While a comprehensive hiking or backpacking list depends on many factors (season, climate, terrain, distance, activities, and personal preference), certain outdoor gear is considered essential whether you’re heading off on an extended backcountry bushwhack or exploring the trails in your local woods.

For safer and more prepared front and backcountry travel, make sure you have the appropriate gear from each of the ten essential systems listed below.

1. Navigation

While the 10 essentials can vary depending on the trip you’re taking and whom you ask, a detailed topographic map and compass have been at the top of the list since its 1930s debut by The Mountaineers club. Now, navigation tools may also include a GPS receiver or altimeter, but those are in addition to a map and compass, which never need batteries and work even in dense tree coverage. Of course, these tools only work if you also have the know-how to use them. Consider signing up for a navigation course.

     Tips:

• Store your topo map in a ziplock or other protective case or waterproof covering.
• A compass with a sighting mirror works as a signaling device in an emergency.
  
  

2. Sun Protection

Sunglasses, sunscreen (for skin and lips), and appropriate clothing is necessary for sun protection year round, but is especially important when on water, ice, snow, and at higher altitudes. The higher you go the more ultraviolet rays you’re exposed to, increasing your risk of serious sunburn and skin damage, including cancer.

Sunglasses protect your corneas from ultraviolet light year round. Sunglasses, glacier glasses, and goggles also can help prevent snow blindness from sunlight reflecting off snow.

Sunscreen should be at least 15 SPF (though 30 is preferable), block UVA and UVB rays, and be applied anytime you go outside, even on cloudy days. Reapply frequently, including lips, particularly if you’re sweaty or wet.

Clothes supply varying degrees of sun protection depending on their material, weave, color, and moisture content (a wet, cotton T-shirt is practically useless). Some clothes are treated to absorb more UV radiation and come with specific UPF ratings, which can be useful for desert hikes and other very sunny treks.

    Tips:

• Carry a backup if you rely on contacts or prescription glasses.
• Carry an extra pair of sunglasses for group outings.
• Fashion emergency eye protection from cardboard or cloth cut with small slits.
• Wear a cap or brimmed hat to shield your face.
• Don’t forget to cover your neck.
  
  

3. Insulation (extra clothing)

You checked the weather forecast before you left the trailhead, right? Even if it calls for clear skies and warm temperatures down below make sure to pack at least an extra layer, usually including wind and/or rain gear. Weather can change quickly, especially above tree line.

What you bring will depend on the season and outing and could range from a raincoat and long underwear tops and bottoms in summer to an extra insulated jacket, pants, gloves, and hat or balaclava in winter. No matter the season, avoid cotton, which loses its insulating value when wet.

Still not sure what to bring? Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills suggests you ask yourself this question: “What is needed to survive the worst conditions that could be realistically encountered on this trip?”

    Tips:

• Extra socks can be used on feet and hands.
• Don’t judge by how you feel hiking uphill; you’ll cool off once you stop moving.
• Anticipate whether you’re likely to warm up or cool down and adjust layers in advance; your clothes will stay drier and your temp better regulated.
  
  

4. Illumination

It was supposed to be a short day hike with you at home before dinner, but somehow you found yourself out after dark. A headlamp or flashlight can make the difference between an inconvenient nighttime walkout and an emergency situation.

Headlamps are widely preferred by backcountry travelers for their hands-free design, compact size, and light weight. Even on short day hikes a light should be carried; small emergency ones can be easily stashed in a pack. Always bring spare bulbs and batteries that fit your model of light.

    Tips:

• A light can be used as an emergency signaling device; some have a strobe option.
• You can carry fewer extras if your light, camera, and/or GPS receiver use the same batteries (just be sure your headlamp and GPS won’t die at the same time).
  
  

5. First-Aid Supplies

First-aid kits range from the basic, suitable to treating blisters and minor cuts on a day hike, to expedition-worthy kits geared toward extended travel and large groups. You can make your own or buy a pre-packaged one, but at a bare minimum you’ll want: bandages in various sizes, gauze pads, disinfectant, over-the-counter pain medication, blister treatment, and any prescription medications.

Any first aid kit is useless without the knowledge to use it. Consider taking a wilderness first aid course and periodically brush up on your skills. Even if you’ve already passed a course, a small first aid guide inside your kit will help you—and your trip partners—deal appropriately with medical emergencies.

     Tips:

• Personalize your first aid kit to the individual medical needs of you and your party.
• Include feminine hygiene supplies if your group includes women.
• Include a pencil and paper.
• Store all first-aid supplies in a waterproof container or pouch.

6. Fire

Being able to start and sustain a fire, even in wet, cold, and windy conditions, is essential. A fire can help prevent hypothermia by providing heat for survival, allow you to make a hot drink, illuminate surroundings, act as a signal, and boost morale. Because fire starting is so important, but can be difficult to do in emergency conditions, especially if you’ve never practiced, you may want to carry more than one type of fire starter for back-up systems.

Windproof pocket lighters are easy to use, but don’t dismiss the value of having waterproof, windproof matches. A fire starter, as the name implies, helps ignite wet wood quickly. You can buy commercial fire starters or make your own from lint or cotton balls soaked with Vaseline. Store any matches and fire starters (even water- or storm-proof ones) in a waterproof container.

    Tips:

• As their name implies, strike-anywhere matches don’t require a special striking surface; safety matches do, limiting their usefulness.
• Don’t rely on flimsy packs of matches.
• Know how to build a sustainable fire beyond the first step of lighting the tinder.
  
  

7. Repair Kit and Tools

A pocket knife or multi-purpose tool can be used to repair broken gear, cut rope, prepare food, remove splinters, assist in first aid, and tackle other unforeseen challenges. Multi-tools include a range of implements beyond a blade—screwdriver, awl, pliers, and scissors—but each tool means more weight. You don’t need three screwdrivers, two wire strippers, and a corkscrew. Choose a multi-tool with a good knife and only the implements you’d reasonably expect to use.

     Tips:

• Wrap duct tape, the all-purpose fixer, around a water bottle.
• Zip-ties are small and light and can be useful for gear repairs.
• A sturdy sewing needle and thread, or even dental floss, can help you repair critical gear in the field.
• Consider carrying a maintenance and/or repair kit for stoves and other gear on longer expeditions.

8. Nutrition (extra food)

Even on day hikes, bring along extra food, like energy bars. That’s in addition to adequate food supplies for your outing. Your group may move slower or eat more than expected. For overnight trips you’ll want an extra day’s worth of food. Extra food should be easy to prepare, store well, and be high energy.

    Tips:

• Hungry people can be cranky people. Don’t skimp on snacks.
• Choose foods you and your partners enjoy.
• Carry out all trash and food scraps.

9. Hydration (extra water)

Carry enough water per person and know where water sources are located on your route. A general rule of thumb is to have 3 to 4 liters (or 1 gallon) of water per person per day. The amount of water needed varies widely though, based on factors like temperature, humidity, and personal fitness and exertion levels.

Water availability is another factor. A water filter, purifier or chemical treatment (like iodine tablets) will allow you to treat water on the trail and carry less on your back. Always treat water, even if it looks clean, unless you want to experience Giardia or other unpleasant bugs.

    Tips:

• Drink your fill and top off water bottles before starting out from the trailhead.
• Leave extra water in the car for your return.
• Monitor hydration through urine output—volume, clarity, and frequency should remain normal. Clear and copious is a good sign.
• On longer, more strenuous hikes and backpacks, sports drinks and gels help replace electrolytes.
• Dry air dehydrates you faster in winter.
• Have a way to melt snow for water in winter conditions.

10. Emergency Shelter

Shelter is a new addition to the classic 10 essentials list and what you carry will depend on the season and conditions. If you’re backpacking, you’ll probably already have a tent, bivy, or tarp, but even on day hikes you need to be able to fashion a shelter from rain, snow, and wind.

Consider carrying an ultralight tarp, emergency blanket, or lightweight emergency bivy sack. In winter conditions, emergency shelter becomes even more important and may mean carrying a four-season bivy or small tent, even on day outings.

    Tips:

• Each person in a large group can carry a heavy-duty plastic trash bag.
• In winter, know how to safely build a snow cave.
  
  

11. Common Sense

You’ve packed up all of your necessary gear, told someone where you were going and when you’d return, and are ready to hit the trail. Don’t forget the most important item of all—your common sense. The most-technical and award-winning gear available won’t keep you safe if you keep climbing into an oncoming thunderstorm or get swept away trying to ford a storm-swollen stream. Respect your limits and abilities—and those of your entire group—and you will come back to enjoy many more outdoor adventures.

Extras

A signaling device, like a whistle or signal mirror, can help rescuers locate you if you get lost or hurt. The better you’re able to make yourself seen or heard, the better your chance that a search and rescue team will find you. Make sure kids know that whistles are for emergencies only.

Don’t depend on a cell phone or other communication device for rescue. However, a cell phone or messenger device, like Spot, may allow you to alert others if you’ll be late or can help search and rescuers locate you. Keep your cell phone off until you need it though, and reserve it for emergencies only.  

Remember the insect repellent.

 
Editor's Note: To learn more about any of these essential systems or for in-depth information on all things mountaineering and backcountry travel, get a copy of Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills (now in its 7th edition, 2004), published by The Mountaineers.

Backpackers, hikers, and climbers have always relied on reusable water bottles. As the general public becomes more aware of the negative environmental impacts of commercial bottled water (see “The Bottled Water Problem” below) they’re turning to reusable bottles too.

But, with health concerns about some plastics making the news, many are left confused. In what should you store your filtered or tap water? And is that old polycarbonate plastic bottle safe, or is it leaching chemical compounds? (see “What’s the Deal with BPA?” below)

Whether it’s for a trek into the backcountry or a trip to the store, there are a growing number of aluminum, stainless steel, and BPA-free plastic alternatives to choose from, beyond the popular,  but potentially problematic, polycarbonate water bottle.

Contents

Aluminum
Stainless Steel
BPA-Free Plastic

Aluminum

SIGG

At 100 years old, the stylish Swiss company is coming off its strongest year ever in the United States. SIGG bottles, made from a single piece of aluminum (no leaks), have a water-based, non-toxic interior coating. The liner’s finish helps protect from bacteria and mold and is neutral and resistant to fruit acids and energy drinks (so drinks taste like they should). SIGG bottles have been independently tested to prove they are completely leach-free and are 100 percent recyclable. 

Simply Eco-Logical SIGG lifestyle bottles come in a range of sizes (0.3, 0.6, 1.0 liter, and more) and lids (screw top, active, sport, kids). And new designs are offered seasonally. For 2008 choose a 1-liter Eco-Logical bottle and send a message like “Friends don’t let friends drink from plastic” on the back. Capacity: 1 liter (33.8 oz) Weight: 5.2 oz MSRP: $21.99

Stainless Steel

Guyot Designs and Nalgene

Guyot Designs’ stainless steel, wide mouth bottles are the only ones that work with standard 63 mm water purifiers and accessories. Through May 2008, the unlined, single wall bottles are available only through Guyot. After that they’ll be co-branded with Nalgene, so expect wider availability soon.

As part of their C-Minus program, every Guyot bottle comes with more than enough greenhouse gas offsets to offset the negative impact of their manufacture (100 lbs of verified greenhouse emissions). And, like all stainless steel bottles, they’re 100 percent recyclable.

