What to Pack for a Day Hike With Kids + Printable Checklist

Last Updated on 28 April 2026

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As a parent who’s navigated countless trails with my little ones, knowing what to pack for a day hike with kids can mean the difference between a magical family adventure and a complete disaster if it’s not done right.

Packing for a day hike with your kids isn’t just about throwing a few snacks in a bag. It’s about anticipating every scraped knee, sudden downpour, and that “I’m bored” moment that could derail your outdoor adventure. I’ve hiked with my girls on everything from gentle woodland trails to windier, muddier walks where the weather turns in minutes.

If you’re wondering what to pack for a day hike with your kids, here’s my kid-tested day hike packing list, plus age-specific extras for babies, toddlers, school-age children, and teenagers.

Let’s read on to find out more!

What to Pack for a Day Hike with Kids

I first learnt about the importance of day hike essentials for kids when we were halfway up a trail in the Peak District. My youngest had tripped over a tree root and grazed her knee. It was one of our earliest walks, and while I had some plasters, I didn’t have enough. When we got home, I changed how I thought about hiking with my children, making sure we were better prepared the next time.

First Aid Kit

These is some of the items we include in ours now:

Child-sized bandages and gauze
Antiseptic wipes (alcohol-free for sensitive skin)
Instant cold packs for bumps and bruises
Children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen
Tweezers for splinter removal
Sterile gauze and tape
Emergency blanket for shock or hypothermia
Emergency whistles

This is the first aid kit we take on our hikes. I think it’s the best first aid kit for family hikes because it has 120 medical-grade items. It’s also compact enough to fit inside a hiking backpack without taking up much room.

Visibility and Identification

When we’re following trails, whether it’s in the UK or abroad, especially if it’s woodland, moorland, or changeable weather, I always dress my girls in bright outer layers. I like them wearing neon yellow, orange, or red, so they’re easily visible.

For ID, I use a waterproof wristband/card with:

Our children’s name and age
Our mobile numbers
Emergency contact details
Any medical conditions or allergies

Sun Protection

Don’t underestimate how quickly kids can burn at altitude or on reflective surfaces. We always use factor 50 sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses. I also bring sunscreen with me, and we reapply every few hours.

What to Wear On a Day Hike with Kids?

A woman and young child walking together through a field. What to pack for a short hike with kids. Photo by Michael Blum on Unsplash — Photo by Michael Blum on Unsplash

The Layering System for Kids That Works

If there’s one thing I’ve learnt about family hiking in the UK, it’s that layers are your best friend. Here’s what we use when creating our what to pack for a day hike with kids list.

Base Layers: Your Secret Weapon

Cotton stays wet and chilly. I prefer merino or synthetic moisture-wicking base layers because they dry faster and keep my girls more comfortable. They also don’t smell after a few hours, so you can wear them again the next day.

I absolutely love these base layers from Mountain Warehouse as they’re affordable, quick-drying, and stylish.

Mid-Layers for Temperature Juggling

Kids are like little temperature yo-yos, boiling one minute and cold the next. To solve this, I always bring a fleece mid-layer, which are handy to wear for snack breaks.

Both my girls wear this warm mid-layer fleece for our excursions. I like that it has a hood for added warmth on those windy days.

Waterproofs for Kids Hiking

Don’t go cheap on waterproof jackets. When you and you’re family are relying on something to keep you warm, you need to invest in the right gear. To save money, I like to buy them in off-season sales.

These are the 3-in-1 waterproof jackets the girls use, which have done a really great job at keeping them dry during a few rainy walks. I also like that they have an added fleece inside for extra warmth.

A young child wearing hiking boots. Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash — Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Footwear That Won’t Let You Down

Children’s hiking boots are another important purchase to consider, especially for older kids. When it comes to what to pack for a day hike with kids, choose boots that prioritise comfort with good ankle support.

And don’t forget to pack spare socks.

Here are the hiking boots we have for our girls, giving great ankle support and traction on slippery trails.

Other accessories I normally pack include: sun hats, warm hats, lightweight gloves, buff or neck gaiter.

Hiking Snacks and Hydration for Kids

A navy blue, black, and white water bottle leaning against a rock. Hiking supplies for kids. Photo by Bluewater Sweden on Unsplash — Photo by Bluewater Sweden on Unsplash

The Ideal Water Bottle

For ages four to eight, I’ve found 500ml bottles with a straw or squeeze tops are easiest. Older kids often prefer a hydration pack. Kids younger than four, sippy cups or bottles with straws and secure lids work.

Our girls love using this water bottle because of its fun design and easy to use opening.

Tips:

Little and often beats chugging large amounts
Flavoured water encourages more drinking
Set regular drink reminders (every 20 minutes)
Watch for early dehydration signs (grumpiness, headaches)

A slice of brown bread with peanut butter spread on top, covering with slice bananas. Chia seeds are sprinkled on top and on the side are peanuts lined up. At the top, is a peeled banana. Photo by Kashish Lamba on Unsplash — Photo by Kashish Lamba on Unsplash

Energy-Boosting Snacks

The trick with family hiking snacks is finding things that won’t turn to mush, melt, or make everyone thirsty.

My go-to energy boosters include:

Oat bars / flapjacks
Banana (in a hard container to stop your bag crushing it)
Crackers and cheese
Trail mix (age appropriate, watch choking hazards for little ones)
Mini wraps

Your hiking supplies for kids should prioritise foods that travel well, provide sustained energy, and appeal to young palates.

Navigation and Communication Tools

A compass on a wooden table. Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash — Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Communication and navigation tools are fun items to include in your what to pack for a day hike with kids list. My children love carrying their maps and compasses when we’re out exploring new trails.

