Hiking With Your Baby: EVERYTHING You Need to Know

It can be nerve-wracking to take your baby hiking, whether you are new to the hobby or are an experienced hiker.

You can easily go hiking with your baby if you plan ahead so that you will have the supplies and knowledge you need. Start with short, easy hikes in good weather. While it can be more complicated to hike with a baby, it doesn’t have to be difficult or stressful.

Here is what you need to know when getting started hiking with your baby:

Preparing for a Hike With a Baby

Topics in this article:

• Is My Baby Old Enough to Go Hiking?
• Preparing for a Hike With a Baby
• Sun and Insect Protection for Babies
• Dressing Your Baby For a Hike
• What to Bring When You’re Hiking With a Baby
• Using a Baby Carrier When Hiking
• Hiking With a Stroller

Before you go on your first hike with your baby, take time to prepare. Plan carefully and make a list of what you will need to buy or bring. Read reviews about the trail you are considering, and check the weather often. If you prepare for your hike and start with a short, easy trail, you will have more fun and are more likely to be successful.

Talking to Your Pediatrician

Before you take your baby on their first hike, consider talking to your doctor. Not only can they let you know when your baby is ready to use a carrier and spend hours outside, but they can also advise you on how to keep your baby safe in different circumstances or conditions and what essential supplies to bring. Make sure that you mention to your doctor if you are planning to go into a high-altitude area or to a location where the weather will be very hot or cold.

How to Choose a Hike

When you are hiking with a baby, you should choose trails carefully, especially if you are new to hiking in general. Your first few hikes with a baby should be short, easy, and relatively level. Because you are still getting used to balancing and walking with the extra weight of a carrier, an easy, level path will help you to adjust. You should also look for a trail with a lot of shade if your baby is young or the weather is hot.

What to Bring in the Car

I have found that you can leave many of your supplies in the car when you are going on short hikes. That allows you to have access to extra clothes, diapers, and snacks even when your trailhead is far from home.

How to Pack Lightly When Hiking With a Baby

You will quickly find that hiking with a baby can be a heavy load. Not only will you be carrying the baby itself, but also need to bring extra gear and baby supplies such as extra clothes, bottles, and diapers. If you have a smaller frame, you might not be able to safely carry all of these things.

The best way to lighten your load is by bringing less stuff. In many cases, you don’t need much if you are going to be out for less than 2 hours. Minimizing is easier once you have been on a few hikes and experienced exactly what you need.

If you are hiking with your baby alone, you may have to strategize to make it work. Here are some ideas:

• Share the Load: Bring extra adults or older children along who can help share the load. This is also the safest way to hike, as hiking alone can be more dangerous in emergencies.
• Stick with short hikes: If you only take shorter hikes, you won’t need as many supplies. In addition, you won’t be hiking for as long so you will not get as tired.
• Use a backpack with storage: Some carriers have plenty of pockets for hauling supplies. If you need to bring baby gear, supplies, and snacks on a hike, try to find a carrier with storage.
• Double up: Try wearing your baby on your back and your pack on your front, or vice-versa. This can help to balance the load and put less stress on your back and shoulders. Whether or not you can do this can depend on the style of your carrier or backpack.

Is My Baby Old Enough to Go Hiking?

There is no minimum age at which a baby can spend time outside. Whether or not your baby is old enough to join you on a hike can depend on a lot of factors including how long the hike will be, how experienced you are, and what the weather will be like. Read more about the best ages to take your baby hiking here.

Considerations for Hiking With Babies Under 6 Months

Newborns and babies under 6 months can go hiking, but certain precautions should be taken. For example, they shouldn’t use backpack carriers until they can hold up their heads reliably. They also should not use sunscreen, so special care is needed to protect them from sun exposure.

Taking Babies Under 12 Months Hiking

Once they are older than 6 months, most babies can start using backpack carriers, whether they are external frame carriers or soft structured carriers (you can read more about the different types of carriers in this post). Babies of this age will often be ready to eat snacks while they are hiking, so make sure you are prepared for this. They may also need more hydration than normal, so bring plain water in a bottle or sippy cup as well.

Going Hiking With Toddlers

Some toddlers may be ready to walk on their own for shorter hikes. Most kids can work up to walking a mile for each year of age. Of course, this depends on how well your child is walking and if they are used to the distance. I have had 18 -month-old children who could easily handle a 1-mile hike and others who were still getting used to their own feet. If you are going on a longer hike, consider using a sturdy soft structured carrier or a framed backpack to support your child’s weight.

