1. Clothing & Layers

For Babies & Toddlers:

• Base layer (cotton-free is best - we love the brand Iksplor)

• Fleece or warm mid-layer

• Waterproof/windproof outer layer (rain suit or bunting)

• Warm hat or sun hat (depending on time of year/elevation)

• Mittens (depending on time of year/elevation - most warm buntings also have foldable cuffs which can be used instead)

• Wool socks

• Soft booties or warm shoes (Stonz are a great option!)

For Kids:

• Moisture-wicking shirt or sun shirt (we love the brand Iksplor)

• Light fleece or hoodie

• Waterproof jacket (this is another great option for colder weather)

• Quick-dry pants, leggings or shorts

• Hat & gloves (depending on time of year/elevation)

• Sneakers with good tread (these are great for toddlers, these are great for kids)

Tip: Check thrift shops or places like Facebook Marketplace/REI Re-Supply for outerwear—kids outgrow it fast so you can often find great used gear!

2. Carriers & Hiking Supports

For Babies:

• Soft structured carrier (Ergobaby is our favorite for short hikes)

• Framed carriers are great for longer hikes (Osprey Poco or Deuter Kid Comfort)

For Toddlers/Kids:

• Trail Magic (this is a great option to pack as a back up for kids that mostly walk- it just hooks onto your pack and provides an easy way to carry kids)

• Trekking poles (great for balance—sticks work great or lend one of your adjustable poles!)

3. Safety Essentials

• First aid kit (band-aids, blister pads, bug bite cream, tweezers)

• Emergency whistle (many packs have them built it!)

• Sunscreen & bug spray

• Map or downloaded offline trail app (cell service can be spotty - AllTrails works well for a digital option)

• Headlamp or small flashlight

• Emergency contact card tucked into pack

4. Food & Hydration

• Plenty of water (hydration packs work well for kids)

• Refillable water bottles

• Easy snacks: trail mix, pouches, granola bars, fruit leathers, crackers

• Baby food pouches (tip: store in a zip bag in case they pop)

• Bib for babies (depending on what you bring for food)

• Bottle supplies if needed (pre-portioned formula in small containers and bottles filled with water so you can quickly make bottles on the go)

5. Other / Optional

• Diapers/travel pack of wipes (or a ziplock with a few wipes)/doggy bag to carry out diapers

• Small toy or chewy for carrier rides (something that can be tethered to the bag is helpful so it doesn’t fall!)

• Nature scavenger hunt or laminated nature cards for older kids

• Z Seat (great for diaper changes or comfortable rests)

• Snow tubes (depending on the trail and weather!)

• Bug net (also find one that can fit over the carrier if needed)

Trail Tips for Traveling Families:

• Weather shifts quickly—bring layers even if it’s sunny when you start

• Black flies & ticks are common in spring— pretreat shoes with permethern, wear long sleeves and check skin after hikes

• Many New England trails are rooty, rocky, and uneven—choose flat, well-marked trails for young kids to make sure they have positive experiences!

*Links are affiliate links for brands/products we love!