Wondering what to take with you when hiking with a kid between the ages of 1 and 3? Here’s a list of must-have gear for your outdoor adventure.

1. Proper Hiking Toddler Attire: Layers Are Key

Toddlers aren’t naturally great at regulating their own temperature or communicating discomfort, so you have to be on top of this while hiking with them. Make sure to dress your little one in layers for his hike—ideally, moisture-wicking ones made of polyester or (even better) merino wool. I avoid cotton in all seasons because once it gets wet (and it will), it makes kids feel cold and damp. Here’s what works best:

• Waterproof Layers: For muddy days, rain pants are a lifesaver, while a full rainsuit is a must for truly rainy weather. We love gear from Therm Kids and Reima, but this OAKI rainsuit has also been a long time favorite of ours! In snowy conditions, your best bet is a waterproof snowsuit.
• Comfortable Shoes: Choose lightweight shoes that suit the season, and make sure they feel comfortable with thicker socks in colder weather. Get the right fit: tight shoes cause discomfort and cold feet, while oversized shoes become a tripping hazard for little ones. For summer, we love Keen’s Newport Sandals, and our favorite rainy day boot is from Crocs. Winter shoes for toddlers are challenging, but we have had the best success with Stonz and Boggs boots.
• Extra Layers: If you’re unsure about the weather, pack a few extra layers in your bag just to be safe. Better to have them and not need them! This is especially important for those mittens and hats that your toddler will refuse to wear until their fingers and ears are freezing. Trust me – you will be happy to have them when that time comes.

Pro Tip: Check out my guide for dressing kids in the winter.

2. Pack Minimal Diapering Supplies

No need to overpack your hiking bag here. I usually bring 1-2 diapers and a small travel pack of baby wipes. Around the time my kids turned 18 months, we switched to standing diaper changes, which meant I didn’t need to carry a changing pad on the hike anymore. And don’t forget to bring a Ziploc bag for any poopy diapers you might need to pack out.

When potty training your hiking toddler, you have a few options:

• Bring extra layers for accidents, which works best in the summer. In colder months, when you rely on insulated layers for warmth, getting them wet on the trail is the last thing you want.
• During colder seasons, when kids are extra bundled, using pull-ups as a temporary emergency solution often makes sense. Treat them like underwear and offer regular potty breaks to help your toddler stay in the habit.
• If you prefer not to use pull-ups, consider waterproof underwear or cloth trainers. These options let your toddler feel wet without soaking through their layers in case of an accident.

3. Snacks, Snacks, and More Snacks for Hiking Energy

Toddlers eat A LOT, and on the trail, it feels like they’re hungry every 30 minutes. I like to pack several small, bite-sized snacks to keep things easy. Here are a few of my go-to options:

• Mini Sandwiches: PB&J or PB&Nutella sandwiches cut into small squares are perfect for a protein-dense lunch
• Trail Snacks: Granola bars, fruit/veggie pouches, and crackers are all easy to grab on the go.
• Hardy fruits veggies: sliced apples and baby carrots do very well on the trail; bring a dip like hummus or nut butter for extra protein.
• Sweet Incentives: Gummy bears, jelly beans, and M&Ms make excellent motivators: “Once we get to the big tree, you can have a gummy bear!” Works like a charm.

What Not to Bring: For shorter toddler hikes, I avoid food items that can get extra messy (such as yogurt), fruits that are fragile (nobody wants a mushy banana), or anything that requires utensils. I feel like that’s just more stuff for me to carry!

4. Water: Don’t Forget to Hydrate on the Trail

Toddlers often forget to drink water, so I frequently remind them to stay hydrated during hikes. Pack their favorite water bottle and refill it from your larger one as needed. Choose a bottle that’s lightweight, leakproof, and easy for them to use. We’ve had great success with Contigo bottles, but we’ve also reused juice bottles. They’re fun, leakproof, perfectly sized for toddler hands, and easy to replace if lost or damaged.

5. Baby Carrier: Yes, Even for Hiking Toddlers

If you thought you’d retired your baby carrier—surprise! It can often come in handy on hikes with a toddler. My kids used a carrier regularly until they were 3 years old, and I always packed one for hikes. Hikes, having a soft-structured carrier handy is a great backup option if your little one decides they’re done walking, or has a meltdown. Our favorite toddler-sized and preschool-sized carriers are made by Kinderpack.

6. Small First Aid Kit

Toddlers are accident-prone while hiking, so having a few essentials is key. I always carry some antibacterial cream and a few band-aids—trust me, you’ll use them at some point. Artificial tears can also be a lifesaver if dust or dirt gets in their eyes.

