hiking gear

  • FAVORITE GEAR, HIKE

    The Best Baby Carriers for Hiking & Outdoor Adventures

    As outdoorsy mamas (or at least moms that spend a lot of time outside), we get asked a lot about gear recommendations. The Run Wild My Child team that brings you the articles on this website is made up of 30+ writers, all parents on a mission to spend time outside with our kids and help inspire and encourage other parents to do the same. Between us and all our kids, we’ve tried and tested a TON of gear, equipment, clothing, shoes, etc. and we love sharing our recommendations with you. Today, Lea Reynolds, New Mexico nurse, Army vet, and mom of two (including a newborn), is here sharing all the details on the best baby carriers for hiking and outdoor adventures. Each recommended product has been thoroughly tested and tried by Lea and her family. She’s sharing the best baby carrier for newborns, long hikes and hiking with toddlers.Best Baby Carriers for Hiking - Newborn through Toddler Recommendations

    Best baby carriers for hiking and outdoor adventures

    Are you a parent new to adventuring and want to know what carrier best suits your baby or child?

    Are you an experienced adventure parent that wants to upgrade or make changes to your current setup?

    This article is for you! I’m so excited to chat with you today about the best baby carriers for hiking and adventuring. My husband and I have tried and tested many child carriers over the years. As military veterans and experienced adventurers, we’ve made it a priority to take our children on every exploration we set out on from the beginning. We now have two little ones that we adventure with, so we’ve got experience from newborn through toddler.

    Choosing the best baby carrier for you

    A good baby carrier can make adventuring with two littles not only possible, but fun! But there are a ton of options out there and it’s not always easy to know what you want or need. Plus, it’s hard to know what will last more than a few months (babies grow quickly) and what to spend your money on that will hold up to outdoor adventures and be comfortable. 

    Today, I will talk about the pros and cons of three fo the best baby carriers for hiking and what ages they best suit. I’ll help you choose which baby carrier is the best for you, depending on what type of outdoor adventures you’ll be going on and the size/age of your child(ren). 

    Each of the hiking baby carriers discussed below will help you be more comfortable and confident adventuring outside with kids. A good carrier can make all the difference and inspire you to get out there and have fun on the trail. That’s what adventuring with your kids should be right? So let’s get started!

    The Osprey Poco Plus

    The Osprey Poco Plus is probably the best hiking child carrier on the market. This carrier allows infants from the time they can hold their heads up to about 46 lbs. We have used this carrier with our son since he was an infant and now it’s used to carry our baby girl who is 6 months old. This carrier has a fully framed and padded cockpit area, which surrounds the adjustable seat for safety. It has a lightweight metal frame that allows for transitioning on and off the back easily and safely. Easy-to-use buckles and straps for adjustments. It’s made with soft flexible and breathable materials, with ventilated side panels for comfort when it’s hot.

    Osprey Poco Plus pros:

    The Osprey Poco Plus is very versatile and allows for maximum comfort for both the adult and child. It’s fully adjustable to my body frame (I am 5’3 and 130 lbs) and to my husband’s (5’9 and 170 lbs).  There are footrests on either side of the carrier, so that your child can have their feet resting instead of dangling like soft-shell carriers.

    The storage on this carrier is phenomenal! There are two mesh pockets on either side where I put snacks and toys for my baby. There is a large compartment with a zipper at the bottom that I store my DSLR camera, diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes for baby girl. This completely eliminates the need to carry an additional backpack. It has a mesh back lining to keep you cool on those hot summer days and even has a hydration pack compartment.

    It’s also easy to put on by yourself, which means I can hike solo with my child without needing someone to help me get the carrier on and off. It has a sunshade (stored when not in use) that has come in handy many times while we were hiking desert trails and fly-fishing up and down rivers. It also adjusts as your child gets bigger. The adjustable seat accommodates infants to toddlers.

    I cannot rave enough about how much I love this carrier! It makes adventuring with babies so much fun! It’s a must for any parents with infants to toddlers. This carrier has taken us on some pretty epic adventures. We’ve hiked some steep trails, visited National Parks, fished some raving rivers and most importantly, we exposed our babies to the beauty of the world and all it has to offer. This carrier is perfect for pretty much any adventure!

    best baby carriers for hiking with kids

    Osprey Poco Plus cons:

    This carrier can be heavy for those that are not used to hiking with a load. If you are not used to carrying a lot of weight on your back, you will want to practice and get used to the frame of this carrier. My husband and I have hiked with a lot of weight on our back in the Army so we are used to it, but if you are just starting out, it’s good to start with short hikes and adventures and build up to it. 

    Although the maximum weight limit says 46 lbs (or 4 years old) it’s very heavy when carrying a toddler. The weight of the actual carrier itself is roughly 7 lbs. And then add a toddler’s weight to that (especially if you have a large toddler, like mine) and it can get really heavy. (Although, I should also mention that carrying a toddler in anything is hard. Once kids can walk, they really enjoy hiking on their own and don’t want to be restrained.) We do have a carrier for him that allows him to rest on long hikes (see below).

    Another con to this type of baby carrier is that you have to wait until your infant can hold their head up before you can/should use this product. This carrier is definitely not meant for newborns or the littlest of hikers. You’ll need to use an alternative method of carrying your little baby (see below). 

    Finally, the Osprey Poco plus is a bit pricy and may not be an affordable option for everyone. This carrier retails for $340. If you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking with your kid(s) over the years (and will use this for multiple kids), then the price is definitely worth it. It will last a long time and can be resold for quite a bit of what you paid for it. We purchased our older version on Facebook MarketPlace for a fraction of the current retail cost. When buying used, make sure to check all straps, buckles, handles, etc. for holes, rips, wear, tears, stains, damage, etc. You’d be surprised what awesome gear you can find used.

    best kid carrier backpacks for hiking

    Ergo Baby 360

    The next carrier we will talk about is a soft-shell baby carrier called the Ergo Baby 360. There are several similar baby carriers out there, but we love this one. It is so comfortable and can sit baby in 4 different positions; facing parent, facing out, hip carry, back carry. We have used this one for each of our children when they were infants. It has taken us on some amazing adventures and I will continue to use it until its time comes to an end. This carrier is best suitable for hikes with newborn-toddlers, walks around the neighborhood, walks on the beach, and comes in handy when you have other children. 

    Ergo Baby 360 pros:

    The Ergo Baby 360 is very comfortable to wear and fully adjustable for different body frames. It’s really light-weight and comes in a variety of colors and patterns. It can carry your baby in 4 different positions as they grow and depending on what’s comfortable for you both. It has a sun-shade cover to keep baby’s head out of the sunshine and comes with a pillow that allows newborns to be carried safely. We took our baby girl on her first hike when she was just 1-week old and if it hadn’t been for this carrier, we would have had to carry her or would have resorted to a paved trail that was stroller accessible. 

    best baby carriers for outdoor adventures - newborn babies
    1 week-old baby in Ergo Baby 360

    Ergo Baby 360 cons: 

    The orginal version of this carrier is best suitable for colder weather. It can get a little toasty for baby in the summer (and we live in New Mexico, where it can get really hot). Ergo Baby does make a cool mesh version of this same carrier, which says that it keeps you and your baby cooler on hotter days.

    It’s rated for up to 45 lbs but it’s definitely not as comfortable once they hit that weight, even on your back.  We transition to our Osprey Poco Plus once they outgrow this one.  This carrier is also a little hard to put on and load the baby by yourself. 

    baby infant carriers for hiking
    Tropical forest hike in Hawaii with our Ergo Baby 360.

    Trail Magik Toddler Carrier

    As our kids get older, we needed something to help us carry our toddler. The last carrier we use is relatively new to the market. It’s made by a family-owned company called Trail Magik. It’s a soft-shell carrier that is durable and specifically made with toddlers in mind. It retails for $95. During transit it’s folded to the size of a small water bottle & weighs just ounces. When needed, The Trail Magik Carrier can attach to the front of your backpacking backpack so you won’t miss a beat while your little hitchhikers get their rest on. It allows your toddler to rest comfortably, while not displacing your hiking backpack. 

    Trail Magik Toddler Carrier pros:

    This toddler carrier is very lightweight, foldable, and durable. Helps toddler rest on longer hikes, once they need a break. It also allows you to carry two children at once (if you’re feeling like Super Mom!).

    We were skeptical of the claims of being able to carry your todder comfortably at first because we all know how heavy toddlers can be. The thought of attaching our 35 lb toddler to the front while carrying 45 lbs + on our back, seemed absurd, but we needed something specially made for toddlers. We purchased this carrier recently and tried it out on our strenuous 4-mile hike in Taos, New Mexico. With an elevation gain of 1,030ft. , we knew our toddler would not last the entire hike on his own so we knew we needed something to help him along the way. Our son made it to 3.5 miles before needing help and boy were we ecstatic to have this carrier.

