I fell in love hiking a few years before I had my oldest. After I had him, I wanted to hit the trail again, but I was scared about doing it wrong. What if I forgot something or something happens? You might feel like this and want to bring anything and everything in case a situation arises. But if you’re a seasoned hiker, you know to pack light and only the essentials. Don’t weigh yourself down even more than you have to. Hiking with another human strapped to you is already tough enough.
Before you even pack for your outing, check the weather. I always check the day before and the morning of. But that’s because I can’t always trust the weatherman- haha. Obviously if conditions are poor- like rain or snow, you are going to want to reschedule. But also consider the heat. You don’t want your little one overheating in the carrier. If it seems like a good day to head out, here is a list of items you should bring along.
Carrier
You can use a wrap, especially if there are still very little, but I personally prefer carriers because they seem more secure. If you have the means and want to invest in a hiking carrier, go for it. They have great storage pouches. But make sure to check the weight, height and age restrictions! You don’t want a tiny one bobbing their head back there.
Hat
Any kind that has a brim will work. The goal is to be protected from the sun. Make sure the material is appropriate for the weather.
Sunscreen
Try to apply this before you leave the house, so it can set appropriately. Make sure to reapply regularly, as recommended on the bottle or by your pediatrician. I like to leave a bottle in the car and then carry a travel size in my pack.
Long Clothes
Dress in long sleeves. If you’re on a shaded trail, you and your little one need to be protected from bugs and leaves that may cause irritation. If you’re in the sun, this will help prevent sunburns and dehydration. If the weather is hot, make sure to wear something breathable like cotton. Don’t wear polyester! However, if it’s cool out, make sure to layer up!
Drinks
Always pack double of what you think you’ll need! Water is always good. But if you plan on walking a good distance, pack something with electrolytes in it to help prevent cramping and fatigue. For baby, if you’re breastfeeding, no problem. Your supply is always on-hand. If not, pack twice the amount of formula you think you’ll need. With powdered formula, I put the appropriate number of scoops dry into the bottle and then carried a water bottle that was just for him. When feeding time came, I would just add the water needed, shake, and feed him. If they are past the formula stage, I don’t recommend packing milk, as it can easily spoil. Instead, pack them some juice and/or water.
Snacks
Again, pack double of what you think you’ll need! If you have snacks leftover when you get home, that’s okay. But if you or your baby get hungry and you’ve already eaten through your stuff, you’ll regret it.
First-Aid Kit
I’m talking a small first aid kit. Keep a good, well stocked one in the car. But for hiking, you just want a couple alcohol wipes and band-aids in case of blisters and minor cuts/scrapes.
Phone
When we hike, we usually want to get away from it all and clear our minds. A phone is usually the last thing we want. But make sure yours is on-hand and fully charged in case of an emergency. Make sure you’ve let someone know where you are hiking and about how long it should take. Also turn the location on, on your phone. If God-forbid something happens, and you can’t use your phone, you want to be found as soon as possible.
Now you’re probably wondering where to put the stuff with a wrap or carrier on. If you have a partner with you, great! They can carry a backpack! If you’re alone, wear a small backpack on the opposite side of where you are carrying the baby. Another option is the fanny pack! I have one and I love it. It’s not super stylish, but it’s handy for situations like this. And especially if it’s only a couple items for a short trail.
My suggestion for when you start hiking with a baby in tow, keep it short. Maybe a 20 or 30-minute walk. And one that you are most familiar and comfortable with. That way they can get use to the carrier, and you can gage how well they do in it. From there you can work your way up.
Happy Trails!
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