers enchanted by the animal kingdom, especially giraffes, Hipiwe offers a delightful mini backpack.
Measuring only 9.84 inches by 9.45 inches, it’s ideal for toting essentials like snacks, wipes, and diapers.
The captivating giraffe design features adorable horns, perky ears, and sparkling eyes.
Pros
- Cute animal theme.
- Compact size suitable for toddlers.
- Variety of design options.
- Padded shoulder straps.
Cons
- The bag does not come with a safety leash.
Our Ratings
Toddler Dinosaur Backpack Book Bags
Best Toddler Backpack for Boys
Fuel your little one’s prehistoric imagination with this dino-inspired backpack.
Crafted from durable oxford cloth and polyester, it showcases an eye-catching 3D design.
The breathable fabric ensures comfort, while the spacious interior is perfect for essentials. For added peace of mind during outings, a safety leash is included.
Pros
- Fun 3D design.
- Durable and lightweight.
- Generous storage space.
- Safety leash included.
Cons
- The strap for the leash sits at the bottom as opposed to the top.
Our Ratings
How to Choose a Toddler Backpack
Safety
Although backpacks sound quite harmless, there are some features to look for to ensure your toddler is safe and comfortable.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends looking for backpacks with wide shoulder straps, a chest strap, and a padded back (1). This ensures comfort by evenly distributing the weight and preventing materials from digging into the skin.
Another consideration is the location of the name tag. If your little one goes to daycare, kindergarten, or nursery, a name tag is essential so teachers can recognize whose bag it is.
However, children tend to trust people who know their names. So, to prevent abductions and other unfortunate situations, keep their name tag on the inside (2).
Size
It might surprise you when you first see a toddler backpack — they’re tiny, but that’s for a good reason. Toddlers don’t have the strength to carry large bags filled with toys and books.
When choosing a backpack for them, it should ideally carry only some clothes, diapers, wipes, perhaps a water bottle, and a small toy.
If your child goes to daycare or kindergarten, check with the staff about size requirements. Some will ask that the backpack be big enough to accommodate a standard-sized folder. Try to aim for a size between 10 and 15 inches in height.
Watch The Weight Limit
Materials
Things can get messy quickly with toddlers — spills, crumbs, and sticky hands. We strongly advise choosing a backpack that’s either machine washable or easy to wipe clean.
Toddler Backpack FAQs
Does a 2-Year-Old Need a Backpack For Daycare?
A backpack for a two-year-old at daycare is handy for carrying spare clothes, snacks, and a favorite toy. Also, try to choose a small, lightweight bag.
What is the Weight Limit For a Toddler’s Backpack?
A toddler’s backpack should weigh no more than 10-15% of their body weight. It’s important to keep it light to avoid strain on their developing bodies.
What Do You Put In a Toddler’s Backpack For Preschool?
In a toddler’s backpack for preschool, include essentials like a change of clothes, a snack, a water bottle, and perhaps a comfort item like a small toy or book.
What Information Should Be On a Child’s Backpack?
Include your child’s name, your contact number, and any important medical information inside the backpack. Avoid displaying personal info where it’s easily visible to strangers.
