Family Camping - More Tips and Tricks (+ Giveaways)

Camping with young kids always takes a bit more thought and planning.  We've accepted the fact that the sleepless nights, dirty kids, bringing along a little potty and working hard to keep the mosquitoes at bay for our (apparently sweet) 3-year-old are just part of the game (which will change with time.)

To be perfectly honest, I dread the sleeping part of camping right now.

Laying awake I certainly spend some time daydreaming about years down the road where sleeping through the night is a possibility, even in a tent.  While it won't keep us from camping and getting out whenever we can, it certainly means built-in naps for Mama (because everyone else manages to sleep through the "struggles") in the hammock are a must if we want to do anything productive the following day(s).  I certainly won't claim to be an expert in everything, so this is my plea for anyone with tips to get a 1-year-old to be ok in a sleeping bag to send them on our way!

But, like I say often on here, the experiences are absolutely worth it and practice makes perfect.  While our summer adventures mean being open to the fact that they could be cancelled (very) last minute due to a wildfire (thanks to Mtn Papa's job) we are working hard to cram everything in we can (while still remaining sane!)  It's part of the "no excuses" motto we try to live by.

Yes, it takes more work.
Yes, it can be draining.
Yes, mistakes are made and lessons learned.
Yes, sometimes I want to bag it and head on home.
AND
Yes, it brings us closer as a family.
Yes, it is getting easier as our kids get older.
Yes, every kid is different (which means different perks AND struggles).
Yes, we will continue doing it (the big AND the little adventures.)

This past weekend we spent some time talking about our current favorite bring-alongs for camping.  The things we miss when we don't have them and may not have thought about previously.  This list is not comprehensive and is a bit random, but worth sharing.  It's the little extras (so does not cover the basics like tent and sleeping bags!)  Plus, read to the end for your chance to win some of them!

*Guest Post* Part 2: How to Choose the Right Trekking Poles

Adam Nutting from Hiking the Trail joins us again today for his second installment on his Trekking Pole series.  As always, feel free to leave him feedback in the comments! And Happy Fourth of July! I hope you are enjoying the outdoors with your family today!

In my last post The Importance of Trekking Poles I talk about the many reasons why so many people are using them these days.

When choosing the right trekking poles you need to first consider what you will be doing with them. Will they be for hiking or maybe used for snow shoeing? There are many different models out there that are for multiple sports. Once you have determined how you will be using your trekking poles you need to take a trip down to your local outdoor outfitter. Trekking poles are like shoes. Sure you can try them on at home and send them back or you can go to the store and try on lots of them and find out which ones you like and dislike.

Some of the features you will have to decide from will be:

1. Grip type
2. Shaft materials
3. Locking mechanisms
4. Shock absorbers
5. Height
6. Weight
7. Cost

Let’s take a look at each one of these items individually.

Grip type: Having a comfortable grip is very important especially if you are going to be using your trekking poles for a long duration. You do not want to end up with blisters on your feet and your hands. Plus it makes the trekking poles an extension of your body if you are not constantly nagged by your hands at how painful they are.  There are several grip types on the market. Cork, Foam, and Rubber are the most common. Cork fits to your hands better and resists moister the best. Foam absorbs moisture and is the softest. Rubber is best suited for colder weather activities by insulating hands from the cold. Rubber also has the higher chance to cause chafing or blisters.

*I'm a Runner* (Plus Backing Bia Sport and Ibex Momentum Review)

I am a runner.  I am a runner.  I am a runner.

Wearing Ibex Momentum Jacket - see running trail along the Yellowstone River behind me!

I have to continue stating that to  myself to let it sink in because, quite honestly, I am not a natural runner.  I don't have a "runner's body", I am certainly not breaking any records with speed, I would much rather be in a body of water any day, and running while pregnant (which has been a large part of my life for the last few years) is completely impossible for me.

So, why bother?

