Travelling with a toddler as a solo mum can feel like a juggling act. You need enough space for gear, clothing, snacks and comfort items — but without overpacking or weighing yourself down. After trying different bag setups, I've found the Osprey Renn 50L to be the perfect balance of size, comfort and functionality.
Whether I'm camping in the wilderness or staying in hostels and hotels, the Renn 50L works for every type of adventure — it's carried Freddy's gear and mine through Patagonia and the West Highland Way. Here's why it works, how I set it up depending on the trip, and the packing tips that keep the load manageable.
If you're deciding between this and a smaller travel pack, read the Osprey Sirrus 36 review for the comparison.
Why the Osprey Renn 50L Works for Mums
When choosing a backpack for travel with a toddler, the priority is always comfort and manageability. Too big and you'll overpack. Too small and you'll constantly struggle for space. The Renn 50L hits the sweet spot.
- Women's-specific fit — the harness and adjustable suspension mean it sits comfortably without digging into your shoulders
- Lightweight — just over 3 lbs, so it doesn't add unnecessary bulk before you've even started packing
- Supportive hip belt — the genuine game-changer. It shifts weight off your shoulders so you can carry gear and still pick up your toddler when needed
- 50L capacity — spacious enough for both mum and toddler essentials, without encouraging overpacking
- Durability — built for adventure travel, meaning fewer worries about rips, tears or broken zippers on the road
In short: big enough for everything you need, without tempting you to bring what you don't.
Free Download
Free Toddler Adventure Packing List
Everything I carry for me and Freddy — tested across three continents.
My Travel Setups with the Renn 50L
The Renn 50L is genuinely versatile — I use it differently depending on whether we're camping or staying in hostels and hotels.
Camping Trips
Setup:
- Main pack (Renn 50L) — tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, stove, pot, clothing and toddler gear
- Fanny pack — travel documents, passport, wallet, snacks for quick access
The internal frame and suspension system distribute weight evenly, which matters enormously when you're carrying not just your own gear but toddler extras like spare clothes, a blanket or a favourite toy. The 50L size means everything fits inside the bag rather than strapped all over the outside — much easier to handle at airports, bus stations or on the trail.
Hostels or Hotels
Setup:
- Main pack (Renn 50L) — clothes, toiletries, toddler essentials, electronics
- Packable daypack — city exploring, day hikes, snacks and jackets during outings
- Fanny pack — passport, boarding passes, money, anything I need to grab quickly
This setup gives real flexibility. The main pack stays safely stored at the hostel or hotel while the daypack handles daily adventures. The Renn isn't just a travel bag — it transitions easily into adventure mode.
Sirrus 36 vs Renn 50L
If you're travelling fast and light without a toddler's gear to carry, the Osprey Sirrus 36 is carry-on sized and easier to manage on quick trips. The Renn 50L is the better choice once you're carrying gear for two.
Why 50L Is the Sweet Spot
Choosing the right backpack size is one of the hardest parts of travelling light with a toddler.
Smaller packs (under 40L) are great for ultralight solo travellers, but don't leave enough space when you're carrying toddler gear — extra clothes, snacks, a blanket.
Larger packs (over 65L) tempt you to overpack, get heavy fast, and are genuinely harder to manage solo with a child in tow.
50L forces you to be selective while still leaving space for the toddler must-haves.
Practical Packing Tips
- Use packing cubes — one for mum, one for toddler. Grab clothes without tearing apart the whole bag.
- Think in layers — merino wool layers work across hot and cold weather better than bulky single items.
- Balance the load — heavy items (tent, cooking gear) close to your back to prevent strain.
- Keep essentials in reach — the fanny pack for passport, phone, wallet and a few snacks. No digging required.
- Invest in multipurpose gear — a merino blanket doubles as a picnic mat, airplane blanket or extra bedding.
- Don't overpack toys — one or two small comfort items are enough. Your toddler will be too busy exploring.
Real-World Benefits
- Airport ready — I've carried it through flights solo with a toddler in tow, manageable without needing extra help
- Trail tested — handles hikes and camping trips without throwing off balance or straining my back
- Toddler approved — Freddy fits his own tiny backpack with snacks and water, while I handle the rest in the Renn
This pack makes me feel more capable, independent and prepared — and as a solo mum, that confidence is priceless.
Final Thoughts
The Osprey Renn 50L is, without a doubt, the best backpack I've found for travelling with a toddler as a solo mum. Lightweight, spacious, durable and designed for comfort on smaller frames.
Whether I'm setting up camp in the mountains or checking into a family-friendly hostel, the Renn adapts to the journey. Paired with a packable daypack and a simple fanny pack, it covers everything — tiny backpacks, huge adventures.
Find the Osprey Renn 50L on Amazon →
Free Download
Free Toddler Adventure Packing List
Everything I carry for me and Freddy — tested across three continents.
Related Gear and Trip Guides
- Osprey Sirrus 36 Review
- Patagonia with a Toddler
- West Highland Way with a Toddler
- Toddler Adventure Packing List
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — it's the pack I use every time. The women's-specific fit, supportive hip belt and 50L capacity give enough room for both mum and toddler essentials without tempting you to overpack. It works equally well for camping trips and hostel/hotel stays.
