Essential Gear for Backpacking with a Baby
Backpacking with a baby is an amazing adventure, but it requires careful planning and the right gear. Here’s a guide to the absolute necessities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby.
I am specifically writing this in response to a moms question on my Instagram channel. She wanted to know the absolute essentials for a baby backpacker that is one years old.
In preparation for any outdoor adventure, make sure to pack the ten essentials: a first aid kit with bandages and pain relievers, a portable shelter for safety if plans change, a navigation system that includes a GPS app along with a map and compass as a backup, sun protection like sunglasses and sunscreen, extra food as an emergency supply in case of delays, extra clothing in layers to adapt to changing weather, insulation in the form of outer layers to keep warm and dry, a reliable supply of extra water or a way to treat non-potable sources, a headlamp for bright, long-lasting light during emergencies, and a multi-tool for various tasks to ensure you're well-prepared for any situation.
The main things you need are a baby carrier, safety gear, appropriate layers, baby supplies, feeding supplies, and sleep essentials. I list out and go over more details below!
With my suggestions, I have added affiliate links that don't cost anything extra for you but do help get more kids outdoors at Kids Who Explore. Thank you for supporting us!
Baby Carrier
Trail Magik: For kids aged one year and older, consider the Trail Magik carrier, which provides the lightest and most convenient way to get into camp. Some families complain that it isn't super comfortable and puts weight on your shoulders. For me, I wouldn't consider another carrier as the light and durable materials have stood up well in the backcountry and I have been able to carry my baby safely in and out of camp. I always backpack with my 65 L Aura pack by Osprey so the trail magik is perfectly paired with a big backpack. I do not want to bring any soft shell into camp that ultimately gets super dirty doesn't dry fast. Babies must be a year to ride in the trail magik.
Safety Gear, Navigation & Communication
Baby First Aid Kit: Bring a comprehensive first aid kit that includes baby-safe items like fever reducers and band-aids. I always bring baby tylenol.
SOS Device/Phone: For emergencies, carry a signaling device, such as a personal locator beacon (PLB), to keep you connected in remote areas.
GPS or Map: Always carry a reliable map or GPS device for your hiking route.
Additional Ten Essentials: Sun protection, headlamp for night, multi-tool,
Appropriate Clothing for Baby
Non-Cotton Base Layer: Dress your baby in a non-cotton base layer (use kidswhoexplore2023 as a discount code) to wick moisture away and keep them dry, especially in cooler conditions. Try to pack an extra incase of getting wet or blowout situations.
Layers for After Dark: Prepare for temperature drops at night; bring insulating layers like fleece to keep your baby warm. I also pack a puffy for my baby because the Canadian Rockies is a lot cooler in the evenings.
Toque: Don’t forget a warm hat (toque) to protect your baby's head and ears from the cold. I usually have to have my kids in toques while sleeping at night because it does get really cold for us.
Extra Socks: Bring an extra pair of wool socks to keep babes feet warm.
Baby Supplies
Diapering Supplies: Pack enough diapers and wipes. Bring a drysack or ziploc to pack out soiled diapers.
Soother: Bring along a favorite toy or pacifier to help soothe your baby.
Feeding Essentials, Hydration, & Nutrition
Bottles & Formula: If your baby is formula-fed, pack enough bottles and formula for the trip.
Snacks: Always bring some extras for baby that are super light if possible. I did pack baby food pouches and baby oatmeal too.
Water Filter System: Carry a portable water filter system to ensure safe drinking water during your hike.
Stove to Boil Water for Bottles: Bring a portable stove for boiling water, ensuring you have safe, warm water for bottles.
Sleep Essentials
Baby Safe Sleeping Bag: Choose a lightweight sleeping bag designed specifically for babies to ensure warmth and comfort during sleep.
Closed Cell Mat: Bring a closed cell foam mat to provide insulation and comfort while your baby sleeps and I put a therma-rest under. Once my kids turned one, these use the kids sleeping pad by MEC.
Tent or Shelter: Choose a lightweight tent that provides enough space and ensure it has good ventilation.
Sleeping Arrangement: Make sure your baby's sleeping setup is safe and comfortable using the baby safe sleeping bag on the closed cell mat.
Find everything I use when tent camping with a baby here.
Conclusion
Backpacking with a baby requires thoughtful preparation, but with the right essentials, you can share the beauty of nature with your baby. Take it slowly, listen to your baby’s needs, and enjoy the adventure!
Final Tip
Always check the weather and local regulations before heading out, and choose trails that are suitable for families with young kids. If you are in Alberta, I have some family-friendly trail suggestions for you.
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