    My husband attached him to his pack and we made it the alpine lake. We enjoyed our alpine lake hike so much, we failed to capture photos of us hiking to the top with our son in this carrier. Here is a photograph of it from another hike. 

    Best hiking carrier for a toddler
    Steep, rocky climb with baby and toddler.

    best hiking kid carrier for toddlers

    Trail Magik Toddler Carrier cons:

    Unfortunately, the Trail Magik baby carrier is not great for prolonged use or really long hikes. You have to have weight on your back to counter the front weight this means wearing a carrier on your back or a hiking backpack with some good amount of weight in it. The weight of your toddler can cause shoulder discomfort if used for too many miles in one hike.  

    best baby carriers for hiking with toddlerscarriers for hiking with kids

    Find the baby carrier that works for you

    There is an abundance of baby and child carriers on the market. It is important to find the one(s) that best suit you and your family. Different carriers are made for different activities and the age/size of your children. Finding the most comfortable carrier is sometimes a lesson learned through trial and error. If possible, I highly recommend trying on and testing any carrier before purchasing. You can always try out a brand at the store and then buy it second-hand elsewhere. This gives you the option to ask questions about the product and get to know all the features before purchasing. 

    My family and I love to hike, fish, and explore some pretty epic places. The carriers listed above have made it not only possible with our children, but fun! There is nothing better than the look on your child’s face when they reach the top of a steep and long hike, or reel in a fish and they are able to witness it right on your back. The right baby carrier allows you to continue doing the adventurous things you love while your children come along. I stand wholeheartedly in these carriers and know that they will continue to take us on epic adventures. 

    Happy adventuring!

    More resources about hiking with kids 

    If you’re interested in more great content about hiking with kids, be sure to check out the following posts:

    Do you use a baby carrier for hiking?
    Which brand do you recommend?

    About the author

    Lea is a dedicated wife, adventurous mother, Registered Nurse, and Army veteran. She is from New Mexico and strives each and every day to get outside with her wild toddler and newborn baby girl. She and her husband Brandon both served 8 years in the Army and it was during that time their love for the outdoors and seeing the world was born. When they had their son, that passion only intensified. They love to fly fish, overland in their Jeep, hike, surf, and capture these moments on camera. Lea is a professional photographer on the side and you can always catch her with her camera in her hand. Their goal is to influence more families in their rural state of New Mexico to explore the beauty of the SW while educating them on photography tips, medical tips like First Aid, outdoor safety and gear, etc. 

    You can find Lea online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wildstokefam
    Website: Wild Stoke Fam
    RWMC posts: Lea Reynolds

  • FAVORITE GEAR, GIFT GUIDE, HOLIDAYS

    Best Gifts for Outdoor Moms

    With the holidays coming up, I thought it was time to update our list of what outdoorsy moms really want to receive. Getting my kids and family outside and adventuring is a top priority, so gear and clothing that helps me do that are always at the top of my list. I’m also a big fan of experience gifts, particularly those that involve nature and being outside, learning a new skill, or about nature. We polled our audience and the members of our Creative Team and put together a big giant list of fun outdoor gear and perfect gift ideas for nature and adventure-loving moms and women in your life. 

    {This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through one of our links. Thank you for supporting a small business.}

    the best gifts for outdoorsy mom - gear, clothing & experiences

     

    Gifts for outdoorsy moms (and other nature-loving women)

    We have been working hard to put together the ultimate gift guide for outdoor moms. Any of these outdoor gifts would make great gifts for that special outdoorsy mom (or stepmom, grandma, aunt, sister, friend, neighbor, etc.) on your list. Moms appreciate thoughtful gifts and useful gifts. The recommendations on this list are both. You can use this list for the best mother’s day gifts ideas, as well as for the holidays, birthdays, and special occasions. 

    We know that sometimes moms are hard to shop for. But, we also know that we tend to put the needs of our kids and others before ourselves, so we don’t always have the nicest outdoor gear for ourselves. Having good quality gear for mom is important, though! Moms deserve to be comfortable and have quality items as much as the kids do. 

    We’ve broken down our gift recommendations into three categories: (1) gear, (2) clothing, (3) experiences. For the gear and clothing, we’ve included links to online shops where you can find these items. However, for the experience gifts, we’ve just included ideas. You’ll have to do some research in your location to find a place, destination, location, shop, outfitter, guide, etc. that offers the specific experience you’re looking for. We’ve included as many things as we could to give you a variety of options. There should be something on this list for nearly any outdoorsy woman that likes to play and explore outside, no matter what her interests are. 

    Some of the recommendations are pricy – we know that. We’re big believers in buying quality gear that will last a very long time. We want you to get lots of use out items so that we keep as much waste out of landfills as possible. Sometimes that means a higher price tag. Please know that many of these items can be found at resale shops or online marketplaces at discount prices.

    best women's gifts for camping, hiking, water sports, and outdoor adventures

    Gear gifts for outdoor moms and outdoorsy women

    Camping Hammock – A hammock makes a great gift – especially if you pair it with a long cozy nap! This double camping hammock is perfect for snuggling up with a kid or loved one. If you don’t want to share, there’s also a single-sized hammock.  Both are easy to pack in a backpack for camping, travel, the beach, or the backyard.

    Stanley Classic Growler – There’s not much that tastes better in life than a cold beer by the campfire. But sometimes that’s hard to transport and keep cold. This stainless steel growler is perfect for the job. I love the handle, the color, and the fact that it can hold a serious amount of beer. Keeps beer cold for 24 hours. Fill it up with mom’s favorite microbrew and pack it for your next camping adventure, picnic, or outdoor date night. Bottoms up!

    GoPro HERO Session – I don’t know a single mom that wouldn’t love a GoPro. The GoPro Hero Session model is small, waterproof, easy to grab and go, durable, and perfect for exploring the great outdoors. It has a super simple one-button video/photo function, which makes it perfect for first-time GoPro users. Takes video, single shots, burst photos, and time-lapse pictures.

    E-bike – This is a bit of a splurge item, but e-bikes are amazing! I’ve made a conscious effort to start biking more around our neighborhood and use my bike when running errands. It’s helped me get more fresh air and exercise and helped cut down on carbon emissions and gas consumption. However, hauling kids (especially as they get older and heavier) is tough with all the hills in our area. This e-bike has been a game-changer. Radio Flyer (yes, the maker of the classic little red wagon) has a new line of e-bikes that are specially designed for families! The Flyer L885 bike is beautiful, high-quality, and lets me easily carry two kids (or a ton of groceries or gear) on the back! The charge holds for 50+ miles and it’s so fun! My kids beg to go for rides every day!

    Camping chairs – I’m on the hunt for the perfect camping chair. I want something relatively lightweight (because I have to carry it to baseball games), sturdy, durable, comfortable and not too big and unwieldy. A cup holder and storage pocket for my phone would also be nice. If you want to go top-of-the-line with a camp chair and aren’t concerned with size or weight or price, choose the Yeti Trailhead Collapsible Camping Chair. However, if the sticker price on that one gives you a heart attack, try the GCI Freestyle Rocker or the Kijaro, which comes in a ton of fun colors (I have this one in yellow). If you’re packing your chair, the REI Flexlite camp chair is great. 

    Kayak – If the mom in your life loves water, a kayak would be an incredibly special gift. Kayaks come in a variety of sizes, weights, and price points, so you may need to do a little research before purchasing. If storage space and transportability are an issue, consider an inflatable kayak or a collapsible kayak. If she wants to take a kid along on adventures, consider a 2-person kayak. 

    SUP – Along the same lines as a kayak, a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) is at the top of many of our Creative Team members lists this year. We recommend the inflatable ones from Badfish. The Flyweight SUP is ultra-light and easily packable. Or, the Bote Breeze is another great option that comes highly recommended. 

    Bike rack – A bike rack may not sound like a super exciting gift, but think about all the possibilities and adventures it opens up being to take all your family’s bikes on the road with you! Most bike racks require that you have a hitch installed on your car, so if you don’t have one, that appointment needs to come first. We had one installed at our local U-Haul store. We choose this Yakima full-swing 4-bike mount that swings out so we can still open the back of our minivan without removing the rack and bikes. If you don’t have a hitch, consider a trunk mount bike carrier. 

    Satellite phone – Want to give that mom in your life some peace of mind when she’s out adventuring (solo or with the kids)? A satellite communicator is perfect for any mom that likes adventuring off the beaten path, where service is spotty or non-existent. We recommend the Garmin InReach satellite communicator which has 100% global Iridium satellite coverage and two-way text messaging from anywhere (satellite subscription required). It also has the ability to trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center, should you ever need help. 

    Mirrorless camera – A mirrorless camera has been on my wishlist for years! This Canon EOS full-frame body is perfect for the mom that wants to take more/better photos of her kids, but not have to drag super heavy gear around with her on adventures. It’s compatible with all Canon lenses and is a nice upgrade from my current DSLR. 

