Hiking With Kids? Smart Packing Tips to Keep It Fun

Hiking with kids can be one of the best ways to spend time together outdoors. Fresh air, space to roam, a little adventure — it sounds great in theory. But ask any parent who’s actually done it, and they’ll tell you: the difference between a fun day and a total meltdown often comes down to what you packed.

The good news is you don’t need to bring the entire house. Just a few smart choices can keep your little hikers happy, energized, and excited to come back out next weekend. Here’s how to pack like a pro without overloading your backpack or your patience.

Start With the Right Backpack (For You and for Them)

If you’re carrying most of the gear, your backpack matters. Look for something that’s:

• Lightweight with decent back support
• Equipped with multiple compartments to keep snacks and essentials accessible
• Hydration-compatible so you’re not digging for water every 15 minutes

If your kid is old enough, let them carry their own small pack. Just keep it light with a water bottle, a snack, and maybe a little trail toy or binoculars.

Tip: Let your kid choose their own pack. Feeling responsible and involved can go a long way toward avoiding complaints.

Snacks Are Everything

You cannot overpack snacks. Hiking burns energy fast, especially when little legs are doing the work.

Bring a variety:

• Carbs like pretzels, granola bars, or crackers
• Quick sugar boosts such as fruit snacks, applesauce pouches, or dried fruit
• Protein options like nut butter packets, jerky, or trail mix (if safe for allergies)

Make it fun. Use snack breaks as milestones or rewards to keep motivation high.

Stay on Top of Hydration

Kids can’t always tell when they’re getting dehydrated, so it’s important to stay ahead of it.

Pack:

• A water bottle for each kid
• A hydration bladder for yourself to make sipping easier
• Electrolyte tablets or packets if the weather is hot or you’ll be out for a while

Encourage small, frequent sips rather than waiting for thirst. If plain water isn’t exciting enough, try adding a splash of juice or lemon.

Layer Up and Pack Spares

Trail weather is unpredictable, even on short hikes. Dress your kids in layers:

• A breathable, moisture-wicking base layer
• A lightweight fleece or hoodie
• A windbreaker or rain shell if conditions call for it

Always bring an extra outfit in a gallon-sized zip bag. Whether it’s a muddy trail or a potty accident, backup clothes are a lifesaver.

Don’t forget a pair of gloves or a lightweight beanie. Even in summer, a breeze in the shade can make kids chilly fast.

The Essentials You’ll Be Glad You Brought

Small items make a big difference when hiking with kids. Make sure you pack:

• Baby wipes or hand sanitizer
• A small first aid kit with bandaids, sunscreen, and bug relief
• Trash bags or dog waste bags (for wet clothes or trail messes)
• Tissues or toilet paper in a zip bag
• A bandana or small towel for spills or water play

Bonus tip: Bring an extra bag and let your kids help clean up the trail. It’s a great way to keep them engaged while doing some good.

Keep Entertainment Simple

Nature is already full of distractions, but a little extra entertainment can help on longer trails. Try:

• A kid-friendly magnifying glass or binoculars
• A nature scavenger hunt card or list
• A sketchpad and pencil
• A small action figure or toy to explore with them

You don’t need much. Even a walking stick or cool rock can spark imaginative play if you give kids space to explore on their own terms.

Know When to Go

Sometimes packing smarter just means hiking at the right time. Early mornings are usually cooler, quieter, and better for moods. Try to hike after a meal or snack and avoid late-day outings when everyone’s running low on energy.

Last-Minute Packing Checklist

Here’s your quick pre-hike rundown:

✅ Water for everyone
✅ High-energy snacks
✅ Weather-ready layers
✅ First aid kit and wipes
✅ Toys or trail games
✅ Sunscreen and bug spray
✅ Backup outfit
✅ Extra patience

Final Thought: Keep the Goal Simple

You don’t have to hike five miles to make it a success. The goal is to get outside, enjoy the moment, and plant the seed for a love of nature.

Some days your kids might race up the trail. Other days they’ll want to stop and examine every pine cone. Roll with it. You’re not just hiking — you’re making memories.