{"id":529,"date":"2024-02-20T14:18:04","date_gmt":"2024-02-20T14:18:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/?p=529"},"modified":"2024-02-20T14:18:04","modified_gmt":"2024-02-20T14:18:04","slug":"get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Get Kids Into Backpacking (Dad&#8217;s Advice)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<p>The memories created while backpacking are well worth the blood, sweat and tears that go along with the trips. The best memories are created when we\u2019re out with the ones we love. This leaves many parents wondering how to get their kids into backpacking, so the family can make memories together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>To get kids into backpacking, you first need to prepare for the trip. Start with smaller hikes, and get your kids used to carrying equipment and exerting themselves physically. Learn their limits when it comes to backpack weight and distances, and understand that comfort is key to an enjoyable trip.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s important to understand the best ways to get your kids into backpacking, but also the right ways to do it. There are also safety considerations to take into account, and below we\u2019ll go through everything you need to know to get your kids into backpacking in a safe way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_64 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-662d96e0650e2\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-662d96e0650e2\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Backpacking_Preparation_Is_Key\" title=\"Backpacking Preparation Is Key\">Backpacking Preparation Is Key<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Where_Are_You_Going\" title=\"Where Are You Going?\">Where Are You Going?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Physical_Preparation\" title=\"Physical Preparation\">Physical Preparation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Choosing_The_Right_Footwear\" title=\"Choosing The Right Footwear\">Choosing The Right Footwear<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Other_Backpacking_Essentials_For_Kids\" title=\"Other Backpacking Essentials For Kids\">Other Backpacking Essentials For Kids<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Giving_Kids_Confidence\" title=\"Giving Kids Confidence\">Giving Kids Confidence<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#What_Is_The_Most_Weight_A_Kid_Should_Carry_While_Backpacking\" title=\"What Is The Most Weight A Kid Should Carry While Backpacking?\">What Is The Most Weight A Kid Should Carry While Backpacking?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Ages_0-3\" title=\"Ages 0-3\">Ages 0-3<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Ages_4-7\" title=\"Ages 4-7\">Ages 4-7<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Ages_7\" title=\"Ages 7+\">Ages 7+<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#How_Far_Should_Kids_Go_Backpacking\" title=\"How Far Should Kids Go Backpacking?\">How Far Should Kids Go Backpacking?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Start_With_Light_Day_Hikes\" title=\"Start With Light Day Hikes\">Start With Light Day Hikes<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Other_Things_To_Be_Aware_Of_When_Backpacking_With_Kids\" title=\"Other Things To Be Aware Of When Backpacking With Kids\">Other Things To Be Aware Of When Backpacking With Kids<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#General_Preparedness\" title=\"General Preparedness\">General Preparedness<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Think_About_The_Weather\" title=\"Think About The Weather\">Think About The Weather<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Hiking_In_Wet_Weather_With_Kids\" title=\"Hiking In Wet Weather With Kids\">Hiking In Wet Weather With Kids<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Hiking_In_The_Snow_With_Kids\" title=\"Hiking In The Snow With Kids\">Hiking In The Snow With Kids<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Starter_Backpacking_Trip_Ideas_For_Families\" title=\"Starter Backpacking Trip Ideas For Families\">Starter Backpacking Trip Ideas For Families<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Start_Small\" title=\"Start Small\">Start Small<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Get_Used_To_The_Equipment\" title=\"Get Used To The Equipment\">Get Used To The Equipment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Do_Your_Research\" title=\"Do Your Research\">Do Your Research<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/get-your-kids-into-backpacking-a-dads-sound-advice\/#Final_Thoughts\" title=\"Final Thoughts\">Final Thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Backpacking_Preparation_Is_Key\"><\/span><strong>Backpacking Preparation Is Key<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_Are_You_Going\"><\/span>Where Are You Going?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Learning about the area where you plan to hike is imperative. If we don&#8217;t know where we are going or have basic survival skills, <strong>we can get ourselves into serious trouble<\/strong>. Most importantly, we do not want anything bad to happen to our children when we\u2019re out on a backpacking trip. Preparing our children is the most important thing on our backpacking trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Physical_Preparation\"><\/span>Physical Preparation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As with getting your kids into any new physical activity, <strong>start small<\/strong>. For kids over 3, have them practice carrying a backpack around the house or at a local park. This will pay off in the long run, as they get used to the physical side of backpacking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Choosing_The_Right_Footwear\"><\/span>Choosing The Right Footwear<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to preparing your kids with the right gear, footwear is a great place to start. Your children certainly can&#8217;t carry a pack far without <strong>comfortable, well-fitted hiking shoes<\/strong>. We all have struggled on the trail without the correct footwear. Enjoyment starts at the feet when it comes to hiking or backpacking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/s?k=kids+hiking+boots&amp;?tag=otdrhrzn-20\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/s?k=kids+hiking+boots&amp;?tag=otdrhrzn-20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Here<\/a> are some<strong> examples to consider<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_Backpacking_Essentials_For_Kids\"><\/span>Other Backpacking Essentials For Kids<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, <strong>a sleeping bag, tent, stove, <a href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/are-backpacking-water-filters-safe\/\">water filter<\/a>, and first-aid kit<\/strong> <strong>are essentials<\/strong>. A good light, map, and compass or GPS unit can be helpful too. A multi-tool, knife, and some parachute cord are useful as well. Besides these things, I always like to include something for good morale in my backpack (like reading material, pictures, or a journal).