You Can Take A Child Backpacking!

The thought of taking a child backpacking can be intimidating at first even to people who have packed their whole life. 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 first you must find the perfect backpack to fit the size of your child.  Here are some suggestions that may work for your child. 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. By the time they are eight or nine they can begin to carry their own light clothing and even maybe their sleeping bag if it is an ultra light one. Children transistion from a camelbak to a day pack or school backpack. By the time they are 9 they may even fit into their first rigid pack depending on their size! 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. First and foremost make sure they understand some simple rules. They should stay in sight at all times. Children must next understand that if they are to get lost, they must stay put and blow on a safety whistle to draw attention. Finally it helps to instruct children how to use a safetly blanket.

Backpacking can be a safe and rewarding hobby for both adults and children alike. Plus it is a bonus to see the world through your childs eyes. More importantly you are sharing your time and experience doing a hobby which may become a life long love for your children also.