    Family tent – We recently upgraded our family tent and I’m so impressed with our new tent, I’m recommending it to all of you. We went with the North Face Wawona 6 camping tent and love it. It has a huge vestibule big enough for all our gear and plenty of space inside for our entire family. Another tent for the whole family with great value is the Kelty Discovery 6 tent. 

    best experience gifts, outdoor clothing and gear recommendations for moms

    Packable blankets – We love this fun and colorful packable down blanket from Rumpl. The Rumple blanket is perfect for traveling, camping, picnics, etc. The bright color is fun and it’s so soft! Or this Classic Wool Blanket Rug Throw from the Tartan Blanket Co. is a must-have. It’s the perfect rugged, durable, year-round blanket for everything from picnics to cozying up by the fire. 

    Osprey backpack – For hikers and backpackers, having the right backpack is key. We love Osprey backpacks that are specifically designed for women. If the mom in your life is into overnight backpacking trips, the Osprey Women’s Aura AG 65 Backpack is one of the best backpacks out there with an anti-gravity suspension system that gives outstanding ventilation and comfort.  If you’re shopping for a new mom or have a little tiny one in your family, consider the Osprey Poco Child Carrier backpack, so you can take your kid along on hikes. If you need a good hiking backpack, the Osprey Hikelite is a great choice for day hikes and has a ventilated back panel to keep you from getting sweaty. If you’re in need of a hydration pack, we recommend the Osprey Salida, which comes in a variety of sizes, depending on how much water you’ll need to carry with you. 

    Lamzac the Original Seat – If you really want to up the comfort and relaxation level while out on adventures, how fun is this unique personal inflatable air lounger from Lamzac? It takes three big “gulps” of air to fill and folds flat so it can be easily taken anywhere. Easier to set up than a hammock, perfect for the beach, parks, festivals, camping, picnics, and backyard lounging. 

    TeamFar 12 Ounce Ceramic-Coated Cups – I love this bright, colorful set of 4 ceramic-coated enamel camping cups/travel mugs. Small (easy to pack), with a heat-resistant handle and wide-mouth design. Perfect for coffee, milk, juice, tea, soup, cereal, hot cocoa, beer, or wine!

    Backpacking cooking system – If mom is a backpacker (or wants to be), she’s going to need a good cooking system or camp stove. We recommend the JetBoil Flash cooking system, which is lighting quick, small/packable, and durable. It has an easy push-button igniter and is compatible with a ton of fun accessories. 

    Dry bags – Moms are usually the ones in charge of packing the gear, snacks, camera, and change of clothes for the kids on outdoor adventures. Set her up for success with these awesome dry bags, so everything on the trip stays high and dry. This dry bag pack comes with 3 in a set of various sizes and is perfect for any adventure. 

    Stasher bags – While we’re on the subject of cooking and bags, don’t forget about Stasher bags. These reusable bags are perfect for packing snacks and eliminating food waste. They’re a bit pricy, which sometimes keeps moms from buying them for themselves, but they make for really thoughtful and useful gifts. 

    Wagon – And speaking of hauling all the gear for the kids, whether it’s a trip to the beach or down to the ball fields, a portable/collapsible wagon to haul all the gear is a great gift idea. This heavy-duty wagon is great for the garden or camping. Wheelz makes the best carts for the beach and battling the sand. This sports wagon is perfect for baseball or soccer moms. 

    Simms waders – Fishing moms are going to love this gift! Give her a pair of high-quality waders so she can get in the water, too. In our opinion, Simms makes the absolute best waders out there for women. And don’t forget to add the wading boots and a fly rod (this set comes with fly rod, reel, and fishing line) to round out the ultimate fishing gift package! 

    Waterproof speaker – Bring your tunes with you (or your podcast or your audiobook) when you’re outside enjoying your adventures. We love the JBL Flip 5 portable waterproof Bluetooth speaker. We take ours everywhere with us. It’s recharge and very durable (trust me, it’s been dropped many many times with three kids). 

    Yeti cooler – I’m a bit obsessed with my Yeti Hopper cooler. I take it with me everywhere! While smaller and lighter than most Yeti coolers, it’s still a bit big for carrying around, but I keep it stocked in the car and filled with snacks and drinks. We also take it with us to baseball games, picnics, and BBQs. 

    Clothing gifts for outdoor moms

    Wool base layers – We are all slightly obsessed with merino wool layers. They are warm, super-soft, and naturally odor-resistant, which makes them the perfect base layer for outdoor adventuring in colder weather. We highly recommend merino wool for kids, but mom deserves to be warm, too! We recommend Kari Traa base layers, which are 100% merino wool. 

    Vivobarefoot shoes – Vivobarefoot is one of our all-time favorite shoe companies because they understand the importance of connecting with nature. They pride themselves on their sustainability efforts and lead the way in creating shoes that last with as little environmental impact as possible. My all-time favorite shoe is their Ultra Bloom lightweight amphibious summer footwear. I personally own these shoes in multiple colors and wear them almost exclusively from April through October. You can usually find them in the Revivo resale shop (where Vivo reconditions and regenerates footwear to keep them out of landfills). 

    Patagonia coat or jacket – The outdoorsy mom in your life deserves an amazing winter coat. Hands-down, Patagonia makes the best, most comfortable, and stylish outdoor gear for women on the market. This is a company I personally and professionally admire and look up to for its ethics and commitment to the environment and sustainability. The Nano Puff is perfect for fall and layering. The Down Sweater Hoody is great for active on-the-go moms. The 3-in-1 parka is the ultimate winter coat. And the Torrentshell rain jacket will make any mom excited about playing in the rain. 

    Gloves – The ultimate ideal winter gloves would not only be insulated, waterproof and windproof, but they’d also be tech compatible so you can still use a touchscreen device without having to take off your gloves. We found a few options at different price points that worked for all these requirements – Outdoor Research Melody Sensor Gloves, Koxly 3M Insulated Gloves, The North Face Etip Gloves, and OZERO Thermal Gloves. 

    Chaco Women’s Outcross Evo Mary Jane – I own these shoes and they’re a favorite. Classic Chaco sandals are great for summer days on the river/lake or at the farm. This waterproof shoe is perfect for hiking/creeking because it feels like a tennis shoe and will keep sand and small rocks out. 

    Hiking pants – A good hiking pant is a must for the active mom that spends a lot of time on the trails. We love Title Nine hiking pants. They come in a variety of styles and colors, for women of all shapes and sizes. Title Nine is a women-owned US-based company that makes amazing clothing for women only. Their clothing is high quality, durable, fashionable, and ethical. 

    Wool socks – If you’re adventuring outside and your feet are cold, you’re going to be miserable. Get mom some nice wool socks for all those wintertime outdoor explorations with the kids. Smartwool makes great hiking socks. As does Darn Tough. 

    Hiking boots – All outdoor lovers need a good pair of hiking boots. There are so many amazing brands out there and this is a bit of a personal choice. If you already know what style and colors she likes, go with that. If you’re looking for a new pair, our team members recommend the following: Teva, Columbia, Keen, Merrell. 

    Vuyori shorts and pants – The Vuyori performance joggers are the most comfortable pants I’ve ever owned. They’re a little pricy, but they’re like wearing butter. They also make a pair of shorts (the Halo performance shorts) that will change your life. Perfect for those of us that usually despise wearing shorts.  

    best experience gifts for outdoorsy mom

    Experience gifts for outdoorsy moms

    If the outdoorsy mom in your life has all the clothing/gear she needs, or is more interested in getting experiences than stuff, don’t worry! We’ve got a huge list of outdoor activity ideas, adventures, lessons, and experiences that should help inspire you to find a thoughtful gift that she’s interested in. Experiences make for amazing and unique gifts that can be tailed to any interest, whether that’s adventuring, reading, gardening, photography, or anything else. Because so many of these are based on where you’ll be doing the activity, we’re not including links, just a list of ideas to get you starting thinking about an adventure you could gift. The best part about having the right gear and clothing is being able to put it to good use – these ideas will help you do just that! 

