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Hiking SuppliesWhether walking, running, or on a hike, having the appropriate equipment and being prepared will help to keep your child safe while allowing you to enjoy taking your child into the outdoors. From backpacks, carriers, running strollers, navigation, and other necessary equipment will help keep your outdoor trip not only safer but prepared.
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Backpacks, Carriers & Running Strollers
As with any kind of carrier, backpack or running stroller, just like your child's child safety seat restraint system, always follow the manufacturer's instructions to make sure it is appropriate for the size and weight of your child, and to make sure you are using it properly. Backpack carriers come in various models with multiple positions for the child and the adult wearer. They also vary in storage compartments, detachable pillow so your child can sleep while on the hike, as well as rear-view mirror to see your child, water bottle holders, etc. Once you determine which is best for your child and the type of activity, after purchase, be sure to complete the registration card to be notified of a recall.
For baby backpack carriers, in addition to following the manufacturer's recommendations for safe and proper use, these usually have aluminum or aluminum alloy frame that when worn properly, together with the waist or hip belt, will equally distribute the weight of the baby and your gear primarily onto your hips, instead of only on your shoulders and back. Again following manufacturer's instructions, make sure the waist or hip belt fit comfortably and wear the backpack with the padded hip belt fastened snugly to keep the weight onto your hips. Make sure the shoulder straps are snug bringing the backpack close to your back.
For those with school-aged children, this is an excellent time to purchase a child size backpack for the day hike. Teach them how to carry their own water, snacks, flashlight, extra clothing layer, etc. and keep the weight down to a minimum.
As with any kind of carrier, backpack or running stroller, just like your child's child safety seat restraint system, always follow the manufacturer's instructions to make sure it is appropriate for the size and weight of your child, and to make sure you are using it properly. Backpack carriers come in various models with multiple positions for the child and the adult wearer. They also vary in storage compartments, detachable pillow so your child can sleep while on the hike, as well as rear-view mirror to see your child, water bottle holders, etc. Once you determine which is best for your child and the type of activity, after purchase, be sure to complete the registration card to be notified of a recall.
For baby backpack carriers, in addition to following the manufacturer's recommendations for safe and proper use, these usually have aluminum or aluminum alloy frame that when worn properly, together with the waist or hip belt, will equally distribute the weight of the baby and your gear primarily onto your hips, instead of only on your shoulders and back. Again following manufacturer's instructions, make sure the waist or hip belt fit comfortably and wear the backpack with the padded hip belt fastened snugly to keep the weight onto your hips. Make sure the shoulder straps are snug bringing the backpack close to your back.
For those with school-aged children, this is an excellent time to purchase a child size backpack for the day hike. Teach them how to carry their own water, snacks, flashlight, extra clothing layer, etc. and keep the weight down to a minimum.
Navigation
Essential Equipment
- Trail map
- Pencil
- Head lamp
- Compass
Essential Equipment
- First aid kit: As with any first aid kit read and understand instructions so you are familiar and know how to use when you need it. Remember keep "dated" items up to date.
- Swiss Army Knife or other pocketknife
- Water bottle
- Water purification tablets
- Toilet paper & plastic bag
- Skin protection (bug guard insect repellent, sun block, lip balm spf-30)
- Mole Skin (for blisters)
- Emergency blanket
- Waterproof matches
- Plastic whistle