	The Standard Capacity: 38 oz (1124 ml) Weight: 12.9 oz (365 g) MSRP: $24.95		Backpacker Capacity: 32 oz (946 ml) Weight: 12.3 oz (350 g) MSRP: $24.95
	Shorty Capacity: 24 oz (709.8 ml) Weight: 7.9 oz (225 g) MSRP: $24.95		Commuter Capacity: 24 oz (710 ml) Weight: 10 oz (280 g) MSRP: $24.95

Klean Kanteen

Since 2004, Klean Kanteen has produced unlined, stainless steel bottles in children’s (12 ounce) sizes up to 40 ounces. Bottles come with a range of cap options (sport, flat, loop, sippy for the small set) and are clean tasting, dishwasher friendly, and 100 percent recyclable. Klean Kanteen’s first colored bottles will debut in late spring of 2008.

Stainless Steel Bottles 12 oz/Sippy Cup Weight: 4 oz ($13.95) 18 oz/Kid Kanteen Weight: 6 oz ($15.95) 27 oz Weight: 8 oz ($17.95) 40 oz Weight: 11 oz ($23.95)

SIGG

SIGG’s signature item is its aluminum lifestyle bottle, but the company also offers stainless steel thermoses, vacuum-insulated mugs, and, new for 2008, a thermal bottle and a vintage oval bottle.

Hot & Cool The double wall Hot & Cool has a classic SIGG shape, but with thermal properties to keep drinks at the right temperature. Capacity: 0.5 liters (17 oz) Weight: 11.7 oz MSRP: $27.99

Vintage Oval The designer Vintage Oval bottle has a smooth hand feel and a leak-proof, retro swing top. Capacity: 0.4 liters (13.5 oz) Weight: 5.8 oz MSRP: $27.99

BPA-Free Plastic

CamelBak

CamelBak’s Performance and Podium Bike bottles are, and always have been, BPA- and phthalate-free. By summer 2008 all CamelBak bottles, including new Better Bottles and Classic Cap Bottles, will be BPA- and phthalate-free.

Better Bottles CamelBak switched its 2008 Better Bottle line to Eastman Tritan copolyester, a new bisphenol-A (BPA)- and phthalate-free material. BPA-free bottles started shipping to retailers in January of 2008, and all Better Bottles will be BPA/phthalate-free by the end of spring. In the mean time, look for a BPA free-logo on the bottle’s side. 0.5 Liter Weight: 5.4 oz ($10) 0.75 Liter Weight: 6.6 oz ($12) 1 Liter Weight: 7.4 oz ($14)

Classic Cap New for 2008, the Classic Cap Bottle is made from the same temperature- and impact-resistant, BPA- and phthalate-free Tritan material as the Better Bottles. 0.5 Liter Weight: 5.4 oz ($10) 0.75 Liter Weight: 6.6 oz ($12) 1 Liter Weight: 7.4 oz ($14)

Nalgene

HDPE Bottles Nalgene makes several versions of its classic water bottle in softer, HDPE (#2) plastic. HDPE, high density polyethylene, is non-leaching and considered safe for food and drink containers. A new, full line of HDPE bottles, in a range of colors, will be available starting February 21, 2008. The HDPE bottles come in 12- to 48-ounce sizes, with narrow or wide mouths, and loop tops. Capacities: 12, 16, 32, and 48 oz Weight Range: 3.68 oz to 5.28 oz MSRP’s: $5 to $10

Everyday Line Made with the new temperature- and impact-resistant Eastman Tritan copolyester (like CamelBak’s Better and Classic Cap bottles above), the Everyday Line will launch in March 2008 with BPA- and phthalate-free versions of Nalgene’s 32 oz Wide Mouth bottle, On-the-Go bottles, and kids Grip-n-Gulps.

GSI Outdoors

GSI Outdoors reportedly is working on a BPA-free water bottle and aims to eliminate BPA across its product line by 2009. GSI already offers stainless steel vacuum bottles, mugs, and flasks.

Backpacking pillows come in two primary varieties: compressible and inflatable, and some that combine the two.

Compressible pillows are filled with down, synthetic fibers, foam, or a combination, and come in a range of outer fabrics, such as fleece, cotton, and nylon. Just like in sleeping bags, down and synthetic fills each have their merits. Down is lighter, softer, and more compressible (both for packing and under your head). Synthetic fills are firmer, bulkier, and more affordable. Hybrids, which use both down and synthetic fill, aim to combine the best attributes of each. Inflatable pillows offer the advantages of weight and space savings for a relatively large surface area, and their firmness can be adjusted. Both compressible and inflatable pillows are available in a variety of sizes and shapes.

Judging pillows has a certain Goldilocks aspect to it—“too hard”, “too soft”, and “just right” can be highly subjective. But overall we found the compressible pillows more comfortable than the inflatable ones. Of course, that comfort comes with a bulkier size and heavier weight.

Contents

Down Compressible Pillows
Synthetic Compressible Pillows
Inflatable Pillows
Pillow Accessories

Down Compressible Pillows

Synthetic Compressible Pillows

Inflatable Pillows

Pillow Accessories

Get two passionate outdoor enthusiasts together and they might become outdoor parents. But there's no need to hang up the backpacks when Junior arrives. The early years are a great time to share the joys of the backcountry with a new generation.

With the right skills, a little extra preparation, and a flexible attitude, babies, toddlers, and kids can be rewarding hiking and backpacking partners. Not only will you connect with nature and each other, you and your kids will be fitter, less stressed, and more creative.

Just remember that like their parents, kids need appropriate outdoor gear for their safety and comfort. Here are a few things to consider when gearing up your little one for a lifetime of outdoor adventure.

• Clothing and Outerwear

• Footwear

• Backpacks

• Sleeping Bags

• Food and Water

• Other Kids' Gear

• Child Carriers

• Family Tents

• Camping Organizers

Clothing and Outerwear

Dress your child in layers—including baselayer, mid-layer, and outerwear/rainwear, appropriate for any weather conditions you might encounter—just like you would for yourself. Since babies and small children cool off faster and won’t have the chance to warm up by hiking, bring extra layers for them.

