With some preparation, hiking with your kids can be a rewarding and memorable adventure for the whole family. For adults, it's a great excuse to unplug and touch grass. It's also an excellent way to relieve stress and reconnect with nature.

Meanwhile, it's a healthy and exciting way for the little ones to work out, fostering an early love for the outdoors. From choosing kid-friendly trails to packing the right supplies, we'll guide you through planning a successful hike with your children.

5 Tips for a Successful Hiking Trip with Kids

1. Choose a family-friendly trail
2. Set expectations
3. Prepare appropriately
4. Bring drinks and snacks
5. Keep it fun and educative

Equipment and Gear

If you plan to go hiking often, choose shoes made from durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of trekking. Ensure the kid's footwear fits properly, with just enough room for toes to wiggle without causing friction.

Here are some tips on what your kids should wear for different types of hiking trails and weather conditions:

Warm Weather Hiking:

• Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics like quick-dry T-shirts, shorts, and sun-protective clothing.

• Footwear: Sturdy, breathable hiking shoes or hiking sandals.

• Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a brimmed hat for sun protection.

Wet/Cold Weather Hiking:

• Clothing: Layered clothing with an insulating mid-layer to conserve heat and a waterproof outer layer in case it rains. Remember your socks and thermal underwear, too.

• Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots or shoes.

• Accessories: Warm waterproof gloves, a beanie or a brimmed rain hat, a neck gaiter, and a quality winter jacket.

Snow Hiking:

• Clothing: Insulated snow pants, a warm jacket, and multi-layered clothing. Gaiters to keep snow out of boots.

• Footwear: Insulated and non-slip waterproof snow boots.

• Accessories: Warm gloves, a beanie, and a scarf.

Mountain Hiking

• Clothing: Layered clothing to accommodate temperature changes as you climb up.

• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support. Choose a sole with good traction to prevent slipping on uneven or slippery terrain.

• Accessories: Warm gloves, a beanie, and a neck gaiter.

1. Choose a Family-Friendly Trail

Choose a well-maintained nature trail with a gentle incline and a distance suitable for your child's age and ability. A one-mile loop with a marked path is ideal for little legs. Remember, the focus is on fun and exploration instead of conquering summits.

Before you set off, make sure your child is comfortable with the terrain and understands basic safety rules like staying on the trail, not approaching wildlife, and letting you know if they need a break.

» Check out the best hiking boots for toddlers

2. Set Expectations

Guide your children by explaining what to anticipate on the trail and outlining your expectations for them, such as following your instructions and staying on the designated path.

As a parent, align your expectations accordingly, recognising that hiking can sometimes be slow and repetitive. Break up the monotony by setting smaller goals, like reaching a landmark or taking breaks at scenic spots.



3. Prepare Appropriately

Check the weather forecast before the day of your hike and prepare your clothing accordingly. Ensure you have the right gear, like terrain-appropriate footwear, a trail map, and a compass or GPS device. You can also include your kids in the preparation to help them get excited.

» Discover the perfect all-season shoes for your child

4. Bring Drinks and Snacks

Nutrition and hydration are essential for you and your kid, so remember to take drinks on your outing. You should also pack lightweight and nutritious snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and fruit.

5. Keep it Fun and Educative

Make the hike educational and engaging by teaching your kids about the local terrain. You can also plan fun scavenger hunts, tell stories, sing songs, and keep nature journals. Why not add more fun and invite their friends to come too?



Safety Measures

No one hopes for an injury, but it's essential to prepare yourself for any eventual emergency by:

• Staying safe from insects by using repellents. You can also dress your kid in long-sleeved and light clothing.
• Providing sun hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Ensuring your children walk ahead of you.
• Opting for marked trails that are easy to follow.
• Carrying a first aid kit along.

» Avoid discomfort on the hike by waterproofing your child's shoes

Lacing Up and Stepping Out

As you embark on family hiking adventures, highlight the enjoyment of the overall experience rather than focusing solely on reaching a specific destination. Following our expert tips, you can turn each step into an opportunity to bond with your kids.

And for those little explorers' feet, consider the quality and comfort of First Walkers' kids' hiking shoes collection. Designed with the utmost care and support, they're a practical companion for young adventurers.