    • National parks pass 
    • RV rental – check out Outdoorsy.com
    • Beach picnic – there are lots of local companies that will set up (and then clean up) a fully catered picnic on the beach for you
    • Farm-to-table dinner experience
    • Horseback riding adventure
    • Overnight biking trip
    • Paddling adventure
    • Rock climbing lessons/passes
    • Ice fishing excursion
    • Photography course (HelloStoryteller has some great online courses…and a few with us where we pair lessons with outdoor activities for kids)
    • “Mom & Me” photo session with a local photographer
    • Garden center gift certificate
    • Foraging excursion with a local guide
    • Fly fishing casting lessons
    • Airbnb gift certificate for a unique stay (treehouse, cabin, tiny home, etc.)
    • Ski school lesson
    • Pontoon boat rental (or houseboat, ski boat, fishing boat)
    • Campground reservations (or plan a camping trip)
    • Hang gliding lesson
    • Plein air art studio session
    • Pottery making class
    • Gift card to local outdoor adventure store
    • Sailing lessons
    • Gardening class (or Master Gardener class if you’ve really got a green thumb)
    • Ice skate rink rentals
    • Safari
    • Surfing lessons
    • Organized night hike
    • Outdoor cooking class
    • Yoga retreat
    • Cross country ski rentals

    awesome gifts for active and adventurous women and moms

    Mix and match gift packages

    Want to go above and beyond? Package a piece of gear or clothing together with an outdoor adventure for a winning combination! For example, pair the beach wagon with a weekend getaway to the beach. Combine the hammock, tent, thermos, and backpack with a campground reservation. Pair the kayak and dry bags with a paddling excursion. Or do just about anything and get it all on video with that awesome GoPro! Outdoorsy gifts are amazing, especially when paired with an adventure!

    Hey moms, what’s on your holiday wishlist?

  • FAVORITE GEAR, HIKE, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    10 Hiking Essentials for Families

    Have you heard of the concept of the 10 essentials for hiking? It’s a basic gear list that attempts to prepare you for all the things that could possibly happen while out hiking. The list is composed of items in ten categories, to cover everything you may need out on a hiking adventure. And hiking with kids is definitely an adventure! Today, Creative Team member and Arkansas mom of 2, Nichole Holze walks us through 10 hiking essentials for families. She breaks down the list to what’s practical for parents, what she’s tried and tested, along with tons of pro tips for hiking with kids. 

    This post contains affiliate links

    Hiking Essentials for Families - What to Pack When Hiking with Kids

    Hiking essentials for families

    Hiking has always been one of our family’s most favorite hobbies. Before having kids, while I was pregnant, then with littles, and now with not-so-little children (when did my kids get so big!?), hiking has been a big part of my life. Hiking can be such a fun family adventure, but it also has a few inherent risks. The best way to be prepared for those risks is to be aware and make sure you packed your hiking essentials.

    In this post, I’m going to share the 10 essential things you should have with you on any hiking adventure with kids. I’ll also break our hiking essentials list down for shorter hikes, longer hikes, and everything in between. Plus, I’m including a few tips I’ve learned after hiking with kids for almost ten years!

    But, before we begin, I have this piece of advice for you regarding sustainability and eco-friendly choices. Before buying anything new, start with what you have. Most likely, you can find something for each of these categories that you already own. Begin there. Then, as you’re ready for more challenges you can make adjustments, tweaks, or additional purchases where necessary. Alright, let’s go! 

    What are the 10 essentials for hiking?

    The official idea of the “ten essentials” came from Mountaineering magazine back in 1974, but has gained popularity since then as being an excellent way to be prepared while exploring the outdoors. While the original list of essential hiking items was designed with extreme adventure in mind, it can still be used by families. Because, let’s be honest, hiking with children of any age is undoubtedly an extreme adventure, whether it’s two miles or ten!

    The 10 essentials of hiking gear list has always sought to answer two basic questions:

    1. Can you prevent emergencies and respond positively should one occur?
    2. Can you safely spend a night (or more) outside?

    The list of hiking essentials falls into these categories: navigation, light source, sun protection, first aid, knife, fire, shelter, food, water, and clothing. Generally, I keep something in my backpack to check off each of those categories. But, what you need for hiking with your family can change depending on the adventure. So, let’s dig a little deeper into each category and modify them a bit for what you’ll need when hiking with kids. 

    hiking essentials for families hiking with kids

    Choosing a hiking backpack

    Before I get into the details of what essential items you need for hiking with kids, I want to talk about a bag to carry it all in. In my opinion, a backpack is an essential piece of gear! It needs to 1) be comfortable, 2) have enough pockets to hold your important items, and 3) be something you love.

    My “adventure bag” is a Jansport Agave 32 that I’ve had for years. It’s held up well to all kinds of adventure. I’ve added patches and pins to make it my own, and it even has a sleeve for a hydration bladder (more on that later).

    Hiking backpacks for kids

    My children’s first adventure packs were the Scout backpack from Camelbak. They worked great up until around age six, when they outgrew them. You can check out a video of the little backpacks in action HERE. 

    As my children grew, their next (and current) packs are the Osprey Daylight packs, which they use with the water bladder from their old Camelbak packs. The packs are a little bigger, very comfortable, and have plenty of pockets for stashing treasures. 

    Quick note: I believe in letting kids carry backpacks as soon as they’re big enough to hike on the trails. Yes, parents, you’ll end up hauling their bags for the second half of the hike, but if you plan on bigger adventures as they get older, it’s a good habit to begin while they’re little. Greta Eskridge talks about this in her book Adventuring Together. 

    hiking with kids 10 essentials backpacks

    1. Navigation

    The first item on your hiking essentials for families’ gear list relates to navigation. You probably already have an excellent navigation tool in your hand. In fact, it’s probably what you’re reading this blog post from. Yup, it’s your cell phone. Your phone, with its built-in GPS is already an extremely powerful navigation tool! And navigation is one of the ten hiking essentials for families!

    Depending on where you’re adventuring, you may or may not have cell phone service. One of the ways that I prep for this is to download a map offline. Using an app like AllTrails is a great way to do that. I pay for the pro version of the app because I use it so frequently and love all the extra features I get with the upgraded paid version. Always check the trail map before you go, but as an added level of safety, having an offline (or hard copy map) saved is important.

    Note – For safety’s sake, I recommend NOT recording your hike through the app. You can record it another way and save it privately, there’s no need to share where you adventure unless you feel comfortable doing so. 

    I also carry a compass in my backpack. It is a small compass that also has a mirror for emergency signaling. I’ve never used it, but I do know how to, if the situation were to ever arise. Learning to use and navigate with a compass is a really great skill to learn as a family! Someday, the ability to read a map, terrain, and use a compass may save your life. I recommend the book Squiggly Lines as a starting point. Geocaching is also a great way to learn directions and reading a map. 

    10 hiking essentials for families waterfall backcountry

    2. Light source

    Another hiking must-have for families is a source of light in your backpacks. Even if you plan on being back to your car well before dark, it’s critical that you have light, just in case you need it. The outdoors can be unpredictable so it’s best to be prepared.

    For our family, we each carry a headlamp in our backpacks. All of our headlamps are from Black Diamond. Mine is a rechargeable headlamp and the others use triple-A batteries. I let my children carry their headlamps in their own backpacks, because when they’re little it makes them feel pretty special. When I first gave my daughter her own headlamp, she wore it the entire hike, in broad daylight. But, it made her feel like she could conquer the world. 

    Pro tip – if you’re going to invest in headlamps, don’t bother buying children’s headlamps. Your kids are only going to grow so get them a piece of gear that will grow and last for them. 

    Flashlights or pen lights also work great as a light sourcet! As a last resort, you can also carry a lighter or matches in your pack and emergency candle. 

    headlamps essential hiking gear for families

    3. Protection from the elements

    Having something that can protect you from the elements is one of the hiking essentials for families that can vary depending on the seasons and weather. Where we live and hike most often, our protection needs to be from the sun. It’s always important to be mindful of sun protection wherever and whenever you’re hiking, but how much protection you need will change.

    For us, I like to carry extra sunscreen and sunhats just in case. My children each carry a Sunday Afternoons sunhat in their backpacks, which my daughter wears more often because she’s prone to sunburn. If you’re going to be adventuring near water or the ocean, please be sure that you’re using a Reef Safe sunscreen! We also really like the Sahara shirts from REI. They are moisture-wicking and lightweight enough to not be too warm in the heat of the sun, but also provide great sun protection. 

    Pro tip: Children grow, quickly, so if your kids are over the age of four, I recommend just getting them an adult size hat and not a child-sized one. Most of them have a chin strap and head strap you can cinch down, and it will last them into adulthood.

    It’s important to be mindful of what season you’re in or what weather you may encounter. For us, it’s all about layering. In cooler or cold weather, we layer a warm sweatshirt with our rain jackets to stay warm. It works twofold: it locks in body heat while also keeping out moisture and wind. Get in the habit of checking the weather as you prepare for your adventure day! But also, prepare for the unexpected. A lightweight raincoat can provide protection from the sun as well as wind, rain, and cold. 

    4. First Aid

    I’ll be the first to say it: I am not a wilderness first aid expert. Shocking, I know! I’m just a Mom, who has learned through experience what works, what doesn’t, and what is important. First aid is definitely important, especially with wild rambunctious kids. So, the next thing on your hiking essentials for families’ gear list relates to first aid.

    If you plan on bigger and more epic expeditions, I would recommend picking up a book on Wilderness First Aid to read at your leisure or taking a wilderness first aid class. This training and knowledge will make you much safer and more confident on the trail.