Also consider bringing extra pairs of synthetic or wool socks (for when feet get wet from puddles), underwear (for accidents), and gloves in colder weather. And always remember hats (sun, rain, or snow), sunglasses (try Julbo’s for kids), sunblock, and when necessary, DEET-free insect repellant.

The following companies make clothing for outdoor babies to junior campers:

• L.L. Bean makes clothing, outerwear, and accessories, including fleece jackets and vests, snow bibs, rain gear, and synthetic long underwear, for infants on up—all with the famous L.L. Bean guarantee.

• Molehill Mountain makes “Gear for Growing Up.” Their infant through youth products include rain, wind, and snow gear; fleece jackets, tops and pants; long underwear, pants and shorts, booties, and even a Soft Shell Jacket. Return outgrown clothing to Molehill to be donated to homeless shelters and safehouses and get a coupon for 10% off your next purchase.

• Mountain Sprouts has colorful base layers, fleece tops and pants, booties, and outerwear, including the Rogue Softshell Jacket, in infant/toddler to youth/junior sizes. For moms-to-be, there’s the Moxie Maternity Jacket in Polartec fleece with hidden flex panels for growth.

• Patagonia has your child covered head to toe for life with sun and winter hats, Capilene baselayers, organic tees, Synchilla fleece tops, insulation, rain gear, hiking pants, and shorts, all made with Patagonia's commitment to environmental responsibility.

• Roonwear, with its “Technical Wear for a Younger Generation,” is the newest kid on the block. Debuting in 2007, Roonwear's Adventure Infant, Walkabout, and Go Outside and Play lines offer clothing in preemie to 5T sizes. Products include short- and long-sleeve tees, onesies, pants, socks, and a hat, all in ultra-soft, wicking Dri-release, as well as Haulin’ Cargo Pants with a windproof shell and soft inner lining, a fleece Traveler Jacket, and Half-Traveler Vest.

Browse Kids' Clothing and Outerwear>>

Footwear

If your child will be hiking any distance, he or she needs sturdy, comfortable trail shoes or boots. For small children who aren’t carrying a load or hiking far, good quality sneakers or low trail shoes will suffice, as long as they have good traction. Leave flimsy or open-toed shoes or sandals at home. Older kids, especially those carrying a pack or tackling steeper, tougher terrain, will need technical trail shoes and eventually above-the-ankle hiking boots.

Regardless of whether you choose below-the-ankle trail shoes or trail runners or higher cut hiking boots, proper fit is still the most important criteria. The rules for selecting boots for adults (fit, fit, fit) also apply to kids. And just because a shoe is made to look like a cute little hiking boot, doesn’t make it a real hiking boot. Buy well-fitting, supportive footwear for your kids (this doesn’t have to mean expensive) and they’ll be more likely to enjoy climbing rocks and exploring the trail.

Lastly, leave the cotton socks at home. Pair those trail shoes with wool or synthetic socks that wick away moisture and you’ll help prevent friction and blisters.

The following companies make technical outdoor footwear for children:

• Garmont’s Flash XCR Junior hiker and Nagevi Junior trail shoe offer grippy soles and support in a kid-specific design, but are built as tough as the adult versions.

• Keen offers its popular Targhee trail shoe in infant, youth, and kid sizes, in addition to its distinctive sandals (Newport, Newport H2, and Venice).

• L.L. Bean offers Adventure Mocs for toddlers and, for older kids, low- and mid-cut Trail Model Hikers and Gore-Tex Mountain Hikers.

• Merrell has a wide range of footwear for boys, girls, toddlers, and even infants, from My First Merrells to the Summit lll Waterproof backpacking boot.

• Vasque’s new collection of children’s footwear launches in July of 2007 and will include kids’ versions of the Blur trail runner, Mantra multisport shoe, and Breeze hiking boot.

Browse Kids' Footwear>>

Backpacks

As soon as your toddler is hiking on her own get her her own backpack. She’ll be proud to carry that granola bar in it all by herself and you'll encourage her independence. The littlest hikers just need a small bag, like the Kelty Minnow or Deuter Kids Pack, since they’ll carry only a few small, light items, though you’ll need to be able to carry that bag when they’re ready to be carried.

As kids get bigger and stronger they can start carrying more of their own gear, with teenagers carrying most to all of their backpacking gear. There’s a wide range of strength and abilities among kids, but generally kids shouldn’t carry more than 15% of their body weight.

Start with a small daypack for hiking (like Lucky Bums Snow Sport Daypack).Then as they, their gear, and their skill level grow, move up to youth and short torso versions of internal (Mountainsmith Youth Pursuit or REI Comet Pack) and external (JanSport Scout or Kelty Junior Tioga) frame packs.

• CamelBak, Deuter, JanSport, Kelty, Lucky Bums, Mountainsmith, and REI make day and overnight packs for kids.

Browse Kids' Packs>>

Sleeping Bags

With proper preparation and experience, you can take kids of any age camping and even backpacking. But before you set off on your toddler’s first thru-hike, take some test runs in your own backyard or local state park. You’ll be able to see what works for you and your child, what you’ve forgotten, and what you’d leave behind next time, all in a low-risk, comfortable environment.

While infants can share a regular or double-wide sleeping bag with Mom or Dad, older kids who camp or backpack need their own space. Children’s sleeping bags come in sizes for toddlers to teens, so you're sure to find the right length. While you might want a bag with some extra room to spare for your growing kid, remember that too much extra space means more space to heat up and a colder bag.

Choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating at or below the coldest temperature you expect your child to sleep in. Because synthetics are washable and retain their insulating properties when wet, they're the most popular for kids, especially younger campers. Since little kids tend to wiggle out of bags at night, make sure they’re dressed warmly, possibly with a hat. Lastly, don’t forget a sleeping pad for underneath. It’s not just a matter of comfort, but also of heat retention.

• Big Agnes’s Little Red 15° is an excellent first three-season sleeping bag for toddlers.

• Molehill’s 48" 0-degree mummy bags are designed for chilly nights in the woods and freezing nights in the mountains.