Optional: A Backpack for Your Hiking Toddler

When my kids turned 3, I introduced small backpacks on hikes. It’s a fun way to get them used to carrying their own gear—sometimes I pack extra layers, other times just a snack and water bottle. But be warned: younger toddlers may enjoy it at first, then quickly tire of carrying it, leaving you with an extra pack. Even worse, they might fill their tiny backpack with rocks… so proceed with caution!

What Not to Bring to the Trail: Toys

I can’t tell you how many times my kids begged me to bring a toy on the trail, and every single time, I ended up carrying it. Or worst – we lost it! Trust me—leave the toys at home where they are safe and actually played with. If the kids want to play, they’ll find plenty of entertainment in rocks, sticks, and leaves.

Hiking with a toddler becomes so much fun when you prepare with the right gear. The key is to embrace the slow pace, enjoy the journey, and pack smart. With these essentials for what to take hiking with a toddler, you’ll be ready for your next adventure!

Read More:

• Hiking With a Toddler: Starting Small and Loving the Journey
• How to Dress Kids in Winter: Keeping Your Little Ones Warm in Alaska (or Anywhere Else!)
• Baby Hiking Gear to Simplify Your Adventures
• Can You Hike with a Baby? Absolutely! Here’s How I Did It in Alaska.
• What to Take Hiking With a Toddler: Essential Gear and Tips
• First Flight with a Toddler: A Practical Survival Guide for Parents

The post What to Take Hiking with a Toddler: Essential Gear and Tips appeared first on Clarice In Wanderland.

Why? Well, babies are generally happy to go anywhere—provided that their basic needs are met. As long as they are dry, fed, and cozy, most babies will be perfectly content even on outdoor adventures. In fact, don’t be surprised if your little one takes some their best naps while you are out hiking!

Babies are also pretty portable, which means you can go longer distances and keep a steadier pace without having to stop every few minutes to herd a distracted toddler. Compared to managing an older child, hiking with a baby can actually feel simpler. Of course, the right baby hiking gear will make your adventure even smoother.

Here’s what you need to know before you hit the trail.

Essential Baby Hiking Gear You’ll Want to Bring Along

While hiking with a baby doesn’t require the latest, most expensive gear, a few essential items will make your trek more enjoyable. And good news—you probably already have most of these things at home!

1. Baby Carrier or Hiking Backpack

A solid baby carrier or hiking backpack is crucial for hiking with a baby. If you have a favorite baby carrier, take it for a longer walk before your hike to see how comfortable it feels over time. Features like good back support and breathable fabric are key to ensuring both of you are comfortable on the trail.

Babies under six months should be carried in your front using a soft-structured carrier. For older and heavier babies, a soft-structured carrier on your back or a hiking backpack will help you find better footing on the trail. Bonus: many hiking backpacks also offer storage space for your other essentials.

PRO TIP: Choose the baby carrier that is most comfortable for both you and your baby. In fact, I have hiked using a Happy Baby Carrier, a Kinderpack, and a Deuter carrier. Baby carriers are like jeans – they do not fit two people the same way. Before you invest on an expensive carrier, try as many as you can to check their fit. You can borrow from friends or try them at stores like REI.

2. Weather-Appropriate Clothing

You don’t need to buy specialized hiking clothes for your baby, but it is essential to dress them for the weather. Layers are your best friend when hiking with a baby – they help regulate temperature as you move through different environments or weather conditions.

Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking materials when it’s warm, and bring along cozy, insulated layers for when it’s cold (check out the three-layer system for dressing kids for winter weather). Remember, babies in a soft-structured carrier benefit from your body heat, so they may not need as many layers. On the other hand, babies in a hiking backpack (who are both separated from your body and less active) might need extra layers to stay warm.

PRO TIP: Hiking backpacks have brand-specific rain/wind covers that will help keep your baby protected from the elements. For babies on soft-structured carriers, there are generic babywearing covers that can be used to keep them dry and warm. In a pinch, I have also zipped up an oversized jacket over my front-packed baby to keep them dry and warm (and this jacket extender was a life-saver). Finally, this All-Weather Fleece Onesie from Therm Kids was one of our very favorite outer layers for almost all seasons, except the coldest of winter (use code CLARICE10 for 10% off).

3. Diapering Essentials

No need to lug around a bulky diaper bag when hiking with a baby. Pack only the essentials—1-2 diapers, a travel-sized pack of baby wipes, and a small changing pad if you have one (though honestly, I’ve used my jacket as a makeshift changing pad more than once). A gallon Ziploc for dirty diapers will contain any mess or odors until you can dispose of them properly.

PRO TIP: If your preferred baby carrier does not include storage space, pack a small lightweight backpack. You can wear the baby on your front and backpack on your back, or reverse them. A fanny pack is also a good choice!

