Discover the Benefits of Hiking and Get Tips for a Successful Trip!

Simply going shopping with a toddler can sometimes feel like climbing Everest, so why even bother hiking with them, right?

Even though you may not be a nature enthusiast, it is still worth taking a hike with a toddler; not only will it be a fun and memorable experience, but it can also be beneficial for both the child and parent. Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, while also teaching the child about the environment, plants and animals. So, even if you don’t particularly love nature, it is still worth considering taking a hike with a toddler.

Although the arrival of a young one might seem like a deterrent to spending time outdoors, don’t let it keep you from valuing the great outdoors. Even with a baby in tow, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors and all its benefits. So, don’t let the arrival of your young one stop you from embracing the outdoors and all the wonders it has to offer.

Discover the benefits of hiking with a toddler

Introducing your toddler to the outdoors from a young age will likely spark their interest in your favorite activities. Plus, there are plenty of benefits to hitting the trails, like increased physical activity, a break from screens, and a sense of balance in life.

Besides the advantages of hiking with your toddler, it undeniably strengthens a family bond, creating lifelong memories and providing an environment where you can give undivided attention to each other. Hiking together with your toddler will nourish your child’s need for your warmth and connection.

Now that we’ve convinced you to look up the closest trail and let your little one know you’re going on a hike, here are some useful tips to make your family outing a success.

8 tips for hiking with a toddler

Wear the right shoes
Choose the right trail
Time your hike wisely
Let them hike
Hike consistently
Bring enough snacks and water
Let go of expectations
Have fun: it’s about the journey, not the destination

1. Wear the right shoes

It is possible that the shoes your toddler already owns could be suitable for hiking, due to the fact that many children’s shoes are designed to provide good protection and support. Therefore, it is worth considering whether any of their current shoes would suffice, or if you will need to purchase a new pair.

When selecting shoes for your toddler to wear while hiking, it is essential to ensure they possess these qualities:

Lightweight
Flexible sole
Traction
Ankle support
Durability
No shoe laces
Waterproof

You will be delighted to pick the right shoes for your toddler, as it will eliminate arguments and whining. For instance, slip-on shoes are much more convenient to put on compared to trying to get your toddler to stay still while tying their laces.

2. Choose the right trail

It’s important to research and pick the right trail. We can say from experience that picking a trail that doesn’t have ledges or rivers is a lot less stressful than going on a random trail like you’re used to before having toddlers. Keep patrolling your adventurous toddlers gets tiring.

Another recommendation would be to keep it short. You’re probably used to drifting off for hours, however, you will get tired much sooner with a toddler on your hands (might be literal), which is why a shorter hike when they’re young is the wisest decision.

If you’re in the right city, you might be lucky, because Trip With Toddler has done the research for you. Just type in your location in the search bar and find our recommended hikes like White Rock Hike in Brisbane.

3. Time your hike wisely

If you’re going for an hour-long hike, it might seem that you can squeeze it in at any point in the day, however, timing your hike is a wise decision. Hiking is a challenging activity that requires energy and a positive attitude. For the best experience, plan to hike when your toddler is in the best frame of mind.

Most families opt for mornings, which are usually the best for toddlers. If you have an energetic toddler, timing the hike before nap time is ideal.

4. Let them hike

At some point, earlier or later, they get tired or whiny, so it’s tempting to pick your toddler up and just take them out of their misery. However, in most cases we recommend letting them walk as much of the trail as they can.

Instead of using a baby carrier or immediately picking your toddler up, you could gently and firmly reinforce that they are capable of walking. Overcoming the slightly uncomfortable feelings or the wish to stop will build your toddler’s strength and resilience.

Of course, there will be exceptions when the toddler genuinely needs a break or you want to do a longer hike than they are used to – then use a baby carrier.

5. Hike consistently

Just like with sleep and diet, physical activity has the greatest results when it’s done regularly and consistently. The more you hike with your toddler, the more they’ll get used to it.
We know once a week sounds like a lot, but every hike doesn’t have to be driving to a special trail and climbing up hills. Simply walking along a beach, woodland or around town will create a habit in your toddler’s life.

6. Bring enough snacks and water

If you do go for a longer hike further away from home, one of the best things to make your toddler happier is snacks. Here’s a quick list of hiking snacks that we suggest:

Pre-cut apples
Granola bars
Pretzels
Trail mix
Oranges
Peanut butter jelly sandwiches

It is also very important that you don’t forget to hydrate your little kid. Offer them that sippy cup regularly.

7. Let go of your expectations

Naturally, hiking presents itself as a goal-oriented activity. Climb that hill, reach the summit, get to the end of the trail, etc.

However, while hiking with a toddler it’s best if you let go of your expectations and emphasize the joy in simply hiking together.

Your toddler’s gaze is likely to be drawn to all the fascinating things they come across during a walk, while you may be focused on the destination. To really appreciate the journey, you should try to go with the flow and let your toddler show you the way.

8. Have Fun: it’s about the journey, not the destination

Simply enjoy the time in nature spent together with your family. Your toddler will remember this time when you all just have fun together and create an unbreakable bond.

The hike doesn’t have to be just about walking. There are many other fun activities that you can include during the hike:

Play games
Sing songs
Create arts and craft
Collect things

Wear appropriate shoes, pick the right trail, time your hike wisely, and let your little one hike (while using the carrier if needed). Additionally, be sure to hike consistently, bring plenty of snacks and water, let go of expectations, and most importantly, have fun! After all, it’s the journey that matters, not the destination.

Be prepared for the next hike

After you’ve done the research, got those comfy shoes on your toddler’s feet, and are ready to leave, check the list below if you’ve got everything you need for the hike. It’s better to be prepared if you’re heading for a more remote, longer hike.

Packing list for a hike with a toddler:

Snacks + Water Bottle
Sunhat
Sunblock
Bug spray
Comfortable walking shoes
Comfortable breathable clothes
Layers if it’s cooler weather
First aid kit
Child carrier

A family that hikes together stays together

Even if you’ve followed all of the tips and the hike is still not going the way you hoped for, just don’t be discouraged. With all good intentions on your part, toddlers are going to have their off days and they just refuse to walk.

Keep a positive attitude and if their mood still doesn’t change, abort the hike and try another day.

Having a lifelong hiking buddy is what you wish for. Build their confidence by being consistent and creating fun experiences outdoors. Your effort will not be for granted.