They’re also a great way of teaching kids to read maps. My eldest loves being the navigator with a map while my youngest will quite happily hold the compass and tell us which way we need to go.

Teaching Kids Navigation Skills

Getting children involved in navigation transforms hiking with children from passive following to active engagement. Even young kids can learn to spot landmarks and follow simple directions.

I start with:

Identifying obvious landmarks (big rocks, distinctive trees)
Following coloured trail markers
Using the sun for basic direction finding
Counting steps between waypoints

A neuroscience study from Emory University found that the brain region supporting map-based navigation is activated in children as young as five-years-old.

Route Planning and Sharing

When we’re planning a day hike, I always send a quick WhatsApp message to someone I trust with a screenshot of our route. This includes:

Planned departure and return times
Alternative routes we might take
Emergency contact numbers
Car registration and parking location

Day Hike Packing List By Age

A toddler in a backpack carrier on their dad's back while hiking. Source: Canva — Source: Canva

What to Pack for a Hike with a Baby

Taking babies hiking might sound like extra work, but it’s brilliant when done right. I loved taking my children hiking when they were small and getting them out enjoying what I like doing. Before you do, your day hike with babies requires planning.

Here are some extras you can pack:

Nappies and wipes
Change of clothes
Whatever you need to feed your baby
Waterproof cover for the carrier/pram
Extra clothes
Baby sun hat/warm hat depending on season/sunscreen

This is the baby carrier I’ve used for my girls for the past six years to help us get out and about, and have always found it ideal for what we needed. It was also perfect for those toddler years when tired legs don’t want to carry on walking.

What to Pack for a Day Hike with a Toddler

Toddlers are adorable, but unpredictable, and aren’t afraid to tell you what they think. Mine were pretty good most of the time, but there was times when they were quite happy to run around one moment and then refuse to walk the next.

Toddler essentials:

Snacks (more than you think)
Comfort item (tiny)
Extra nappies and wipes, if they’re not potty trained
Spare clothes
Carrier (for when legs give up)

The carrier situation is important. Invest in a hiking carrier with good back support and storage compartments to make your hiking journey easy.

What to Pack for a Day Hike with Kids

This is where things get interesting. Kids aged 5-12 are beginning to get a sense of independence, but they still need loads of support. It’s a delicate balance when it comes to what to pack for a day hike with kids.

I give my children their small rucksacks containing:

Their water bottle
Personal snacks they’ve chosen
Spare layer
Whistle on a lanyard
Simple map of the route
Their headtorch

The key is making them feel responsible whilst ensuring they’re not carrying too much weight. Generally, children shouldn’t carry more than 15% of their body weight.

What to Pack for a Hike with Teenagers

Teenagers are a completely different area. I’ve seen friends with teenage kids getting them involved in the planning process for a family day hike, which has always worked well.

Teenage-specific considerations:

Let them choose their gear
Give them navigation responsibilities
Pack extra food
Include charging packs for phones
Respect their need for independence
Pack blister treatment

A blue question mark with a pink background. Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash — Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

FAQ: What to Pack for a Day Hike with Kids

What should kids carry on a day hike?

Keep it simple: their own water, a couple of snacks, a warm layer, and a waterproof layer. If they’re old enough, add a whistle and a simple map so they feel involved without being overloaded.

How heavy should a child’s rucksack be?

A good rule of thumb is no more than 10–15% of their body weight. If they’re getting tired, leaning forward, or complaining of sore shoulders, lighten it.

How many snacks should I pack for a hike with my kids?

More than you think. I aim for one snack per hour, plus two extra buffer snacks per child for morale (and unexpected delays). Choose things that don’t melt or get squashed too easily.

What should I pack for a rainy day hike in the UK?

At minimum your what to pack for a day hike with kids list should include: a waterproof jacket and trousers, spare socks, a warm mid-layer (fleece), a pack rain cover or dry bag, and a small towel or wipes. I also bring gloves and a hat, even in spring and autumn.

Do I need a first aid kit for a short family walk?

Yes, even a tiny kit is worth it. For short walks, I carry plasters, blister plasters, antiseptic wipes, and any essential medication. Most emergencies with kids are small (grazes, blisters), but they can end a walk quickly if you’re not prepared.

Final Thoughts on What to Pack for a Day Hike with Kids

If you’re new to hiking with children, start simple. You don’t need to pack for every emergency, but you do want the basics covered so you can relax and enjoy the day.

Start with the essentials we’ve covered, then gradually add items based on your family’s specific needs and hiking experience. The most important thing is getting out there and exploring nature together.

Ready to plan your next family adventure? Grab your checklist, pack your bags, and hit the trails. Those magical moments are waiting for you and your little explorers.

For more outdoor inspiration, check out our related guides:

Happy hiking!

Have you found this what to pack for a day hike with kids guide useful? What things have worked on your family hiking adventures? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Rebecca

Rebecca is a journalist/content writer with over 15 years of experience focusing on topics ranging from cryptocurrency, outdoor sports, family adventures, and the environment. She has a strong background in camping, hiking, snowboarding, and trail running gained through years of personal experience. She holds a BA in Journalism and News Media and an MA in Environmental Journalism. She has been featured in Bitcoin Magazine, Forbes, The Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (CISI), REI, The Next Web, and The New Scientist. She is passionate about exploring more of the UK with her family and their Working Cocker Spaniel and enjoys helping readers find out the ways they can explore what’s around them together to create lasting memories.

What to Pack for a Day Hike With Kids + Printable Checklist