Our Favorite Hiking Gear for Kids {17 Must-Haves}
We’ve been hiking with our four kids across the United States for over 10 years, so we’ve seen it all—epic views, bucket list adventures, and of course… the occasional trail meltdown. 😜
We just got back from a trip full of hikes in Zion and Bryce Canyon, so hiking gear for kids is top of mind right now, and I can’t wait to share our favorites.
You definitely don’t need fancy stuff to make amazing memories on the trail, but a few pieces of solid kids hiking gear can be game-changers.
The right shoes and layers can keep your crew comfy, while the wrong ones can lead to blisters, overheating, or freezing toes (ask me how I know 😉).
Here’s our go-to list of the best hiking gear for kids that keeps everyone happy and helps us finish our hikes strong.
*Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no cost to you. All opinions remain my own. See our privacy policy for more information.
1. Hiking Shoes
Let’s start with arguably the most important hiking essential… high-quality hiking shoes.
After years on the trail, our family favorites are Keen and Merrell—both make sturdy, comfortable options for kids that can handle everything from a short nature walk to a full day in the mountains.
A good pair of hiking shoes can make or break the day (literally—nothing ends a hike faster than a blistered foot).
👉Tip: I always recommend letting your kids wear their new shoes on a few neighborhood walks before hitting the trail for a long hike. Breaking them in ahead of time means fewer complaints and more smiles when you’re miles from the car.
Hiking Boots
While regular hiking shoes are the most versatile for most families, there are times when hiking boots are worth packing.
If you’re headed into cold weather, walking through brush, or trekking on rocky terrain, boots give a little extra ankle support and protection.
They’re like the “bodyguards” of the hiking shoe world—ready to keep feet safe in tougher conditions.
Hiking Sandals
Yes, hiking sandals are a thing—and they can be a lifesaver in warm weather or on trails with water crossings.
Look for a pair with a grippy sole and a closed-toe design to protect little feet from stubs and scrapes. That way, your kids can splash, climb, and explore without you worrying about every rock and root.
Plus, these are even washable! 🙌🏼
2. Hiking Socks
For most of our hikes, we just wear normal socks that are on the thicker side.
The biggest thing we watch for? Making sure the sock is taller than the shoe—otherwise, hello blisters. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in keeping little feet happy.
If you’re ready for an upgrade or planning longer hikes, it might be worth investing in merino wool socks.
Merino wool is like the superhero of hiking socks—it’s naturally moisture-wicking, keeps feet warm in the cold, cool in the heat, and resists odors (which, let’s be honest, is a big plus when we’re talking about kids’ feet).
3. Hydration Pack
A couple of years ago, my in-laws gifted our kids hydration packs, and they’ve been a total game-changer.
👉 Hiking gear makes fun and practical Christmas gifts!
They’re not too big or heavy, hold a good amount of water, and have just enough extra space for a couple of snacks or those “hiking treasures” your kids are bound to collect along the way.
If you’re still hauling everyone’s drinks around, do yourself a favor and grab one of these for each kid stat!
Cleaning tip: To get rid of that rubbery taste, fill the bladder with a mix of 1 part white vinegar to 4 parts water and let it sit for a couple of hours. Rinse it out well, and always make sure to dry it completely before storing so you don’t end up with any moldy surprises.
👉 Looking for hydration packs for adults too? This is the one my husband and I rave about.
4. Hiking Clothes
When it comes to hiking clothes for kids, this is more of a “nice to have” than a “must have.”
In most situations, any comfortable athletic-type clothes will work just fine for a family hike. That said, having a few pieces made for the trail can add a little extra convenience.
Pants
A lightweight pair of quick-dry pants is always a win, especially if you can find the kind with zip-off legs.
They’re perfect for those days when the weather can’t make up its mind—you start in pants during the cool morning, then switch to shorts once the sun warms things up.
Shirts
Any breathable, moisture-wicking shirt will keep kids comfortable on the trail. I like to avoid heavy cotton for longer hikes since it doesn’t dry quickly if they get sweaty or splash through a creek.
Jackets
Look for a lightweight jacket that folds up small enough to stash in your pack.
That way, if your child starts off chilly but warms up after a mile or two, you can tuck it away without taking up much space.
Bonus points if it’s water-resistant for those unexpected drizzles.
5. Hat
Any hat with a brim will do the trick for keeping the sun off your child’s face, but if you want to level up, look for one with a brim all the way around and a chin strap.
The extra brim helps protect the back of their neck, and the strap keeps it from flying off in the wind.
6. Sunglasses
Sunglasses aren’t always necessary if your child will keep a hat on, but they can be helpful for extra sun protection—especially on bright, open trails.
I wouldn’t spend much on a pair for hiking since they can easily get dirty, scratched, or left behind somewhere between the trailhead and the snack break.
Choosing a pair with a strap can help keep them secure (and save you from the “where did I put my sunglasses?” game).
7. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is an essential when hiking with kids.
We love the Badger brand because it uses cleaner ingredients, and it’s gentle enough for the whole family.
A travel-size tube is perfect for tossing in your pack so you can reapply on the go without adding extra bulk.
8. Snacks
Hiking and snacks go hand in hand—especially with kids. I like to bring a variety of high-protein snacks to help keep their energy steady (and avoid the dreaded mid-trail crash).
Here are some of our go-to hiking snacks:
- Beef jerky
- Nuts or trail mix
- Fruit strips or dried fruit
- Granola bars
- Applesauce pouches
- Cheese sticks
- Peanut butter crackers
- Energy bites or protein balls
- Popcorn
- Mini muffins
9. Walkie Talkies
A friend of mine gave me the idea to bring walkie talkies on hikes, and honestly, I’m obsessed!