Because it makes me feel good.  It makes me stronger.  I am "addicted" to the rush of endorphins, and it is a great catalyst for keeping me in shape for other adventures.

But, more importantly, my kids see that running (which I do at 5 am so it is "me" time instead of "push the massive double stroller time") is an integrated part of my life (among other activities.)  I want to be an example of healthy living for them.  Later in life, I want it to be natural for them to turn to exercise instead of (insert questionable outlet here.)  I want them to see that anything is possible, challenge is good and hard work pays off.

And, so I run.  I am a runner.

Move Those Kids! (+ Onya and Tula Baby Carrier Reviews)

We're in a brand new town, discovering new mountains around us and spending a lot of time tromping (or riding) through the ground to get a feel for the area.  We truly believe the best way to get to know a new place is by experiencing it.  That means leaving the house every day by foot, bike or carrier/stroller (if walking isn't your forte yet....)  It means talking to every local you can find (and weeding through a lot of tourists to get to them), dodging Bison dung (and keeping an inquisitive almost-toddler with an oral fixation from tasting it), braving the rain and snow and just getting out there.  

Both Mtn Papa and I have lived a lot of places where you really have to work to get to know the community.  It requires engaging in whatever happenings are out there, being ok with the fact that you may have to (gasp!) make your own fun, and just being ok with where you are at.  I find it a great tragedy to run into people who HATE the small town they are in, and yet choose to not go out and discover, explore and BE a part of the community.

As a family, we have a variety of ways to cart around our kids.  We justify the strollers, kid carrier backpacks, wagons, bikes, trailers, and soft structured baby carriers by the fact that they are helping us move as a family and enjoy the great outdoors.

Previously on the blog, I reviewed our Chariot, Osprey Poco Plus, Kelty Pathfinder, Deuter Kid Carrier III, Boba 3G and today I am happy to introduce you to the Onya Baby carrier and Tula Toddler Carrier.  Both are unique in their own respects and have opened up new elements of freedom for us.  Don't get me wrong - I don't think every family needs 100 baby carriers, every framed kid carrier backpack and a variety of bike trailers.  You do what works for your family.  I just take it as my "job" to help you know what is out there!

*Guest Post* The Importance of Trekking Poles!

Please welcome Adam Nutting of Hiking the Trail to the blog today.  Adam is a avid hiker and backpacker working toward his dream of hiking the Appalachian Trail.  He also happens to be a Cancer survivor, an Eagle scout and a self-proclaimed "tech geek."  He has some great tips and I am pleased to have him on the blog sharing them.  This is a two-part series.  Check in next week for the rest!

When I think of walking sticks I think of all of the old guys at scout camp with the wooden walking sticks with the metal emblems embedded into the stick.  Never mind the fact that I think they have always been cool but who wants to look old walking around with a walking stick.

Over the years technology has allowed the trekking pole industry to explode with lots of different styles, materials, and weights. As the technology has grown so has the comfort level of the trekking poles.

Now some of you are saying that you would never use them because they are a pain and you would trip over them. Sure they do take some time to get used to and they can be rather cumbersome at times. The main purpose of the trekking poles is to help remove the stress of hiking / backpacking on your hips, knees, and ankles. This is done by transferring some of the weight from the pack through your arms down the poles. It also allows you to use them as leverage for those ups and downs of the trail. They can also help give you better balance while going up or down hills and rock scrambles.

Osprey Poco Plus Kid Carrier *Gear Review*

As a family, we have had the opportunity to check out a number of different kid carriers.  We have had kids only a few months old up to kids over 3 years old in them.  Wearers have ranged in size and shape and conditions on the trail have varied from rocky terrain to easy paths to back country ski slopes.  While testing continues on our end, we have definitely put a few of them through the ringer.

