Thule Sapling
The Thule Sapling is rated for a child up to 40 lb, has 1 carry positions, and weighs 8.4 lb, per Thule. Thule's mid-size hiking child carrier: 22 L of storage, adjustable torso and hip belt, 40 lb child limit and 48.5 lb total load per Thule.
- $399.95List price
- 16–40 lbChild weight
- 1Positions
- 8.4 lbCarrier weight
How the Sapling stacks up
Against the 15 hiking and backpack carriers we track. The shaded band is where the middle half of them fall; the dot is this one.
Within the typical range for hiking and backpack carriers (22 L to 26 L).
The same as most hiking and backpack carriers (40 lb).
Above the typical range for hiking and backpack carriers (5.8 lb to 7.7 lb).
Above the typical range for hiking and backpack carriers ($269.99 to $390).
What sets the Sapling apart
Measured against the 15 hiking and backpack carriers we compare, from each maker's published specs.
- Highest carrier weightof the 13 hiking and backpack carriers that list it: 8.4 lb
- Weight: 8.4 lbabove the middle half of the 13 hiking and backpack carriers that publish it (5.8 lb to 7.7 lb)
Next to its closest matches
- Kelty Journey PerfectFIT EliteNext to it, the Sapling is 4 L less storage; 1.2 lb heavier.
- Kelty Journey PerfectFIT SignatureNext to it, the Sapling is 4 L less storage; $30 more.
- Deuter Kid Comfort ProNext to it, the Sapling is 8.5 lb lower limit; 0.6 lb heavier.
How the Sapling carries
Thule lists it for a child from 16 lb up to 40 lb.
| Sapling, per Thule | Hiking and backpack carriers that list it | |
|---|---|---|
| Back | Yes | 17 of 17 |
| Newborn use without an insert | No | 0 of 15 |
Listed features
- 22 L gear compartment
- Fully adjustable torso and hip belt
- Recycled nylon fabric
Where to buy the Sapling
Prices and availability change. We may earn a commission from some links.
- Check for recalls: Search the agency's recall list with the model number and date code from the label: CPSC recall search.
- Carrier use: see the AAP's baby carrier page. Check the label and the maker's instructions, and ask your pediatrician about your child.
Full specs
| Thule Sapling | |
|---|---|
| Type | Hiking carrier |
| List price | $399.95 |
| Child weight | 16–40 lb |
| Newborn without insert | No |
| Carry positions | Back |
| Carrier weight | 8.4 lb |
| Fabric | 420D nylon, 100% recycled P600 (all materials PFC free) |
| Machine washable | No |
| Sizes | One size (adjustable torso and hip belt) |
| Frame | Internal aluminum frame (per REI) |
| Storage | 22L gear compartment with side zipper access |
Compare the Sapling with
How each closest rival differs from the Sapling, from the makers' specs.
- KeltyJourney PerfectFIT Eliteup to 40 lb1 positions$399.95
- 4 L more storage
- 1.2 lb lighter
- KeltyJourney PerfectFIT Signatureup to 40 lb1 positions$369.95
- 4 L more storage
- $30 less
- DeuterKid Comfort Proup to 48.5 lb1 positions$390
- 8.5 lb higher limit
- 0.6 lb lighter
- $9.90 less
- OspreyPoco Premiumup to 40 lb1 positions$450
- 14 L more storage
- 0.1 lb lighter
- $50.10 more
Sapling: questions answered
From Thule's published specs, last checked 2026-11-08.
What weight is the Thule Sapling for?
The maker lists it for babies and children 16 to 40 lb. Carrier use: see the AAP's baby carrier page. Check the label and the maker's instructions, and ask your pediatrician about your child.
Can you use the Thule Sapling with a newborn?
The maker says a newborn needs an infant insert or a different setting. Check the manual before using it with a newborn.
What positions does the Thule Sapling have?
Back. Some positions have their own minimum age or weight in the manual.
How much does the Thule Sapling weigh?
The carrier itself weighs 8.4 lb. The lightest hiking we track is the phil&teds Parade at 4.4 lb.
Can you wash the Thule Sapling?
The maker does not list it as machine washable. Follow the care label.
What's the difference between the Thule Sapling and the Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite?
By the maker specs, the Journey PerfectFIT Elite is lighter. See them side by side.
Still wondering? Write to us at hello@cribpicks.com and we'll look it up.
More hiking and backpack carriers
- OspreyPoco LTup to 40 lb1 positions$340
- KeltyJourney PerfectFITup to 40 lb1 positions$299.95
- DeuterKid Comfortup to 48.5 lb1 positions$330
- phil&tedsEscapeup to 40 lb1 positions$269.99
- DeuterKid Comfort Active1 positions$280$280
- OspreyPoco SLTup to 40 lb1 positions$250
Where these specs come from
- thule.com/en-us/carry-bike/child-carriers/thule-sapling-_-3204539
- rei.com/product/199256/thule-sapling-child-carrier
Last checked 2026-11-08. Spot something wrong? Tell us. Read our editorial and safety policy and corrections.