Planning a family hike but not sure what hiking gear you really need? We’ve been there. After too many trail meltdowns (and forgotten Band-Aids), we finally created the ultimate family hiking gear checklist that’s parent-tested and kid-approved. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to pack, what to wear, and how to prep for a smoother, stress-free adventure.
How to Prepare for a Stress-Free Family Hike
This post will cover everything we have found helpful when going on hikes as a family. We have gear recommendations for what to wear, what shoes we have found to be the best, when to splurge and when to save, and what our favorite hiking snacks are.
We are a family of hikers, we started getting our kids out on hikes starting at 2 months old. Both my husband and I grew up going on hikes as kids and have spent our whole lives loving nature. Through much trial and error, we have learned what hiking gear is best for hiking and what not to waste your money on. Save this list and download our Free Printable for your next outdoor adventure!
Why Choosing the Right Hiking Gear Matters
Choosing the proper hiking gear can make all the difference between a great hike and an uncomfortable and miserable hike. Imagine being on a hike in the mountains, and then it starts to rain. You are unprepared and did not bring a rain jacket or poncho. You now have to spend the rest of the hike wet, soggy, and cold. Having the correct gear and being prepared helps you enjoy the outdoors and embrace nature.
The need for the right gear when thinking about your family vs you as a solo hiker is even more important. Having the right clothing, shoes, snacks, and water supply matters so much more when you are thinking about hiking with kids. When hiking with your family, you need to prioritize safety and the comfort of your children. The more comfortable they are, the more likely they are to develop a love for being in nature and hiking.
What to Pack for a Family Hike
Water Water Water! Water requirements for kids.
Make sure you have enough water for all of you. Especially if you are hiking for a long time, or in a desert climate. They recommend 2 liters per person for a day hike. Generally, with little ones, you won’t be hiking for a long time. For our family (we hike in the hot desert) we tend to bring around 3-4 liters for our hikes that range from 1-3 miles round trip. If it is longer, we add more.
Kid-Friendly Hiking Snacks
Snacks that include fresh fruit, protein, and carbs. Our favorites to pack are: oranges, apples, meat sticks, granola bars, and goldfish or pretzels. If it is a longer hike or around lunchtime, we pack sandwiches.
First-Aid Must-Haves
When creating your hiking first-aid kit, make sure it includes Band-Aids, antibacterial ointment, aspirin, any prescription pills, moleskin, antihistamine, tweezers, and antiseptic wipes. For a more detailed list download our hiking first aid must-have list here.
Hiking Gear by Category
Footwear for the Whole Family
Kids Hiking Shoes
Our favorite kids’ hiking shoes are Merrell Trail Quest Sneakers. For hiking sandals, we like Teva or Keen brands. We like the closed-toe Keen sandals for little kids and the Teva sandals for bigger kids. All of these shoes provide good support, have grippy soles (great for climbing on rocks), and are comfortable for kids’ feet.
Women’s Hiking Shoes
I like a hiking shoe that is similar to a sneaker. Hiking boots with higher ankle support are great if you are going on long hikes or hiking in rugged terrain. For hiking with kids, you probably don’t need something quite as intense. I love the Saucony Women’s Excursion Sneaker for hikes with my kids. If I am going on a short hike or a hike in water, I love the Teva Hiking Sandals. I have sensitive feet, and most shoes give me blisters. Both these options are great for hiking in my opinion.
Men’s Hiking Shoes
My husband likes a lighter-weight shoe to hike in. He has said that the Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Edge hiking shoe and the Salomon X Ultra Pioneer Aero Hiking shoe are good, waterproof, lightweight shoes for hiking.
Hiking Socks for the Family
Socks are often overlooked as being important to think about when looking at hiking gear. Having good hiking socks can help prevent blisters, keep your feet dry and warm, and provide cushioning for your feet.
Kids Hiking Socks
If you are hiking in the winter, you will want warmer, higher socks to help keep your child warm when hiking. We like the Merrell Half Cushioned Socks when we need higher/warmer socks. When hiking in warmer temperatures, you don’t want too thick of a sock because you don’t want to risk overheating in any way. We like these Comfoex Athletic Socks that are ankle height for summer hiking.
Women’s Hiking Socks
I like these running socks for hiking. They are breathable while aiding in blister support and foot cushioning. If I want warmer longer socks I like the Dickies Dri-tech Crew Socks. They are moisture-wicking and thick, but not too thick.
Men’s Hiking Socks
For warmer weather hiking, the Time May Tell Merino wool socks are a great option. They have no bulky seams and focus on keeping feet dry. For warmer weather hiking, we like these lightweight breathable hiking socks.
Backpacks & Hydration
Hiking Backpacks
Backpacks are the first thing you probably think of when figuring out what hiking gear to get. Things to look for in a backpack are durability, comfort, and size. A typical daypack for an adult is around 11L – 22L; anything bigger is better suited for overnight hiking. For kids’ backpacks, you will want to stay under 10L. See our Best Hiking Backpacks for Kids post for our favorite splurge options and budget-friendly options for kids.
Toddlers:
The Deuter Schmusebär is an adorable and affordable backpack for toddlers to carry their snacks and hiking finds.
Young Kids
If you want to splurge and get your child a nice bag that will last a long time, get them the Osprey Talon Jr. For a more budget-friendly option, the Outdoor Tadpole Hydration Pack is a great choice.
Teens:
Teen backpacks are the same as adult backpacks. For young teens, focus on a smaller size like an 11L. Our favorite small day hiking backpack is the National Park Foundation Hydration Backpack. A portion of the sales of this bag goes back to the National Parks, and it is a great price.