• Sierra Designs' Dragonfly and Big Dog fit kids up to 5'0" and keep them warm down to 20°.

Browse Kids' Sleeping Bags>>

Food and Water

Always bring plenty of snacks along on hikes and let your kids help select them. Well-timed snack breaks can make all the difference in a kid’s mood and the promise of a well-deserved treat at the next trail junction or summit may be all that’s needed to propel your hiker onward and upward. While you’ll want to avoid overly-sugary treats, be generous and pick out plenty of healthy kid favorites. Dried fruit, granola or cereal bars, your favorite trail mix (have the kids help make it), fig newtons, crackers, cheese, and the occasional chocolate bar are all popular choices.

Whether you’re going for a short nature walk or a backcountry trek, you always need to bring plenty of water for everyone. Dehydration is a dangerous condition and can lead to heat stroke and even death. Kids, especially babies and small children, can get dehydrated quickly at any time of year (as can adults). Adults should monitor kids’ fluid intake, both by how often kids drink and the frequency and color of their urine. Make sure everyone replaces both fluids and salts/electrolytes lost by regularly drinking water (with occasional handfuls of trail mix or other salty snacks) or a balanced sports drink.

The following products can make staying hydrated fun.

• Hydration Reservoirs: Kids love drinking out of hydration reservoirs. Once they’re old enough to do so safely get them their own (consider Lucky Bums Little Dipper) or try a hydration pack like CamelBak’s Skeeter, Jibber, or Mini Mule, with the hydration bladder included.

• Water Bottles: Easier to clean than a reservoir, spill-proof water bottle like Nalgene’s Grip-n-Gulp for toddlers, CamelBak’s The Better Bottle for older kids, or Sigg’s aluminum Kids Bottles with fun pictures, come in various sizes.

• You can easily turn a standard water bottles into a hydration system with The SmarTube. SmarTube offers caps that fit bike bottles, small and narrow Nalgenes, military canteens, and other sized bottles, making it a lower-cost option for anyone on a budget.

Browse Water Storage>>

Other Kids' Gear

Trekking Poles

Little kids may find it fun to walk with Mom’s shortened trekking pole, but older kids will probably want their own. Look for compact versions with shorter lengths and sized for smaller hands.

• Specially designed for kids, the Leki Pathfinder Jr. trekking poles adjust from 27-43 inches and are made so that even kids can lock the poles securely.

• The REI Summit Junior trekking poles adjust from a minimum of 34 to a maximum of 47 inches, have durable plastic handles with an easy-to-hold ergonomic shape and a simple twist-lock mechanism.

Browse Kids' Trekking Poles>>

Lights

Your child will want to play with your flashlight or headlamp. So give him his own and you won’t find yourself in the dark when nature calls at midnight.

• Black Diamond’s Wiz headlamp is sized for kids, toned down in illumination so parents don’t get blinded, turns off after an hour to save batteries, has an easy on/off button, and releases from its elastic strap when under pressure so kids don’t get stuck.

  Browse Lights »

Snowshoes

Hiking as a family can be a year round activity. Atlas, Tubbs, and MSR all offer snowshoes for kids, sized for tots on up.

Climbing Gear

Climbing kids even have their own harnesses, helmets, and rock shoes for a safe and comfortable introduction to the sport.

Child Carriers

When backpacking or hiking with an infant or toddler, someone will need to carry the child much of the time. Infants can ride in a front carrier at first, but once your child is comfortable sitting up they’re ready for the backpack carrier (refer to your carrier's specific recommendations).

Kid carriers tend to be heavy and your precious cargo is only going to increase in weight, so you’ll want to invest in a well-fitting kid carrier. Try kid carriers on with the same attention you would expend towards choosing any new backpack. Try different brands and models with weight (i.e. your child) in it. If one parent will predominantly carry the child, get the carrier that fits that parent best. If you’ll be doing equal time, find one that easily adjusts for different torso sizes.

In either case, you want excellent suspension and lots of padding in the hip belt and shoulder straps. Your little one will appreciate accessories like a sun/rain hood for weather protection and possibly a bug net, depending on where and when you hike.

Your partner will probably balk at carrying all the gear when backpacking. So unless you have extra adults to share the load, you’ll need some cargo room too. Carriers have various capacities for holding gear and some offer attachable storage for versatility. Like with any pack, don’t get more capacity than you need, since that typically means more weight to carry. But honestly assess how you’ll use the pack and how much you’ll need to carry.

Also, while you’ll want to be fully prepared for conditions while hiking or backpacking with a child, this is an excellent time to review your packing list and consider replacing old gear with lighter equivalents. You can also shave a few pounds by leaving any luxuries behind, or at least leave your luxuries behind; Teddy may be coming along for the ride.

• Deuter, Kelty, and Sherpani all have extensive lines of child carriers designed to take you and your kiddo from the farmer's market to the backcountry.

Browse Child Carriers>>

Family Tents

That solo ultralight tent isn't going to cut it for family camping. You’ll need room for your new tent mate and all of her or his stuff. If you’ll solely be car camping, weight won’t be a factor and you can pick whatever size and design tent fits your budget, preferences, and needs. But, if you’re even considering backpacking with kids—and you should—weight will quickly become a top priority. You’ll want a tent that meets your minimum space needs at a minimum weight, since you and another adult will probably be carrying the tent and most of the backpacking gear for years to come.

Consider how much tent space you really need to be comfortable as a family, especially if you'll ever have to wait out weather inside. A vestibule or two will provide space for gear. A gear loft and tent pockets can help organize tight quarters.

Whatever you do, do not buy a tent from your local big box store. Typically these tents are poorly-designed, hard to set up, heavy, and leaky, and when something goes wrong, the stores offer little customer service. No matter your budget, there are far better values for your money from reputable tent manufacturers.