They’re not just a fun way to keep the kids entertained—they love “talking” back and forth while exploring—but they’re also super practical.
If your group gets spread out or separated on the trail, you can quickly check in with each other without having to shout or scramble to catch up.
Definitely one of those simple tricks that makes hiking with kids easier and more fun!
10. First Aid Kit
Bringing a small first aid kit on your hike is a smart move, and it doesn’t have to be complicated.
You can buy a ready-made one designed for hiking, or simply fill a small ziplock bag with a few essentials like bandages, gauze, and medical tape.
Having these basics on hand means you’re prepared for little scrapes or blisters without lugging around a giant bag. It’s a simple way to keep everyone happy and on the trail!
11. Bug Spray
A travel-size bug spray is a must-have for hikes, especially in buggy or wooded areas.
It’s easy to toss in your pack and helps keep pesky mosquitoes and ticks at bay so your family can focus on the fun—not the bites.
12. Bear Spray
Bear spray isn’t necessary for every trail, but it’s worth considering in areas where bears are common.
Always research the types of wildlife you may encounter before you go, and remember—staying on the trail is one of the best ways to keep your family safe.
Tip: Make sure you keep this in your own backpack and out of reach of children.
13. Portable Charger
A portable charger is one of those “better safe than sorry” items for hiking.
Phones aren’t just for photos—they’re your GPS, emergency contact, and sometimes even your trail guide.
👉 I always make sure to have the Google Maps area and my AllTrails map downloaded before we start, just in case we lose service on the trail.
15. Trash Bag
Trash bags are one of those things you’re always glad to have on hand during a hike with kids.
They’re perfect for packing out your own trash, cleaning up after a snack break, or even containing muddy shoes or wet clothes.
If you don’t want to buy anything special, just toss a couple of plastic grocery store sacks in your bag—they work like a charm.
16. Carabiners
Carabiners are a simple but super handy addition to your kids hiking gear checklist.
They’re great for clipping water bottles, hats, or wet gear to the outside of your bag for quick access.
You can also use them to secure items inside your pack, hang a small trash bag, or even keep track of your keys so they don’t get lost in the shuffle.
17. Fun Extras
Bringing along a few fun extras can make the hike even more exciting for kids—especially younger ones who love to explore and discover.
These little add-ons can turn a simple walk into a full-blown adventure:
- Binoculars – Perfect for spotting birds, wildlife, or far-off landmarks.
- Compass – Kids love pretending to “lead” the way, and it’s a great chance to teach basic navigation.
- Nature bag – For collecting rocks, leaves, pinecones, or other treasures along the trail.
- Camera – Let the kids take turns capturing their favorite moments.
- Small journal & pencil – For sketching what they see or jotting down little memories from the day. 👉 These journals are so cute!
- Magnifying glass – Adds a fun “explorer” element to examining plants or bugs up close.
- Deck of mini cards or a travel game – Great for a break spot or picnic area. This “Go Find It” game is a favorite!
- Entertainment for traveling to and from the trail – Many times there’s quite a drive to get to the most epic hikes. Be prepared with fun activities for the road trip.
These extras don’t take up much room, but they can make your hike feel like a big, exciting expedition for your kids (which makes it more enjoyable for you as well!).
Tips for Hiking with Kids
Hiking with kids can be such a fun adventure, but a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping everyone happy on the trail.
Here are some of my favorite tips:
- Pack what you need, but pack light. Heavy bags get tiring fast, even for adults—stick to the essentials.
- Download your maps ahead of time. Save the Google Maps area and the AllTrails map for your hike so you have them even if you lose service.
- Research the trail before you go. Know the distance, difficulty, and any potential hazards like dangerous wildlife, steep drop-offs, or tricky water crossings.
- Start early. Morning hikes mean cooler temps, fewer crowds, and happier kids.
- Dress in layers. Weather can change quickly, so bring clothing that’s easy to add or remove.
- Set a realistic pace. Kids hike slower—plan for extra time and plenty of breaks.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks. Hungry, thirsty hikers are cranky hikers.
- Leave no trace. Pack out everything you bring in, and teach kids to respect nature.
It’s always worth it to prepare well and invest in high-quality hiking gear for kids to set your family up for success.
If you can only purchase a couple of items, I’d say hiking shoes and a hydration pack are the top two hiking essentials for kids—you’ll use them over and over again on future adventures and you’ll be so glad you have them.
We always add hikes to our itineraries wherever we go, and they almost always end up being some of our favorite parts of the trip.
I hope your family falls in love with hiking as much as we have! Hop on in our free Facebook group and share your favorite hiking experiences with us!
If you need some extra entertainment for your kids on travel days, download our free printable travel coloring sheets!
More Resources for Traveling with Kids:
- Road Trip Coloring Pages {FREE Printable!}
- The Ultimate Guide to Entertaining Your Kids on Travel Days
- Our Favorite Hiking Gear for Kids {17 Must-Haves}
- Yoto Mini Review: The Best Screen-Free Entertainment for Kids
- How to Plan a Family Vacation {6 Easy Steps}
- The Only Family Beach Vacation Packing List You’ll Ever Need
- Family Travel Photograph Tips for Stunning Vacation Photos
- Genius Mom Travel Hacks: Secrets to Stress-Free Family Trips
- Snackle Box: Your New Obsession for On-The-Go Snacking
- 18 Brilliant Road Trip Hacks for Kids
- 21 Easy Meals to Make on Vacation
