Consider Taking your Children Backpacking

A few brave souls consider taking their children on backpacking trips. There are a number of reasons that this attitude is unfortunate. First and foremost, children love to go on an adventure and explore the natural environment. Here are just a few things to consider when thinking about taking your child backpacking:

You must find the right back for the size of the child.  This is no different then it is for an adult in many ways. Small children will only be able to carry a small childrens Camelpak to carry their own water, a couple snacks, an emergency blanket, and a whistle. As they grow, they will be able to grow into larger packs and carry more weight and more of their own gear. As a matter of fact ,in just a few years, you will be able to pack them up with their own clothing, and maybe even an ultra light sleeping bag. As your child grows, they will go from the small backpacks to school/ daypacks. Believe it or not by the age of 9 they may even be able to be upgraded to a rigid frame backpack. You can expect your child to be as excited as you are to go backpacking if you start taking them with you.

One of the biggest concerns about taking kids backpacking is their safety. Clearly there are steps you can take to help keep your child safer while you hike. Just make sure your kids know a few simple rules to help keep them safe. It is very important for a child to understand they must stay in sight. If a child does get lost they should be instructed to stay calm.  Sit down in one spot and blow on a safety whistle to draw searchers attention. Finally it helps to instruct children how to use a safetly blanket.

Backpacking with children can be a very enriching experience for adults too. You get to see the word through your children's eyes. It is well worth it to spend the adventuring time with your child.