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6 Tips for Hiking with Your Kids

 

Are you planning on taking your kids for a hike?

If so, there’s a lot of extra stuff that you need to consider before setting out. You can’t just pack up and go. You need to make sure your kids stay safe during the trip. Plus, you have to figure out some ways to keep them entertained.

It’s a lot of hard work. But it really pays off when you get back home having made some amazing memories.

Here are seven tips for hiking with your kids.

 

Tip #1 – Keep Them Engaged

Kids can have short attention spans, especially when they’re younger. They may get bored of all of the walking if you’re not actively trying to keep them engaged.

Research is your friend here. Check out the trail that you intend to hike. Pick out any landmarks and points of interest that you can stop off at. Your kids will enjoy hearing about the stories behind them and will want to discover more.

It’s also worth pointing out all of the flora and fauna that surrounds you. For example, you can pick out a few plants that you expect to see on the hike. Task your kids with finding them to keep them engaged with the hike.

The point is that you need a few ideas up your sleeve to counter the ever-dreaded cry of “I’m bored!”

 

Tip #2 – Remember the Limitations

You can’t have your kids climbing all over rocks as part of the hike. Ideally, you’ll hike on a flat trail that doesn’t present a lot of challenges.

Your kids also have less stamina than you, which means long-distance hikes are off the table. Six kilometers is the absolute maximum. And if you go that long, you need to plan a good break at the halfway point.

 

Tip #3 – Bring Plenty of Snacks and Water

When it comes to snacks, you’re looking for anything healthy that gives the kids a boost of energy. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with bringing a little chocolate along too.

Water is the big essential though. Your kids need to stay hydrated during any physical activity. Plus, you may spend a lot of time in the sun, which means sweating. Bring plenty of bottles of water and mark out any water sources on your trail beforehand.

 

Tip #4 – Give Yourself Plenty of Time

Kids have curious natures. That means they’re often going to want to explore things that you might have just hiked right past.

Plan plenty of time for the hike. A walk that might take you a couple of hours on your own could double in time with kids. Let them explore while keeping a watchful eye on them.

 

Tip #5 – Talk To Them About the Dangers

Even a simple hike could present a few dangers to your kids. Talk to them about the plants and animals that they may encounter. Make sure they know how important it is that they stay near to you.

Don’t scare them though. You don’t want to put them off before you reach the trail. Just make sure they know the importance of staying safe and that you’re always there if they need to ask questions.

 

Tip #6 – Pack the Hiking Essentials

There are plenty of things that you need to bring along to keep your kids safe. These include:

• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Hats
• Rain gear
• A first aid kit

It’s also worth packing some extra clothes just in case something gets damaged during the hike.

 

Tip #7 – Pay Attention to the Signs

Tiredness could strike at any moment during the hike. Pay attention to the little signs that suggest your kids need a break.

Those signs differ depending on your child. But you likely already know what signals they give off when things get a little overwhelming. Slumped shoulders and a slower pace are sure signs. If the kids seem moody, you may need to break for a while.

Remember that a tired child will pay less attention to the trail. Take a break when you see any signs of fatigue.

 

Keep these tips in mind and you’ll have a great hiking trip with your kids.

Now, you need to buy the right gear. Tentworld has everything that you need if you’re planning a hike with your family.

Stay safe,

Tentworld

 

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