Family camping stalwarts like Eureka and Coleman offer a range of family- and budget-friendly tents, and other outdoor manufacturers are also moving into the base camp and family territory:

• Kelty’s new Villa 4 and 6 are two-door, three-season, dome tents with a 6-foot ceiling, a vestibule with soft shelf storage, and double doorway.

• Mountain Hardwear’s Casa 4 and 6 offer base camp comfort with tall, vertical entries for easy in and out, quick-pitch design, and plenty of ventilation.

• The North Face’s Trailhead 6 and 8 offer spacious room for 6 or 8 with a common area and two separate sleeping quarters.

• REI’s Half Dome 4 HC is roomy enough for two adults and a child and light enough to take backpacking.

Browse Three-Season Tents>>

Camping Organizers

Keeping your family’s various gear and clothing organized while at home and while camping can be tricky. You can use Rubbermaid bins to set up your own back-of-the-car system, or try the following products to get organized at home, in the car, and at the campsite:

• Kelty’s Binto system features interchangeable, color-coded storage bins and totes for base camp, including the Binto Hauler, which holds three 1,400 cubic inches Binto cubes for ultra-organized hauling, and the Binto Bar, a compactable storage bin with a work space for food prep and three Binto cubes. Kelty also offers padded and insulated Bintos and Totes.

• Mountainsmith’s Modular Hauler 2, 3, and 4 come with cubes to organize your car’s trunk, the garage shelves, closet, or cabin in the mountains. Color-coded cubes enable easy id for gear and come in basic, cooler, breathable, and deluxe mode.

• Eagle Creek’s mobile storage system starts with either a 60- or 90-liter Toy Chest and gear, mud, half, and wide boxes that make up an integrated packing system.

Hiking and backpacking with kids of any age can be a fun and rewarding experience for everyone. Not only will you enjoy passing on backcountry skills and making outdoor memories together, but children who spend regular time outdoors also tend to be healthier, more creative, and respectful of the environment, themselves, and others.

There are many variables when hiking and backpacking safely with kids, but the following general tips should start you out on the right foot. This assumes you’re already an experienced hiker or backpacker. If not, gain the proper experience first before taking your kids into the backcountry, or sign up for a guided hike with experienced leaders. While exploring with kids takes a little more preparation, the rewards will last a lifetime.

• When taking kids hiking or backpacking, change your focus from how far or how fast you plan to go, to creating a positive experience for everyone. You want to foster a love of the outdoors, not a fear of Dad or Mom’s next grueling march.

• With proper preparation, skill, and gear you can backpack with babies and small children, but you’ll need to tackle some shorter objectives first. Try camping in your backyard first as a shakedown exercise. You’ll find out what you’re missing with minimum inconvenience and help your child adjust to sleeping outside, without stepping too far outside her or his comfort zone.

• Start out on easier trails and shorter loops and work up from there. Trails with rewarding sights and features like streams and waterfalls, boulders to climb, beaches to explore, and views to behold are excellent choices.

• Add kid-specific options to your first aid kit, such as infant or child fever reducer, teething ointment, and diaper rash cream.

• Dress your child in proper footwear with good traction and layers of clothing appropriate for any conditions you might encounter. Read more>>

• Don’t forget the 10 Essentials, including sunscreen, DEET-free bug repellent, sunglasses, and hats.

• Give your child a whistle to blow in case they get lost. (Whistles are not recommended for small children due to choking hazards.)

• Bring snacks, lots of snacks.

• Bring water, plenty of water.

• Let kids carry their own small packs, even if they only have a small snack to bring. They’ll be proud and you’ll encourage their independence.

• Encourage even the youngest child to walk as much as is appropriate for their age and skill level. With toddlers and preschoolers you’ll have to be prepared to carry them at any point.

• Be prepared to stop to investigate (yet another) ant or rock on the ground at any point. Share in your kids’ natural enthusiasm and observations.

• Resist the urge to hurry your child along. Let kids explore at their own level and pace whenever possible. They just might show you something new.

• Teach kids to be quiet in the woods as part of trail etiquette and in the hopes of seeing more wildlife.

• Teach kids to stay on the trail (for safety and to minimize erosion) and within site of an adult at all times. You may want to dress them in bright colors for visibility.

• Teach kids to stop and hug a tree if they do get lost. Have them blow their whistle three times and wait to be heard. Repeat.

• Pack everything out. This includes diapers and wipes. Never ever try to bury or burn diapers in the backcountry. Always use hand sanitizer after a diaper change.

• Be flexible.

• Have fun!

What Exactly is a Soft Shell?

Much of the confusion around soft shells lies with the fact that the term is loosely-defined and is used quite broadly to refer to a wide range of outerwear (largely jackets, pants, and vests).

Soft shells are breathable, wind-, water-, and abrasion-resistant outerwear made from stretchy materials designed for aerobic outdoor activities. Soft shells come in a wide range of windproofness, water resistance, breathability, stretch, and insulation, and soft shell fabrics range from light, stretchy, sweater-like knits to stiffer, laminated, dense, water-resistant wovens. Soft shell fabrics, such as Schoeller Dryskin Extreme or Polartec Power Shield, are softer (naturally) and more flexible than waterproof-breathable hard shells, like Gore-Tex. They’re more comfortable to move in and they don’t suffer from the noisy crinkliness of hard shells.

The major advantage of soft shells over waterproof hard shells is their breathability. While waterproof-breathable hard shells repel rain with laminates or coatings that allow sweat to pass back through, they also sacrifice breathability. Soft shells tradeoff complete waterproofness for two to three times more breathability than typical hard shells. This means that during highly aerobic activities, like cross-country skiing or climbing a steep trail, you won’t get soaked from sweat trapped inside your shell. This greater breathability also makes soft shells more versatile, since you won’t need to stop as often during an outing to add or remove layers to regulate your temperature or comfort level. But the tradeoff is less weather resistance. While most soft shell fabrics can withstand a light rain they will not keep you dry in a steady downpour.

When Can I Use a Soft Shell?