Loading up the Poco with Kid + Gear for our Packraft Adventure

Previously, we reviewed both the Deuter Kid Carrier III and the 2012 Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 and then compared them side to side on our blog.  Both are excellent packs and come highly recommended by us.  Please note that we recommend trying on any kid carrier before purchasing to test for comfort to your own body.  It’s a pretty personal decision!  However, thanks to Osprey’s new Poco line just released this spring, our family has a new favorite.

The Osprey Poco comes in three different models – the Poco, the Poco Plus and the Poco Premium.  Osprey seldom disappoints with their packs and this is no exception.  Engineered to work for younger children AND older children and with a variety of different sized wearers, it’s an ideal all-around-pack.  Features we thought were missing on the Deuter and Kelty all seem to come together fairly well with the Poco.  The market for kid carriers is definitely becoming more competitive and companies are rising to the need of active families.

We tested the Poco Plus so this review is based on that pack.  However, I try have pointed out features on the Plus that are different on the other models so you can easily see the differences.

What we love:

- Integrated Sunshade (which works for rain and sticks to an extent too!) **The Poco does not come with a Sunshade, but can be purchased separately.**

- Stirrups for bigger kid comfort (A HUGE plus for taller/older kids)

- Incredible Torso Length Adjustment (15.5” – 21.5”) that is easy to change from wearer to wearer. Grandma is just under 5 feet tall and about 100 pounds and comfortable wearing the Poco.

- Wide range of size for the hip belt (26” - 48”) which is SO crucial because that is where most of the load is supported.  Also, the padded part of the hipbelt itself extends in length for greater comfort for bigger hips.

- Easy to adjust to different heights for children in the pack.  The shoulder straps are adjusted at their shoulder (instead of near their crotch or sternum like the Deuter Kid Comfort III) which makes getting kids in much easier (especially when they are bundled up!)

- Mesh back panel for the wearer leaves room for air and plenty of comfort.

- Removable droll pad (our kids dirty this up pretty quick when eating snacks on the trail.)

- Vertical hydration sleeve means better placement for the wearer and better functionality of the hydration bladder.

- Rail-based adjustments on the wearers’ sternum strap mean easy movement.

Outfitting the Kids for Summer + iPlay giveaway

While it always takes longer that I expect it to, we have finally REALLY made it to summer around here. Days (entire days....) are spent outdoors and naps come easily (for all of us!)

Staying safe while playing outside is top priority for us, and we work hard to make sure we are protected from the sun.  Our higher elevation means skin burns come easier and quicker.  While there are plenty of incredible sun-protective clothing lines out there for kids, here are some of our must-have favorites:

Patagonia Sun-Lite Top ($29)

Available in sizes 3M - 5T in blue, green and pink

Both of our boys have these shirts and we wear them almost daily.  They are a quick alternative to sunscreen and comfortable for them!

What we love:

- Certainly light and cool

- They cover the back of their neck well

Not so crazy about:

- While they are not necessarily designed for water-use, the boys wear them for time in the kiddie pool. They DO dry fairly quickly, but not as quickly as I had hoped.  They also tend to stretch out when wet.  

- Like most Patagonia infant/baby/toddler clothing, they run big!  Plan on sizing down or buy their normal size (what we did) and know they will have room to grow.

*Guest Post* Interviewing Tiny Trekker

This week the guest post is a little different.  I have had the chance to get to know a great little company over the last few months that I wanted to highlight. Meet Erik, the owner and family-man behind Tiny Trekker.  He agreed to answer some questions I had about Tiny Trekker, his family and WHY they have a great thing going.  Like I mentioned on our gear post on Monday, they are having an excellent sale right now (up to 50% off!) and free shipping over $45 (sale ends 5/28).

Owners Erik and Julie and one of their sons

1. Tell me a little bit about why Tiny Trekkers was started?

At the time, we were parents of two little boys and while owning and operating Mountains Plus, we soon came to realize that it was really difficult to find quality outdoor gear for kids and families.  Even as industry 'insiders' it was extremely difficult.  Hence the birth of Tinytrekker.com. We’ve used our experience in finding and accumulating the best gear available to put together a site where any parent can find the tools they need to share the outdoors with their own Tiny Trekkers.