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the party may change, the goals differ, and the distance varies, <strong>we all require similar items for a comfortable and fun trip into the backcountry<\/strong>. These days, there are many lightweight options for sleeping bags, tents, stoves, etc. You\u2019ll learn what the right things are for your child with experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Giving_Kids_Confidence\"><\/span>Giving Kids Confidence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Beginning anything new can seem daunting, but we all have to start somewhere. <strong>A lack of confidence can be the biggest barrier to overcoming a new challenge<\/strong>. So, understand that your child may be scared to go backpacking for the first time. If you can, ease their fears with short trips first, and don\u2019t try to break them in with a 3 day trek across the hills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_The_Most_Weight_A_Kid_Should_Carry_While_Backpacking\"><\/span><strong>What Is The Most Weight A Kid Should Carry While Backpacking?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you are wondering how much weight your child should carry, there are some general guidelines to consider. However, <strong>it is critical to know your child&#8217;s limits<\/strong>, and only pack the essentials. When I plan a trip, I lay everything out first. Then I look at the pile, organize it, and remove any unneeded items. I do this with my son&#8217;s pack as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We need to keep our body and our kid&#8217;s bodies strong. Carrying less weight will <strong>keep everybody comfortable and allow for longer treks<\/strong> \u2013 especially for the little ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ages_0-3\"><\/span>Ages 0-3<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For ages up to three years old, I suggest a front chest pack. Usually, a framed backpack can have internal supports or external metal built on the outside. There are <strong>so many front chest pack options out there<\/strong>, and you\u2019ll find cheap choices <a href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/do-they-have-backpacking-gear-swaps-online\/\">online or at gear swaps<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the early years, kids are going to spend time on their shoulders. They will continue this until they are ready to do the distance on their own. So, <strong>understand that for ages 0-3, your kids are probably going to be unable to carry much weight<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A general rule states that the child should carry <strong>between 0 and 5 percent of their weight<\/strong>. But remember, not every kid is made equal. They all have different requirements and limitations, and you\u2019ll learn very quickly what your child is and is not capable of carrying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ages_4-7\"><\/span>Ages 4-7<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For ages 4-7, 5-10% is a general rule but will vary for some. Most school-age kids should be able to carry about 10 to 15% of their body weight. Again, this is an estimate. <strong>You\u2019ll learn what is the right weight for your child through experience<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You need to consider things like how active your child is, and if they\u2019ve ever hiked with a backpack on before. We don&#8217;t want to set anyone up for failure, injury, discomfort, or a dislike of backpacking. The truth is, until the child is mature enough physically, we as <strong>adults will be carrying most of the weight<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s never a bad idea to <strong>consult your kid&#8217;s pediatrician before you head out<\/strong>. Let them know your plans. Ask if they have any concerns before you go. For example, discuss allergies, physical impairments, or any other medical needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ages_7\"><\/span>Ages 7+<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For children older than 7, the weight they carry will be easier to determine based on what they tell you. By this age, they\u2019ll know <a href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/how-much-a-backpacking-tent-weighs\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"182\">what is too heavy<\/a> for them, and will probably communicate to you very quickly when it\u2019s too much! Again, ensure they are comfortable, and think about factors like <strong>terrain, elevation, weather and distance<\/strong> when packing their backpack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Far_Should_Kids_Go_Backpacking\"><\/span><strong>How Far Should Kids Go Backpacking?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Start_With_Light_Day_Hikes\"><\/span>Start With Light Day Hikes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you and your kids are truly new to backpacking, I recommend <strong>a series of light starter hikes<\/strong>. Kids get accustomed to the rigors of hiking with shorter and easier trails. You can adjust pack weight as they grow stronger. As the trips lengthen your kids will be more prepared for the increased strain on their bodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But remember that every child has a certain limit. Pay attention to this, don&#8217;t put them into harmful positions, and they will grow to love this sport. A general rule some parents follow is to <strong>add a mile on to your hikes each year<\/strong>. As your child gets older, they\u2019ll be able to hike farther, and a mile a year is a good place to start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Toddlers can usually manage 1 mile<\/strong>, one way. <strong>School-age kids can usually