It’s the night before a hike and you’re prepping the bags. We all know the typical things we pack:
- Water
- Sunscreen
- Diapers
- Snacks
But, let’s be honest. Sometimes, Dads think of the stuff we never would have considered bringing. And gosh darn it, if those things don’t save the day or become the hit of the hike. Sourced from our own HiB community, here’s what our dads are carrying with them on hikes.
Hiking Games and Motivation (Bribes… let’s be real)
From games to tasty snacks, sometimes kiddos need a little extra motivation to finish the hike. Check out this list of scavenger hunts you can use to up the energy and fun factor on your next hike. And, if games aren’t enough, motivational snacks can get the job done. Matt Bachand of the HiB Washington DC Branch said: “M&Ms. That way I can take him out of the baby carrier and keep him hiking as much as possible. I put them at switchbacks and trail junctions to keep him motivated.”
Emergency Preparation
Beyond the all-important first-aid kit for injury triage on the trail, dads know to be prepared. Extra water is essential. Be sure to bring enough water for drinking. And bring extra water to clean a cut, wash muddy hands (before they get dirt in the eyes and cause another emergency), or clean snack-covered fingers. One Hike it Baby dad recommended soft water bottles with squirt lids to cover both drinking and clean-up. Speaking of clean-up, sometimes there is nothing else to do but change clothes. Scott Simmons of the HiB Fredericksburg, VA Branch added: “Double kid emergency clothes and diapers.” Because you know if you don’t bring them, the baby will explode through everything.
Gear
You don’t want your hiking pack to get too heavy, but a couple of extra gadgets and gizmos can make for a better hike. Shamus Gordon, also from the HiB Fredericksburg, VA Branch, had on his list: “Plant ID app,” so they can turn their adventure into a learning opportunity and plant scavenger hunt. Another dad recommended reusable plastic bags for collecting things, from trash to treasure. The bags can also be used to pack out dirty and wet clothes. Carabiners clipped to the outside of your hiking pack always find a use. Lastly, a utility knife or multi-tool. You never know when it will come in handy, but you’ll be so glad you have it.
Which of these things are you excited to add to your hiking pack? What other things are you bringing on your hikes that you’re pretty sure no one else is thinking about? Leave us a comment and let us know.
