ClevrPlus Cross Country Baby Backpack Carrier Review

Bottom line

The ClevrPlus Cross Country is a budget-friendly child carrier that provides a few essential features we like to see in a framed carrier, such as adjustable stirrups and an included sunshade. While it doesn’t offer the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it fulfills a basic need for parents seeking an affordable option for shorter outings. 

This carrier is particularly suited for quick trips around town or light walks with smaller children, where its lower weight and price point shine. However, it falls short for longer adventures. The padding and support are minimal, making it uncomfortable for both parent and child over time, and it struggles to handle heavier loads or larger kids. 

The weight distribution is subpar, which adds strain on the wearer. While it offers only moderate value overall, it serves as an accessible choice for families who need a framed carrier for occasional, low-impact use without a hefty price tag.

For more options, check out our guide to the best baby carriers for hiking.

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How We Tested

We put this carrier to the test in the same way any parent of a young child would. With our 7-month-old and 3-year-old co-gear analysts in tow, we embarked on as many adventures as possible. From hiking the Colorado foothills to snowshoeing on some of our favorite trails and even tackling the aisles of our local grocery store, we ensured this carrier saw a wide range of use. We made a point to test it with both smaller and larger children across various activities, giving us a thorough understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. Every buckle, strap, and pocket was put to work to uncover the ins and outs of this pack.

Comfort

We like the ClevrPlus Cross Country for certain activities, but comfort is not its strong suit. The padding on the shoulder straps and hip belt is minimal compared to higher-end models, and we found that this lack of cushioning became noticeable during longer outings. For short, casual use, the carrier is fine, but for hikes over a couple of miles or while carrying heavier children, discomfort can set in quickly for the adult wearer.

The pack lacks the ergonomic design, stability, and weight distribution features seen in more premium options, which led to strain on the shoulders and lower back during testing.

This carrier also struggles to provide comfort for the child. While it includes stirrups that support a child’s legs, the cockpit is not as padded or supportive as it could be. During testing with a 7-month-old and a 3-year-old, we noticed that older and larger children seemed to become uncomfortable more quickly, as it doesn’t adequately accommodate shifting weight or provide enough support for extended use.

Features

The Cross Country offers a few key features that are surprising for such a budget-friendly carrier. First, it includes a sunshade/rain canopy as a standard feature. During our testing on a sunny day in the Colorado foothills, the sunshade effectively kept our 7-month-old shaded and comfortable. However, the Velcro attachment is prone to detachment when curious little hands pulled at it, raising concerns about its long-term durability. In early winter conditions, the clear plastic side panels of the sunshade provided a nice barrier against cold breezes, though we anticipate that the lack of breathability could be an issue in warmer weather, potentially leaving kids hot and uncomfortable. 

The Cross Country also comes with foot stirrups to enhance child comfort. From our experience, foot stirrups make a noticeable difference in keeping kids comfortable.. That said, the plastic stirrups on this carrier feel a bit flimsy and could benefit from sturdier construction.

Unfortunately, the ClevrPlus lacks advanced features such as adjustable torso lengths and hip belt pockets, which are standard in higher-end models. While it offers sufficient functionality for casual outings, these omissions render it less suitable for extended adventures or regular use compared to its more premium competitors.

Durability

Unfortunately, the ClevrPlus Cross Country falls a bit short in durability, which is obviously an important factor for long-term use. During testing, several components raised concerns about the carrier’s ability to withstand regular wear and tear. For instance, the Velcro attachments on the sunshade frequently detached when our little tester grabbed at them, and over time, the Velcro became noticeably less effective.

While the fabric and stitching seemed less durable than those in more expensive models, we have not yet experienced any tears or fraying, even in high-stress areas.

The biggest durability issue we encountered was with the kickstand. One of the plastic hubs cracked during testing, which was disappointing to see so early in its use. Thankfully, the crack didn’t compromise the safety of the carrier, but it’s a concern for those planning to use the pack frequently.

Storage & Organization

We found this pack to offer basic yet functional storage and organization. The pack includes a single large zippered storage compartment at the bottom, sufficient for essentials like diapers, snacks, and a light jacket. During testing, we appreciated the size of the compartment for short outings. However, its lack of organization often resulted in items being jumbled together, which made retrieval somewhat frustrating.

There are also a few mesh pockets, including one for a water bottle. However, the placement of the water bottle pocket is awkwardly high, making it nearly impossible to reach without assistance while wearing the pack. Additionally, the elastic in the mesh pockets feels less secure than we’d like. 

The sunshade and rain cover store neatly when not in use, which is a thoughtful touch. There is one small zippered pocket on the hip belt. While it’s not large enough for most modern smartphones it works well for car keys and some small snacks.

Weight

The ClevrPlus Cross Country impressed us with its lightweight design, but this comes with trade-offs. At just 5.5 pounds, this carrier is one of the lighter framed models on the market, making it easy to carry for shorter outings. During our testing, the lower weight made a noticeable difference when hiking on mild trails or running quick errands, especially compared to bulkier competitors. For parents seeking something manageable and not overly cumbersome, the ClevrPlus delivers.

The reduced weight impacts load stability. On uneven terrain, the carrier felt somewhat top-heavy, especially when fully loaded with a larger child and gear. This made it less comfortable for extended hikes or more technical trails.

Should You Buy the ClevrPlus Cross Country?

The ClevrPlus Cross Country is a solid option for parents seeking an affordable, lightweight child carrier for casual, low-impact outings. If your adventures are confined to short to moderate hikes, neighborhood strolls, or occasional trips to the park, this carrier offers basic functionality with features such as a sunshade and stirrups to ensure your little one’s comfort. It’s particularly attractive for budget-conscious families wanting a framed carrier without stretching their budget.

However, it isn’t the best choice for those planning frequent or demanding hikes. The carrier’s limited durability, minimal padding, and absence of advanced features like adjustable torso lengths render it less suitable for extended use or rugged terrain. Its value lies in being a starter or backup carrier for light-duty tasks, rather than a primary piece of gear for serious outdoor enthusiasts. For occasional use, it is a reasonable and practical option.

What Other Baby Backpack Carriers Should You Consider?

If you’re considering the ClevrPlus Cross Country, several other carriers might suit your needs based on your budget, comfort preferences, and intended use. For a broader overview, check out our main best baby backpack carriers gear guide.

Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite Review: The Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite is another standout, offering excellent storage, a comfortable fit, and durable materials. It’s a premium pack loaded with features and is slightly lighter and less expensive.

Osprey Poco SLT Review: If you’re looking for a lightweight framed carrier that offers improved comfort and durability, the Osprey Poco SLT is a strong contender. It features a well-padded suspension system, a lightweight design, an optional sunshade, and adjustable torso lengths, making it suitable for both regular hikes and more demanding outings.

Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL Review: For parents seeking a durable carrier with plenty of storage, the Thule Sapling provides exceptional build quality and thoughtful features, such as dual access to the child seat. While it requires a higher investment, it is ideal for extended adventures.