2. I know Mountains Plus Gear is a sister company....would love to know more about that site too and how they are related

Mountains Plus was originally started back in 1995 when online retail was a bit like the wild west.  Originally we specialized in selling ski and bike equipment but our offering grew and adapted over time into what we now sell today.  We specialize in finding some of the best and hardest to find gear for outdoor enthusiasts of all types. At Mountains Plus Gear you can find the most popular lightweight tents, backpacks for any adventure, footwear for everything from trail hiking to crossfit, and more. 

Tiny Trekker is an extension of Mountains Plus and our selection of great gear for your little ones. 

Wait for the Gear Sales!

I know that we talk gear a LOT here.  It's not because we think everyone is loaded and should spend their money on gear, but I can think of plenty of things much WORSE to spend money on. :)

In our family, we value the memories we make outdoors and so we make the little sacrifices so we can own the equipment that safely (and happily) gets us out there.  Our life is by no means extravagant, but a Gear Closet is a must.  And we are ok with that.  And yes, we are MORE than willing to spread the love and loan it out too - we truly want others to take full advantage of those precious family moments.

I am not going to tell you that all gear/equipment is created equal, because more often than not, you get what you pay for (at least in the value of it.)  But, there is no shame in second-hand shopping (most gear lasts forever!) - garage sales, Craiglist.com, REI Garage Sales, etc.  And buying off-season helps a ton too (you just have to estimate growth for your kids if you buy that way!)

This week REI is having their mega Anniversary Sale and there are some smoking deals on things that don't usually go on sale.  Having lived in Alaska and Washington before I moved to Wyoming, REI was THE place to go.  I am FAR from one now, but they have great gear (and their return policy is unbeatable.)  I thought it would be fun to make a little wish-list of bigger-ticket things I, personally, would recommend when you can get them on sale!

Before I begin, I also wanted to do a little shout-out to Tiny Trekker (which you will learn more about later this week.)  They are an incredible little company that works hard to provide excellent customer service and keep the gear in stock that truly helps families get out.  They have free shipping on orders over $45 and a daily deal with a HUGE reduction in price.  By all means, PLEASE support the "Little Guy" first - REI is great, but the customer service at Tiny Trekker blows them away.  They are having a pre-memorial day sale right now on some great camping gear (tents, sleeping bags and kids' balance bikes)  Sale ends May 28th.


If I were going to take a family shopping to the REI Anniversary Sale.....And remember, Members get to take 20% off of one full-price item.

1. Chariot - these VERY rarely go on sale.  20% off is a great bargain if you can't find one use (which we never could.)

*Gear Review* Stonewear Designs + a Giveaway for Moms!

Mother's Day is just around the corner and, as you can imagine, we are big fans of moms around here :)

This weekend we honor the moms that raised us; the moms that get their families outside; the moms that cook and clean and work and love; the moms that we are.  This post will be directed more at moms than usual, but if you are MARRIED to a mom or HAVE a mom, listen up! :) (there's a chance to win at the end here...)

First of all, I wanted to highlight a women's clothing company I am especially fond of because of their mission to help us women stay active in clothing that can keep up with our busy lives.  Stonewear Designs strives to "make clothing to help us (women) feel beautiful while performing under strenuous demands."   Established in 1996 in Boulder, CO, the company (made up entirely of women) has been setting the bar high for climbing, yoga, fitness and travel wear (all made here in the USA.)

I have mentioned before that I personally demand my clothing to work throughout my active day which includes my daily-routine, chasing my kids, going on a walk/hike, biking and being involved in the community.  When I first discovered Stonewear Designs at a shop in Jackson (WY), I felt like I had made a pretty great discovery.  Wear upon wear has confirmed that.   Their prices may seem a bit higher than you would expect, but you are definitely getting what you pay for (clothing that performs AND lasts).

