How To Hike With Your Baby
The idea of bringing along your toddler or baby for a hike definitely scares some moms away. But really, all you need are a few tips that can help aid you throughout the journey. You’ll be able to bring your child out to see nature and enjoy the fresh outdoors instead of the usual city lights and concrete. Sounds like a refreshing idea doesn’t it? Let’s have a look at what will help with your hiking experience.
1. Choose a familiar location
Make sure you know the route of where you’re going. It’s recommended to pick one where you’ve already been to or have experienced before so that you know the trail. This helps ease the journey for both baby or toddler and you! The more you know, the better prepared you are ahead of time.
2. Start your journey early
An early start either in the morning during dawn or mid morning is the best time to begin your adventure with your baby or toddler. You wouldn’t want to get stuck in the dark if you start your hike or trail late. It will scare your child and cause other problems such as getting lost and not finding your way back. So be safe and have an early start.
3. Know your child’s mood
Learn what your child likes and dislikes in the outdoors. You can start by bringing him somewhere with an outdoor setting such as a recreational park or the playground. Observe how he or she behaves around natural settings. At home, take note of the little things that can set your child off into a tantrum. If it’s a toy, clothing item, food type or even colour then don’t bring it along for the hike.
4. Bring their favorite things
Just like the above point where you don’t bring along what your child dislikes, do the opposite as well which is bring what he or she loves the most. From their favourite plush toy, small pillow or even sleeping blanket. Anything that gives them comfort and makes them feel a sense of belonging will help aid your outdoor venture better.
5. Wear and bring suitable essentials
Do put your child in comfortable and suitable clothes for the hike. If it will be cold, put on extra layers, if it will be humid with mosquitos, put your child in long sleeve tops and pants. This is why it’s best to choose a trail that you have already been to. Plus, don’t forget deet-free mosquito repellent for the safety of both your child and you. Bring along some fresh baby wipes as well but don’t litter and dispose properly in a separate waste bag. You can toss it out when you’re back from the hike in the disposable bin.
6. Enjoy yourself
Don’t let the little things bug you. Remember that it’s all for creating memorable outdoor memories and letting your child learn through nature. Nothing beats quality time with the family than going through something that challenges one another. Go ahead and start your first adventure today and bond with nature. Additionally, invest in some of the best sportswear for your future outdoor activities!
Have you gone hiking or on an outdoor adventure with your child? Share your own tips down below with a comment.
