Is backpacking an activity that you feel passionate about and have engaged in for years, but up until this point haven’t taken the kids with you? There are several reasons you may have felt inclined to go about your backpacking adventures solo, but things change, and you may now be ready to bring them along and make it a family event. To help ensure all goes well, here are four tips for parents who will be backpacking with kids for the first time.
Plan Out Your Route with the Kids in Mind
The first tip, and arguably the most important, is to plan the route with the kids in mind. What you may find is the perfect trail for you and your skill level may not be ideal for the kids. If you choose a trail that is too difficult, too long, or not exactly exciting for them, you are setting everything up for disaster and complaints.
It’s worth doing some research in advance and searching for family-friendly backpacking trails. If you plan on camping along the way, again you want to be mindful of the trail and sites that you choose.
Bring Along Some Entertainment Options
Depending on how long your backpacking adventure will be, you may also want to bring along some entertainment options for the kids. One of the easiest and most lightweight items to pack is a tablet. Affordable tablets for kids can be loaded with games, apps and other entertainment-based features to keep them happy and occupied whenever needed.
Other entertainment options can include books, coloring books and crayons, or a deck of cards. Think in terms of how much room it takes up in the backpack, and if it’s something that they can use independently.
Keep the Kids Fueled with Snacks and Beverages
Even if it’s just a short easy trail that you choose, you will still want to think ahead and pack snacks and beverages for the kids. This will keep them fueled and energized, which will also keep them happy. Many great snack ideas pack well and are ideal for eating on the go. You want to pick high protein options that will give them an instant boost.
Some great backpacking snack ideas include:
- Dried fruit
- Nuts and seeds
- Granola bars
- Protein bars
- Jerky
- Pretzels
- Tuna packets with crackers
Steer clear of overly processed high-sugar snacks. They will give kids a quick sugar rush, but they will soon crash.
Wear the Proper Clothing and Footwear
The final tip is to make sure everyone is dressed for the weather and the trail conditions. This means lightweight, comfortable clothing. Typically, it’s best to dress in layers so that you’re prepared for a variety of conditions. As for footwear, it needs to be close-toed, supportive, comfortable and have a good grip on the soles.
Make It a Successful Outing
Using these tips will help to ensure that the first backpacking adventure with the kids is a successful and enjoyable one. This will encourage them to want to get back out there again and do more backpacking.