Even more attractive about Stonewear Designs is their commitment to make clothing that fits EVERY body (not an easy task!)  They truly work hard to make their designs flatter and look good.  I am proud of the fact that I am a mom, I am active and love the outdoors, and I am ok with the fact that my body is not "perfect".  I like clothing that is ok with that too.

Without further adieu....

Move Your Body + Gear Up Day 4!

Welcome to Day 4 of "Gearing Up Families to go Screen Free"!  If this is your first time hearing about the event, please check out our updated tab here.  Make sure you check out the giveaways at the end of this post (they are ONLY open for 24 hours- midnight to midnight EST!)


The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has standards for what adults (aged 18-64) and children (aged 6-17) need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

For Children:
- 60 minutes a day of activity (most of this should be moderate to vigorous intensity)
- Include strength-building activities 3 days a week (push-ups, gymnastics, climbing, etc.)
- Include bone-strengthening activities 3 days a week (jumping rope, running, etc.)

For Adults:
- 2.5 hours of moderate activity every week OR 1.25 hours of vigorous activity every week
- AND muscle-strengthening on 2+ days a week that include all major muscle groups.

In my humble opinion, these minimum standards they are just that - minimums.  As a family, we work hard to get our hearts pumping hard daily (and hope to encourage others to do that too through this blog.)  We find it crucial for our health AND our peace of mind and good attitude.

Spring has sprung (mostly...) and it is a great time to get outdoors for exercise.  The fresh air has incredible benefits to add to the perks of exercise (including just happier people in general!)

Our "No Cotton" Philosophy + Gear-Up Day 1

We are so thrilled to welcome you to the first day of "Gearing Up Families to go Screen Free"!  If this is your first time hearing about the event, please check out our updated tab here.  Make sure you check out the giveaways at the end of this post (they are ONLY open for 24 hours (midnight to midnight EST!)

P post-ski stripped back down to his Icebreaker base layers (Merino Wool)

If you have spent much time outdoors or around "outdoorsy" people, you will hear a lot about the fact that cotton is really the worst thing you could wear.  But, naturally, people question the reasoning behind that (because MOST of us have wardrobes comprised of mostly cotton.)

Because today's focus is a lot about what to wear outdoors, I wanted to highlight a bunch of those reasons behind the "No Cotton" philosophy...even for family outings!

First of all, cotton is fine when in dry, hot weather.  It does a great job at keeping us cool and can easily be saturated with water and then worn to fight off hot temperatures.  The trouble starts when the temperatures start dropping (which can happen with just the sun going down or clouds rolling in.)

FREE Hydration Systems from Geigerrig? Yes, Please!

I am taking a break from our normal "This Moment..." post today to bring you some really exciting news that I thought was good enough to share right.now.

Let me introduce you to Geigerrig Hydration Systems.  

Relatively new to the market and taking it by storm, I am pretty excited to get my hands on one of these systems and review it for you (coming soon!)  In the meantime, check out what is happening (and make sure you read all the way to the bottom of this post!)

What's Different about Geigerrig:
- Pressurized (through a had-bulb) system allows for spraying (and therefore no sharing of germs, etc. from the sucking action that is required by all other hydration systems.)  If you have kids, this means NO FLOATERS in your water!  Whoop!  This also means the ability to use the water to cool down or clean up on the trail.
- Easy to clean (bladder can go in the top rack of your dishwasher)
- You can purchase a filter that attaches to the tube which means unlimited drinking water usage even in the backcountry (without having to carry an additional filter).
- Bladders are seemingly (see contained bomb video below...) indestructible

The Shoulder Season + *Polarn O. Pyret Gear Review*

There is seldom a part of the summer that we don't end up wearing a jacket at least part of the day.  It is one thing I love about living at 7000 feet - nights are cool (and perfect for sleeping!)

