8 Must-Haves For Your Kid’s Toddler Backpack

As your toddler grows more independent and starts exploring the world, having their own backpack can be both fun and practical. Whether it's for daycare, preschool, playdates, or family outings, a toddler backpack helps them carry their essentials and encourages responsibility.

Why does my toddler need a backpack?

A backpack isn’t just a cute accessory for your toddler; it serves several important purposes:

1. It fosters their independence

Having their own backpack gives your toddler a sense of responsibility and independence. They can help pack their snacks, toys, or a change of clothes, which builds confidence and self-reliance.

2. It organizes your toddler’s essentials

Whether your toddler is heading to daycare, a playdate, or a trip to the park, a toddler backpack helps keep their items organized and easy to carry.

3. It teaches responsibility

Allowing your child to be responsible for their belongings like their backpack can teach valuable lessons in caring for their items and packing what they need for the day.

4. It makes traveling easier for your child

A toddler-sized backpack ensures your little one has everything they need within arm’s reach, making family outings and travel smoother.

Also read: Tips for a Successful Outdoor Adventure With Your Children

 

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How do I choose a backpack for my toddler?

When choosing a toddler backpack, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure it's the right fit for your child’s needs and comfort:

1. The size and weight of your toddler’s backpack

For the size: The backpack should be appropriately sized for your toddler’s small frame. Look for one that’s compact but spacious enough to hold their essentials. Ideally, your toddler’s backpack shouldn’t also be taller than your child’s back.  

For the weight: The right backpack for toddlers should be lightweight so that it doesn’t strain your child’s shoulder and feels comfortable for them to carry. An empty toddler backpack should weigh no more than 1 lb.

2. Adjustable shoulder and chest straps

On the note of comfort, look for toddler backpacks with padded and adjustable shoulder straps. This ensures that the backpack sits comfortably on your child’s shoulders, and as your toddler grows, you can adjust the straps over time.  

Besides shoulder straps, also look for toddler backpacks with an additional chest strap — this can help distribute weight evenly and prevent the bag from slipping off your toddler’s shoulders. 

3. Storage features

Like with any kind of bag, you’ll definitely want your toddler’s backpack to be organized. Choose a backpack that has multiple compartments and pockets to keep snacks, water bottles, and small toys separated. A small front pocket is perfect for easy access to favorite items, while a larger compartment can hold extra clothes or a lunchbox. 

4. Closure features

To keep all of your toddler’s items in, make sure the backpack has secure closures so that nothing falls out on your outing. Zippers are generally more secure, but velcro may be easier for younger toddlers to open and close by themselves. 

5. Toddler backpack materials

Toddlers can be tough on their belongings, so choose a backpack that’s durable against rough handling and outdoor adventures. Water-resistant and waterproof toddler backpacks are also ideal because it will help protect your child’s items against rain or accidental spills. 

6. Safety features

Your child’s safety is important, so it’s best to choose a backpack that’s safe for them to use and handle frequently. Avoid backpacks made from harmful materials that contain lead, BPA, and phthalates. 

If your toddler will be wearing their backpack outdoors in early mornings or late afternoons, look for backpacks with reflective strips or bright colors for better visibility to drivers. 

 

Finally, go for toddler backpacks with a leash. Our BabbleRoo toddler backpacks include an anti-lost leash to ensure your kiddos don’t get lost or run off too far on your next family outdoor adventure!

7. Fun designs

Let’s face it— your toddler’s much more likely to use their backpack if they love how it looks! Opt for backpacks that have fun designs, vibrant colors, and characters that will excite your toddler. There are endless options to choose from, and luckily, our BabbleRoo toddler bags come in 4 fun characters that I know your little ones will love!

Choosing the right toddler backpack for different needs

Your choice of backpack may vary depending on what your toddler will use it for. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for based on different scenarios:

1. For daycare or preschool

If your toddler is heading to daycare or preschool, you’ll need a backpack that can hold snacks, a lunchbox, a water bottle, and a change of clothes. Look for one with multiple compartments to keep things organized, and make sure it’s easy for your child to open and close.

2. For travel

For family outings or travel, a backpack with extra features like chest straps, a built-in leash, or an ID tag can be helpful. Choose one that can hold toys, books, and travel essentials while still being comfortable for long days out. A backpack with a water-resistant material is also useful for outdoor adventures.

3. For playdates and outings

A smaller, lightweight backpack might be all you need for short outings or playdates. This can carry a snack, a few toys, and maybe an extra set of clothes. Make sure it’s easy for your toddler to carry themselves to foster independence.

