How to Choose a Backpack
REI Co-op Tarn 40 Pack - Kids'
This product is not available. Good news: we have a newer version.
Made for the growing hiker, the adaptable kids' REI Co-op Tarn 40 pack can change shape thanks to compression straps, a removable top lid and an adjustable back panel for a variety of torso lengths.
Shop newer version- Adjustable back panel and side compression straps combine to provide a customizable fit
- Padded shoulder straps and hipbelt provide a comfortable carry; hipbelt pockets keep snacks or a phone at hand
- Large stuff pocket in the front provides quick-access storage for an extra layer
- Removable top-lid pocket allows options for organization
- Loops on the front allow bungees or clips to be attached
- Contains materials that meet the bluesign® criteria
- REI Co-op brand is certified to The Climate Label; we actively fund efforts to reduce carbon emissions across our business and support climate projects around the world
Imported.
View the REI Co-op Tarn Product LineView all REI Co-op Backpacking Packs| Best Use | Backpacking |
|---|---|
| Frame Type | Internal Frame |
| Gear Capacity (L) | 40 liters |
| Gear Capacity (cu. in.) | 2,441 cubic inches |
| Weight | 2 lbs. 10 oz. |
| Adjustable Torso Length | Yes |
| Fits Torso Length (in.) | 12-16 inches |
| Fits Waist/Hips | 22-36 inches |
| Material(s) | 420-denier ripstop recycled nylon (bluesign® approved) |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Reservoir Compatible | Yes |
| Pack Access | Top loading |
| Number of Exterior Pockets | 4 + main |
| 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 |
Buying Advice
Better gear is built together
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.
Review this Product
Adding a review will require a valid email for verification
Most Helpful Favorable Review
Great pack at a great price
Kris2 years ago
I got this pack for my 8yo and he loves being able to carry his own gear now (see attached photos as proof)!
It's big enough to carry his sleeping bag, clothes and hammock. Plus we can attach his sleeping pad to the outside without a need for additional straps.
It's a well made pack!
Kris
Boiling Springs, PA
29 people found this review helpful
Most Helpful Critical Review
Good fitting pack for kids , TERRIBLE durability
DKontrail4 years ago
My son was so excited for this pack, it fit well The bottom panel of the pack ripped open after hiking down 1 mountain (a total of 9 miles hiked with this pack). Because my son had to sit down to descend a few rocks the pack ripped open on the bottom panel.. Owned this pack for 3 days. Upon return to the store I was told it was user error and they would not take it back.. Incredibly dissatisfied with this pack, it is not passable for anything in the backcounty.
DKontrail
New England
29 people found this review helpful
Customer Images
Backpack dad
Northern California
Unexpected catastrophic failure
2 years ago
These were great...for a little while. Backpack trips with preteens in NorCal mountains, a week in Barcelona when they were teens, great that the packs grew with them. But today I got the packs back out after a 3 year hiatus in the garage, and the main waist strap on 2 of my 3 Tarn 40 packs (the red ones) has somehow disintegrated into tear-in-half-in-your-hand fragility. My other Tarn 40 (orange) has no discernible failures, my REI Flash 60 and Flash 65, no problems. But the red Tarn 40s both failed. And in exactly the same way, at the same place, having been used only a half a dozen times and stored carefully in the shade in the garage. Someone at REI got cheap in the production of the red Tarn 40 pack. Buyer beware!
Age:Under 18
Weight:100–125 lbs.
Height:5'1"
No, I do not recommend this product
playoutside
south korea
backpacks fit Korean students well.
1 year ago
I had a great time during the 3-night, 4-day trip to Jirisan in Korea
Age:Under 18
Yes , I recommend this product
Kris
Boiling Springs, PA
Great pack at a great price
2 years ago
I got this pack for my 8yo and he loves being able to carry his own gear now (see attached photos as proof)! It's big enough to carry his sleeping bag, clothes and hammock. Plus we can attach his sleeping pad to the outside without a need for additional straps. It's a well made pack!
Age:Under 18
Weight:Less than 100 lbs.