do about 2-4 miles<\/strong> one way, depending on how active they are. <strong>Kids 8 years and older might manage 8-10 miles<\/strong>, but these will all vary depending on a variety of factors, important ones being the elevation, terrain and weather of each hike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_Things_To_Be_Aware_Of_When_Backpacking_With_Kids\"><\/span><strong>Other Things To Be Aware Of When Backpacking With Kids<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"General_Preparedness\"><\/span>General Preparedness<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>I highly recommend preparing for all kinds of elements. Essentials include <strong>bug spray, sunscreen, light, fire starters, and bear spray<\/strong>. Also, a map helps keep you safe when your GPS goes down. And don&#8217;t forget the uber-essentials like food, water, and proper clothing, including thermals, shells, and layers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Think_About_The_Weather\"><\/span>Think About The Weather<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the heat, water is crucial. In general, adults require about half a liter of water every hour when hiking. Children usually require less. Each person&#8217;s water requirements depend on needs, physical ability, and conditioning. But remember that the <strong>weather, terrain and elevation of the hike can all increase this general guideline<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When beginning backpacking, <strong>know the water requirements of the people with you<\/strong>. In some cases, you may have to carry more water than anything else. In the colder climates, drinking less water may be possible. You can always invest in a water filtration system too, to limit how much water you need to carry with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hiking_In_Wet_Weather_With_Kids\"><\/span>Hiking In Wet Weather With Kids<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Always cover your pack with a backpack cover if there\u2019s a chance of rain. DIY style tarps and garbage bags work as well. Line the inside with garbage bags or your liner of choice. <a href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/ways-to-have-dry-feet-when-backpacking\/\">Keeping your feet dry<\/a> is crucial, but bringing extra socks is worthless if they are wet. <strong>Always keep your backpacks and clothing dry<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hiking_In_The_Snow_With_Kids\"><\/span>Hiking In The Snow With Kids<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>In the snow, the right clothing is essential<\/strong>. Consider fleece and polyester blends, but light wool blends these days are great too. Nobody wants to hike in an uncomfortably cold state, but you also need to <strong>eliminate the risks of frostbite and hypothermia<\/strong> by wearing the appropriate clothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Starter_Backpacking_Trip_Ideas_For_Families\"><\/span><strong>Starter Backpacking Trip Ideas For Families<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Start_Small\"><\/span>Start Small<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Always start small<\/strong>. Start conditioning or light walking weeks to months before your trip. This will increase your child\u2019s stamina, confidence, and well-being, making it much easier for them to enjoy the real hike when the time comes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Begin with a <a href=\"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/how-to-prepare-for-day-hike\/\">day hike<\/a>. <strong>This allows you and your children to learn what works for everyone<\/strong>, when it comes to distance, backpack weight, and overall enjoyment factors. Then, maybe move on to an overnight camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_Used_To_The_Equipment\"><\/span>Get Used To The Equipment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>All backpacks need some adjusting after you buy them. No matter how good it felt in the store, I encourage people to wear them at home before going on the first hike. This way <strong>you can get used to them and make adjustments<\/strong> in the comfort of your home. Learn how to adjust the pack, or have a professional at a retail store help you. Often, friends and family members can help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The same applies when buying new hiking boots or shoes. Breaking your shoes in beforehand <strong>ensures you don\u2019t need to deal with any nasty blisters on the trail<\/strong>. Equally important is setting up the tent with your kids before you head out. Not only does this help the kids learn before they go, but it also ensures the tent is big enough for everyone on the trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_Your_Research\"><\/span>Do Your Research<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, get to know the area, and learn about the State and Forest Service access points near your chosen camp spot. Learn about public lands and the animals in your area. Most importantly, educate yourself on the flora and fauna you might encounter on your trip, so you can <strong>pack the necessary sprays and repellents<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Thoughts\"><\/span><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Getting your kids into backpacking is all about preparing them physically beforehand, building confidence, and understanding their limits. By preparing for the trip well in advance, you can ensure everyone knows what to expect, and is able to enjoy the trip as much as possible.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":1890,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"default","ast-site-content-layout":"","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[95],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/529"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=529"}],"version-history":[{"count":51,"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/529\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2544,"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/529\/revisions\/2544"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1890"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=529"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=529"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/outdoorhorizon.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=529"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}