We call this time of the year the "Shoulder Season" because we are stuck in somewhere in the middle of winter and summer (depending on the day...)  Snow AND 70+ degree (F) days are definitely possible and should be expected.

In an attempt to find some great kid jackets to replace their (very) warm Patagonia winter ones, I ran across another great company I have been itching to share:  Polarn O. Pyret.  A Swedish company devoted to letting kids get outside and play thanks to well-thought-out clothing.  They work hard to make sure their clothing can be passed on from sibling to sibling, to cousin, to friend....

In short:  I am impressed.

PO. P very generously sent us jackets for both of the boys.  It is obvious in the photos they are both a little big for them yet, but I have no problem sizing up for kids (all the more to grow into!)

Best Basic Shell Jacket $119

This jacket is perfect for our colder springs and falls.  Since it has the capability to connect to a wind fleece, it could certainly be used throughout the winter also.  It has withstood some tough playing, jumping and mudding!

Simplifying Adventures + Camelbak Kicker Gear Review

It's easy to get caught up in the notion that hikes as a family have to be BIG events.  We are (finally) entering into that time of the year when the days are longer, evenings are warmer and getting kids to come  back inside is a little more difficult.  It is the perfect time of the year to squeeze in a mini hike after work (or everyone's home from school, etc.) or even at lunch time (if you are really brave...lunch time/right-before-nap-time is pretty crazy at our house.)

But a hike is a hike.  And a "walk" can certainly be a "hike" too!  Either way, it is an absolutely ideal opportunity to instill a love for hiking with kids without a big commitment that meaning traveling with children can be (because we find that if we are driving 5 minutes or 3 hours, the gear necessary is astounding.)

Looking at deer

*Gear Review* Chariot CTS

I can honestly say that our Chariot was some of the very best money we invested in our children as far as being able to get outside and be active with them.  We recommend them to everyone with children.

We bought our Chariot (thanks to help from some awesome baby shower money) back in 2009.  I will say right up front that they are certainly not cheap.  Currently, the Cougar 2 base chassis runs for $685 at REI.  And then you have to purchase at least one attachment to make it work.  We get the most use out of the Bike Trailer Kit ($75) , the XC Ski Kit ($275) , and the Jogging Kit ($100) , though there certainly are other attachments out there (like strolling wheels and a hiking kit)

Before you faint from sticker shock, please note that this could easily be the only stroller you need.  It works as a jogger (BOB strollers run from $400-$600 by themselves), bike trailer AND a solution for skiing.

*Gear Review* Liberty Bottle Works + Giveaway

*Giveaway Closed!* Congrats to #34, Kristie S; #5, Susan S. and #24, Tiffany.  Please email me at mountainmamatales(at)gmail(dot)com with your first, second and third choices!  

Water bottles are exploding out of our cupboards more often than not.  Or our car.  Or the bike trailer.  


We use them constantly in an attempt to stay hydrated in the dry climate of Wyoming.  The benefits of water are abounding (we'll save that information for another day), and we know that running out of water (or just plain not drinking enough) can have disastrous results.


Our local gear shop, Wind River Gear, carries Liberty Bottles and they got my attention right away.  I simply loved that the lid only required 1/4 turn to close it (instead of turning and turning and turning...)


I looked into the company a little more and was thrilled to have a chance to try some out (and give some away.)  


We what love (and what makes Liberty Bottles different):
- BPA-free ("our coating insures no heavy metal leaching or porous surface for bacteria build up.")
- Made in the USA
- Made from recycled aluminum cans, and recyclable too.
- Food-grade coated interior prevents chips from the aluminum entering your drinking water.
- Varying designs from "everyday" artists.  AND you can make bottles with your own logo (if you order a minimum of 72 bottles)!!  One day, when I am rich, maybe there will be "Tales of a Mountain Mama" bottles ;)  Donations accepted ;) HA!
- They fit in "normal" spaces like cup holders (SO annoying when your bottles don't fit in those spaces!)