Height:Shorter than 5'
Yes , I recommend this product
TINA
Florida
7.5 year old loves it
1 year ago
I got this for my 7 1/2 year old son. It is super adjustable and seems to be a good quality. It is on the lowest height adjustment now so there is plenty of adjustments left as he grows. We put a 5lb tent in it to test the fit and he says it is very comfortable. We are excited to try it - I'm happy with this purchase.
Age:Under 18
Weight:Less than 100 lbs.
Height:Shorter than 5'
Yes , I recommend this product
a_nick_name
Boulder, CO
Bad hip pocket fabric
3 years ago
This is a really good size backpack for kids with small waists. Unfortunately, the fabric on the hip pockets is a very stretchy and easily damaged mesh. After one outing with normal use, both pockets had developed holes. REI says we can't return it because it isn't a manufacturing defect, so I'll have to patch with better fabric or go without these pockets. As easily as these wore through, I would anticipate making the same choice when considering your purchase. As an alternative, I recently got a Deuter Fox 40 and think that is the better option for durability and functionality at nearly the same price.
No, I do not recommend this product
C_Jay7
Columbia, MD
Great pack for growing children
2 years ago
I picked up 2 of these for my boys, 6 and 8 years old. The packs fit them both perfectly after an easy adjustment of the torso length. The size of the pack is perfect for the essentials for my kids and even some comfort items. My boys both carry a sleeping bag, pad, pillow, 1L water bottle, hygiene bag, snack bag, meal bag, some extra layers, rain gear and 1 toy. This bag accommodates all with room to spare. Side pockets are nice and deep. The Hip belt w/ pockets is great for stability and on the go snacks. The Small top zipper pouch is great for headlamp and other small loose items. The top and bottom straps both have enough length to stow a full-size therm-a-rest Z-light sol Pad.
Age:Under 18
Weight:Less than 100 lbs.
Height:Shorter than 5'
Yes , I recommend this product
HikeNBike
Northern Colorado
Perfect pack for a growing kiddo
4 years ago
This pack was the perfect upgrade for my 10-year old daughter. The adjustable shoulder straps are key and will allow her to use the pack for years to come. We did a 7 mile loop a few days after getting the pack and she loved it, comfortable and proud to be carrying more of her own gear. No complaints whatsoever.
Yes , I recommend this product
Jessica
Alaska
Great Pack
3 years ago
My very petite 6 year old (40lb), was able to carry this for 90 % of the duration of our back country hike in cold, rainy Alaska weather! Material is durable, love the whistle on front strap and other side and pouch pockets. It will grow with her for years! My only complaint is the cost, but It will be passed on to my next kiddo, so it was worth it.
Age:35–44
Weight:Less than 100 lbs.
Height:Shorter than 5'
Yes , I recommend this product
Christa
North Carolina
Great for my 9 year old daughter
3 years ago
My 9 year old daughter wore this pack on a backpacking trip and seemed to carry it well - it was maybe 12-14 pounds of weight and she weighs around 69 pounds. It adjusts easily and we are very pleased with the quality and the extra large storage "water bottle" pockets on the outside
Age:Under 18
Weight:Less than 100 lbs.
Height:5'0"
No, I do not recommend this product
Anonymous
Great bag for kids and petite adults !
3 years ago
Love this! I’m only 4”10 and have a 13 inch toros. Did a 200 mile section with the Osprey Aura Ag 50 xs which was too big for me despite being the smallest adult 44 L backpacking pack. Wrecked my tailbone and hips. Switching to the REI Tarn has been a life saver !! Fits just as much, is more comfortable, and has an adjustable torso that fits me. The hip-belts are thinner making it more comfortable on my short torso but hold just as much as the Osprey Aura. Personally, I think the back is more comfortable than the Aura too. It’s squishier. It doesn’t have the anti-gravity tech that the Aura does, but I don’t really notice a difference. Highly recommend for any children or petite adults (probably under 5”2). Just wish it came in more colors.
Yes , I recommend this product
1 - 10 of 57 Reviews