Thule Sapling Baby Backpack Carrier Review

Bottom line

When people think of Thule, child carriers may not be the first products that come to mind. However, Thule has been leveraging its high-end engineering effectively, expanding its product lines in recent years. The Thule Sapling is a fully featured child carrier with unique design choices that make it a standout option in the structured child carrier market.

Like other high-end child carriers, the Sapling is highly adjustable and easy to customize, making it great for caregivers who prefer to share carrying duties. It also includes a sunshade, and its storage capacity is above average. For those needing even more space, additional storage can be purchased and attached to the back of the pack.

The most notable design choice that sets the Sapling apart is the ErgoRide seat. Instead of using stirrups as footrests, Thule designed the seat to fully support the child’s legs, eliminating the need for stirrups. Initially, our gear analysts were skeptical, but our little testers assured us that the ErgoRide seat was a win. Explore our guide to the top baby backpack carriers for further comparisons.

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How We Tested

We tested the Thule Sapling for several months in the Colorado mountains, taking it on snowy hikes and rugged trails. These outings enabled us to assess its comfort, durability, and functionality in challenging conditions for both caregivers and kids.

Comfort

We found the Thule Sapling to be reasonably comfortable for caregivers but exceptionally comfortable for the little passengers. For caregivers, the pack distributes weight effectively due to its highly adjustable torso and hip belt system, which accommodates a variety of body types. 

The padded shoulder straps and supportive hip belt make it comfortable for extended use, and the adjustability is a significant advantage for families sharing carrying duties. During our hikes in the Colorado mountains, the pack felt secure and balanced even when fully loaded.

Arguably more importantly, the Sapling stood out as one of the most comfortable options for our little gear analysts. Initially, we were skeptical about its stirrup-free design, as our opinionated toddler testers often favor footrests. 

However, the Sapling’s wide seat base, designed to keep children in the ergonomic “M” position, surpassed expectations. This thoughtful design supports the hips and legs better than most carriers, keeping kids comfortable and happy, even on longer hikes.

Features

The Thule Sapling has a strong lineup of features aimed at keeping both caregivers and kids comfortable and happy. At its core is the ErgoRide child seat, thoughtfully designed with under-leg support and a ventilated back panel to keep your little one cool and cozy. Let’s face it—kids are messy, but the fully removable, machine-washable seat makes cleanup after adventures easier.

For parents, the adjustable torso and hip belt provide a custom fit, allowing quick transitions between caregivers. The ventilated back panel adds to the overall comfort, keeping you cooler on warm days, although it doesn’t vent as effectively as some other packs we tested. Dual access points, from the top or side panel, make loading your child a breeze—no need to remove their shoes, which is a rare bonus among child carriers.

We appreciate the inclusion of a sunshade, though it doesn’t stow as easily as others and offers less coverage. The 22-liter gear compartment is great for essentials, and the hydration-compatible design is a nice touch. For longer outings, the option to add accessories like a sling pack or rain cover makes this pack versatile for extended adventures.

Durability

The Thule Sapling feels built to withstand frequent use and the inevitable wear and tear of outdoor adventures. Kids are pros at testing the limits of durability—trust us, we’ve seen it all. Fortunately, this pack holds its own. Constructed with high-quality 420D nylon, it is tough and stands up well to abrasions and rough handling on the trail.

During our testing on rugged Colorado mountain trails, the Sapling showed no signs of fraying, tearing, or structural issues, even after significant use. The zippers operate smoothly and the buckles feel sturdy, reassuring us that they’ll withstand years of adventures.

Storage & Organization

We found the Thule Sapling to be generally average in storage and organization. The 22-liter capacity is sufficient for most half-day to full-day adventures. Besides the two zippered hip pockets, all storage is situated in the lower back area, and there are no dedicated water bottle pockets. 

One of the lower rear pockets features zippers on both sides, allowing access while wearing the pack. However, finding specific items in this pocket while the pack is on can be somewhat cumbersome. This compartment is hydration-compatible, but there is no dedicated sleeve for the bladder, so it tends to flop around while hiking. An outer pocket works well for items you don’t need immediate access to, such as diapers and wipes.

A standout feature is the ability to collapse the kickstand even with full storage pockets—something most structured carriers can’t do. This design reduces the pack’s profile, which is especially helpful on tight trails. Lastly, while you can purchase additional clip-on storage, for the price, we’d like to see those extras included.

Weight

The Thule Sapling isn’t the lightest pack in its class, but it’s also not the heaviest. At 7 lbs, it leans towards the heavier side compared to ultralight options like the Osprey Poco SLT. However, the additional weight brings benefits: a sturdy frame, ample padding, and thoughtful design features that enhance its versatility for extended hikes or carrying heavier loads.

During testing, we found the weight to be noticeable but not cumbersome, thanks to the excellent weight distribution offered by the adjustable torso and hip belt. The padded straps and ventilated back panel also contributed to a comfortable experience, even during longer treks.

That said, if you’re planning quick outings or prioritizing traveling light, the Sapling might seem a bit overbuilt. For parents seeking a robust, full-featured carrier capable of handling full-day hikes with gear and kids, the weight feels justified and is well-balanced.

Should You Buy the Thule Sapling?

The Thule Sapling is an excellent choice for parents seeking a durable, well-equipped child carrier that balances comfort and functionality. Its thoughtful design caters to both caregivers and little adventurers, featuring highlights like the ergonomic ErgoRide seat, adjustable suspension system, and included sunshade. This pack will appeal to caregivers who value their children sitting in the “M” position. The pack’s sturdy construction and 22-liter storage capacity make it ideal for full-day hikes and outdoor adventures. Additionally, the ability to collapse the kickstand while using the storage compartments is a convenient feature for navigating tighter trails.

The Sapling may not be the best option for parents looking for an ultralight carrier for shorter outings or travel. Weighing 7 lbs, it’s heavier than some alternatives, and while the storage is adequate, it is not exceptional unless you choose additional add-ons.

If you prioritize comfort, durability, and adjustability for extended use, the Sapling is a worthwhile investment

What Other Baby Backpack Carriers Should You Consider?

If you’re considering the Thule Sapling, there are other excellent child carriers worth checking out in our guide to the best baby backpack carriers. Here are three strong contenders:

Osprey Poco Premium Review: This pack is the ultimate option for parents seeking maximum storage and comfort. With 36 liters of storage capacity and features such as a built-in UPF 50+ sunshade and a highly adjustable suspension system, the Poco Premium is perfect for extended hikes and carrying heavier loads. Although it’s heavier than the Sapling, it provides unmatched organization and features.

Deuter Kid Comfort Pro Review: This carrier emphasizes premium comfort for both the caregiver and child. Its Aircomfort back panel provides superior ventilation, while the ergonomic seat ensures that kids stay cozy during longer outings. Additionally, it includes an integrated sunshade and sleek storage compartments, making it a strong alternative if ventilation and organization are top priorities.

Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite Review: The Elite is ideal for families who prioritize adjustability and durability. It features the PerfectFIT suspension system for a customized fit, ample storage, and a lined lower compartment for easy cleanup. Although it’s slightly heavier, its thoughtful design and included features provide great value for active families.