Daypacks for Adults
Our absolute favorite backpack is our Osprey Talon, which comes in Men’s and Women’s, and both have two different sizes. They can be on the pricier side, but they last and are the perfect size for day hiking with kids. For a cheaper version, we like the National Parks hiking backpack that was recommended for teens.
Hydration Systems
You can choose between a bladder and using water bottles. We like to do a combination of both. Our kids love using the bladders, so we put a bladder in their backpacks. That way they can take a drink whenever they want. Younger kids may struggle with using a bladder so for them I like this stainless steel water bottle, having an added strap is great for hiking. I am personally not a huge fan of drinking from a bladder, so I pack these 32-oz stainless steel water bottles. We use plenty of ice to help cool us down on hot days.
Clothing Essentials
Moisture Wicking Layers
The best way to dress when hiking is in light, moisture-wicking layers. Generally, any athletic brand will have good options for shirts, shorts, and pants. I like these Columbia shorts for myself, and these shorts for my kids.
Waterproof Jackets
Having a lightweight waterproof jacket is essential to bring, especially if rain is any type of possibility. Ponchos are handy to keep in hiking backpacks; they fold up small and work great to keep rain off.
Sun Hats & Beanies
This depends on the weather and what type of headwear you will use. In the winter, any type of beanie will work, just make sure it is thick and warm. It is even better if it has a lining like this one. In the summer, hats are so important to protect heads and eyes from the sun.
Safety & Navigation
First Aid Kits
We went over a basic list for what to put in your hiking first-aid kit earlier. For a more comprehensive list, download this list here. Having a good first aid kit as part of your hiking gear is a must!
Whistles for Kids
Give each kid a safety whistle. This way, if they get separated from the group, you can teach them to stop in place and blow their whistle with all their might. Teach them the importance of only blowing the whistle in a time of emergency. If they blow it the whole hike, it may be ignored if they are in a real emergency.
Maps/Compass/GPS Device
This is especially important if you are going somewhere you are unfamiliar with. It is best to do research before you take your family hiking somewhere new. Having a map/compass/GPS device can be a lifesaver if you get lost.
Headlamps or Flashlights
Even if you are hiking during the day, make sure you pack a headlamp or flashlight for each person. If you end up needing it, you will be so happy you packed it. These small flashlights are great and lightweight options to keep in your backpack all the time.
Snacks & Food Storage
Best Trail Snacks for Kids
- Trail Mix
- Fruit (apples, grapes, and oranges are our favorite hiking fruits)
- Granola Bars
- Crackers
- Meat Sticks
- Sandwhiches
- Cheese Sticks
- Frozen Gogurts or Apple Sauce Pouches
Favorite Light-Weight Containers
Extras that Make a Difference
Trekking Poles (for kids & adults)
These are great if you are hiking on rocky, rugged terrain, have knee issues, balance issues, or hiking in an area with steep inclines.
Baby/Toddler Carriers
When our kids were babies, I swore by these baby carriers. They are a great way to get out hiking with little ones. Introducing your kids to the outdoors at a younger age helps them get used to being outside and in nature, and makes hiking when they are older more fun and enjoyable.
Bug Spray & Sunscreen
These are an absolute must no matter what the weather is. The last thing you want is to be miserable because you are all covered in itchy bug bites and sunburnt.
Compact Picnic Blanket
When you are hiking with kids you will be stopping and playing or eating often. Embrace it and make it a fun experience for all. Turn the stops into play time and picnic breaks.
Cooling Rags/Bands
If you tend to overheat or are hiking in the summer, it is a good idea to pack cooling rags. Make sure you put them in ice-cold water. We usually keep ours in the fridge or freezer in water. That way, they are ready to throw into our bag when we decide to hike.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Ideally, we would all buy the best hiking gear out there, but realistically, most of us cannot afford that. Here is a guide for what to splurge on and what you can save on.
Splurging
- Backpacks: You will want to invest in a nice hiking backpack (especially for yourself). Having a quality backpack will last longer and allow you to be more comfortable, especially when you end up carrying your little one’s stuff.
- Shoes: Having nice hiking shoes for your whole family will make a huge difference in the comfort level for your whole family. More comfort = a better time for all.
- Good Water Bottles: I have found that buying better quality water bottles ends up saving me money in the long run. When I try and save on water bottles, they never last very long, and I spend more on replacements.
- Baby/Toddler Carriers: Having a good quality baby carrier will allow you to carry your baby/toddler longer and get out hiking more often. They can be so comfortable that babies can even nap in them, which allows you more hiking time.
Saving
- Backpack for your kids: If you end up splurging on a backpack for yourself, it is okay to save on backpacks for your kids. They may not end up bringing their backpacks every hike anyway.
- Clothing: While having nice hiking clothing does make for a more comfortable hike, you are likely only doing short hikes with kids. Any type of athletic clothing will suffice for shorter family hikes.
- Trekking poles are a nice tool to have when hiking, but if you are in need of poles while hiking, you can easily find a good stick that will do the job just as good.
Adventure awaits–With the right hiking gear, you’re set!
Having the right gear can make your family’s hiking trip more relaxing and fun, with fewer meltdowns and tantrums. While hiccups may (and probably will) still happen, at least you will know that you will be prepared and ready when they do.
Spending time outdoors with your family can be such a great way to build memories, bond, and teach your children valuable life lessons. Being prepared helps you focus on creating a great experience together.
We would love to hear your hiking essentials or any tips you have for making hiking with kids more enjoyable.
