Osprey Poco vs. Osprey Poco LT
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Updated: April 30, 2021
Osprey Poco vs Osprey Poco LT?
Comparison Summary
Osprey is know for high quality gear and is a leader in the baby backpack carrier market today. Here we are comparing the Osprey Poco to the newly released (2021) Osprey Poco LT. The Osprey Poco is more similar to our highest rated pack the Osprey Poco Plus but, the Osprey Poco LT has been designed with a completely different focus; to be lightweight and compact.
Let’s take an in depth look at the similarities and differences between the Osprey Poco and Osprey Poco LT.
For more information on each individual pack, take a look at our reviews!
Comparison Summary
Torn between the Osprey Poco and Osprey Poco LT? Osprey is known for high quality gear and is a leader in the baby backpack carrier market today. Here we are comparing the Osprey Poco to the newly released (2021) Osprey Poco LT. The Osprey Poco is similar to our highest rated pack, the Osprey Poco Plus, but the Osprey Poco LT has been designed with a completely different focus – to be lightweight and compact.
Which one is right for you? Let’s take an in depth look at the similarities and differences between the Osprey Poco and Osprey Poco LT.
For more information on each individual pack, take a look at our full reviews!
Osprey Poco vs Osprey Poco LT - Key Differences
Osprey Poco
Osprey Poco LT
- The Osprey Poco LT utilizes an AirScape back panel (think ventilated foam) versus the AirSpeed back panel (think mesh screen) featured on the Poco and Poco Plus models
- The Osprey Poco has a better coverage sun shade that includes side panels providing more sun protection and better nap effectiveness
- The Osprey Poco LT weighs 2 pounds less than the Osprey Poco
- The Poco LT includes stowaway straps and hipbelt
- Thy Poco LT typically sells for $30 less than the Poco model
Osprey Poco vs Osprey Poco LT - Feature Comparison
Osprey Poco vs Osprey Poco LT - Rating Comparison
Osprey Poco vs Osprey Poco LT - Comfort
Overall Comfort Winner: Osprey Poco
When determining which backpack to buy, Osprey Poco or Osprey Poco LT, the differences in overall comfort should be considered.
In this case, the Osprey Poco comes out on top. Both packs are equally adjustable but, the Poco utilizes the Airspeed back panel versus the AirScape back panel on the Osprey Poco LT. We will go into more detail on the differences below! The Poco model also comes out on top in regards to child comfort.
Adult Comfort Winner: Osprey Poco
Both the Poco and Poco LT utilize classic Osprey comfort mechanisms such as load lifters, padded straps and torso/hip belt adjustments. The Poco LT is specifically designed to be lightweight and compact which results in a lighter and smaller pack all around. Here is a breakdown comparing the dimensions and weight of these two baby backpack carriers:
Fit Adjustability Winner: Tie
The fit adjustability mechanisms on the Osprey Poco and Osprey Poco LT are very similar.
Both packs include an adjustable hip belt that accommodates 26-48 inch waists. In addition, both packs include torso adjustments that fits torso lengths 15-21 inches. The torso adjustment mechanisms are different. We prefer the Osprey Poco torso adjustment mechanism because it has a sturdier feel but, both work seamlessly and accomplish the same adjustments. The torso adjustment on the Poco LT is velcro, which can be cumbersome to move up or down.
In addition, both baby backpack carriers include load lifters for an even better fit on the shoulders.
Overall, both packs are exceptionally adjustable and have high quality adjustment mechanisms to get the job done!
Child Comfort Winner: Osprey Poco
Both packs provide a comfortable ride for your child but, the Osprey Poco wins in this category due to a better designed sunshade and a more plush child cockpit. Both packs come with a built in sunshade included, which is critical, but the Poco includes sunshade side panels that provide better sun protection and allows for a better napping environment.
Both packs include an adjustable child seat but, the Osprey Poco LT is missing adjustable foot stirrups for additional support. The Osprey Poco and Osprey Poco LT are both comfortable packs for your child but, the Poco provides a more comfortable ride overall.
Osprey Poco vs Osprey Poco LT - Safety
Overall Safety Winner: Osprey Poco
Better safety features, Osprey Poco vs. Osprey Poco LT?
Although the Osprey Poco LT has many of the same safety features as the Poco. Osprey Poco comes out slightly ahead in this category due to the top notch sunshade and associated sun safety it provides for your child.
Child Safety Winner: Osprey Poco
No issues with either of these packs, but the Osprey Poco comes out ahead of the Poco LT on safety because of the sun protection provided by the superior sunshade. Both packs include a built in sunshade which is a win!
Both the Osprey Poco and Poco LT utilize Osprey’s double halo harness with front facing arm loops to safely lock your child in place.
Everything else aside, Osprey designs all of their packs with child safety in mind and does an excellent job of it!
Sun Protection Winner: Osprey Poco
As mentioned above, both packs come with a built in sunshade, which is critical in our opinion.
The Osprey Poco sunshade is more robust with side panels included. These side panels provide sun protection from both sides of the pack and provide a place for your child to rest their head for nap time. Both packs provide UPF 50+ sun protection but, the lack of Poco LT side panels leaves your child exposed at certain times of the day. We also prefer the way the sunshade secures to the pack on the Poco. The toggles on the Poco LT are a bit more difficult to secure while on the go.
