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So I thought I’d share my top 8 things to pack for a day hike, so that you’re a hero on your next adventure too.
I’m happy to admit that I over complicated things at first, but after some long breaths and rational thinking I’ve managed to make our hiking setup pretty straight forward.
I’ve also kept things as close to what I would take on a kid-less hike, so that there are no unexpected surprises.
What I wear
My approach to clothing is to keep it simple and easy. There is nothing worse than taking your pack, and kid off, every time you need to change layers. Also remember that you’re now a dad so it’s ok to be daggy. Embrace it!
Headwear
I’m a big fan of local headwear brand Fractel - especially their L-Series Legionnaires. Not only is it super breathable for warm QLD summers, but it gives great protection to your ears and neck both from the elements and for when your kid decides to stick their fingers in your ears. Or tug on your mullet.
Clothing
Clothing is all about function. Anything that is lightweight and breathable, while still giving you protection is a win in my book.
With this in mind, I love the Kuhl Airspeed Longsleeve Shirt - it’s super light weight, breathable, durable and has some chest pockets to stash something small. Like kid snacks.
I used to be a bit of a hater of zip-off pants but now I own a pair I can totally see why people love them. My choice is the Patagonia Quandary Convertible Pants they are really light, have easily removable legs. And when in short mode they aren’t too short. They also don’t look too dorky so you can get away with wearing them for a post-hike refreshment without looking too much like a wannabe adventure Dad.
No matter the forecast I always pack my North Face Dryzzle Futrelight Jacket. Obviously it works great for when the rain starts to fall but it also has a bunch of hidden super powers.
Because it’s an adult size it can easily be used as a poncho that covers your kid and kid carrier if the weather gets a bit ugly. It’s durable so you can use it mid-hike as a picnic blanket and it packs down nice and small, so it doesn’t take up much room in your pack.
Footwear
Full blown trekking boots might be overkill for a day hike but hear me out.
There are two big differences you need to consider when hiking with your kid. The first is that you are now carrying anywhere up to 20kg more extra weight then you’re used to and you’re carrying precious cargo. So you need to make sure every foot you place is perfect and doesn’t leave any chance of a fall or injury. My choice for this is the Scarpa Rush Trek GTS. They are a burly boot, with a super grippy sole and are capable of anything you are going to do with your kid. They are also pretty light and breathable compared to other similar style boots on the market.
Backpack
Just like a regular hiking pack, getting the right kid carrier is super important. I tried a few before landing on the Osprey Poco LT. For the carrier, it has a back system that gives great adjustable support, while also being breathable. It has room for a hydration bladder and hip pockets that give lots of room for goodies or more kid snacks. For the passenger there is a bunch of padding, a comfy and adjustable fit system and even a removable shade cover.
Under the seat there is a bunch of room for other gear with the whole pack being built on a lightweight, folding frame which also means you can stand the pack up on the ground.
Regarding hydration bladders, I only started using one recently as I was a bit paranoid about my son biting the valve off. So user discretion is advised.
Note: Remember that if you are carrying your kid, they won’t be working anywhere near as hard as you. So it’s important to consider the conditions and dress them appropriately. Just because you’re sweaty and hot, doesn’t mean they are. Likewise goes for sun protection. Often they’ll only cry out because of the sun, when it’s already done the damage.
Regularly I’d take a longsleeve, ultralight puffer jacket, in case things turn south, but I’ve found carting a whole jacket around is a bit of overkill in Queensland. So instead I take my The North Face Aconcagua Vest. It still packs down super small and is super light, like a normal puffer but it has a durable outer so it can take some abuse from a kiddie and it’s made up of a 50/50 recycled down/poly fill, so washing it is nice and easy. It also makes a great pillow if your passenger wants to take a mid-hike nap.
First Aid
The sad truth is things do sometimes go wrong, so it’s important to be prepped.
The Kea Outdoors Basic Medical Pack has pretty much everything you’ll need to fix problems you might encounter on a day hike and it’s packed into a neat little package. I also take some extra Bluey bandaids as they are great for fixing anything the medical pack can’t.
I’m yet to use a survival straw (or similar) in any life or death situation, kid or no kid, but I always carry one just in case. The new Lifestraw SIP Reusable Straw is perfect and can easily be used by a kid if need be. I did get my son to try out my OG Lifestraw and he wasn’t a fan. The SIP is so close to a real straw that he doesn’t seem to mind.
Getting outdoors with your kids is the best thing that you can imagine. Happy Fathers Day to all the adventure Dads out there and happy hiking.
Not sure what gear you need for your adventure? Chat with our friendly team of Outdoor Gear Specialists in-store or online today, and don’t forget to share your adventures with us on Instagram by tagging @wildearthaustralia in your next post.
