What to Pack for Outdoor Adventures with Kids
September 5, 2025Going outside to explore can be lots of fun, especially with curious kids! To stay safe and healthy, it’s important to plan ahead and pack all the correct things that you may need. Whether it’s just for a short walk, longer hike, or full camping trip, here’s everything you should consider packing for your family:
Clothes & Shoes
It’s important to look at the expected weather before leaving so you can dress appropriately. Wear layers so you can add or take off clothing if it gets warmer or colder. A good place to start is a sweat-wicking base top and bottom, and closed-toe shoes with good support. Other things to keep in mind are potentially bringing sweaters, warm jackets and raincoats to keep you comfortable in all conditions. It’s also recommended that you bring hats and sunglasses to protect the eyes and scalp. Consider bringing an extra set of clothes and socks in case you may get dirty or wet.
Sun & Bug Protection
Sunburn and bug bites can ruin the fun. Put on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before going outside and remember to put it on again every two hours or after swimming. Lip balm with sunscreen also helps protect lips from sun and wind.
Use bug spray with DEET to keep mosquitoes and ticks away. You should check kids often for ticks, especially if you are in tall grass or woods. It’s also a good idea to do a thorough check for ticks when you first get home from your adventure.
First-Aid Kit
Bring a small first-aid kit with bandages, gauze, tape and antiseptic wipes to clean cuts. Include medicine like children’s pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen) and cream for bug bites or rashes. Don’t forget any prescription medicines your child needs. Adding a card with important phone numbers, such as your pediatrician’s, can be helpful in emergencies. Also pack tweezers and scissors to help with small injuries.
Food & Water
Bring plenty of water and remind kids to drink often. Pack easy-to-eat, nutritious snacks like fruit, granola bars or nuts to keep fueling all the fun! If you’re camping overnight, keep food in coolers and store it away from where you sleep. Cook food well and clean your hands before eating. Make sure to look at location-specific instructions for food storage, especially in areas with bears.
Safety Tools
Bring a map and a compass so you don’t get lost. Teach kids to stay on marked trails and not to wander off alone. Pro tip: Kids can carry a whistle to call for help if they do get lost.
Even if you’re not planning on being out until dark, it’s important to bring a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries and a multi-tool.
Other Important Items
Bring hand sanitizer and wipes to keep hands clean. Don’t forget trash bags to keep the area clean and remember that everything you bring out into nature should come back out with you.
Packing the right things helps kids stay safe and enjoy the outdoors. Remember to research the location you’re planning to go to for any specific rules or regulations. With good preparation, outdoor adventures will be fun and safe for the whole family!
