Hiking and Camping with Children

Hiking and Camping with Children

Hiking with your kids could be a lot of fun because kids notice things that adults tend to forget. What this means is that you could be infected by their sense of wonder which awakens your own sense of wonder in the natural world.

However, it is important that you remember that kids will be kids and it requires patience and understanding the child's needs on your part as well as good planning. To have a successful family hike with kids you need to understand that children have different needs to adults.

Hiking Equipment for Kids

Even though kids are small and light, their equipment is often heavy as well as bulky. You need to pack extra clothing for small children as they may require extra changes.

Small children may need to be carried most of time so you need a child carrier for this if you want your hands to be free. If it's cold you need extra layer of clothing for the child because they are not generating any heat.

Remember to pack nappies, baby supplies, books and games if applicable and also don't forget food and drink for the child. These extra equipment will add a significant weight to your backpack.

A child's hiking gear should also be as weatherproof as yours. Choose hiking gear that are as functional to adults for the kids.

Avoid cotton clothing as it absorbs moisture, which is not a good thing on a hiking trip as the child can get cold very easily. The three layer system of clothing apply to kids as well. Make sure they wear a wicking inner layer, fleece as the middle layer for insulation, and waterproof breathable outer layer. This only applies if the weather is cold.

Older children should have their own backpack that they can carry their own gear in. The problem is kids are not likely able to carry all of their hiking equipment so you might need to carry some of them. Use a larger backpack to fit in some of your kid's gear as well.

In cold weather, make sure you repeatedly check for signs of hypothermia. For infants, nappies need to changed promptly as the wetness can cause chilling.

In hot weather, make sure your kids use enough sunscreen which is to be re-applied at regular intervals. Encourage them to wear sun hats and to drink frequently to avoid dehydration.

Hourly snack breaks are highly recommended. A lake or river presents an opportunity for the kids to swim but make sure that the water is clean before they do.

You also have to slow down your normal pace as kids have shorter legs and might have difficulty keeping up. This also means that a rocky trail may seem like a boulder field for them so remember to take it slow.

Never overestimate a kids capabilities so need to be patient. Listen to their pleas for rest and be understanding about it. To have an estimate of your child's capabilities, take them for a trial run before the real trip. If you plan on camping, first try day hikes and how they can cope. Practice sleeping outside in a tent and sleeping bag outside your own home.

Choose trails that are easy yet appealing to both yourself and your children. This will keep both of you motivated during the hike.

It would be a good idea to choose a destination that is not too far away from civilization in case of emergencies. Involve the kids in planning their own meals so they look forward to it.

About the Author
A child carrier is essential for infants and small children. The children would also need kids sleeping bags for camping.

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