The short answer is any time you don’t need a completely waterproof shell. Because of their high breathability, soft shells are best for aerobic activities like hiking, climbing, cross-country and backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and mountain biking—any time you might be sweating and don’t want that sweat trapped inside your shell. Which soft shell works best in each of those situations depends on how much water resistance and breathability you need, any insulation requirements, and your personal preferences.

What About Waterproofing?

Soft shells are not waterproof, although some are highly water-resistant and come pretty close. Many can shed hours of light, dry snowfall or even light rain while remaining reasonably breathable. In the wide range of soft shells, the more weatherproof it is the less breathable it will be (although a less breathable soft shell will still be more breathable than a hard shell).

If you need completely waterproof protection get a hard shell jacket and pants, since even a durable water repellent (DWR) treated soft shell (one with a hydrophobic coating that makes water bead up and roll off rather than soaking in) will not replace a truly waterproof hard shell when you need one in a downpour.

How Warm is It?

A soft shell is an outer layer (hence “shell”) designed for breathability and flexibility during aerobic pursuits. It acts as a barrier to the wind and some precipitation while allowing sweat to escape. While some soft shells have fleece linings or even synthetic insulation built in, soft shells are not designed primarily to insulate. Even with insulated soft shells you’ll still need to layer properly for the conditions you’ll encounter. This may mean adding a mid-layer, such as fleece, wool, down, or synthetic insulation.

Insulated linings can make a difference in the cold, but depending on when and where you use your soft shell they may also make your shell less versatile overall. Since any shell is part of a layering system, be certain you need insulation or a lining before you buy a soft shell with one. Adding or removing layers underneath your shell may allow you to regulate your temperature better in a wider range of conditions.

Enough Already, How Do I Choose a Soft Shell?

When selecting any outdoor gear or clothing you need to do an honest assessment of your performance criteria and preferences. To narrow down the soft shell choices ask yourself the following questions about how you’ll use your soft shell. While you may use your soft shell in totally different ways or conditions on occasion, how will you use it 90 percent of the time?

• Where and when will I use the soft shell?

What are the typical weather conditions and climate you’ll encounter?
Will conditions be wet (ice climbing) or dry (desert hiking)?
Will temperatures be very cold (consider a fleece lining or insulation) or moderate to mild (forget the insulation)?
Do you need serious protection from the elements? If so, what exactly are those elements?

• How will I use the soft shell?

Will you be stopping and starting often or moving fast and continuously?
Do you need insulation in your shell or would you rather add mid-layers as necessary?
What part will the shell play in your multiple-layer clothing system?

Your answers to these questions will help you decide between the amount of water resistance and the amount of breathablity (you can’t have both) you’ll need for the conditions you’ll typically encounter and the way you’ll use your soft shell. Choosing a soft shell comes down to how much breathability, water-resistance, and insulation you need.

• Mild, dry conditions: More breathability, less water resistance, no insulation

• Cold, wet conditions: Less breathability, more water resistance, possibly some insulation

• High aerobic output: More breathability, less or no insulation

• Low aerobic output: Less breathability, possibly some insulation

For example:

• If you’ll typically experience mild, dry conditions during moderate to highly aerobic activity you might choose a stretchy, lightweight knit or woven fabric with high breathability (such as The North Face Apex Pneumatic or Mountain Hardwear Offwidth).

• For colder, dry conditions you might want a mid-weight, more densely woven fabric with good wind resistance, moderate breathability, and possibly a lining or insulation (such as the Arc'Teryx Sigma SV or Cloudveil Switchback).

• And in cold, wet conditions you might want a heavier fabric, with the highest water resistance, but less stretch, possibly lined with fleece (such as the Marmot Ascend, Mountain Hardwear Hooded Synchro, or Patagonia Ready Mix).

What About Features?

After you’ve figured out how much breathability, weatherproofness, and insulation (if any) you need, consider whether you want or need specific features, such as a hood, pit zips, adjustable cuffs, or pockets. And most important, don’t forget a good fit. Since you’ll most likely be wearing your soft shell during active pursuits, make sure the cut and stretch of the fabric give you a full range of motion for your favorite activity, whether you’ll be ice climbing, backcountry skiing, or hiking a steep trail. Soft shells tend to be cut trimmer than hard shells. So make sure the model and size you buy will work with any layers you’ll add under or over it.

Now that you better understand soft shells, check out Trailspace’s user reviews and product information on hundreds of soft shell jackets, soft shell pants, and soft shell vests to find the right piece for you and your next outdoor adventure.

But do you really know the basic tenets of Leave No Trace? (Quick, name all seven principles.) And, perhaps even more important, do you understand why they should be followed? Could you explain, politely, to the guy in the tent site next to yours (or to yourself) why Fido shouldn’t be allowed to run free through the trees and streams?

Even the most environmentally sensitive among us can use an occasional reminder of how to reduce our impact in the backcountry. Because no matter how well intentioned, you’re bound to leave some impact, if only footprints.

The Leave No Trace Principles of outdoor ethics

These principles were developed and are taught by the Leave No Trace organization. For more information on the principles and on LNT, visit lnt.org.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

• Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll visit.

• Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.

• Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.

• Visit in small groups. Split larger parties into groups of 4-6.

• Repackage food to minimize waste.

• Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns, or flagging.

The Bottom Line: Ignorance is no excuse. If you’re going into the backcountry, it’s your responsibility to know where you can camp, the maximum group size allowed, and any other restrictions. Not only is trip planning necessary for safety and success, it also keeps you from being forced into making bad decisions. If you’ve properly planned to reach your designated campsite before nightfall you won’t find yourself desperately searching in the dark for any old place to pitch your tent and thus damaging an area’s natural resources.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

• Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses, or snow.

• Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.

• Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary.

• In popular areas:

• Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.

• Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy.

• Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent.

• In pristine areas:

• Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails.

• Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.

