What You Should Know Before Hiking With Kids
September 22, 2022

Hiking can be a very engaging and exciting activity, especially for kids. Granted that you make adequate preparations before you dash into the wild. However, if you’ve frequently gone on hikes before you had kids, the tempo shouldn’t reduce because you had them. So, if you’re looking at taking your kids hiking but are somewhat confused, you’ve come to the right place.

Start Early

For any activity, the key to maximizing time is starting early. This is because you’ll have a lot of time on your hands to explore the area to your satisfaction. There are more than enough sceneries to keep your kids hooked and asking for more. As soon as the sun rises high in the sky, you might experience a heatwave. Seeing how particularly grumpy kids can be about minor things, it’s best to rest during scorching moments.

Keep The Trip Short The First Time

Hiking that goes on for long hours during the day is not for kids. If you have a toddler, you might have to pack a carrier because they tire easily. So, do not set yourself up for failure by planning a fifteen-kilometer hike with kids. Especially if it’s their first time, they will be more interested in soaking up each new sight than walking.

Since you won’t be venturing deep into the wild, it’s advisable to pack light gear. The gear should have only essential items; try to leave larger gears in the car. Because the kids might need a hand, but you won’t be able to help when your hands are full.

Make Sure They Have Fun

Having fun is the one of the reasons of going hiking, bonding, and karaoke songs are bonuses. To make it less tiring and more enjoyable try to keep up with old and familiar trails. Making a trip, especially with kids, may not be the best time to dash into unfamiliar terrain. There might be danger lurking, and you aren’t fully prepared for that.

Moreover, it is essential to pack enough food, water, and extra clothing. Knowing how easily toddlers get exhausted, an energy drink or snack bar will help. Middle schoolers are usually a ball of energy, so you won’t have to worry about them getting tired. Aside from edibles, a first aid kit, torchlight, umbrella, and rain boots should be part of the gear.

Conclusion

Truly, going hiking with kids takes them away from the world they know into an adventure, and they will never resist an adventure, especially if it’s outdoors. Certainly, upon discovering a creek, you can decide to go for a swim, especially if it’s hot. Although you have to be familiar with the water and swimming, the kids must be under strict supervision. This will reduce the chances of drowning; also, remember to stay in shallow water. I hope you have all the fun!