Traveling with a toddler as a single mom 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 backpack 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. In this post, I’ll break down why this pack is ideal for single moms, how I set it up depending on the trip, and practical packing tips to keep your load light and toddler-friendly.
Why the Osprey Renn 50L Works for Moms
When choosing a backpack for travel with a toddler, the priority is always comfort and manageability. If your backpack is too big, you’ll overpack. If it’s too small, you’ll constantly struggle with space. The Renn 50L hits the sweet spot.
Here’s why it stands out:
- Women’s-specific fit: Designed for smaller frames, the harness and adjustable suspension mean it sits comfortably without digging into shoulders.
- Lightweight: Weighing just over 3 lbs, the Renn doesn’t add unnecessary bulk before you even start packing.
- Supportive hip belt: This is a game-changer for moms. 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 mom and toddler essentials, but not so large that it encourages overpacking.
- Durability: Built tough for adventure travel, meaning fewer worries about rips, tears, or broken zippers on the road.
👉 In short: It’s big enough for everything you need, without tempting you to bring what you don’t.
My Travel Setups with the Osprey Renn 50L
One of the best parts about the Renn 50L is how versatile it is. I use it differently depending on whether we’re camping or staying in hostels/hotels.
1. Camping Vacations
When I’m camping with my toddler, the Renn 50L is my lifeline.
Setup:
- Main Pack (Renn 50L): Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, stove, pot, clothing, and toddler gear.
- Fanny Pack: Travel documents, passports, wallet, snacks for quick access.
Why it works:
The internal frame and suspension system help distribute weight evenly, which is a lifesaver when you’re carrying not only your own gear but also toddler extras like spare clothes, a blanket, or favorite toy. The 50L size means I can keep everything inside the bag without strapping gear all over the outside—making it easier to handle at airports, bus stations, or on the trail.
2. Hostels or Hotels
For hostel and hotel stays, I adjust my setup slightly.
Setup:
- Main Pack (Renn 50L): Clothes, toiletries, toddler essentials, electronics.
- Packable Daypack: Perfect for city exploring, day hikes, or carrying snacks and jackets during outings.
- Fanny Pack: Still essential for passports, boarding passes, money, and anything I need to grab quickly.
Why it works:
This setup gives me flexibility. I can leave the main pack 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.
Why 50L Is the Sweet Spot
Choosing the right backpack size is one of the hardest parts of minimalist travel. Here’s why 50L works so well for single moms:
- Smaller packs (<40L): Great for ultralight solo travelers, but not enough space when you’re carrying toddler gear (think extra clothes, snacks, diapers, or a blanket).
- Larger packs (>65L): Tempt you to overpack, get heavy fast, and are harder to manage with a child in tow.
The 50L capacity is just right—it forces you to be selective while still leaving space for toddler must-haves.
Practical Packing Tips for Single Moms Using the Renn 50L
Here are the tricks I’ve learned to make packing easier and lighter:
- Use packing cubes: One cube for mom, one for toddler. This makes it easy to grab clothes without tearing apart your whole bag.
- Think in layers: Instead of bulky items, pack versatile layers like merino wool that work in hot and cold weather.
- Balance the load: Put heavy items (like the tent or cooking gear) close to your back to prevent strain.
- Keep essentials in reach: Use the fanny pack for passports, phone, wallet, and a few snacks. No digging required.
- Invest in multipurpose gear: For example, 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 of the Renn 50L
- Airport ready: I’ve carried it through flights solo with a toddler in tow—it’s manageable without needing extra help.
- Trail tested: It handles hikes and camping trips without throwing off balance or straining my back.
- Toddler approved: My little one can fit his own tiny backpack with snacks and water, while I handle the rest in my Renn.
This pack makes me feel more capable, independent, and prepared. And as a single mom, that confidence is priceless.
Final Thoughts
The Osprey Renn 50L is, without a doubt, the best backpack I’ve found for traveling with a toddler as a single mom. It’s 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. With my 50L backpack, a packable daypack, and a simple fanny pack, I have everything I need for tiny backpacks, huge adventures.
If you’re a single mom dreaming of traveling lighter with your toddler, the Osprey Renn 50L may be the only backpack you’ll ever need.
