SafeFit By My Side Harness with Backpack, Purple/Black/Grey

We have both the older model of this, which we've had for a couple of years, as well as the newer model in pink for girls, and this has become indispensable. I was very against putting children on leashes until I had a child and realized it was mutually beneficial. The leash allows my toddlers to have the freedom of walking independently but puts a reasonable limit on how far they can go. It makes a busy store or crowded public place less terrifying. Sometimes I string the loop on the end of the leash through my belt for hands-free use. The backpack design is fantastic for several reasons: 1) The children LOVE wearing backpacks, so they're excited to put them on, which makes the whole process easier. 2) There are straps across the chest AND hips, so it is effective without clothes-lining them. 3) It looks less like a dog leash. 4) It's not as hot as the plush type. 5) The leash is removable, so when the leash is momentarily unnecessary, it turns into a regular backpack. 6) The older...Read more

I purchased this backpack harness for my 18 month old son who is VERY lively and super-duper fast. I was really excited to use it as we were heading to Chicago for a week and I was really nervous about trying to keep tabs on him and keep him safe on all of our outings. It fit my son well, seemed secure and well designed, held his sippy cup, some wipes, a diaper and a small toy, plus it was really cute. Alas, my excitement didn't last long - one hour after strapping him into this at Shedd's Aquarium I was removing it from him in pieces. The straps ALL came loose and several were hanging by threads. Yes, my son did pull in this a little bit, which I am sure did cause some stress to the straps, but shouldn't these things be designed to take a small amount of tugging? I mean, he only weighs 21.5 lbs. and only had it on for a short time. Buyer beware!

** for those of you who still want to take your chances with it but are confused by all of the comments about size, I...Read more

I bought this backpack harness for international plane travel with my active two-year-old. I liked that this one holds a bit more than some of the other backpack harnesses out there, so she could have a favorite stuffed animal or toys. My daughter actually asks to wear it and the leash can be removed for those times. Luckily haven't actually had to leash her more than a couple of times but, I was relieved to have this during our travels.