4. Water and Snacks

Staying hydrated is important for everyone on the trail, especially if you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding your baby. Pack plenty of water for yourself, and make sure to take hydration breaks. If your baby has started eating solids, pack a few easy-to-eat snacks. Baby-friendly fruit or veggie pouches are a great option because they’re convenient, low-mess, and easy to manage on the go.

If you’ve brought along a travel changing pad, it can double as a seat for you while feeding or for your baby while they enjoy their snack. Or, again, use your trusty jacket!

Tips for a Successful Baby Hike (Beyond the Gear)

Even with the right baby hiking gear, there are a few extra tips that will help make your hike more enjoyable.

Start with Shorter, Easier Trails

If it’s your first time hiking with a baby, start small. Choose a trail that’s easy to navigate and not too far from home. This will give you a chance to test your gear and gauge how your baby reacts to the experience. Plus, if something doesn’t go as planned, you won’t be too far from your car or other conveniences.

Go at Your Own Pace

One of the joys of hiking with a baby is that you’re mostly free to go at your own pace. Babies are usually pretty content as long as they’re comfortable, so make sure to take breaks when your baby needs a snack or diaper change. Hiking with a baby is about the experience, not about covering miles and climbing feet as quickly as possible.

Find Good Company

If going into the wilderness alone with your little one feels like too much – invite other moms with babies to join you. There is safety in numbers and you will get a chance to talk with another adult while your baby takes in the sights (or a nap)!

Be Flexible

Babies are unpredictable, so flexibility is key. You might need to cut your hike short, change your route, or stop more often than expected. That’s okay! Being adaptable ensures that both you and your baby have a positive experience, even if the day doesn’t go exactly as planned.

Conclusion: Get Out There with the Right Baby Hiking Gear

Hiking with a baby doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With just a few pieces of essential baby hiking gear and a little preparation, you and your little one can enjoy the great outdoors together. So, gather up what you already have at home, pack your backpack, and head out to the nearest trail for some fresh air and adventure. There’s nothing like sharing the beauty of nature with your baby by your side!

Note: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Read More:

• Hiking With a Toddler: Starting Small and Loving the Journey
• How to Dress Kids in Winter: Keeping Your Little Ones Warm in Alaska (or Anywhere Else!)
• Baby Hiking Gear to Simplify Your Adventures
• Can You Hike with a Baby? Absolutely! Here’s How I Did It in Alaska.
• What to Take Hiking With a Toddler: Essential Gear and Tips
• First Flight with a Toddler: A Practical Survival Guide for Parents

The post Baby Hiking Gear To Simplify Your Adventures appeared first on Clarice In Wanderland.

This Isn’t Your Average Quick-Outing Guide

If you’re just running errands and will be hopping in and out of the car, dressing how I am going to describe below is a bit much. Most importantly, remember that children should never wear these many layers while riding on their car seats. However, if you’re planning to actually spend time outside—think sledding, hiking, or even just playing in the snow for more than a few minutes—this guide is for you. Trust me, wearing the right layers is key when dressing your kids for winter fun!

The Three-Layer Rule: Dressing Kids for Winter Fun

Here’s the magic formula for keeping your kids (and yourself) properly dressed in winter: three layers. It’s simple but works like a charm.

1. Base Layer: Keep Kids Warm and Sweat-Free

The base layer is super important. You want something snug and moisture-wicking, made of a fabric like polyester or merino wool. The goal here is to keep sweat off the skin, so your kids stay dry and warm. Stay away from cotton! Cotton absorbs moisture and will leave them feeling damp and cold—nobody wants that.

I usually find my base layers second-hand on Facebook marketplace. As long as something is made or 100% merino wool or polyester, snug fitting, and has a good price, I will purchase it. I have also found inexpensive base layers at stores like Costco and REI.

My Picks:

• 32 Degrees Base Layer – if you have access to a Costco, you can purchase these for adults and kids for super affordable prices. These were the first base layers we invested on, and we still use them for mild winter days or cold summer days
• Reima Base Layers for Kids – our favorite outdoor gear brand has base layers in a range of materials and price points, starting at infant sizes (which are notoriously hard to find at other stores)

2. Mid Layer: Insulate for Warmth in the Coldest Days

This layer is all about trapping body heat and keeping the warmth circulating. It should be a bit looser so that it can fit over the base layer—think cozy, not snug. You can often find solid mid-layers second-hand, which is a total win. Fleece is a great budget option – brands like Columbia, North Face, and REI all carry good top and bottom fleece layers! If you want to go all out or if you live in a very cold climate, wool is where it’s at (as usual).

My Picks:

• Reima Mid Layer Selection – lots of options in a wide price range
• Our Favorite Mid Layer Jumpsuit – just the best for mobility and warmth!

