For this summer, as our daughter is now 3.5 and our son is close to 1, we decided to pick up hiking again, just now hiking with kids. I will admit, it’s a bit different than it used to be, but honestly, it’s been so fun to go with our small family and explore the outdoors. We just make sure we’re prepared with several items for successful hikes with kids.
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1. Carrier
With our youngest, he isn’t walking yet, so we make sure to use the hiking back carrier for him. One of the best purchases we’ve ever done. We’ve used it over the past several years for both kids – walks, hikes, adventures, anything where we just don’t want to carry a kid on the hip! If there’s something you need for hiking with kids, this is it!
When you’re hiking with a toddler and a baby (like us), the first few hikes, I’d recommend bringing a regular carrier that can hold your toddler’s weight if they get tired on the hike too. Better to be safe than sorry!
2. Extra clothes
This is really for everyone. All the extra clothes. You might have falls, sweat, or just feel gross in general. But I have found that when I hike with kids, extra clothes are definitely needed – way more than before! I always bring my slippers with us, so I can wear comfy shoes for my tired feet!
3. Hiking shoes
When I say hiking shoes, I don’t necessarily mean hiking boots. For the hikes we’re doing with our kids, using my tennis shoes are great. However, making sure your kids have extra grippy soles helps with tumbles on the hike for sure!
4. Snacks
Having snacks for everyone, but especially the kids, is super important. Nobody is their best self if they’re hungry!
For those under one, simple baby snacks are great! Think puffs or crackers!
Some great ways to bring snacks for kids is in a snack cup or a snackle box!
5. Water
Of course, whenever you’re hiking, you have to bring water. I like to bring my daughter’s own bottle, so she feels more like a big kid!
6. Sunscreen
Protection from the sun for everyone is so incredibly important. But especially when you’re hiking with kids – I would hate to deal with a baby or toddler with a sunburn! I recommend at least 50 SPF! In a pinch, I’ll use the spray on sunscreen to make it easy on myself. But I also like the lotion sunscreen as well. Up to you!
7. Insect Repellent
Sometimes, there are bugs near water. So protect your kids from bug bites with some great insect repellent. We double up, with a spray and then these as well!
I find that I usually have the most bites, with only a couple. Better me than the kids!
8. Backpack
With all your stuff to bring on your hike with kids, make sure you have a backpack that makes carrying it easy.
My avid backpacker friend from Vacation Washington State – the best state 😉 – provides her recommendation for a backpack here. And I’d listen to her cause she’s experienced!
9. Shewee
So we were gifted this several years ago and honestly, just threw it in the bag, thinking we’d probably never use it. As a grown woman, I could pee in the woods fine. Then my 3 year old daughter had to learn goes to do it and the first few times resulted in pee all over her pants.
But then we found our SheWee stored in the bag and haven’t had to try again. If you have little girls, I highly recommend this to make outside potty breaks WAY easier (and less messy!).
10. ShoeShoes
At the end of it all, your shoes are going to be dirty. Maybe even muddy. Even if you bring extra shoes for everyone, putting your dirty shoes in ShoeShoes is a great way to minimize the mess! My daughter loves her fuzzy ones that we got and they’re so easy, she puts them on herself!
When it comes to hiking with kids, it can be intimidating. But I feel that the benefits of being out in nature as a family are completely worth it!
1 Comment
These are really unique suggestions. Thanks!