Hiking with kids can be so much fun. I love watching my children explore new territory, make discoveries, and overcome obstacles. Hiking is also a great way to disconnect from technology and reconnect with family. However, if you have ever hit the trails with littles, you know that family hiking does indeed have its challenges. Kids tire quickly, easily become bored, and often fall victim to cuts, insect bites, sunburns, and other undesirable natural encounters. While OIYS can't ensure a completely stress-free family hiking experience, we have put together a list of some fantastic kids' hiking essentials that will definitely make hitting the trails with little ones a lot more enjoyable.
Kids Hiking Safety
Safety is always number one when hiking with little ones. These essential items easily fit into any backpack to help keep your whole family secure on and off the trails.
1. HART Outdoor Day Hike First-Aid Kit
Always be prepared when heading out on any trail, especially with children in tow. This HART Outdoor Day Hike First-Aid Kit has everything you need to treat cuts, stings, splinters, headaches, and other minor ailments. The kit is well organized and has several clear compartments, so you can quickly locate and grab what you need.
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2. Thinksport Kids Sunscreen Spray
Sunscreen is always a must, whether you are taking an all-day hike or just going on a quick stroll through the woods. Thinksport Kids Sunscreen Spray is specifically made for little ones and will keep them protected from harmful rays and unwanted chemicals. The 100% mineral sunscreen is SPF 50 and is easy to apply.
"]Shop Thinksport Kids Sunscreen Spray
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3. Owala Flip Kids Vacuum Water Bottle
A quality water bottle is an essential item on any hiking packing list. The durable Owala Flip Kids Vacuum Water Bottle will keep up to 14 fl. oz of water cold throughout your hike. The straw cap is easy to use and the lid is leakproof. The cup comes in four different colors.
"]Shop Owala Flip Kids Vacuum Water Bottle
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4. Welly Assorted Kids Waterproof Adhesive Bandages.
Unfortunately, kids are no strangers to cuts and scrapes when exploring the great outdoors. Make accidents a little easier with these fun Welly Assorted Kids Waterproof Adhesive Bandages. The colorful bandages come in three colorful patterns and will stay on when swimming.
"]Shop Welly Assorted Kids Waterproof Adhesive Bandages On Walmart[/affiliatelink]
Kids Hiking Entertainment
Hiking games and activities help to keep kids engaged and entertained along the trail. These compact, portable products are not only fun but also educational for both kids and adults.
5. Living Squad Kids Binoculars
Your young explorer will have so much fun spotting birds and other creatures with these kid-sized binoculars from Living Squad. They are water-resident, shockproof, and are designed with clear magnification. The binoculars come in a variety of sizes and include a belt case, cleaning cloth, compass, and a downloadable bird calendar.
Shop Living Squad Kids Binoculars On Walmart
6. Sibley Backyard Birding Flash Cards
Now that you and the kids have spotted some interesting birds, you probably want to find out more about them. These beautiful Backyard Birding Flash Cards by Sibley will tell you all you need to know about the various species of birds that you may encounter when hiking. The deck contains 192 colorfully illustrated cards containing lots of fun details and birding facts.
"]Shop Sibley Backyard Birding Flash Cards On REI[/affiliatelink]
7. Go Find It Outdoor Nature Scavenger Hunt Card Game
The Go Find It Outdoor Nature Scavenger Hunt Card Game is such a fun way to keep children engaged while hiking. They will be entertained and will also be learning along the way. The portable STEM game challenges the whole family to locate various items that meet the description on the cards.
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8. Exploring Nature - A Journal For Kids
Keeping a nature journal is a perfect way for kids to capture the memories of their favorite adventures. The Exploring Nature Journal has over 100 pages where kids can sketch, record observations, and even include photographs of their favorite trails.
Shop Exploring Nature - A Journal For Kids On Walmart
Kids Hiking Backpacks
A well-fitting backpack is essential to keep everyone comfortable and prepared on any hiking trip. These kid-sized packs are ideal for little adventurers! The children will have everything they need at their fingertips, and Mom and Dad won’t have to carry everyone’s stuff!
9. REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack - Kids
The REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack is a comfy pack made specifically for kids 8-12. It is water-repellent and has lots of pockets for water bottles, snacks, and anything else that young hikers will need while on the trails. The Tarn 18-pack comes in both indigo and dark red.
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10. Osprey HydraJet 12 Hydration Pack - Kids'
Drinking lots of water when on the go is so important. The Osprey HydraJet 12 Hydration Pack will help keep kids hydrated and it also has storage pockets to hold hiking essentials. The pack contains a 1.5-liter reservoir and comes in two stylish colors.
On REI[/affiliatelink]
11. PACOLO 10L Small Size Waterproof Kids Sport Backpack
The PACOLO 10L Small Size Waterproof Kids Sport Backpack is the perfect pack for kids under 4 feet. The lightweight design allows little kids to independently carry their favorite items without being weighed down. The backpack has several pockets for holding all of those hiking treasures and it is available in a variety of fun colors.
"]Shop PACOLO 10L Small Size Waterproof Kids Sport Backpack On Walmart[/affiliatelink]
12. Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier
Your youngest family members may not be ready for a backpack of their own, but there is a fantastic pack that you can carry that is designed just for them. The Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier comfortably fits children up to 48 pounds and includes some handy features such as a sun shield, several zippered compartments, and top and side handles. The carrier is adjustable and easy to put on and take off.
"]Shop Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier
On REI[/affiliatelink]
Kids Hiking Shoes
A high-quality, comfortable pair of shoes can make all the difference when hitting the trails. Say goodbye to blisters and sore feet with these durable, well-fitting children's hiking shoes.
13. Kids' Trail Model Hikers
These super cute Kids' Trail Model Hikers from L.L. Bean look great and are big on comfort. The shoes are well constructed to stand up to puddles, rocks, dirt, and everything else kids will encounter while exploring the trails. The hikers are also available in toddler sizes.
Shop Kids' Trail Model Hikers On L.L. Bean
14. Merrell Unisex-Child Trail Chaser Hiking Sneaker
Looking for a long-lasting shoe that will keep up with your little hiker? The Merrell Unisex-Child Trail Chaser Hiking Sneaker is big on quality, comfort, and durability. The shoe has a velcro closure, so no need to stop and retie every few minutes. The outsole also features a flexible grip to help keep children secure while they are navigating the trails.
"]Shop Merrell Unisex-Child Trail Chaser Hiking Sneaker On Amazon[/affiliatelink]
Kids Hiking Clothes
No one wants to feel uncomfortable on a hike, especially kids! Ensure that your kids are safe and comfy during all your family hiking adventures with these innovative outdoor clothing items.
15. Zando 2 Pcs Kids Sun Hats
I always make sure everyone in my family brings a protective hat when we set off on a hike. This cute Zando fishing hat will keep the kids protected from the sun and elements during all of their outdoor activities. The comfortable hat is designed for children ages 5-13 years. It has an adjustable strap and is made from breathable fabric. The best part is that the hats come in sets of two, so you will always have an extra one on hand.
"]Shop Zando 2 Pcs Kids Sun Hats
On Walmart[/affiliatelink]
16. Kids' Insect Shield Field Hoodie
Mosquitos, ticks, and other insects can quickly turn a peaceful hike into an unpleasant experience. Keep your kids safe on the trails with this protective Insect Shield Field Hoodie from L.L. Bean, which is treated with a synthetic form of a bug repellent that is produced by chrysanthemum plants. The ultra-comfortable hoodie comes in two different colors and is available in both kids and little kid's sizes.
"]Shop Kids' Insect Shield Field Hoodie
On L.L. Bean[/affiliatelink]
17. Kids' Hiking Trail Tights
The best way to keep kids happy on a hike is to make sure they are comfortable. The L.L. Bean Kids' Hiking Trail Tights are so flexible and well-fitting that kids will want to wear them wherever they go! The tights are also durable, so they are perfect for rugged little hikers.
"]Shop Kids' Hiking Trail Tights
On L.L. Bean[/affiliatelink]
So now that you have all of the essentials for your kids, make sure that you and the other adults in your hiking group are prepared as well. Check out Only In Your State's Ultimate Hiking Packing List for the best gear, safety equipment, and must-have hiking accessories. Now who is ready to hit the trails?
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