    For our first aid, I always carry an Ultralight/Watertight first aid kit from Adventure Medical Kits. They’re very compact, last for years, and hold up to being fully submerged in a creek (yes, I know this from experience). Having some sort of first aid kit is essential for families, whether your hiking solo or with your whole crew.

    Pro tip: when my husband and I rode Amtrak out to Glacier to go backpacking (that’s a story in and of itself) we made our own First Aid kit. This is easy to do with a waterproof bag (like a Ziploc bag) and supplies you already have at home. For space-saving and durability, I do recommend purchasing an adventure or camping-type first aid kit. 

    For a full list of what should be in your first aid kit and how to be safe on the trail with kids, check out our post on Hiking Safety Tips and Hiking First Aid. 

    hiking essentials for families first aid kit adventure medical kits

    5. Multitools or a knife

    Having a multitool or knife is a hiking essential that is up to interpretation and what each family feels comfortable with. What you choose to carry as an essential is based on your needs. This essential hiking item could come in handy in a variety of ways and scenarios, but should always be supervised around small children. 

    I always carry a knife and my children each have their own multitool. My daughter even named hers, it’s called her “Brave Tool.” A multitool or even a first pocketknife make wonderful gift items for outdoorsy kids. My children love carrying their own multitool and whip out the little knife on theirs almost every chance they get to whittle their own little spears.

    The knife that I carry serves a dual purpose; as a survival tool, but also as self-protection, should I need either. My knife is one of the tools in my backpack that always stays there, along with my headlamp, compass, and first aid kit, so that it’s always ready to go. The same is true for my children’s multitools. They always stay in their backpacks. They can get them out to play or use at home, but they are stored in their adventure packs. 

    hiking essentials for families kids multitool

    6. Fire

    I never plan on needing to make a fire while out on day hikes with kids, but there have been times that I’ve done so just to keep warm while we stop for lunch, or relax for a little while. The ability to start a fire can literally mean life or death in a survival situation, so I always carry a way to start a fire on every adventure, big or small. A method of making/starting a fire is the next hiking essential for families. 

    The easiest thing to do is to always carry a lighter, which I do. It’s just a simple Bic lighter that takes up minimal space. However, I also like to have a backup, so I also carry a magnesium fire striker. You can also look into a flint and steel rod.

    Pro tip: whatever backup method you choose, practice with it! Make sure you know how to use it! Here’s a great post about teaching kids how to build fires from another creative team member! 

    7. Shelter

    One of my kids’ favorite activities is to practice building survival shelters in the woods. Because who doesn’t love building a fort? While those forts are great practice for an emergency. And shelter is the next essential hiking item for families.

    I like to be prepared for the worst and carry an emergency bivvy in my backpack, especially if it’s a hike over five miles or very remote. A “bivvy” is short for bivouac shelter, which means any sort of temporary or emergency shelter usually employed by soldiers, mountaineers, backpackers, or other outdoor adventurists. The ones we use are basically a reflective blanket in sleeping bag form. They are packed very small and take up little to no weight or space in an adventure backpack.

    For our big hikes (ten miles or more) I have each of my children carry one. We like the Emergency Bivvy from Adventure Medical Kits, which is no longer available. But, here is a great alternative: Go Time Gear Life Bivvy. This piece of essential hiking gear may not be one you ever need, but when you need it, it could save you or your children’s life. They trap body heat while also providing protection from the elements. 

    hiking essentials for families hiking with kids creek crossing

    8. Water, water, water

    Never underestimate how much water you’ll need when hiking with kids. On our last big hike (a ten-mile round trip hike to see a hidden waterfall), I forgot that the hike had no access to water. This meant I was sharing what I had in my hydration bladder with our dog. (ps – do not recommend). I ended up running out of water with two miles to go still. Don’t do like I did, plan ahead. Water is one of the most important hiking essentials for families. 

    Both of my children carry their own hydration bladder (also from Camelbak). We introduced these when they received their first hiking packs when they were tiny and they LOVED them. Water is HEAVY so it’s important to find a way to carry it without added weight. The insulated water bottles are nice, but they also add a lot of weight. We prefer hydration bladders, for any and all outdoor endeavors. 

    The last piece of essential hiking gear for families is a means to purify water. We love the water filters from Sawyer, check out their mini filter in action HERE. I keep one of those filters with a straw in a Stasher bag, in my adventure pack at all times.  You can also check out Lifestraw or this neat on-the-go filter from MSR. In a survival situation (or if your water filtration fails, which we’ve had happen to us) you can start a fire to bring water to boiling. It’s critical that the water reaches a boiling point for sixty seconds to kill off any bacteria. Water is the most important thing for all adventures and will be priority one in any survival or unexpected outdoor mishaps. I would recommend doing your research to find what feels right for your family and your situation. 

    9. Extra food

    The ten hiking essentials require extra food, water, and clothing. Again, what you carry depends on your situation, the season, and the weather predictions. Just remember, the outdoors can throw all kinds of wrenches in your plans so it’s best to be prepared.

    In general, I carry one to two extra snacks for each person (and my kids don’t know about them.) Those “extras” can be a bonus on the ride home, but will also come in handy if our day takes a turn. Once on a nine-mile day hike with a very poorly marked trail, I had to ration out the extra food. But those extra chocolate chip granola bars were the perfect motivation to keep little legs going, mile after mile.

    For other extra food options, sometimes I grab a few meals from our stash of dehydrated meals in our camping gear. These are lightweight, easy to prepare, and last a long time. I never use them unless we have to. My favorites are the meals from Good to Go foods. And here’s a great post filled with awesome trail-test kid-approved hiking snacks. 

    10. Extra clothing

    The final item on our hiking essentials for families gear list is a bit of extra clothing. Extra clothing can be essential when hiking with kids, but we’re not asking you to pack a suitcase or bring along a closet of clothes for everyone. Extra clothes can also take up a lot of room in your backpack, so pack smart. For extra clothing, we start our hike in all of our layers, then peel them off as we warm up. But as a general rule, we always carry lightweight rain jackets in our bags, just in case. I also recommend an extra pair of dry socks for everyone. Dry socks can help prevent blisters and keep you warm if/when your feet get wet. The same goes for extra gloves in the winter. If you know you’re going to get soaking wet or muddy on a hike (hello creeks!), then bring the essentials on the hike with you and pack a full set of change of clothes to leave in the car so you can change before driving home. 

    Backpack essentials and who carries what

    I know, I know. I just shared LOTS of information with you. These ten hiking essentials for families may sound like a lot to pack and carry with you on a hike. So, here’s a little breakdown of who carries what in our family that may help you divide and conquer: 

    • Mom – water filter, first aid kit, knife, emergency bivvy, sunhat, sunglasses, my own water, main food, compass, fire starter/striker, phone/map
    • Kids – their own water, a multitool, two granola bars/snacks, emergency whistle

    That’s just for the essentials. Please remember that these are meant to be guidelines, you can adapt and change what you need for your family. Just be sure to have at least something from each of the ten categories listed above. I also recommend letting your children get used to carrying a backpack with some of their own essentials as soon as they are able to hike more than one mile. 

    Additional items to pack when hiking with kids

    Now that we’ve covered the basic hiking essentials for families, here are a few more items that you might also want to pack and take with you (which may or not be essential, but could definitely be useful!):

    • Baby wipes – I always bring a few in a reusable Stasher bag. Why? Because they’re amazing. 
    • A garbage bag and disposable gloves – Thes are great to carry out our own trash, but also any trash we see. Because inevitably we will see other peoples’ trash on the trail and we are determined to leave the trail better than we found it. It’s just good outdoor etiquette. 
    • Net – My kids would like to argue that a net is also essential, along with a small container for critters or nature treasures found along the way. (Please collect responsibly.)
    • Charger – If you’re going to be out for an extended period of time, a backup wireless phone charger is helpful! 
    • My kids also love their Relay Go – a screen-free, smartphone that lets me give them a little more freedom to run ahead on the trail, but also lets me keep track of where they are and stay in touch. Learn more HERE. 

    Family hiking checklist

    There you have it! The 10 hiking essentials for families that will help you feel more prepared, safe and confident when out on the trails with your little ones. Here’s a quick recap of the ten things you need when hiking with kids:

    1. navigation
    2. light source
    3. sun protection
    4. first aid
    5. knife
    6. fire
    7. shelter
    8. water
    9. food
    10. clothing

    Be prepared, be responsibly brave

    Thanks for reading, friends! If you’d like to follow along with all of our shenanigans, you can find me on Instagram HERE. You can also sign up for my once per month Field Notes newsletter HERE.