Photo Contest by MultiSport Journeys

Last week I posted a review of the Multisport Journeys designs and T-shirts.  In case you missed it...they hand-draw and digitalize images to help inspire people to get outdoors and be active.   In my review I talk about the fact that I really think they are missing a whole kid line of the images (they have the kid-sized clothing, just no images of kids themselves outdoors.)

Sue (the founder) and I talked about it and came up with an idea to help them (and you!)  Therefore, we will be hosting a photo contest.

Send in your photos of your kids outdoors doing what they do!  It could be biking, hiking, riding in a backpack, skiing in a harness, etc. The sky is the limit.  At the end of the contest, Sue and I will choose our top choice.  The winner will get their whole family outfitted in Multisport Journey Ts which could include the image from your photo! (up to 4 short-sleeve tees.)  We will also choose a second winner to have their image put on a bib (which are new to the site starting next week.)

To enter:
Please email your images to mountainmamatales(at)gmail(dot)com and/or post them on our Facebook wall (and please do tag "Live to"!)  Then comment here saying you have done so (just so we don't miss anyone!)

Winners will be notified and announced here and on Facebook after March 30th  April 2nd.

The fine print: Any images drawn (not the photos themselves - those are yours!) become the copyright property of MSJ

*Gear Review* Sport Science Smarter Basics T-Shirts

I have to admit, I am no fashion diva.  Yes, I want to look nice, but more importantly, I want my clothes to perform for me and hold up between regular day-to-day activities AND biking, running, hiking, etc.  If I can't be active in something I am wearing, I am honestly just not going to reach for it on a daily level.

When Sport Science (since 2005) reached out to us to review some of their basic tees, we were thrilled about the concept of living comfortably in clothes that perform (but don't feel like they are performance clothing.)

Their philosophy:  do more. enjoy.  Now THAT is something I can handle!

What we love about the Tees:
- They really do feel like cotton, despite being a dry-fit, moisture-wicking fabric.
- Their Fresh Guard technology keeps any smell at bay (which is usually a HUGE problem for technical clothing.)  Both Mtn Papa and I have been wearing them for numerous days between washes (and I have been working out in mine and sweating plenty.)  The smell remains neutral.
- The fit is great - relaxed without being sloppy and plenty of length to allow for movement.
- They are basic and seem like a "normal T-shirt", but keep their shape and perform well.

*REVISED!* Choosing a Kid Carrier (Deuter vs. Kelty)

**Please note: After posting this review, a representative from Kelty kindly stepped in and informed us of a feature of the pack that we had somehow missed....(amazing how that can happen!)  I have revised this post, but did not revise the video (because it is hard to get a house quiet enough to do that with two young kids!)  But, we now know that you can compress the Kelty more by releasing those yellow straps that lie against the back panel. This allows the area where the child sits to fold down. They MUST be tightened prior to use to make the design work, but if you needed it as "thin" as possible you would want to loosen those straps as well.**

We have gotten fairly swamped with people wanting a fair comparison between the Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 and the Deuter Kid Carrier III (both packs that we have reviewed previously - links lead to those reviews on this blog.)  I am honestly not too keen on comparing the packs because there is certainly a HUGE amount of personal preference, but I also believe in doing real, honest reviews here and so will happily give our opinion!  While I personally believe these are two of the very best on the market right now, Osprey's Poco is starting to hit stores now, and who knows where that one will stand in the line-up!  It seems pretty great, but I haven't tested it myself.  I will certainly update this when we do!

Comparing how far they open up.

Comparing widths when compact (this is a revised photo - see note at top of post)

Let me start with saying that both carriers are excellent.  In our family they have both served their purpose and we reach for them for different things and usually for different kids.  This is absolutely our personal preference and opinions and the best way for you to make a decision about a carrier is to go into a store and try one on.


If you prefer to watch the comparison (easier to see some of the features...though note that this video is nothing professional! ;))