Safety When Hiking With Babies

The MOST IMPORTANT Safety Step

What if there was one simple, free, and reliable thing you could do to help guarantee your safety while hiking? According to Jeff Wright, who worked as the Emergency Manager and Director of Search and Rescue for a small county in Colorado, the most important thing you can do to ensure your safety is simply to tell someone where you are going.

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“I think there are a lot of safety measures that could compete as “the number one thing”, but if I was going to choose one, it would be to tell someone where you are going and when you will be back.”

— Jeff Wright

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General Hiking Safety Tips

There are some general safety tips that will help you avoid and handle emergencies while hiking which you should apply to any outdoor excursion. Consider putting these into practice for a safer and more enjoyable experience:

• Tell someone where you are going: Safety tip number one, which drastically reduces the amount of time it takes to rescue someone during an emergency, and increases their chances of being found alive and safe.
• Never hike alone: While experienced hikers do spend time on the trail alone, beginners will have a better time and be safer in an emergency if they are with another adult. This is particularly true for those hiking with babies.
• Bring extra water: Having extra water, especially when it’s hot or dry, can give you more time to be found safe and healthy if there is an emergency or injury. It can also help you complete a hike without needing to be rescued in very warm or rugged areas.
• Bring your phone: Your phone can help rescuers find you if you are lost, as well as help you with navigation. Learn how to use it for this purpose even where there’s no cell service.
• Stay on the trail: Many people get lost each year because they leave the trail for a shortcut. If you don’t know how to navigate, stay within sight of the trail.
• Avoid animal encounters: The best way to avoid an encounter with a dangerous animal is to announce your presence. Talk and make noise while you hike.
• Wear proper clothing and footwear: While you don’t need specialty hiking gear to be safe, you should wear shoes that are supportive and have good, grippy soles, as well as clothes that provide protection and keep you warm or cool as needed.

Safety Supplies for Your Hike (What You Do and Don’t Need)

When hiking with a baby, you should bring some safety and survival supplies. However, most people will find that they don’t need much, especially for short day hikes. Basic supplies such as a first aid kit, extra sweaters, and water are the most important items for safety. Other survival and safety items that you might want to consider, depending on the weight you can carry:

• Multi-tool
• Blanket
• Emergency blanket
• Water filter
• Hand warmers
• Sun protection
• Snacks

Sun and Insect Protection for Babies

Babies (and their parents) should have protection from the sun and from biting insects when heading into nature. Make sure that you research what you are likely to encounter at your destination so you can be prepared.

There are a variety of different options for bug protection, from traditional DEET sprays to essential oil options. Before you pick one, check with your child’s doctor or make sure that each option is acceptable for use on babies. You can also use physical barriers to help protect your baby from biting insects, such as screen covers for your baby’s backpack or mesh hats.

Dressing Your Baby For a Hike

For most family hikes, special clothing isn’t needed. Babies can usually dress in their ordinary clothes as long as they stay comfortable and dry. Bodysuits, pants and shirts, or other similar items are perfect for outdoor excursions.

Remember, most newborns need to wear one more layer than the adults are wearing, while older babies and toddlers can dress in the same clothing as adults are comfortable in. Always bring an extra layer in case it gets chilly later, and a waterproof layer is a good safeguard in areas where the weather is unpredictable. Read this post for more detailed information on how to dress babies for hiking trips.

Dressing Your Baby in Layers

The best way to dress for spending time outside is in layers, and the same is true for babies. Dressing in layers allows you to add and remove clothes as needed to stay comfortable. In cool or cold weather you simply add more or thicker layers. Most people recommend using 3 layers:

• Insulating Layer: This layer helps to keep your baby’s body heat next to your skin and is usually soft, warm clothing such as a warm bodysuit. Not needed in warm weather.
• Clothing Layer: This layer is usually regular clothing, such as a pair of pants and a shirt. In the summer this should be lightweight. In the winter a long-sleeve shirt and pants or another bodysuit works well.
• Waterproof Layer: Finally, your baby should have a jacket, sweater, raincoat, or heavy coat depending on the weather. If it’s rainy or snowy, add a layer of waterproof pants as well. In the summer, a lightweight sweater or jacket is enough.

