Last Update:
Are you ready for a family adventure full of laughter and discovery? Hiking is one of our family’s favorite ways to explore the great outdoors, create unforgettable memories, and get the kids exercise.
Whether you’re carrying a baby or have teenagers who want to hit the trail, the right equipment can turn a boring hike into a real adventure. We learned long ago that an uncomfortable backpack, ill-fitting shoes, and unnecessary extra gear can quickly ruin a family hike.
In this article, we’ll go over the essential gear you need to keep the whole family happy and safe so you can focus on what’s really important: enjoying nature and each other.
Essential hiking gear for kids
The key to a successful family hike is the equipment you bring. From the right footwear to essential safety items, having the right gear makes all the difference.
The Right Shoes: A Step in the Right Direction
Wearing the right shoes is very important when hiking, especially for children. Children’s feet are still growing and developing, so it’s important to provide them with footwear that is supportive, comfortable and protective.
Children’s hiking shoes
Good hiking shoes are essential for walking on rough trails and uneven terrain. Look for shoes that are durable, waterproof and have good grip. You don’t want little feet slipping on wet rocks or getting soaked in puddles. Brands like Merrell and Keen offer great options for children.
Make sure your shoes fit snugly, allowing you enough room to move your toes, but not so loose that you get blisters. To avoid discomfort on the trail, break in your shoes before any long hikes.
Sandals: Summer saviours
When the weather is warm and the trails are dry, hiking sandals are essential for peak performance. Children’s Outdoor ProductsThey’re breathable, easy to clean, and have great grip – plus, kids love the freedom that sandals give them.
But make sure you choose sandals that are designed for hiking. Regular flip flops or flip flops won’t suffice. Look for ones with features like adjustable straps for a snug fit, closed toes for impact protection, and sturdy soles to prevent slipping. Keen’s Newport H2 sandals are a favorite among parents because they’re durable and protective.
Essential clothing for hiking with kids
Dressing your child for a hike requires more than just dressing them in a t-shirt and shorts. Layers are your best friend. Especially when hiking in the mountains, the weather can be unpredictable, so being able to layer and remove layers is important.
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat at bay. Throw on a warm fleece or jacket for cooler mornings or at higher altitudes. A lightweight, waterproof jacket is essential in case it rains. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun and always bring extra socks.
Backpacks: Carry your essentials
While your child may not be carrying a lot of weight, having their own backpack gives them a sense of participation and responsibility. Look for a lightweight backpack with padded straps and a snug fit. Younger children can bring their own water bottle, snacks, small toys, and a nature journal.
Hydration Packs
Hydration packs are a game changer, especially on longer hikes. These backpacks have built-in water bladders and tubes that allow kids to easily stay hydrated without having to stop and get a drink along the way. CamelBak offers a comfortable, easy-to-use hydration pack for kids.
Snacks: Fuel for your adventure
Hungry kids will be cranky, so it’s important to pack enough snacks.
Think about foods that are easy to eat on the go and will provide sustained energy: granola bars, trail mix, fruit, cheese sticks, and jerky are all great options.
Safety Gear: Be Prepared
Safety is always a top priority. Here are some items that you should include in your hiking gear:
First aid kit
A basic first aid kit is a must, and should contain bandages, disinfectant wipes, tweezers, painkillers, any necessary medications, etc. It’s also a good idea to have some moleskin for blisters and an emergency blanket.
Navigation Tools
Even if you’re hiking on well-marked trails, it’s important to have navigation tools. A map and compass are essential, and teaching kids how to use them can be a fun and educational experience. A GPS device or a smartphone with a reliable mapping app can be helpful, but don’t rely solely on technology.
whistle
Give each child a whistle and teach them how to use it. If someone gets separated from the group, three blasts on the whistle are the universal signal for help.
Sun protection: To avoid getting a sunburn
Children’s skin is sensitive, so protecting it from the sun is very important.
Be sure to wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply it throughout the day, especially if you sweat or splash around in water. A hat and sunglasses are also essential to protect your eyes and face from the sun’s rays.
Entertainment: Keep having fun
Kids get bored easily, so having a few tricks up your sleeve can help keep them entertained.
Encourage your children to keep a nature journal, collect leaves, draw pictures and write about what they see. Binoculars can add to the fun when spotting birds and distant sights. Simple “I Spy” or treasure hunt games can also work great.
Personal anecdotes and tips
From my experience hiking with kids, I can say that preparation is everything. Once, we forgot extra socks and our feet got soaked in a sudden rainstorm. Lesson learned. Now, we always carry “just in case” items, like extra socks and plastic bags for wet items.
Another tip: Involve your kids in the planning process. Let them help pack their backpacks, pick out snacks, and choose their hiking clothes. This will give them a sense of ownership and excitement for the adventure ahead.
Bottom line: Ready, go, hike!
With the right gear and a little preparation, hiking with kids can be a ton of fun. From the right shoes to essential safety items, having the right gear can make family hikes fun, safe, and memorable.
So lace up your boots, grab your gear, and hit the trail. Happy hiking!