Osprey Poco
Osprey Poco LT
Nap Effectiveness Winner: Osprey Poco
Osprey Poco vs Osprey Poco LT - Other
Overall Other Winner: Osprey Poco LT
This is where the Osprey Poco LT really shines! What makes this pack different is that it has been thoughtfully designed to be lightweight and compact. This baby backpack carrier is a traveler’s dream! Lets dig a bit deeper into what makes the Osprey Poco LT higher rated when it comes to these categories.
Gear Storage Winner: Tie
The Osprey Poco and Poco LT have similar storage capacities at 20L and 21L, respectively. The Osprey Poco includes upper side pockets next to the child cockpit which is nice for small quick grab items for your child. While the Poco LT does not include these side pockets it does include the same amount of storage while still maintaining a smaller profile. It is amazing how much storage space Osprey was able to include in this compact backpack!
Both packs include a lower zipper compartment for diaper changing equipment and extra layers for your child. We prefer the Poco LT upper storage design with more zipper storage as opposed to the smaller zippered pouch and stuff pouch approach on the Osprey Poco. On the other hand, the lower storage compartment on the Osprey Poco LT while roomy, does not fold in while wearing. In our opinion this somewhat defeats the small profile the Poco LT is going for. The other Poco models both allow for the kickstand to fold in while in use.
Overall, both packs include ample storage capacity. We would prefer if both packs included zippered hip belt pockets and lower side pocket for water bottles like the Osprey Poco Plus.
Osprey Poco
Osprey Poco LT
Extra Features Winner: Osprey Poco LT
Both packs are loaded with high quality features! The Osprey Poco LT has features that are unique to its lightweight and compact approach.
The Poco LT collapses to a very small size and includes a zipper that goes around the front of the pack enclosing the shoulder straps and hip belt. This is helpful for any type of travel but, particularly for flying where straps can get caught on things. The Poco LT also includes 4 grab handles as opposed to the traditional 2 offered on the Osprey Poco. There is also a small handle on the side of the pack for carrying while collapsed which is a really nice addition! The Poco also compresses when not in use, just not as small/compact as the Poco LT.
Both packs collapse when not in use and can be stowed as is but, they are also compatible with the Osprey carrying case if you prefer extra protection while collapsed. They both stay collapsed via different methods. The Poco uses a loop and toggle on each top side of the child carrier and the Poco LT uses a clip near the bottom that really secures it flat.
They are also both compatible with the existing rain cover which can be a life saver. Not only can it be used for rainy conditions but, also can protect your child from the wind and cold. We highly recommend purchasing a rain cover with any baby backpack carrier you choose!
A miss for the Osprey Poco LT in our opinion is the lack of child foot stirrups. Foot stirrups can make the ride more comfortable for your child.
Overall, the new features on the Osprey Poco LT are a fresh and unique spin on the classic Osprey Poco design that just really works, specifically for travel.
Durability Winner: Osprey Poco
Both the Osprey Poco and Osprey Poco LT were built to Osprey’s high standards. The materials used are as follows:
Osprey Poco: 210-denier nylon diamond
Osprey Poco LT: 210-denier Mini Hex nylon/420-denier HD nylon
The Poco LT materials are TUV-certified and made sustainably with bluesign®-approved materials and PFC-free DWR.
The only reason we gave an edge to the Osprey Poco in the ratings is that the lighter weight stainless steal frame used on the Osprey Poco LT is new and we haven’t witnessed it withstanding the test of time and use. The new design is supported by being clipped in before the child is placed in the pack. This is just a new design that appears very sturdy and achieves their lightweight and compact goals!
Value Winner: Osprey Poco
Overall Winner: Osprey Poco
Osprey Poco versus Osprey Poco LT. These are both highly rated, high quality baby backpacks. In this case, choosing between the two really comes down to how you and your family plan to use it.
The Osprey Poco is a great overall baby backpack carrier. It has ample storage, is comfortable for both the wearer and child, and provides all that you would expect from a classic Osprey baby backpack carrier. The Osprey Poco is great for a day on the trail or even around town.
The features on the Osprey Poco LT are a great combination of classic Osprey and new designs that lend themselves so well to travel/flying. The Poco LT offers a lightweight/small profile pack at a lower price point. This pack really shines while traveling and in crowds but, may be less comfortable on the trail.
Either way, you can’t go wrong with either pack. They are both great products that will last and bring countless memories to you and your child.
If you are looking for a pack with even more storage, have a look at the Osprey Poco Plus (Review). If you are looking for the most plush and comfortable baby backpack carrier take a look at the Deuter Kid Comfort Pro (Review). Lastly, if you are looking for a lightweight/slim design, consider the Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL (Review).
Osprey Poco
Osprey Poco LT
Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite
Kelty Journey PerfectFIT
Deuter Kid Comfort Pro
About The Kid Packer
Here at The Kid Packer, we want to help you live your best life. A great baby backpack child carrier can help you do just that! After having used a child carrier backpack for over 1,500 miles of adventuring and exploring, we have a passion for them and know what makes a great pack that both you and your child will love. We hope our comprehensive research allows you to confidently find the right backpack for your needs!
