Kids Backpack

A good kids' backpack needs to survive the school run, the airport terminal, and the hiking trail — often in the same week. The range covers lightweight school backpacks, compact travel daypacks, and adventure-ready kids' packs, all sized for growing children and built to handle real use. Travel Gear ships from our Charlestown NSW warehouse with fast delivery across Australia.

Types of Kids Backpacks

• School backpacks: 15–25L capacity with a padded laptop sleeve, multiple compartments, and ergonomic shoulder straps — designed for daily use from primary through to high school
• Travel daypacks: Lightweight and compact, ideal for carrying snacks, a water bottle, and a layer on family holidays and day trips. Many pack down small enough to fit inside a suitcase for the flight
• Hiking backpacks for kids: Structured packs with a hip belt and sternum strap sized for smaller frames — distributes weight properly so kids can carry their own gear on the trail. See our full hiking backpack range for all sizes
• Kids' carry-on backpacks: Sized to meet airline carry-on limits (56 x 36 x 23cm) and work as a personal item or overhead locker bag on Australian airlines

What to Look for in a Kids' Backpack

• Size: Match the pack to your child's torso length, not just their age — a pack that's too long pulls backwards and causes back strain
• Weight: The loaded pack should weigh no more than 10% of your child's body weight — lighter is always better for growing spines
• Padded shoulder straps: Wide, padded straps distribute weight evenly — avoid thin straps that dig in on longer carries
• Sternum strap: Keeps shoulder straps from sliding off smaller shoulders — essential for active kids
• Water bottle pocket: An external side pocket keeps kids hydrated without unpacking the whole bag
• Water resistance: A water-resistant outer fabric protects contents from light rain and spills

Frequently Asked Questions

What size backpack does my child need?

For primary school children (ages 5–11), a 15–20L pack is appropriate. For high school students (ages 12+), a 20–30L pack suits most needs. For travel and day trips, a 10–15L daypack is ideal. The key is fit — the pack should sit between the child's shoulders and hips, not hanging below the waist.

Can kids' backpacks be used as carry-on luggage?

Many kids' travel backpacks in the 20–30L range meet Australian airline carry-on size limits (56 x 36 x 23cm). Children receive the same carry-on allowance as adults on Qantas, Virgin, and Jetstar. For a dedicated kids' carry-on with ride-on fun, see our kids ride-on luggage range.

Are kids' backpacks suitable for hiking?

Yes — look for a pack with a hip belt and sternum strap sized for children, which distributes weight properly on longer hikes. The loaded pack should weigh no more than 10% of your child's body weight. For serious trail use, a dedicated kids' hiking pack is better than a school bag.

How do I fit a backpack correctly on a child?

The bottom of the pack should sit just above the child's hips, not below the waist. Shoulder straps should follow the curve of the shoulders without gaps. Tighten the sternum strap across the chest so the shoulder straps stay in place. The pack should feel stable when the child moves — if it sways or pulls backwards, it's too big or too heavy. For the full family travel range, see our kids luggage collection.