This is a nice backpack carrier. I used it with both of my kids, made it easy to walk the dog and carry the baby. It was my favorite way to carry them.It has a removable day pack, and the area under the seat is also storage. It has greatcarryingability.
It isdefinitelystrong and sturdy enough to take on a serious hike, withoutworryingabout equipment failure. It is also compact enoughfor just taking to the park.
The kick stand moves in and out if the bottom pack is empty, to can fold it close to keep it out of the way.
The carrier height on your back can be adjusted, by sliding the top pad and straps lower or higher.The seat that the baby sits in can also be adjusted up and down to fit all sizes, and adjusting comfort.
Madden Mountaineering, went on to become a Company called Sherpani, that continued to make fairly high end carriers.
This carrier isdefiantlya step above the Kelty Carriers in most categories, but the Kelty seems to be more stable when sitting on the ground.
It was a nice backpack. Below is a review from when the carrier was new.
From a non-smoking home, and overall the carrier is very clean. It looks a little faded in a few of the pictures, but it is not faded.
Returns gladly excepted.
Message me if you have any more questions.
Madden Mountaineering Caravan
Volume: 2500 cubic inches
Weight: 5 pounds (lbs) 9 ounces (oz)
Colors: Royal/Black or Berry/Black
Sizes: Available in Medium or Large
Load Limit: 90 lbs (total including gear)
Price: $225
Madden designed the Mountaineering Caravan for backcountry travel, but is equally functional around town. One of the reviewers tested the Caravan around the house, working in the yard, and mowing the lawn in addition to hiking trails. Although the Caravan\'s internal frame suspension handles heavy loads easily, our test crew discovered the packs best fit with a smaller child, as one tester found with his 4 month old boy.
The frame is built with light weight aircraft aluminum and stands firm to allow the loading and unloading of a child. Our testers found that the frame can get in the way when turning around in tight areas. You need to compensate for the non-retractable frame when carrying a child. It will also fold for storage.
For the adult\'s comfort, there is a mesh back panel. Among the carriers reviewed, the Caravan fit tightest against the back, making it by far the best carrier for moving across varied or rough terrain. Our testers appreciated this quality while traveling mountainous or rocky trails, though one tester didn\'t like how hot his back became. He suggested that the Caravan could be improved by increasing air travel between the wearer\'s back and the pack. Caravan\'s well-padded straps adjust for different-sized adults. A stiff waistbelt provides good load support.
Padding on the child\'s seat and straps make for a comfortable ride. There is also good padding along the child\'s back. Stirrups support the child\'s feet and keeping them from dangling. The child sits low on the adult, the compartment restricting the child\'s lateral (swaying) movement, thereby helping the adult to maintain good balance.
The Caravan offered the most stability of the three carriers reviewed, without compromising child comfort. The carrier has a built-in compartment with 2500 ci of extra storage and an outside pocket and mesh pocket for drying damp items. The Caravan also includes the rain/sun hood for added protection. Made of the same fabric as backpacks, the Caravan is easy to clean and durable.
Summary:The Caravan is comfortable for the child and the adult. It is lightweight and stable. Without purchasing optional cargo accessories, there is ample space to carry the child\'s gear. Our testers selected the Caravan as their favorite of the three carriers reviewed. Madden Mountaineering\'s clearly applied their experience designing backpack support systems to the Caravan, with excellent results.
