On shorter hikes we bring water if anything.
Otherwise this Kelty Hydration Pack is my go to pack.
I used to use the bladder with it every time but got tired of trying to keep it clean so I have not put the bladder in for a long time.
The pack on the left is a hydration pack as well and fits my boys really well.
It has thick straps that have padding, that is really important for comfort.
My oldest Kelty back pack just has those thin black straps with no padding and it gets uncomfortable really fast.
I got both of these packs at Academy Sports.
Neither one was made for children but they both work for my boys.
The green one fits the best on them.
Instead of a bladder I like to use one of these Platypus bottles, it lays flat so it does not dig into your back but it is easier to clean.
I also just put regular water bottles in them.
For longer hikes it is nice to have some extra sunscreen(for when you missed a spot), bug spray, and a first aid kit.
I try to buy the smallest possible of these so I am not adding a lot of extra weight.
This Adventure Medical Kit is really nice and is my favorite first aid kit we have bought so far!
It has everything you might need but is really light.
If I am hiking alone with my boys I make sure I have mace on me as well and text my husband letting him know where we are hiking, how long we will be going, and when I will text him letting him know we are done.
I always bring more water than I think we will need and if we are going for a long hike I bring a snack.
Something high in protein like nuts is nice to have.
I hope this helps someone that is trying to figure out what to bring hiking with them!
Have fun out there!
Here are other hiking tips I have posted:
