Are you intimated to hike with your baby? Worried something might go wrong? Worried baby will cry the entire time? It’s normal to have these thoughts and concerns. Let me reassure you that hiking with a baby is not too much different than hiking by yourself. If you were an avid hiker before a baby, then hiking with a baby should be a breeze. Here are some items to stock in your pack on your next hike with baby!
Backpack carrier: Unless you want to carry your baby the entire hike, this is an absolute must. There are loads of backpack carriers to chose from. Based on your preference, needs and size the brand you chose will vary. We have a Luvdbaby backpack carrier and are very satisfied with it for longer day hikes. We like that this pack comes with a sunshade and a rain cover. I highly recommend looking for a pack that comes with both of those because you never know what weather conditions will be and they can change quickly out on the trail.
Sun protection for head: I prefer to use a bandana because I find that Rory chews on the hat drawstring often and it becomes a choking hazard. A bandana will protect the baby too. While it doesn’t have a large rim all around the head it will still protect a large surface area of the baby’s head. If your backpack carrier comes with shade protection that is secondary sun protection! I always have the bandana on and sunshade up. I like to always have a sunhat in the pack in case we stop at a river or stream and that way he will have the hat option for full protection while splashing in the water.
Sunscreen and bugspray: Sunscreen is a must for yourself and an absolute must for your baby! We reapply sunscreen on the baby multiple times during a day’s hike. Try to grab a small size for space-saving in the pack. Depending on where you live you may not need bug spray but I know we need it here in Minnesota!
Spray bottle: We found that a small spray bottle was perfect for hot summer day hikes. We squirt Rory in the face/head frequently to keep him cool especially in areas where there aren’t water sources to cool off.
Grab toy for baby (perks to you if it doubles as hydration): This can be something very small. At first, we attached a small baby toy to the backpack for Rory to play with but that interest did not last long. He currently loves to play with my camelback bladder straw. This is a win-win because every time he whacks me in the head it is a reminder I need to hydrate!
Snacks: Chances are you are packing snacks for yourself so don’t forget about baby! I like to bring clementines as a snack because they help keep Rory hydrated. Other simple ideas are cheese sticks, baby teethers, and yogurt melts.
Diapers and wipes: Depending on how long your hike is going to be you can pack the right amount of diapers. You know how often your baby’s diaper gets changed. I usually pack at least one extra than needed but it’s always good to have a backup plus diapers are a fairly lightweight item. To reduce the wipe weight either grab a travel-size wipe or my advice is to grab a regular pack when it’s running low and toss it in the hiking pack. Be sure to add poop bags and hand sanitizer to the pack, too!
Spare clothes/layers for baby: Weather can change quickly out on the trail and it’s important to have proper clothing. Top musts are a wind layer and rain jacket. One of the first rainy hikes we took Rory out on we did not have a spare change of clothes and his pants got soaked. He was cold by the time we got back to the car.
Water filter: Depending on how much water you are able to carry on you, it may be a good idea to have a water filter with you. You will need to stay hydrated yourself especially with carrying an extra 30 pounds on your back. It’s also important to have the peace of mind you’ll have enough water to make a bottle. Again think about the possibility of being out on a hike longer than intended. It’s better to be prepared.
Emergency GPS tracker: I highly recommend investing in something like this. While they are expensive, they can also save a life in an emergency situation. If you are just planning to hike in local areas this may not be a “need” but if you are planning to hike in the backcountry with a baby these items should be highly considered.
Emergency kit equipped with baby safe items: Babies needs differ from adult needs when it comes to emergencies. Things like band aids, gauze and tweezers can be used on adults and baby but when it comes to medicine you need to make sure to have baby safe dosages. We simply added baby safe items to the first aid kit we’ve always had. I am always sure to have Baby Benadryl in the kit.
Staying in on a rainy day but still want a hiking incorporated into the day? Rory loves flipping through his Mrs. Peanuckle’s Hiking Alphabet book!
And please refrain from hiking in flip flops while carrying a baby and looking over Mesa Arch in Canyonlands like this tourist right here….
