10 Things To Take On Every Backpacking Trip

This post was originally written in July of 2017, but I wanted to bring it back around since it still is very applicable today and we make sure to bring these 1o things on every backpacking trip.

10 Things To Take On Every Backpacking Trip

Let’s be real here. Packing for a trip can sometimes be a little daunting (especially with kids). There are always the what if’s and uncertainty of what could happen on your trip. A backpacking trip could even be a little bit more daunting. You have to be prepared for any kind of weather, have some way to make food, and have somewhere to sleep. We have been on quite a few backpacking/camping trips with our kiddos so hopefully some of these will help ease that daunting feeling and get you ready for your next trip. Some of these might seem pretty obvious but they are things we make sure to take on all of our adventures.

1. Start With The Basics

Food and water = Life. Plain and simple. A full belly makes a happy camper. Snacks are the ultimate key to happiness, so bring plenty! You also need to figure out a cooking system. Depending on the food you bring and the adventure you are going on will determine what you bring. Whether its a traditional stove, a homemade stove or no stove at all, you’ll need a way to prepare your meals.

2. Water Filter

I love water and sure as heck don’t want Guardia!

3. First Aid Kit

Cause when you are an adventurer, you can get hurt sometimes.

Band-Aids
Burn cream
Allergy pills
Tylenol/Ibuprofen
Pocket Knife – That has scissors, tweezers.
Gauze
Athletic tape/Duct tape

4.Rain Gear

Rain coat, poncho, trash bag, tarp, fly or what ever else you think might keep you dry. Anything that will keep you a little dryer is better then nothing at all. We also line our packs with a trash bag so everything inside will stay dry.

5. Fire Starter

Lighter, flint and steel, matches, or hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer is flammable, so its a great multi-use for (cleaning hands, or using to help start a fire).

6. Grocery/Ziploc Bag

With kids anything can happen. Blowouts, vomit, pee, a nasty diaper, or just soaking wet clothes. It is nice to have a designated spot to put that nasty stuff.

7. GPS/Map (Prep First)

Before you even need a GPS or map, make sure you know where you are going. Do a little research and make a plan. Learn and become familiar with an area before you go out. A GPS is great, but make sure it is fully charged, will work with no service and is up to date.

8. Tent/Tarp

You need something. If you feel extra adventurous go ahead and make your own shelter once your out in the wild. But having some kind of covering to protect to you from the rain, wind, and bugs is always with us.

9. Sleep System

Staying warm is the ticket for a good night. Sleeping bag, backpacking quilt, layers, designated sleeping socks, beanie, and a pad.

10. Light

You can get by with out a light, but if you ever get stuck hiking later then you thought then they are life savers. Hiking in the dark is no bueno!

*Bonus: 11. Sun Protection

You lucky duck. We are giving you a bonus. Hopefully to save you some pain. I get sunburnt way to easy! We use quick dry, long sleeve shirts that have a collar and are easy to roll up. These are nice because the collar will protect your neck and can be used as short or long sleeve. So it can work as an extra layer too.

5 Tips For Backpacking With Kids: Starting With The Basics

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