Osprey Poco Premium & Osprey Poco AG Plus share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, features, and design. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Osprey Poco Premium rather than the Osprey Poco AG Plus.
Why Do I Recommend The Osprey Poco Premium?
- The Osprey Poco Premium comes with a detachable daypack for carrying extra snacks, diapers, or personal gear during long hikes, while the Osprey Poco AG Plus has no detachable daypack.
- Osprey Poco Premium features an integrated rain cover for quick weather protection to keep both child and gear dry in sudden rain, whereas the Osprey Poco AG Plus requires a separate rain cover purchase.
- It includes a padded fold-out changing pad for convenient diaper changes on the trail, while the Osprey Poco AG Plus has no included changing pad.
- The Osprey Poco Premium has total 36-liter storage capacity for packing jackets, food, and accessories, compared to the Osprey Poco AG Plus with a smaller storage volume of roughly 26 liters.
- Osprey Poco Premium features thicker, plusher child cockpit padding for improved comfort and support on long outings, whereas the Osprey Poco AG Plus uses standard padding with less cushioning.
- It comes with more exterior gear attachment loops for securing trekking poles or toys to keep items accessible, while the Osprey Poco AG Plus includes fewer external loops.
- The Osprey Poco Premium has an AirSpeed mesh backpanel for superior ventilation to reduce sweat buildup during strenuous hikes, whereas the Osprey Poco AG Plus uses the older Anti-Gravity suspension system with less airflow.
- Osprey Poco Premium features additional internal organization compartments to separate gear like snacks, first-aid supplies, and electronics for easier access, whereas the Osprey Poco AG Plus has a simpler pocket layout.
Maybe the Osprey Poco AG Plus price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Osprey Poco Premium. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Osprey Poco Premium | Osprey Poco AG Plus |
| Volume (storage capacity) | 36 L | ~ 26-30 L |
| Cockpit (child seat) | Removable, machine washable padded cockpit | Fixed cockpit, less or no removable padding |
| Hip belt pockets | Zippered hip pockets | Mesh or simpler (non-zip) pockets |
| Backpanel | AirSpeed mesh continuous back panel | Older AG suspension system |
| Child seat harness | Double Halo harness with front-facing arm loops | Double Halo harness, but fewer adjustability or loops |
| Sun shade | Included, UPF 50+ | Often sold separately or simpler version |
| Stirrup adjustments | Included adjustable stirrups | Nnon-adjustable stirrups |
| Fit-on-the-Fly hip belt | Yes | Less adjustable |
| Fabric type | 100% recycled 210D ripstop nylon, DWR treated, PFAS-free, bluesign approved | Similar fabric but possibly less premium finish or non-bluesign components |
| Dimensions | Taller, greater torso length adjustment range | Less height |
| Lower storage compartment | Large zippered lower compartment | Smaller or less capacious under-seat |
| Number of pockets | More pockets | Fewer pockets, simpler pocket layout |
| Water bottle | Large stretch mesh pockets, upper side panel mesh pockets | Smaller or fewer side pockets |
| Mirror for child visibility | Included or better integrated mirror | Simpler mirror, possibly fixed or less accessible |
| Price | Check Poco Premium Price | Check Poco AG Plus Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- Child Carrier Type: Both models are structured hiking child carriers designed for outdoor adventures, ensuring a secure ride for the child while distributing weight evenly for the parent.
- Maximum Child + Gear Weight ~48 lbs (≈22 kg): Each pack supports roughly the same combined weight, providing the capacity needed for growing toddlers and essential hiking gear.
- Adjustable Torso Harness: Both allow fine-tuning of torso length so different-sized caregivers can share carrying duties comfortably on long treks.
- Adjustable Child Seat Height: The seat height can be raised or lowered on each carrier, ensuring the child sits at the right level for visibility and proper leg support as they grow.
- Double Halo Child Harness: Each uses Osprey’s secure Double Halo harness to keep the child safely centered and prevent leaning, which adds stability on uneven trails.
- Integrated Sunshade (UPF 50+): Both include a built-in sunshade that protects the child from harmful UV rays, reducing the need for separate sun protection gear.
- Hydration Reservoir Sleeve (3 L): Each pack accommodates a 3-liter hydration reservoir, making it easy for parents to stay hydrated without stopping.
- Sturdy Aluminum Frame: Both rely on a lightweight yet strong aluminum frame that provides structure and stability, critical for balancing the child’s weight.
- Kickstand with Lock/Release: Each carrier features a deployable kickstand that lets the pack stand upright when loading or unloading the child, increasing safety and convenience.
- Padded Cockpit with Ventilated Sides: Both offer a cushioned, breathable seating area that keeps the child comfortable and cool during hikes.
- Fit-on-the-Fly Hip Belt: Both have adjustable hip belts that can be customized on the go, helping distribute weight evenly across the hips and reducing shoulder strain.
- Zippered Hip Belt Pockets: Each carrier includes hip belt pockets for quick access to snacks, keys, or a phone without removing the pack.
- Stretch Mesh Side Pockets: Both provide stretchy side pockets for water bottles or small gear, keeping essentials within easy reach.
- Built-in Mirror for Child Check: Each model includes a small mirror so the parent can easily check on the child without removing the pack.
- Adjustable Stirrup Footrests: Both carriers have foot stirrups to support the child’s legs and improve circulation, which is important on longer hikes.
- PFC/PFAS-Free DWR Fabric: Each uses durable water-repellent fabric free from harmful fluorocarbons, providing weather resistance while being environmentally responsible.
- Safety-Certified (Meets ASTM/EN Standards): Both meet recognized international safety standards, giving parents confidence that the carriers have passed rigorous stability and materials testing.
Common Features
| Feature | Osprey Poco Premium | Osprey Poco AG Plus |
| Child Carrier Type | Yes | Yes |
| Maximum Child + Gear Weight ~48 lbs (≈22 kg) | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Torso Harness | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Child Seat Height | Yes | Yes |
| Double Halo Child Harness | Yes | Yes |
| Integrated Sunshade (UPF 50+) | Yes | Yes |
| Hydration Reservoir Sleeve (3 L) | Yes | Yes |
| Sturdy Aluminum Frame | Yes | Yes |
| Kickstand with Lock/Release | Yes | Yes |
| Padded Cockpit with Ventilated Sides | Yes | Yes |
| Fit-on-the-Fly Hip Belt | Yes | Yes |
| Zippered Hip Belt Pockets | Yes | Yes |
| Stretch Mesh Side Pockets | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Mirror for Child Check | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Stirrup Footrests | Yes | Yes |
| PFC/PFAS-Free DWR Fabric | Yes | Yes |
| Safety-Certified (Meets ASTM/EN Standards) | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Check Poco Premium Price | Check Poco AG Plus Price |
FAQ
What is the weight capacity of both carriers? Are the carriers comfortable for different parent sizes? Do these carriers include a sunshade? Can the child seat be adjusted as the child grows? Is there a hydration reservoir compartment? How stable are these carriers when setting them down? Are the carriers safe for infants? Do the packs provide good ventilation? What materials are used for weather resistance? Are mirrors included for checking on the child? Can you carry extra gear in these packs? Are the foot stirrups adjustable? Is machine washing recommended for cleaning? Do the carriers fit in an overhead compartment for travel? What age range are these carriers best suited for? |