4. For outdoor adventures

If your family enjoys hiking or spending time outdoors, opt for a backpack with a durable, water-resistant material and reflective safety features. Chest straps or a leash can help keep your toddler safe in busy or rugged areas.

 

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What do I pack in my toddler’s backpack?

1. Snacks and water

Pack healthy snacks like crackers, fruit slices, or granola bars for your toddler to snack on while traveling or when they’re out with you. If they’re going to preschool or daycare, you can pack a lunchbox for them to enjoy.  

Toddlers typically need to drink 2-4 cups of water per day, so make sure to add a spill-proof bottle of water to their bag too!

2. Clothes

Accidents do happen, so pack an extra outfit (shirt, pants, socks, and underwear) just in case. In colder weather, pack a warm sweater or jacket that can fold/roll it up without taking too much backpack space. A hat is another item you should add, especially in the summer so they can stay protected against the heat. 

3. Diapering and toiletries 

Bring a pack of baby wipes, Kleenex, diapers (if your toddler is still wearing them), and hand sanitizer to stay clean and wipe up messes on-the-go. 

4. Sunscreen and insect repellent

If you're going outdoors, a small travel-size bottle of sunscreen and kid-safe insect repellent can be helpful. 

 

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5. First-aid items

Pack toddler-friendly first-aid items like Band-Aids for scrapes and cuts, antiseptic wipes, a small flashlight with extra batteries, medicine, aloe vera gel, a thermometer, cotton swabs, gauze pads, and more.

6. Comfort items

Include your child’s favorite toy, blanket, and stuffed animal to comfort them during downtime or a nap in the car or plane. 

7. Entertainment

On the other hand, if your child needs something to keep them entertained, pack small toys or books. You can also consider a coloring book and art supplies for long flights. Regardless, make sure they’re all lightweight so it won’t make their backpack too heavy to carry. 

8. Identification and contact info

If your child doesn’t talk clearly yet, make sure they have an ID tag or a card with contact details. Our BabbleRoo toddler backpacks have ID tag holders, which will be helpful on your next outing together with your child. 

How do I clean my toddler’s backpack?

Your toddler’s backpack might get dirty, especially after a trip — it’s always good to clean it once in a while. Here are some tips to clean your toddler’s backpack:

1. Empty out the bag

Before cleaning your toddler’s bag, take out all the items inside. Take out your kids’ dirty clothes or toys if there are any, and throw out any form of trash like snack bags and wrappers. 

2. Take out the debris 

Turn the back upside down and shake out any loose debris like crumbs or dirt. Check the compartments and the small pockets, they’re more likely to hide in there. 

3. Clean, wash, and air dry the backpack

Use an old toothbrush or a wet wipe to gently treat stains and spots on your toddler’s bag. If it’s machine washable, follow the bag’s care instructions or carefully hand-wash it. Once your toddler’s backpack is clean, air dry it flat. 

5. Refresh the backpack

Before your next family outing, refresh your toddler’s backpack with new toys, clothes, snacks, and other essential items they might need. 

Also read: A Guide to Maintaining Your BabbleRoo Diaper Backpack

How do I help my toddler use their backpack?

Once you’ve chosen the perfect backpack, here are a few tips to help your toddler get used to carrying it:

• Start small: Let your toddler carry just a few light items in their backpack at first so they can get used to the weight.
• Make it fun: Let them help pack the backpack with their favorite toys or snacks so they feel excited about using it.
• Praise and encouragement: Give lots of positive reinforcement to make your toddler feel proud of carrying their own backpack.

Where can I get cute toddler backpacks for my kid?

You can get them at BabbleRoo — they’re so frickin’ cute and cuddly and perfect for your little adventurers! It also has toddler-friendly features like an anti-lost leash, an ID card tag, padded shoulder straps with reflective tapes on them, and a secure chest-buckle strap. 

Our toddler backpacks are also lightweight and durable with a water-resistant material. You can store up to 6.6 liters in storage, including spacious pockets for your toddler’s items. Perfect for venturing into the wild outdoors. 

Buckle up and let’s go!

A toddler backpack is definitely your toddler’s adventure buddy — it teaches them how to be independent while keeping their things organized, and honestly, it makes outings more fun. 

By choosing the right backpack, you can ensure that your mini-me will be excited to carry it wherever they go. So what do you say? Will you take BabbleRoo on your next family trip?