    P.S.  If you join my newsletter you’ll be the first to know when I open up my FREE Respsonsibly Brave Adventure course again! Here’s to chasing the adventure, prepared for whatever gets thrown our way. ~Nichole

    More resources for hiking with kids 

    If you’re interested in more great content about hiking with kids, be sure to check out the following posts:

    About the author

    Nichole is mama to two incredible adventurers, an older boy and a younger girl. They are in their seventh year of homeschooling. She’s married to her best friend and they share a mutual love for the outdoors. An Iowan native now living in the south, she is happy to claim Arkansas as home. She is a wanderlust (and coffee) fueled, fearless, road tripper who has been known to take off for epic adventures at a moment’s notice. Hiking and camping (of the backpacking variety) and crystal digging are a few of their favorite family activities. You can find her in the woods somewhere, probably up a creek, and jumping off waterfalls.

    You can find more from Nichole online in the following locations:
    Website: http://www.luckeywanderers.com
    Instagram: @coleyraeh
    RWMC posts: Nichole

  • FAVORITE GEAR, HIKE, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Hiking With A Toddler

    Hiking with kids of any age is always an adventure. But, hiking with a toddler (age 1-3) presents its own set of unique challenges and obstacles. However, we believe that hiking with our kids, even in those difficult toddler years, is incredibly beneficial, rewarding and (dare we say) fun! Whether you’re hiking in national parks or on local trails close to home, making the extra effort to go hiking with a toddler is worth it and sets your family up for years of amazing adventures together. We’re here to help you get started and answer all your questions about hiking with toddlers.

    How to go hiking with a toddler

    Hiking has always been a favorite activity for our family. Long before we had kids, my husband and I loved to hike together. We like challenging ourselves, discovering new places, and that feeling of getting immersed in nature. Once we had kids, we didn’t want our adventures to end and decided to bring the baby on hikes with us. At first, we stuck to trails close to home and used a baby carrier. It slowed us down a little, but we didn’t mind. He slept in the carrier or happily took in the sights, kicking and cooing along the way. But then, he turned into a toddler and everything changed!

    Toddlers have a mind of their own. They’re often assertive and stubborn, opinionated and demanding. They’re learning what they like and how to assert their independence. These are good things, but they can certainly make any activity much more difficult. After three kids (the youngest still squarely in the toddler years), we’ve learned how to hike with a toddler so that it’s enjoyable for everyone. In this post, we’re sharing our top tips and tricks for hiking with toddlers.

    Tips for Winter Hiking with Kids & Toddlers

    Choose the right trail

    Choosing the right trail for your toddler is half the battle. Before you attempt a hike with kids, you’ll need to do a bit of homework to make sure the trail is safe, not too long and enjoyable for the little ones. Be realistic about what kind of hikes you can do with a toddler and what is safe/best for your little hiker. Not only consider the length of the trail, but make sure the hike’s not too steep or has lots of uneven terrain. Stay away from unprotected sheer cliffs, mud, swift rivers, etc. For your first few hikes with your toddler, try a short flat paved trail. As your kids get older and more experienced, you can add tougher and longer trails to your hiking adventures.

    If you’re not familiar with the trails in your area, there are plenty of resources where you can ask questions and find answers. Travel guides and local websites are great. The AllTrails app is also very helpful and provides information such as trail length, elevation and difficulty. Plus, there are detailed maps and you can search your area for “kid-friendly” trails. If you’re hiking in national or state parks, ask the rangers and park employees for advice and recommendations for appropriate trails.

    What to wear when winter hiking with kids

    Dress for the occasion

    When hiking with a toddler, make sure you dress them in appropriate clothing for the season and weather. If you’re hiking in the winter, we recommend layers. Start with a warm base layer, then add on from there. Your toddler may get warm if she’s running around, hiking on her own and playing. At this point, you can remove layers so she’s comfortable. However, if she gets tired and needs to be carried, she may cool off and need to put the layers back on. For winter hiking with a toddler, we also recommend a warm hat that covers ears, mittens, wool socks, and waterproof shoes. Toddlers can’t resist a good mud puddle and nothing will ruin a hike quicker than cold wet feet!

    Games to play when hiking with kids

    Shoes matter

    Speaking of the proper shoes, they matter when hiking. Toddlers in particular benefit from wearing proper shoes when hiking. We know it may seem like a waste of money to buy hiking shoes for toddlers when they’ll outgrow them in a few months. However, sturdy shoes with good treads are essential for a successful hike. Cold feet, uncomfortable shoes or blisters will kill a child’s enthusiasm for hiking.

    For winter hiking with kids, we love the waterproof and insulated boots from See Kai Run. They’re seam-sealed and waterproof, with thermoplastic rubbles soles for maximum grip on wet and snowy terrain. They have a 3M Thinsulate thermal lining to keep feet extra warm in cold weather. Because of the thicker lining, we recommend sizing up at least one full size (or even 2 sizes) for a proper fit with thick socks, allowing extra wiggle room for toes.

    When investing in good outdoor gear for kids, we also recommend buying gender-neutral gear, so that you can hand down gear and clothing among siblings without issue. This has saved us a lot over the years, as kids tend to outgrow seasonal gear much quicker than they can wear it out. Particularly when you get good high-quality products like these See Kai Run boots.

    Best Kids Hiking Boots & Shoes

    Invest in a good backpack or carrier

    And since we’re talking about gear, we also recommend bringing along a quality backpack carrier when hiking with toddlers. Very rarely will a toddler be able to finish a hike completely on their own. At some point, you’re probably going to have to carry him. When this inevitably happens, you’ll be super grateful for that carrier or hiking backpack.

    When just getting started hiking with a toddler, we started out using the ErgoBaby carrier. For short hikes with small kids, this worked out great. However, as our toddler got a bit bigger and our hikes got longer, we upgraded to a structured hiking backpack. There are lots of options out there for quality hiking backpacks and you should definitely try a few of them out at the store to decide which one you like. We highly recommend the Osprey Poco AG carrier. It’s got an anti-gravity suspension system with a lightweight aluminum frame and a mesh harness and back panel to keep you cool and comfortable.

    Hiking with toddlers - advice for parents

    Make your toddler walk

    While carriers are great, make sure you let your toddler down to walk and explore as much as they can! One of the best things about hiking with a toddler is watching them explore the area around them. For kids, hiking is less about getting somewhere than having fun and playing along the way. The more your toddler can walk/hike on their own, the stronger they get and longer they’ll be able to go the next time. And if you don’t rush them or force them down the trail at your speed, they’ll be much more excited about your next hike.

    How to get kids to like hiking

    Pack a bag

    When hiking with a toddler, you need to make sure you bring all the proper and necessary supplies for a successful trip. You’ll not only need to pack hiking supplies, but you’ll need regular “toddler supplies” like diapers, wipes, etc. Here’s what we usually pack in our bag when hiking with a toddler:

    If your toddler is strong-willed and independent (aren’t they all?), try giving them their own small backpack to carry. Not only will they love feeling helpful and grown-up, but it’ll lighten your load. Put a few of your child’s essentials in their backpack, along with a small toy or lovely. Keep it small and light – you can add more once your toddler gets bigger and stronger. Pack the bag together so that your child figures out what he/she needs for hiking, knows where it is and will know what to pack for future hikes. This is also great for when your toddler finds a particular rock or leaf they love and can’t live without. If she wants it, she has to carry it!

    For more info on what to pack when hiking with kids, check out our full list of hiking essentials for families. 

    Pro tip: Keep additional snacks, water and a full change of clothes in the vehicle for the return. You don’t want to carry it all, but there’s a good chance they’ll be wet/muddy/thirsty/hungry when you return to the car.

    Don’t skimp on the snacks

    You should never underestimate the power of snacks for a toddler! Just the word is magic and can get a toddler to do just about anything. When hiking with toddlers, use snacks strategically and wisely. Bring along some fun snacks that you normally give them. That way, when they need a little extra motivation, energy or excitement, you’ve got something special. Also, if they absolutely LOVE hiking snacks, they’re going to be much more willing to go hiking again!  Stop often for snacks along the way and again when you get to your destination. That’s a good place to have a bigger snack or even lunch.

    Some snack ideas my toddlers have loved are apple sauce pouches, yogurt melts, granola bars, fruit snacks or roll-ups, freeze-dried strawberries, pretzels, crackers with peanut butter, frozen grapes, apple slices with caramel sauce, cereal, bananas, Goldfish, trail mix, mixed nuts, granola, etc.

    Best snacks for hiking with kids

    Play games

    My kids love exploring the area around us when we hike, but when they (inevitably) get bored or need some extra motivation, we play games as we hike. Fun games have the ability to turn a boring monotonous activity (walking on a trail) into a fun adventure. You don’t need anything other than your imagination to come up with a fun hiking game.

