If there’s one thing I’ve learned about hiking with kids, it’s this: being prepared can make the difference between a wonderful adventure and a meltdown-filled disaster. But preparation doesn’t mean carrying your entire house on your back. Over time, we’ve found the balance between packing what’s essential and leaving the rest at home.
So if you’re wondering what to bring on a hike with kids, here’s a peek inside our hiking backpack — what we actually carry on family hikes, why each item matters, and how you can streamline your own packing.
Choosing the Right Backpack
Before we even talk about what to pack, let’s start with the backpack itself. A good backpack makes all the difference when you’re carrying gear (and sometimes even carrying your kids!).
I've created a guide here to help you pick the right backpack.
What We Pack for a Hike with Kids
Here’s our go-to family hiking packing list. Some items are non-negotiable every time, while others depend on the length of the hike, the season, and the ages of the kids.
1. Snacks (lots of them!)
If you’ve hiked with kids before, you’ll know that snacks are the secret weapon. Honestly, snacks probably take up more space in our pack than anything else — and that’s okay. Our favourites include:
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Oaty bars
- Bananas / apples
- Veggie sticks - not much in way of nourishment but keeps the kids happy
- Peanut butter sandwiches
2. Water
We never underestimate how much water the kids will drink on a hike. Whether you prefer water bottles or a hydration bladder, make sure you bring plenty. Each child has their own lightweight bottle, and we carry a larger family bottle as backup.
3. Extra Layers
Weather changes quickly on the trail particularly as you gain elevation. Even in summer, we pack:
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A lightweight jacket or fleece
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Warm hats and gloves (for higher or windier trails)
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Extra socks (wet feet = unhappy kids)
4. Sun Protection
If its a sunny days:
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Sun hats
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Sunglasses (if they’ll keep them on!)
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Sunscreen (we like a stick for quick reapplications)
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SPF lip balm
5. First Aid Essentials
Scraped knees and bug bites are part of the deal, so we keep a small family-friendly first aid kit stocked with plasters, antiseptic wipes, blister pads, and allergy cream.
6. Wipes & Hand Sanitiser
Between sticky snack hands and trailside toilet stops, we never head out without these.
7. “Nice-to-Haves”
These are optional but often come in handy:
- Binoculars or a magnifying glass for trail discoveries
- A small toy or book to entertain little ones during breaks
- A tripod if you want family photos beyond the classic “squash-your-heads-together selfie”
Final Thoughts: Pack Smart, Hike Happy
Packing for a hike with kids doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The trick is finding the right balance — carrying what you actually need while leaving behind the “just in case” items that weigh you down. With a little preparation (and plenty of snacks), you’ll be set for a fun and memorable family adventure outdoors.
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