Over the past 10 years, our family has spent a lot of time hiking the conservation areas and provincial parks in our region. During that time we have perfected the gear and process to ensure the day out is a hit with the whole family. And by ‘perfected’, I mean we have had a lot of unsuccessful days which has helped us create these tips and tricks.
Here is our list of Must-Haves For Family Hiking Adventures!
This article is not sponsored. All of our recommendations were purchased by us, researched, and tested for our family getaways.
Waterproof Hiking Boots
One of the best items to invest in is a good pair of Waterproof Hiking Boots. Ensuring they are waterproof with slip-resistant soles is important for going over various terrains.
Nothing is worst than having wet feet for the day if you have to cross a stream and get a soaker. When buying your boots make sure they don’t just have a waterproof upper, but sealed seams and waterproof membrane. It’s also important for them to be a six-inch design in order to cover your ankles and provide additional support on long days.
SPF Clothing
Last year I started to wear SPF clothing when out hiking. I have a combination of long and short sleeve styles – some with hoods – that offer good coverage throughout the year. These shirts are designed with a lightweight fabric that dries easily if it rains, and provide protection from the elements.
The shirts I have are from Northface, but Patagonia and Coolibar offer something similar.
Hiking Shorts
Two summers ago I found the Aphrodite 2.0 collection from NorthFace. These shorts are made from a stretchy, comfortable material that dries quickly if it rains. They also have larger pockets that hold my phone whether I’m running or climbing rocky terrain. I have these shorts in every colour and they are my go-to when we’re hiking in the Summer.
This collection also includes capris and pants. All of the styles offer the same flexibility while out on the trail and provide comfort on long days.
Sun Protection
While a baseball cap offers good face sun protection, I have started wearing a full-brimmed hat to ensure I have full coverage on sunny days. I can’t tell you how many times I have come home with neck burn from forgetting that I’m not covered as we change direction. This is a tougher sell for my teens, but I’ve found a few brands that make a stylish bucket hat that they’ll wear.
I also carry an SPF 50 sunscreen with me to keep my face, arms, and legs protected. My go-to right now is Sunbum. I LOVE the spray applicator on this product and I’ve never gotten a burn from using it.
Bug Protection
As we head into the warmer months the bugs are starting to come out in droves. We find the further North we hike the more pests we seem to encounter. Deer flies, Black flies, ticks, and mosquitos definitely make a hiking day less exciting. To help with this I have started using a bug spray that is 20% DEET.
Additionally, my sister-in-law pointed me to bug shields that she bought for my niece and nephew to keep them from getting bitten on their face/head while out in the forest.
Micro Fiber Towels
In preparation for a hike where we could swim, I bought my kids microfiber towels. A compact version of a standard beach towel, these ones are fast drying and super absorbent. 1/10 the size of a regular towel when folded, they come packed in a mesh bag which is easy to store. We bought the XL ones and they came with a smaller towel that is perfect for drying feet or hair.
We plan to buy more to have on hand for future Caribbean beach vacations this Winter. They can be tagged onto your pack with a carabiner or stored at the bottom of your bag.
Easy storage and portability make these perfect for family trips where you think your kids may want to take a dip but you don’t have the room to store a massive towel.
Bonus – The kids love how soft they are!
Backpack
Now that my kids are older I have retired my large backpack in favor of a smaller, more compact one that is more comfortable on long days. My halfpack(as I call it) carries my keys, wallet, two microfiber towels(mentioned above), snacks for the kids(and dog), bug spray, sunscreen lotion, and a water bottle for the dog. I’m still able to bring everything I need but I don’t need to haul a huge bag.
If your kids are school age and they carry a backpack to school encourage them to tote their own snack, water bottle, and towel if needed. This will reduce your load and give them a little responsibility during your day out.
Hiking Stick/Pole
If you are doing a moderate to intermediate hike I recommend using a hiking stick. These poles can reduce the impact on your legs, knees, ankles, and feet, especially when going downhill. They also give you more stability on rough terrain and while crossing rivers.
Designed with a polycarbonite material, these lightweight poles can be adjusted as your kids grow and come with different tips for a variety of hiking conditions.
First Aid Kit
As a mom, I carry a first aid kit with me wherever we go. Hiking, however, increases the chances my kids will get hurt exponentially so there is always one in my halfpack. The kit contains 3 different sizes/shapes of bandaids, polysporin, alcohol wipes, ibuprofen, eye/ear drops, a thermometer, gauze, mini scissors, tape, and hand sanitizer.
Whether we are on vacation, at the park, or on a hike I have this kit with me which is why it has items for a variety of emergency situations. I store everything in a pencil case and transfer the bag to whatever tote I have for the day.
Hydration Backpack
A couple of months ago we picked up a Hydrovest from Amazon for $40. It is a backpack/vest that has a 2L ‘bladder’ you fill with water to keep you hydrated on hikes or jogs. I will definitely say that adding this to our hikes for our oldest son has reduced the complaining we get throughout the hike. He doesn’t have to carry anything, we don’t have to worry about the water bottle getting lost, and it has a hose that allows him to take sips whenever needed.
Tip: We add some ice cubes to the bladder when we’re filling it which keeps the water and the hiker cool on warm days!
Insulated Water Bottle
If your kids are too small to wear a Hydration Backpack make sure you pick up a good insulated water bottle that will keep your beverages cold even on the hottest days.
Backpack Carrier
When my boys were little our Kelty Backpack Carrier was a lifesaver when we hiked. Backpack hiking carriers are ideal for long outdoor hikes as they keep little ones safe, sheltered, and in a comfy position. These lightweight carriers offer support and comfort while providing storage of essentials you may need while out.
Check out our list of the Best Backpack Hiking Child Carriers for 2021
Hiking With A Dog?
We often bring our Bulldog with us so I bought a travel water bottle for him that has a scoop he can drink directly out of or a silicone bowl that can be flattened for easy storage when not in use.
Do you hike as a family? We would love to hear any of your tips!