    Here’s a list of a few of our favorites:

    • Follow the Leader – Young kids and toddlers really love Follow the Leader. We all take turns being the leader on the trail and everyone behind the leader has to do what he/she does. The leader chooses to do things like walking backward, whistling a song, skipping, weaving like a snake, flying like a bird, grapevine walking, hopping, etc.
    • I Spy – We take turns “spying” something and give a clue (“I spy something yellow. I spy something that’s triangular.”) The person who spies the correct thing goes next.
    • Scavenger hunt – Scavenger hunts are really fun for kids of all ages to play and work great on hikes. You can either print off a list/pictures of things you want the kids to look for on their hike or just tell them. Set them up for success by making sure the things on the list will be present on your hike. Include some hard and some easy to find items. They can be specific items (find a bee, red flower, mud puddle) or more abstract (find something soft, something that makes noise).
    • Alphabet game – If you have older kids that know how to spell, you can go through the alphabet and try to find something that begins with each letter. A is for aspen tree. B is for branch. C is for caterpillar.
    • Timed trials – Never underestimate the power of a timer for toddlers. They are all about doing things fast and faster. If your toddler’s having trouble getting down the trail, tell her that you’ll time how long it takes for her to get to the next bench/stump/marker. Then pick the next thing and try to see if she can beat her time! You may even end up with a record-breaking hike!

    Geocaching

    If you have a smartphone with you, try geocaching on your hike! There are tons of fun caches hidden along trails that give kids an extra incentive to keep going and find treasure. We’ve got a great beginner’s guide to geocaching with kids post if you’ve never tried it.

    Tips for Winter Hiking with Toddlers

    Have a destination in mind

    Going on hikes with a predetermined destination in mind gives kids a goal for the hike and helps keep them going. When hiking with toddlers, start with easy hikes that have a fun destination for them, like a creek to explore, a waterfall, a pond where they can skip rocks or a meadow where they can see cows.

    If there’s not a natural destination on your hike, create one! You can do this by choosing a spot to call the destination before hitting the trail. When you get there, break out a picnic lunch or a special snack. Your “destination” can be just a place to stop and play for a while or having a treat! The destination doesn’t have to be anything fancy or super exciting, but just knowing that they have a goal and something to look forward to at the end (or mid-point) of their hike will help keep toddlers motivated to move.

    Choose the right time

    Consider your toddler’s schedule before planning any day hikes. Most toddlers need at least one (if not two) naps a day, plus lots of frequent small meals and snacks. Try to schedule hikes around your child’s schedule to prevent meltdowns, hangry tantrums and over-tiredness. Make sure to bring snacks and water to fuel your child. If your toddler gets too tired, try putting them in your carrier. Our little ones loved napping in the carrier on hikes, which lets the rest of us spend more time on the trails.

    Tired and cranky toddlers are a force to reckon with and can ruin a perfectly lovely outing at the drop of a hat. Do you best to choose the right time to hike with your toddler, but know that meltdowns are going to eventually happen, no matter how much planning you do. Give yourself (and your little one) grace and patience. If your toddler melts down on the trail, do your best to calm her down and get back to your car. Don’t worry, it’s happened to all of us! Hang in there and try again another time.

    kids outdoor activities and tips

    Go slow & explore

    Whether you’re hiking to a destination or if you’re just hiking for the fresh air and sunshine, make sure you go slow and let your toddler explore along the way. When my kids started hiking, sometimes it would take us an hour or more just to go half a mile. While this was initially frustrating to me, I learned to embrace the pace and take pleasure in hiking with kids. Consider the trail from their perspective and find joy in the reprieve from going 1000 mph.

    Before you even leave your house, be prepared to go SLOW and take your time on the hike. Little kids love stopping along the way to look under rocks, find the perfect stick or throw rocks in a puddle. Setting yourself up for a very slow hike will keep you from getting frustrated or antsy. Be prepared for a million questions, a very slow pace and lots of stopping along the way. While going at your toddler’s pace won’t get you very far, it will do wonders for your child’s imagination and give you the chance to answer questions about nature and connect with him/her.

    End with encouragement

    At the end of your hike (and along the way), make sure to give your toddler praise for doing such a great job. Compliment their pace when keeping up. Praise them for things they find/spot along the way. Celebrate when they finish a hike, no matter how long it took. Making them feel like a million bucks when they finish a hike is a sure way to get them to want to do it again. Toddlers love praise and a sense of accomplishment. Be sure to tell them how proud you are of them, how hard they worked and how far they went.

    kids outdoor activities and tips

    Winter hiking with a toddler

    Winter weather adds a whole new complexity to hiking with a toddler. Winter hiking can feel a bit harder than hiking in other seasons, just because of the added gear, layers and precautions you have to take. However, we highly encourage you to push through those, because winter hiking with kids is so incredibly beneficial to them. Not only will they get the fresh air, sunshine and exercise they need in these long dark winter months, but they’ll see things they can’t see any other time and hopefully (eventually) develop a love for all seasons for their unique personalities.

    A few safety tips when winter hiking with a toddler: (1) keep an eye on the weather and be aware of winter warnings and advisories; (2) always tell someone where/when you’re going and when you’ll be back; (3) bring extra layers, extra gloves and extra socks; (4) take your fully-charged cell phone with you on hikes; and (5) warm treats on a cold hike are delicious! Consider packing a thermos of warm chicken noodle soup, oatmeal or hot apple cider.

    What’s your best advice for hiking with a toddler?

     

    * Photos by the amazingly talented Tiffany, mountain mama of three (+) from Texas. Find more of her gorgeous images at @dear.wildlings.
    * For more tried, tested and practical info on this topic, check out our Beginner’s Guide to Hiking with Kids.

  • HIKE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    A Beginner’s Guide to Hiking with Kids

    Lately, I’ve received a lot of questions about how to get started hiking with kids. Parents want to know how old kids should be when they start, what to pack, where to go and how to motivate their kids. I’m here to provide some answers! My husband and I have been hiking with our kids since the time they could walk. Actually, we started well before that with babies in carriers! We’ve definitely learned a thing or two about hiking with small kids over the years. Hopefully, this post will inspire you to get out on the trail with your kids, no matter what age they are.  If you have a question that I don’t answer, please leave it in the comments below and I’ll respond.

    Benefits of hiking with kids

    Hiking is such a wonderful way to get children outdoors, immersed in nature and burn some of that boundless energy. It can teach them so much about their surroundings and instill an appreciation for nature deep in their soul. Hiking can build confidence, foster independence and encourage curiosity in children. It gives them opportunities to explore your local area, learn about local plants and animals and other natural teaching opportunities. Hiking can help push kids out of their comfort zone and accomplish something they can be proud of. Plus, hiking provides a distraction-free environment for quality time with your children…and what could be better than that?

    benefits of hiking with kids

    Easy or hard hikes?

    Depending on the parent’s definition of hiking, it can be one of the first or last outdoor activities that parents want try with their kids. If a parent thinks hiking is merely a walk through the woods, they’re probably more inclined to try it than a parent that views hiking as scaling steep mountains. Luckily, hiking is both of those things and everything in between.

    Hiking can be done nearly anywhere and (a lot of times), you don’t need any fancy gear or very much experience to do it. However, there are a few things you should know/do before you go to ensure you have the best possible experience. The more fun the kids have hiking, the more likely they (and you) will want to do it again. We’re here to set you up for hiking success, which we hope will lead to even more outdoor adventures for you and your kids.

    tips for hiking with kids

    When to get started hiking with kids

    There’s no perfect age to start hiking with kids. The perfect age is RIGHT NOW. You can get kids started hiking any time, from baby to teen. I think a lot of parents will tell you that it’s always beneficial to start them young, but that’s certainly not always the easiest. Every age has its own difficulties to consider and challenges.

    On the one hand, babies are relatively easy to hike with. For short hikes, all you really need to do is put them in a wrap or backpack carrier, strap on your shoes and go! Most babies love being outdoors and close to a parent. However, hiking with babies can be intimidating for beginners and new parents and logistically difficult depending on how much you need to pack to feed, clothe and diaper them. The good news is that every hike with your baby will get a bit easier. You’ll soon figure out what you need and what you can leave in the car. The hard part is just getting out of the house in the first place.

    tips for hiking with small kids

    Hiking with toddlers

    Hiking with toddlers is a bit easier and more difficult, simultaneously. Personally, I think this is the hardest age to hike with (see above) Toddlers can walk on their own (less for you to carry), but they usually can’t go very far and tire quickly. Some toddlers also have very strong feelings about what they wear, where they go and how things are done. They wear out quickly and aren’t easy to coax when you’re ready to move. Meltdowns on the trail will happen, but trust us, it does get easier. If you check your expectations at the door, hiking with toddlers can be done successfully. After the age of 4, hiking with kids gets much easier!

    how to choose the right trail when hiking with kids

    Choose the right hike for kids

    One of the most important things you can do when starting to hike with children is to choose the right hike. In order to set them up for success, you want to choose a hike that won’t be too long, difficult or dangerous. If your kids are small or you’re just getting started, don’t overestimate how much they can do. While they seem to have endless energy, hiking will take it out of them in a whole new way. Choose a short trail with easy terrain. Paved trails are great for little ones and unstable walkers who have a tendency to trip over things. There’s a lot to look at other than where their feet are going. Expect a few spills and plan accordingly.

