Hiking With Kids & Things We Bring
Hiking with kids is an experience all on it’s own. I’ve been on many hikes over the years with children. It can be a lot of fun, exhausting – not going to lie, and if you’re not prepared – stressful!
When hiking with kids, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. Don’t go with too high of expectations, you’re there to have fun. Your child may get tired quicker than you, or maybe you will, and guess what their feet hurt half way through and you have to carry them. They will also make many stops to check things out, and remember that’s okay.
Most importantly be prepared! I’ve got all our must haves to bring with us on a hike. Check them out below.
Hiking with kids & things we bring with us!
1. Hiking Shoes
This is number one on our list! Without proper walking and hiking shoes you’ll have some not so happy people. You’re feet will be sore, maybe wet, get blisters, and possibly even a sprained ankle. The whole hike will be ruined if you or your child’s feet aren’t happy.
We’ve done hikes in a few different shoes, keep in mind what type of hike you’re doing, and time of year it is. Short summer hikes are okay done in Keen sandals, and around water. If tennis shoes are all you own, they’ll work fine. Just be mindful of any water, and they’ll most likely get dirty. I’ve worn my Brooks for many hikes.
We recently bought some actual hiking boots. They are great; protects your ankles, waterproof, and you don’t have to worry about them getting dirty. My boots are on sale right now, 41% OFF!
2. Water
This is second on our list! If you’re planning on going hiking, no matter the time of year, or the length of the hike. Make sure you bring a full water bottle. Preferably a lightweight water bottle. Here is a great reusable water bottle!
3. Snacks
Another MUST, is have plenty of snacks packed, no matter the length of the hike or if you just ate. Your child will get hungry, it’s a great way to distract and/or give them an energy boost.
Goldfish are a great one, so are granola bars, trail-mix, protein balls, jerky, fruit or dried fruit. Or anything else your child will eat; but ask yourself will it travel well, is it convenient, and can you eat it while you walk?
4. First-Aid Kit
Have a few first-aid kit items available; gauze, wipes, and Band-Aids are a must. Buy a small first-aid kit to carry with you in your backpack or purse.
Sunblock is also a great item to have.
Insect repellent if your hike is around water.
Have a little knowledge on running into wildlife on the trails, bring a pepper spray, and pocket knife just in case.
5. Backpack
A backpack is a must for us if the hike is over a mile. It makes carrying all the snacks, first-aid items, water bottles, and anything else we need very convenient. On shorter hikes I’ve taken my Kavu cross body purse with me, but it can get uncomfortable on my shoulder and limits you on what you can bring.
Of course there are other things that may be important for you, and yours. Like a baby/toddler carrying pack, we always did this when my kids were little.
How about something to throw your trash(or dirty diaper) away, bring a small garbage bag with you. Don’t leave your trash on the trail!
Always dress appropriately, consider the time of year, and weather. It may be summer time, but your hiking the top of a mountain. Check the weather forecast before, and come prepared.
The Pacific Northwest is such a beautiful place for hikes. Couldn’t ask for a better place to live for the outdoors. The temperature is great for most hike locations, we’ve got hikes for all interest; waterfalls, mountain views, desert views, caves, rivers, ect.
Here are a few hikes that we’ve been on, and that I’ve shared about on this space.
What’s your take on hiking with kids? Let me know in the comments below; something you always bring with you, your favorite hike, time of year to hike, anything.