3. Outer Layer: Dress to Protect Kids from the Winter Elements

The outer layer is your child’s defense against the snow, wind, and rain. It should be insulated, waterproof, and roomy enough to fit over the other layers. If you are going to invest in one solid great-quality layer for your children, focus on the outer layer – especially if your kids love being outside all winter long and hate being cold and wet. I strongly prefer one-piece snowsuits for my young children – it keeps them warmer and prevents snow from falling into their pants or sneaking into their jackets. Pants and jackets should work fine for older children if that is what they prefer.

My Picks:

• Therm Kids Snowrider Collection – Canadian-made with an affordable price point for quality gear
• Reima Snowsuits – excellent gear made for the Nordic winters and will last through several kids (Stavanger and Gotland and tried and true styles for us)

Don’t Forget the Cold Weather Accessories!

Once you’ve got the three layers down, it’s time to think about the extras—because cold fingers, toes, and ears can ruin a good snow day real quick no matter how well dressed your kid might be. You can’t go wrong with any of Reima’s winter accessories, or read below for some alternative options.

• Hats or Balaclavas: Go for synthetic or wool materials to keep those little heads warm.
  • Kids Sherpa Hat – Great for little kids who pull their hats off
  • Smartwool Hat – I love this hat for myself and it is the only one my oldest will use because it is soft and malleable
• Waterproof Mittens or Gloves: Cold hands are a no-go. Invest in waterproof, insulated gloves or mittens. I personally find that mittens work best especially for younger kids whose fingers refuse to go into gloves correctly.
  • Stonz Baby Mittens – Thumbless mittens are best for babies and very young toddlers.
  • L-Bow Mittens – These go up to little kid’s elbows and are less likely to fall off
  • Gordini Easy On Mittens – The long size zipper makes it easier to put these mittens on
  • Reima Mittens and Gloves – Reima carries mittens and gloves for all kinds of weather and they are all great
• Wool Socks: Say it with me—no cotton! Wool socks will keep their feet warm and dry.
  • Affordable Kid Wool Socks – You cannot go wrong with these for the price point
  • Carhart Toddler Socks – Our go-to socks for milder weather because they have no cotton in them
  • Carhart Kid Socks – Same as above but for bigger kids
• Waterproof Boots: Look for lightweight, waterproof, insulated boots with room for thick socks. Make sure they aren’t too tight, though—tight shoes can make feet colder by cutting off circulation. I find that children can be very particular about what shoes they will wear, so try a few different brands if you must. Good ones are Reima, Boggs, Merrell, Stonz, and Baffin.
  • Reima Baby Winter Footwear – non-mobile babies will do great with these booties!
  • L-Bow Baby Winter Booties – same as above, but a little more affordable
  • Stonz Scout and Trek Boots – The Scout is the younger toddler version of the Trek and it was the only boot my kids wore as toddlers because it is super lightweight and flexible on the ankle. I haven’t been able to find it new, and have only purchased it second hand, so I believe it has been discontinued.
  • Bogs Neo Classic Kids Boot – Our favorite boot! Completely waterproof, rated to -35F/-37C, excellent grip. It is a bit heavy though, so early walkers could struggle with it.
• Handwarmers and Toe-warmers: Kid’s hands and feet are small and will be the first part of their bodies that will get cold. Disposable or reusable handwarmers and toe-warmers will buy you more time outside on very cold days! You can purchase them at almost any store, including Walmart.

Wrapping It All Up

And there you have it! Once you’ve got the right layers and accessories, dressing your kids for winter doesn’t feel so daunting. Your kids will stay warm and happy, and you’ll actually enjoy spending time outdoors. Whether you’re in Alaska or somewhere a little less extreme, these tips will set you up for winter fun that doesn’t involve frozen toes or tears.

Ready to gear up? Use the links I’ve shared to grab what you need, or hit up your local second-hand store for some bargains. Stay warm and enjoy winter!

Note: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. As a thank you for supporting my work, use the code WANDERLAND for 20% off your purchase at Reima and the code CLARICE10 for 10% off your purchase at Therm Kids.

Read More:

• Hiking With a Toddler: Starting Small and Loving the Journey
• How to Dress Kids in Winter: Keeping Your Little Ones Warm in Alaska (or Anywhere Else!)
• Baby Hiking Gear to Simplify Your Adventures
• Can You Hike with a Baby? Absolutely! Here’s How I Did It in Alaska.
• What to Take Hiking With a Toddler: Essential Gear and Tips
• First Flight with a Toddler: A Practical Survival Guide for Parents

The post How to Dress Kids in Winter: Keeping Your Little Ones Warm in Alaska (or Anywhere Else!) appeared first on Clarice In Wanderland.