How to Choose a Backpack

Designed to help carry the load on overnight adventures, the kids' REI Co-op Tarn 40 pack offers quick-access storage and a removable top lid. The back panel adjusts to their torso as they grow.
Imported.
View the REI Co-op Tarn Product LineView all REI Co-op Backpacking PacksBest Use | Backpacking |
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Frame Type | Internal Frame |
Gear Capacity (L) | 40 liters |
Gear Capacity (cu. in.) | 2,441 cubic inches |
Weight | 2 lbs. 7 oz. |
Adjustable Torso Length | Yes |
Fits Torso Length (in.) | 12-16 inches |
Fits Waist/Hips | 24-34 inches |
Material(s) | Main: nylon ripstop; bottom: recycled nylon; collar: recycled polyester; back panel: recycled polyester air-mesh (all bluesign approved) |
Frame Material | Spring steel |
Reservoir Compatible | Yes |
Pack Access | Top |
Number of Exterior Pockets | 6 + main compartment |
Raincover Included | No |
Hipbelt Pockets | Yes |
Dimensions | 24 x 12 x 9 inches |
Gender | Kids' |
Sustainability | Contains materials that meet the bluesign® criteria Contains recycled materials From a Climate Label Certified brand |
From feedback to field testing, all of our gear is dialed-in by REI Co-op members. Their adventures informed every stitch and detail—making for better, longer-lasting gear.
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Tried on different backpacks but only this one fit with weight in it. I am tall with a short torso and long legs. Took this backpack to Old Rag for a winter hike to scramble to the summit and back. I was lowering my body into crevices and crawling under rocks. The backpack survived. I could fit all my water, even a thermos with hot tea, food, jacket, first aid items, and all the other numerous items I have. It didn't get damaged on the rocks, and didn't limit my movement when I was scrambling. It felt comfortable on my back when I was ascending and descending.
I'm a big fan of this pack for kids, and my 10 year old gives it 5 stars! Fit and adjustability: It easily fit both a smaller 10 year old boy, and an average 12 year old girl. The torso adjustment is velcro and was easy to use. Hopefully, the velcro will hold up with repeated use over time. Load lifters and the backpack straps were easy for my kids to adjust. The waist strap provided adequate adjustment for both kids. Size: The capacity is right to accommodate an appropriate sized load for kids, yet enough space if their gear isn't compact. A 3L bladder fit into the hydration bladder pocket. The water bottle pockets have enough stretch to accommodate different size bottles, including a full size hydroflask. It was easy to pack a down quilt in the bottom, and then fill the pack up with remaining items. Comfort: The shoulder straps, hip belt, and back panel are all well padded. My son found it quite comfortable to wear while hiking. Features: I appreciate that they included many features found on adult packs while keeping the pack light (around 2.5 lbs). Load lifters, compression straps, adequate water bottle pockets, hydration hose routing, etc. I do like that there is a front stuff pocket, but it may be limited in use due to not being stretchy. However, I think my kids would put holes in it quickly if it were stretchy. I don't see actually detaching the top "brain". It's a great space for kids to put whatever randomness they bring along. It would be nice if it could convert into a hip pack of some sort. The hip belt pockets are a prime location for snacks, but I feel they might be a bit small. The pack seems to balance durability with weight well. Overall, this is a well designed kids pack and we can't wait to use it more!
Great backpack for a growing kid. I tried this with my 10 and 7 year old and it worked great! I could see an issue of overloading a smaller child if your not careful, there is a lot of space! I really liked the ease of adjustment with a printed on scale for the backpack straps. The stash pockets are great and nice and stretchy to fit those odd sized water bottles and such. My only gripe is putting a whistle on a kids backpack… iykyk. Looking forward to using this for years to come!
I was very impressed with this backpack! The features were great including the packing list under the top pouch, the fabric straps, and the many pockets. The padded straps and belt with a whistle on the chest strap were also very well done. REI upped their kids backpack game.My son loves it.
Fit is great. Pack has multiple adjustment points and essy velcro adjustment for the height to make a perfect fit. It has great organizational pockets and the water bottle pouches work great. The pouches keep everything in place and fit a wide array of sizes. Color is easy identifiable in the outdoors so easy to see and keep track of. Super comfy shoulder pads and cushioned hip pads. Material seems durable and will hold up awhile. Super happy with the pack.
This is my 2nd kids Tarn 40. The first has worked so well for my older kiddo, there was no hesitation when my little dude got big enough to need a real backpacking bag. I love the flexible sizing, the weight of the pack itself, and the sizes of all the pockets. The limited size of 40 liters also makes it a lot harder for a kid to overload themselves.
As a 5’2” 120 pound female this pack fit better than any of the women’s packs in store and has plenty of room for everything I need for 10-12 hour day hike.
I bought this pack for my ten year-old great-niece’s class backpacking trip in the Gifford Pinchot National Wilderness. She loves it and says it served her excellently on her trip. Her family is very outdoors oriented so I’m sure she will get a great deal of use out of it.
Solid 40L pack for the kid. My kid is 7 and it fits nicely. I’m sure he will be able to use it for the next 5 teara
This pack is awesome. Both my boys love them. They like that they are able to carry more gear like dad. There is a lot of attachment options as well as good gear capacity. They have not complained about any hotspots while hiking some serious elevation changes. Couldn't be happier.