    As your kids get older and more experienced, you can do longer and more difficult hikes. With school-aged kids, we love going on hikes with rocks/boulders to climb, creeks to play in and more rugged terrain. The kids like the challenge and are extra proud of themselves when we get to the end of a hike. Don’t be afraid to challenge them! They might surprise you with how well they do and quickly they catch on. But also don’t be surprised if you end up carrying one of them for a while if they’re having trouble keeping up. You just never know!

    Also, consider choosing a hike that has a destination or goal to get to (a creek, waterfall, lake, swimming hole, or picnic area). Kids are motivated by the end reward. Give them something to look forward to and strive for.

    hiking with kids - dressing in layers

    Dress appropriately for your hike

    The right clothing and shoes will go a long way ensuring your hike is a success. Nothing will make your kid hate hiking more than being uncomfortable in their clothing, too hot/cold or getting blisters on their feet from wearing the wrong shoes. Layers work great for kids so they can adjust the amount of clothing to the outdoor temperature. Tennis shoes with socks are great for hiking, but not so great if they get wet or dirty. Consider bringing a back-up pair or some water shoes if you know they’re going to jump in the creek the first chance they get!

    And be sure to keep a set of dry clothes in the car for each kid to change into before getting in their car seat to go home. I can’t even tell you how many times my kids have ridden home naked because I forgot to restock after our last adventure!

    beginner's guide to hiking with kids

    Hike early

    The best time of day to go hiking with kids is usually in the morning. Everybody’s energy level is full and you can beat the heat of the day by getting an early start. Kids are usually at their most hyper in the morning, so taking a morning hike gives you a breather and lets them channel their energy productively. While I can’t guarantee it won’t happen, there’s usually less whining and fewer demands to be carried in the morning than if you go later in the day as the kids get more tired and cranky.

    Plus, the earlier you start, the fewer people you’ll have to deal with out on the trail. And getting an early start means you won’t have to rush the kids through their hike to make it back before dark.

    best tips for hiking with kids

    Let your kids set the hiking pace

    When you first start hiking with your children, let them take the lead. Hiking with kids is very different than hiking with adults and you have to go at their pace or they’ll hate it. Children walk much slower and need lots of stops and time to explore. If your kid is more interested in climbing rocks and chasing butterflies than making it to the next mile marker, that’s ok! It may take you two hours to walk a half-mile, but at least you’re outside having fun! Be patient with them and always give yourself WAY more time than you expect to take. And just remember, the goal when hiking with children is not to get to a destination, it’s about the journey.

    beginner tips for hiking with kids

    Let them explore

    Giving your kids plenty of space, time, and independence to explore out on the trail will help them fall in love with hiking and nature. Try to find trails with interesting features or have a lot of varying terrains. Natural elements like creeks or rivers, waterfalls, boulders or caves will keep kids entertained and occupied. In addition, bridges, stairs, rock formations, boardwalks, ladders, and fallen logs can encourage adventure and imaginative play while you’re hiking. As long as these things are all safe for your kids to play on (and permitted in the area), allow them ample time to play and explore off the trail.

    tips for successful and fun hiking with little kids

    Trails are teaching opportunities

    Use hikes as a way to teach them about their surroundings and how to respect the environment. Teach kids which plants to avoid and which are safe to touch. Point out the stingy, itchy, scratchy plants, so they know to stay safely away from those. If you’re not sure, get a book at your local library or download a plant ID app and learn together! Take in all the nature you see around you on your hike. Identify flowers by their colors and trees by their leaves and bark. Look for animals, bugs and birds. Pay attention for animal tracks on the ground.

    And just as importantly, teach children to leave no trace. Always take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints. Take all your trash to a trash can or home with you and leave none on the trail. If you have older kids that can safely pick up trash they find on the trail, encourage them to clean up after others when you’re out hiking.

    best tips for hiking with kids

    Play to their strengths 

    As the parent, you know your kid better than anyone. Consider their personality and strengths when planning your hike and play to those to make it enjoyable for them. If your child loves being the leader, let them walk up front and lead the way. Give one kid the job of reading the map and choosing which direction you’ll hike. Have a kid that needs extra motivation? Give him the role of the encourager/cheerleader to get everyone else motivated. Let your voracious snacker choose when and where you’ll stop for snacks. Have a singer? Let her pick the songs you’ll sing along the way. Give your artistic/creative kid control of the camera and have him document the adventure. It’ll be fun looking back at those images and seeing the hike from his perspective.

    hiking with kids

    Know their weaknesses

    Along the same lines, watch for their signs to head off any issues before they happen. Watch for signs that they’re getting tired and know when it is time to head back home. Exhausted kids are more prone to accidents, so be aware of their energy level. If you have a child that gets tired easily or gives up quickly on adventures, bring a carrier and expect that going into the hike so you’re not disappointed.

    Pay attention to their cues to avoid meltdowns before they start. Children can have meltdowns over all kinds of thing: exhaustion, boredom, injury, frustration, jealousy, etc.  If you have little ones, it’s like to happen. But it doesn’t have to end your hike. Address the situation and move on quickly. Children can feel your stress and anxiety, so don’t sweat the small stuff and try not to dwell. If you have to turn around and go home, that’s ok!

    how to go hiking with kids

    Play games, all sorts

    Hikes are a great opportunity to really get to know your kids and have some really wonderful conversations with your child. If you keep their minds engaged while they’re hiking, you’ll get more miles out of them and it’ll go by in no time at all. Here are a few simple games you could play while you hike that lets you get to know your kids and their amazing imaginations:

    • Play “I Spy” with a variety of clues (something red, something that eats worms, a place where an animal lives, etc.)
    • Play “Would you Rather” with everyone taking a turn asking and answering (Would you rather live in a place with a lot of trees or live in a place near the ocean? Would you rather be funny or smart?)
    • Use hikes as an opportunity to have more intimate conversations about their friends and school or their accomplishments and struggles
    • Help your kids work through some math word problems without them realizing it’s studying! (If we hike 0.75 miles west, then 0.5 miles north and then hike back, how far did we go in total and in which directions?)
    • Let your kids get creative by asking them open-ended questions (Describe your ultimate birthday party. If you could create your own holiday, what would it be like?)
    • Teach your kids your favorite silly camp songs and sing along the way.
    • Do a nature scavenger hunt on your hike (there are tons of free printable ones on Pinterest) or pick 5 items to look for before you begin the hike. Winner gets a prize!
    • Geocache one your hike! You’d be amazed at how many caches are hidden along popular hikes and perfect for little ones to find. If you need a primer on geocaching, we’ve got a great Beginner’s Guide to Geocaching with Kids on the website!

    best snacks for hiking with kids

    Bring snacks on your hike

    Food and water are imperative to have on hand when hiking with (or without) kids. Little ones burn fuel and get dehydrated quickly, so stop frequently for breaks. Hiking burns lots of energy for kids and adults, so it is important to replenish it regularly with nutritious food and lots of water. We like fruits, nuts, bars, jerky, granola bars, graham crackers and maybe a little chocolate (for mom). If your kids are old enough to carry their own packs, let them make/carry their own snacks and water bottles, too. They’ll feel extra responsible having their own gear and refreshments. (Although you should definitely supervise to keep them from eating it all in the car before you even get to the hike! Speaking from experience.) Small treats also make handy bribes if you need to coax a kid to do just 10 more minutes!

    what you need to know before you go hiking with kids

    Be prepared

    We hope nothing bad will happen out on the trail, but it’s best to be prepared for anything. This could mean a scraped knee, an insect bite, or a sudden change in the weather. Make sure you pack your first aid kit with the standard supplies and any medications you may need. Hopefully, you won’t ever need anything more than a band-aid, but better to be prepared. Also consider packing bug spray, sunscreen, poncho, spare, cell phone and a map. And before you go, always let someone know where you’ll be hiking.

    For more info on what to pack when hiking with kids, check out our full list of hiking essentials for families. 

    beginner's tips for hiking with kids

    Take a friend hiking

    Allow your child to bring a friend along on a hike and double the fun. Having a buddy there to play with and talk to will make any hike more enjoyable for your kids. The kids will challenge and encourage each other to keep up and the miles will fly by. Bonus points if another adult comes along as well! If you don’t have friends that enjoy hiking, check out a local Hike it Baby branch and go on a group hike.

    how to have fun hiking with kids

    Hike often

    While hiking with kids may sound intimidating at first, the more you get out on the trails with your kids, the easier it’ll get. Every time you make it a priority to your kids out into nature gives them an opportunity to fall in love with it. Your first hike (or even your first 10 hikes) may not go according to plan, but they’ll be an adventure and fun. Give it a shot! Get outside!

    games to play while hiking with kids

    More resources for hiking with kids

    If you’re interested in more great content about hiking with kids, be sure to check out the following posts:

    What’s your best advice for hiking with kids?