Bringing Extra Clothes

Most parents are experts at bringing extra supplies everywhere they go. From dealing with diaper blowouts to spills, extra clothes are essential supplies for parents and babies. As a hiker, I try to minimize the amount of weight I carry. This is why I leave extra baby clothes in the car when I’m on a short trail. On longer hikes, consider bringing a change of clothes in your pack but stick to lightweight options.

How to Dress Your Baby in Hot or Cold Weather

Layers are a great option in winter, but what about hot weather? And how do you know if your baby is staying warm in cold temperatures? In general, I recommend new hikers, particularly those with small babies, stick to hiking in comfortable temperatures and conditions. Weather between the temperatures of 60°-80° is usually comfortable for most people, depending on what they are acclimated to. (Remember to consider heat index and wind chill instead of actual temperatures.)

Once you are ready to go hiking in colder or warmer temperatures, you will need to know more about dressing your baby for this weather.

Consider using a mesh carrier, backpack, or stroller in this weather as soft-structure packs can cause you both to overheat. Monitor your baby for signs of heat exhaustion and stick to short hikes with a lot of shade. Don’t go hiking with a baby when it’s over 90°. Here is more information on hiking with kids in the heat.

Cold Weather: In temperatures cooler than 50° degrees, consider layering your baby’s clothing so they will stay warm. Three layers are ideal, with a top layer that can be removed if your baby gets too hot. Mittens and a warm hat are essential if it’s cold, and consider using a soft-structure carrier or wrapping baby in a blanket before placing them in their backpack or stroller. Make sure to monitor your baby, especially their extremities, to make sure they aren’t getting too cold.

Again, if it’s very cold, stay close to the trailhead so you can head back early if needed. Babies should have a warm-up period every 20 minutes or so if it’s under 32°. Learn more about taking kids hiking in cold temperatures.

What to Bring When You’re Hiking With a Baby

When you are hiking with your baby, there are certain things you will want to bring along to make sure you are prepared and that your hike is a success. Snacks, water, survival supplies, and extra clothes are all important. On the other hand, many people bring too many unnecessary things, overload their packs, and end the hike with aching shoulders and a cramp in their back. Read What to Bring Hiking With a Baby or Toddler for a list of ideas.

Food and Water

Make sure you bring plenty of water for yourself and your baby. When you are hiking, you will need to drink more than normal, and your baby might want water even if they don’t normally drink anything but milk. Bring more water than you think you will need. To find out more, visit this post about staying hydrated.

Snacks are also essential when hiking, especially with a baby or toddler. Bring enough snacks so that you will be able to keep your baby from getting hungry or bored, and so that you will stay energized throughout the hike. Here is my list of snack ideas for kids when hiking.

Extra Baby Supplies

Any time you go out with your baby, you bring extra clothes and diapering supplies, and hiking is no different. However, how may want to choose the extra items carefully. If you are going on a very short hike, you might be able to leave extra supplies in your car instead of carrying them. On longer hikes, try to minimize what you bring while still being prepared.

Comfort Items

Many babies will have a better time when hiking if they have a familiar object or comfort item along. Whether your baby has an attachment to a lovey or you simply bring a favorite toy, having something along from home can help keep your baby happy and contented in this new experience.

Keeping Your Baby Happy While Hiking

While there are some tips and tricks that will help you have a happy hiking baby, you know your child best. Don’t forget to use your own instinct and connection with your baby as your primary source of guidance when choosing carriers, activities, and snacks to bring.

Bring a Lot of Food

Babies and toddlers like to snack. They often get hungry quickly, especially if they’re outside, and hungry babies are grumpy babies. In addition to fueling your child, snacks will help stave off boredom and help keep them happier. Babies don’t always enjoy being in backpacks for long periods of time, and having something to munch on can help distract them. I recommend bringing enough snacks to feed your baby every 20 minutes or so.

Take Frequent Breaks

It’s helpful to take frequent breaks when hiking with a baby or toddler. They can start feeling cramped and uncomfortable in baby carriers, particularly when they aren’t used to them or if they are very active. Toddlers can walk part of the way, older babies will enjoy having a chance to crawl or pull up on rocks, and younger babies might want to stretch out, enjoy being held, or lay on a blanket.

Be Ready With Entertainment

Make sure that you have something to entertain your baby if they get bored. Whether this means bringing a teething toy, a favorite lovey, or a repertoire of their favorite songs to sing, having a plan for entertaining them when needed can help you be better prepared and have a more successful day.

