What's in My Day Pack for Hikes with a Kid
The five things that are always in the bag when we hit a trail, after a season of leaving the wrong stuff at home.
Read more: What's in My Day Pack for Hikes with a KidGear
Gear we actually use
Nothing on this page is here because someone sent it to me. It's here because it has survived a kid, a truck bed, and at least one season. I update it when something breaks or earns its keep.
Fishing
Small-water setup. Everything here fits in one bucket, which is also the seat.
Start here
Kids' spincast rod and reel combo
Short, light, and the push-button reel means no tangles to untie every third cast. Buy the plain one, not the licensed-character one; it's the same reel with a worse rod.
Check price on Amazon (opens in a new tab)Usually $20 to $35
Small tackle box with a latch a kid can open
Half the fun for him is opening and closing the box. A dozen compartments, a few bobbers, hooks, and split shot is plenty.
Collapsible bucket
Seat, live well, toy bin, and emergency bail-out tool. Folds flat in the truck.
Hiking
For trails under three miles with a kid who walks some and rides some.
Most used
Kids' hydration backpack
A kid with his own water drinks more and complains less. The small pouch holds exactly one snack and one found rock.
Child carrier backpack
For the last mile when short legs are done. Worth buying used; they hold up well and get outgrown fast.
Check price on Amazon (opens in a new tab)Wide range; used is fine
Camping
Backyard-tested first, campground-tested second.
Three-season family tent
Buy one size up from what you think. A 4-person tent sleeps two adults and a kid who sleeps sideways.
Kids' sleeping bag
Kid-sized bags are warmer because there is less empty space to heat. Rated to 30°F covers most of our nights.
Our pick
Rechargeable headlamp for kids
The single best camping purchase for a small kid. Red mode saves everyone's night vision and reduces the strobing.
Safety and comfort
The boring stuff that makes the fun stuff possible.
Non-negotiable
Child life jacket (U.S. Coast Guard approved)
Non-negotiable near any water deeper than his knees. Look for a crotch strap and a grab handle on the collar.
Compact first-aid kit
Then add more kid-size bandages than it came with. You will use those first.
Mineral sunscreen stick
A stick means he can do his own face, which means he will actually let you reapply.