How to Prepare For a Family Hiking Trip

Hiking is great way to get the whole family involved in an activity that will make everyone work together. It is also a great opportunity to discover and learn in an environment that most people are not often exposed to. Children will often discover animals, plants, and experiences that are brand new to them.

The key to a good family hike is proper preparation. This does not only mean having the correct gear, it means knowing how to properly use it and knowing what action to take should an unexpected situation occur. When you hike, especially with children, safety should be your number one priority. Listed below are the basic categories of preparation. If you follow these precautions, your family hike can be a safe, enjoyable, family bonding experience.

Plan Your Route

Plan your route ahead of time. Check your route on a map if possible. If you are hiking on federal or state land such as a National Park, National Forest, State Park, or BLM land call the local governing office of that area to check that the trail is clear and the area is open. Leave specific information with a contact that is not going with you. Tell them when you are leaving, how long you expect to be gone, when you expect to return, and exactly where you are going. Do not deviate from your route. If you get lost or stuck, the authorities are going to search the area you left with your contact first.

Wear Proper Clothing

Hiking requires clothing that is protective but lightweight and comfortable. Wear clothing that is suitable to your environment. It should be made of strong, breathable material. Wear lightweight layers. If its warm you can take some layers off, but if it gets cold you only have what you hiked in with. You should also carry something with you to protect you from rain if you should be so unfortunate. Plan your clothing according to the weather where you will be hiking.

Know The Environment

If you are not already familiar with the area you will be hiking in you should research it as complete as possible before you go. The more information you have, the more prepared you will be.

If your hike is at a much higher altitude than where you live you should be aware of altitude sickness. Check the weather right before you leave. Be informed about dangerous plants, animals, or environmental hazards in the area. Carry a map and compass or gps of the area with you at all times.

Carry The Necessary Gear and Supplies

As I said above, it is not enough just to carry the right gear, you should have an intimate knowledge of how to use it. Familiarize your self with your equipment by reading the instruction manuals throughly, practice using it or setting it up at home. If it is battery powered, check the charge before you leave, or carry extra batteries. Below are two lists. one of necessary gear and supplies and another one of items you may want to carry to make your hike easier or more comfortable. Neither of these lists are complete. You may need to loose or add some items for your particular hike depending on the terrain and length of your trip.

NECESSARY GEAR AND SUPPLIES

Water- Depending on the climate and the amount of effort you exert you could need as much 1.5 litres per hour

Map/Compass/GPS- You should carry at least one of these. If you are a novice hiker you should definitely carry all three.

Food- Always carry extra. If you plan on eating two meals on your hike carry three. If you are on a multi day hike , carry an extra days worth of meals. You could get lost or someone in your party could become injured.

Flashlight- Even if you are only going on a dayhike, ALWAYS carry a flashlight. They are small, lightweight, and inexpensive. If you get caught out in the dark, it will suddenly become an invaluable tool.

Knife/Multi-Tool- They call it a multi-tool because it has many uses. You never really appreciate the value of these until you find your self using it for some unconventional use.

First Aid Kit- Always carry a first aid kit. Select one that is proper to your hiking environment and length of your trip. For example if you are hiking where there are poisonous snakes or insects, your first aid kit should include treatment for these bites.

OPTIONAL GEAR AND SUPPLIES

Hiking Stick/Poles- This is a particularly nice piece of equipment to carry when you are traversing a lot of elevation changes or hiking on unlevel ground. A lot of hikers prefer to carry two; one in each hand.

Backpack- This is handy for carrying your water, food, and other small pieces of gear. It also keeps your hands free for taking pictures, hiking with two poles, etc.

Water Filter- These are very handy, especially when on a multi-day hike. Having a filter means you can collect water as you need it. Water weighs 8 lbs. per gallon. The less you have to carry the more comfortable you will be. There are many backpackable filtration systems on the market. They are small, efficient, and capable of making most water safe to drink.

Camera- If you are like me, you will want to capture and store those precious family experiences where they can't be forgotten. Keep your camera close and ready to use and you might get lucky enough to capture rare and beautiful in nature.

Know How To React To An Unexpected Situation

Unexpected situations do and will occur in the wilderness. Knowing how to react could mean the difference between a small hiccup or an emergency medical or search and rescue situation. Always keep your wits about you. Do not panic. Apply logic to make the best decision for your situation.

Before you make a rash decision like splitting your group, or changing your direction, take some time to think about the pros and cons of your decision, and the worst case scenarios. Some one in your group should learn basic first aid. CPR training does not hurt either. The longer your hike, and the more remote your location, the more knowledge you should have in wilderness survival.

Enjoy Nature

Once you have properly educated your self on safety, equipment, and preparation you can go with confidence and do what you set out to hike for in the first place; To enjoy family and nature and establish a stronger bond with both. GOOD LUCK AND HAVE FUN!