Start Slowly

Most importantly, ease into hiking with your baby. Start with short, easy hikes so that you can easily return to the car if your baby gets upset or you get tired. Short hikes are also ideal because you won’t need to bring many supplies. Most new parents don’t have the stamina they used to have, and it makes sense to work up to your usual fitness level slowly.

Using a Baby Carrier When Hiking

Most people who hike with babies will choose to use a baby carrier of some kind. Hiking with a carrier can be convenient and allow the parent freedom to choose from almost any trail, terrain, and location once they are used to the extra weight. I recommend practicing with your carrier before you go on your first hike to help you and your baby both get adjusted and learn how to use it. Practice getting your baby in and out and use the carrier while you walk around the house and do your ordinary chores, and you will quickly adjust and learn about the various features.

How to Choose a Carrier

There are three main types of carriers that I recommend using for hiking:

Each of these carriers has its own pros and cons and each is better for different ages and situations. Before choosing a carrier, learn more about the different types in my post here.

Before buying a carrier, learn what you can about the different brands and types. Try to visit a physical store where you can try on different types and see what you prefer. The size and features of different carriers work better for different body types, and if you use a carrier that doesn’t fit well, you may experience back and neck strain. You can also talk to your friends and family with babies to see if they have recommendations, and read online reviews and blog posts about various styles and brands.

How to Hike Safely With a Baby Backpack or Carrier

You can hike with a baby backpack as long as your little one is old enough and you follow a few simple safety recommendations. First, you should follow the weight recommendations for your type of carrier or backpack. Make sure that the one you choose is appropriate for your baby’s age.

Young babies will need to be carried in a front pack or wrap that keeps them supported and allows you to keep a close eye on them. The pack should keep your baby curled up and support their legs up to their knee so they don’t dangle away from their body. Keeping your baby’s hips properly aligned is important at this age.

Once your baby is old enough, you can keep them safe in a backpack by making sure they fit well in the pack, that their legs are supported well (dangling legs are uncomfortable and cut off the circulation), and that they are strapped in securely.

Adults can make sure they are safe while carrying babies by avoiding unstable footing, using backpacks that fit well, and limiting the weight to no more than 15-20% of the adult’s weight (less if they are unfit or overweight).

Hiking With a Stroller

Some parents chose to hike with a stroller instead of a backpack or carrier. There are several reasons for this. Some parents simply don’t enjoy carrying the weight of their baby. Others have heavy babies or toddlers that are just too big to take in the backpack for long distances. Finally, some babies prefer the stroller over a backpack and get grumpy if held for too long. You can learn more about hiking with a stroller here.

How to Choose a Hiking Stroller

When you are choosing a stroller to go hiking with, you will want to research carefully and look for some specific features. These things will help your hike go more smoothly and help increase the number of places you can go with your stroller.

• Look for large wheels and all-terrain features.
• Choose your tires carefully- air-filled tires are easier to push, but solid tires can’t go flat.
• Look for storage and pockets for your hiking gear.
• Good suspension is important on bumpy trails.
• Consider how easy it is to store the stroller.
• Make Sure the stroller will fit in your vehicle easily.
• Look for a stroller that can grow with your child.

Finding Stroller-Friendly Hiking Trails

The easiest way to find trails that you can hike with a stroller is by filtering searches by “accessible”, “wheelchair friendly” or something similar. You can easily do this on AllTrails, my favorite hiking app. If you are using a public land website to research hiking trails, look for trails that are paved or groomed. Finally, if you are unsure about a specific trail, look for reviews, YouTube videos, and blogs from people who have visited there.

While there are many trails that you can take a stroller on, hiking this way will limit the number of hikes you can take. This is why many families will go back and forth between either a stroller or a carrier depending on the trail they are using.

Conclusion

Beginning hiking with your baby can seem intimidating and scary, but if you plan carefully and start with short, easy hikes, you will soon be a pro. Once you have a few easy hikes under your belt, it’s easier to start working toward harder and longer hikes. Get out there and have fun!

Read more about hiking with a baby in the rest of the series:

Hiking With Your Baby: How Long Can They Be in the Carrier?

Hiking With Your Baby: Staying Safe in the Sun

Hiking With Your Baby: What is the Best Age?

What to Bring Hiking with a Baby or Toddler

How to Dress Your Baby or Toddler for a Hike

How to Hike with Your Baby in Tow

Can You Hike with a Stroller?

Can a 2-Year-Old Go Hiking? What You Need to Know