Thinking of heading outdoors with your children? We hear some suggestions for things to pack when hiking with kids
Outdoor physical activity is vital to a child’s health and development. However, at 24%, a Frontiers post reports only a fraction of children are meeting the need to be active outdoors. It isn’t unusual, then, for parents to look for ways to get the whole family outside and basking in the sun. Hiking, for one, is certainly an accessible activity every parent can experience with their children.
For those who want to make plans and head out this weekend, we’ve prepared an essential packing list for a hike with kids.
1. Backpack
A backpack is non-negotiable on any hiking trip, but it’s increasingly important when hiking with your kids. Parents should look for a bag with breathable mesh straps, as you’ll likely carry it around throughout the trip. For extra comfort, watch out for waist and chest straps as well. Large compartments must also be factored in to secure bulkier items such as spare clothes, a first-aid kit, and toiletries like bug sprays, tissue, and wet wipes.
For ease of access, backpacks should also have pouches wherein you can store snacks or water bottles. The Adidas Banner Backpack ($95) is an excellent example, with two zippered main compartments, but its vertical-zip external pocket and two water bottle pockets inspire more appreciation. Children require a lot of provisions when they’re outdoors, so it’s best to be prepared and choose a backpack that accommodates all your kids’ needs.
2. First aid kit
Kids can get restless during a hike, and their boundless energy can lead to accidents, which is where a first aid kit proves helpful. You can opt for pre-assembled first aid kits that can be easily attached to your backpack, such as the Surviveware Small First Aid Kit with removable straps ($45). However, if your kids have certain allergies, you’ll want to organize your own kit to include the necessary medications. Generally, a first aid kit should contain athletic tape, antibiotic ointment, blister bandages or moleskin dressings, tweezers, and sterile gauze. For longer hikes, carry a heat-reflecting blanket, lighter, and signaling mirror since you might still be at the trails until nightfall.
First aid kits, while adept at tending to smaller wounds or quick-to-fix mishaps, can only do so much for more urgent medical emergencies. In this case, we recommend downloading the app Red Cross on your phone. The app can enable parents to call 911 in the event of natural disasters or more grave medical injuries.
3. Pushchairs
Kids require time to rest during physically exhausting activities like hikes. During these much-needed breaks, having a pushchair can be beneficial so parents can keep moving as children stay asleep.
As the double pushchairs on iCandy demonstrate, the latest designs now come with all-terrain wheels, which are ideal to use on natural hiking trails as they’re puncture proof. For parents who worry about their children fussing when on the pushchair for a long time, don’t be. Pushchairs, like the Peach 7 Pushchair and Carrycot ($1,601), come with an adjustable handlebar and swivel bumper bar that ensure your kid’s comfort and safety while they rest. The model also features a canopy that’s water repellant and built with SPF50+, so your children are protected from the weather all throughout the hike. By utilizing a suitable pushchair during your hike, you can also lessen instances of blisters that come when your kids are constantly on their feet.
4. Sun protection gear
Sun protection is vital in keeping your child’s skin safe from harmful UV rays. Utilize sun-protective clothing like long-sleeve shirts or sun hats to decrease the risk of sunburn. For your child’s remaining exposed skin, apply sunscreen diligently.
Of course, not just any sunscreen will do. Avoid chemical sunscreens because although they have better skin absorption, they also build up in the body. Sunscreens on NPR emphasize how mineral sun protection is the better option for kids. Although these can be difficult to spread and leave a white cast on the skin, the ingredients include titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide. Compared to chemical sunscreens made from oxybenzone or octinoxate, mineral counterparts are safer, especially if your child has sensitive skin. The All Good Baby & Kids Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Lotion ($17), in particular, is formulated with chamomile to soothe skin. With the right sun protection, your kids are better prepared for a long day out in the sun.
Spending time outdoors on a hike with kids is a good way to allow them to experience and learn from the world. However, it would help if you were always prepared to ensure they’re safe and comfortable.
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