Being prepared for a hike is essential for hiking with kids, but it does not need to be elaborate, complicated, or expensive. A back-pack can even be used as your hiking back-pack and have the essentials all ready to inside. Here are ideas from the book "Best Hikes With Children in Utah," by Maureen Keilty, of some things that you could pack.
~ SNACKS - Bring plenty of snacks to boost energy and spirits. For ideas Pack the Snacks page.
~SHOES - Take care in making sure everyone has nice cotton or wool socks with close-toed shoes. Be sure that shoes have been worn before and do not cause hot spots. Thicker material shoes or boots can protect children's feet from pointy sticks, sharp rocks, or thorns.
~PACK - Even young, beginner hikers should be encouraged to carry some of the load. They can use a light back-pack and carry a few snacks, light jacket, and some water. Each child can also carry something of importance: a map, a flashlight, a small first-aide kit. Let the child know that the item the carry is of importance to the hole group. "If the young hiker believes the items in his or her pack are important, the child will feel like an important member of the group." (Keilty, 19)
~ EXTRA CLOTHING - First, have kids hike in bright clothing so they can be spotted easier. Extra layer of clothing can make a hike that much more comfortable for a child, especially if there is a quick temperature change or they get wet. An extra hat, long shirt or pants, socks, or a rain poncho are good ideas.
~ EXTRA FOOD - Keep an extra energy bar per person hidden in pack. Pull out if hike is taking longer than expected or spirits are low.
~SUNGLASSES/HAT - Bright, high-altitude sun can be very tiring for little eyes. Wide brimmed hats are best if sunglasses do not work for the child. Pack sunscrean and insect repellent too.
~FIRE STARTER - You may never know when you might need a fire for survival.
~ POCKETKNIFE
~ FLASHLIGHT - don't forget to check for batteries
~ MAP -
~FIRST-AID KIT - See below for ideas
~ COMPASS - not only may it come in handy, but kids my enjoy following the compass.
~WHISTLE - Each person, especially children should carry a whistle for in case they get lost.
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FIRST-AID KIT
- Band-aides (various sizes, colors, or characters - they can make almost any scrape feel better)
- Anti-bacterial ointment
- Moleskin- for hot spots
- 2x2 gauze
- medical tape
- Tylenol, IB Profin, Advil (In child strength too)
- Anti-histamine, Benadryl
- Epi Pen (if there are allergies)
- Tweezers
- Pocket Knife
- bandanna, extra shoe laces
- sunscreen and insect repellent