The Bottom Line: When there’s a trail, stick to it. Yes, sometimes trails get wet and muddy, but are you really afraid of getting your boots a little dirty? Walking around a muddy trail just tramples down more vegetation, spreading out the trail and its erosion.

When going off-trail (such as to the bathroom or moseying around camp), disperse and vary your route. Don’t follow one another and inadvertently form another trail. Whenever possible travel on durable surfaces like rocks, sand, and gravel or, when safe, snow. Avoid walking on vegetation, especially on alpine summits. In desert areas completely avoid Cryptobiotic crust, which can be destroyed by one stray footprint, and desert puddles and mud holes, which animals rely on for scarce water.

Campsite selection can have the biggest influence on your backcountry impact. Choose an appropriate site based on local regulations (poor planning is no excuse for choosing a fragile spot) and minimizing impact. Avoid camping near water or trails and, when possible, choose a site that already has been highly impacted, such as established campsites or those with no vegetative cover. That way your further impact won’t be noticeable.

Camping in a pristine area? This requires a true commitment to and experience with LNT practices and is likely to involve spreading out tent sites, moving camp daily, and naturalizing the site when breaking camp.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

• Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.

• Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.

• Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.

• To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

The Bottom Line: Protect water quality and the backcountry experience of others by properly disposing of your human waste. In most locations this means burying feces in a cathole and urinating on rocks, pine needles, or gravel. However, in narrow river canyons and other locations, it may be necessary to pee in the river and pack out solid waste. Again, know the regulations for the area you’re visiting.

If you must use toilet paper, use it sparingly and then pack it out. Yes, that may seem a tad gross, but finding used toilet paper in the woods is worse. Also, carry out all feminine hygiene products. Don’t bury them (they don’t readily decompose and animals may dig them up) and don’t try to burn them (it takes a lot of heat to burn them completely).

4. Leave What You Find

• Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch, cultural or historic structures and artifacts.

• Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them.

• Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.

• Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.

The Bottom Line: Leave natural areas just as you found them. “But, I’m just going to take one flower, what can it hurt?” you think. Well, imagine if everyone took “just one.” Let others experience the same beauty of nature. Take a picture if you like, write about it in your journal, but then leave behind the flowers, antlers, pretty colored rock, or feather you saw.

You also should know that in some areas, like national parks, it’s illegal to remove any natural objects; on public land it’s illegal to disturb or remove archeological sites, historic sites, or cultural artifacts, like potsherds, arrowheads, and antique bottles.

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

• Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.

• Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.

• Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.

• Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.

The Bottom Line: Use a stove for minimum-impact camping. There are many excellent backpacking stoves on the market that are lightweight and efficient. The removal of firewood destroys not only the natural appearance of an area, but also shelter for small animals like birds.

6. Respect Wildlife

• Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.

• Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers.

• Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.

• Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.

• Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.

The Bottom Line: Be sure to properly store your food (and garbage, food scraps, cooking gear, and scented items like soap and toothpaste) away from animals. This usually means hanging a food bag at least 12 feet off the ground and five feet from tree trunks, or in bear country using a bear-resistant food canister or designated food-hanging pole in camp.

With the exception of making yourself heard when traveling through bear country, keep loud noises to a minimum so you don’t startle animals and force them to flee their young or scare them away from water sources. And even though they may present a very tempting photo op, don’t approach animals just to get a better look.

Note: If you will be traveling in bear country, make sure you follow the recommended safe camping and food storage practices for the area you’ll visit.

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

• Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.

• Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.

• Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.

• Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.

• Let nature's sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.

The Bottom Line: Be considerate. Keep the noise level down on the trail and in camp so you don’t disturb others. Don’t travel in large groups, call out to others down the trail, or test your echo on top of a ridge.

Want to lessen your visual impact? You can increase feelings of solitude, for yourself and others, by choosing tents, clothing, and other equipment with natural, earth-toned colors, like browns and greens.

As for Fido, some areas prohibit pets or require them to be on a leash at all times. Pets running free can disturb or scare wildlife and other hikers, despite your assurances that, “he’s just really friendly.” And remember, dog feces get the same treatment as human feces. Pick them up and dispose of them properly.

Ultimately it comes down to this. With common courtesy—for others and the backcountry environment—we all can enjoy and protect the outdoor experience.

For More Information

If you’ve already got these basic principles of Leave No Trace down, congratulations. You can learn how to reduce your backcountry impact even further by visiting the Leave No Trace web site (lnt.org) for further information and tips on each principle.

• Learn the science of digging a perfect cathole.

• Discover how to select a remote campsite in arid lands.

• Find out how to build a mound fire or collect firewood.

• You can even attend a Leave No Trace course. Classes range from awareness workshops for the general public to trainer and master educator courses for those who teach outdoor skills.

Or, how about leaving a negative trace? Bring along an extra trash bag and pick up some of the trash you find on your next outing. It only takes a few minutes and the effect is worth it—for you, the outdoors, and the next person on the trail.

Tent Reviews and Information
Whether you’re looking to pitch a summer tent that fits your whole family (and Spot) at the local campground, a rugged mountaineering tent for your next winter expedition, or a lightweight tarp for solo backpacking, we can help you find the right shelter for you and your outdoor companions.

Trailspace has user reviews and information about more than a thousand tents, shelters, and hammocks in seven categories:

• Four-Season Tents

• 3-4 Season Convertible Tents

• Three-Season Tents

• Warm Weather Tents

• Bivy Sacks

• Tarps and Shelters

• Hammocks

How to Choose a Tent

Like campers and backpackers, tents come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. Tents provide not only a place to sleep, but protection from the elements (and mosquitoes and other critters), a sheltered spot for you and your gear, and a little privacy and sense of security in the great outdoors. Since you’ll depend on your tent for shelter, be sure to choose a good quality one that fits your outdoor needs. Having the right tent can mean the difference between sleeping peacefully amid the pitter patter of a summer shower and making a soggy, middle-of-the night trip back to the car or to a local motel.

When Will You Use the Tent?

In what seasons and conditions will you use your tent? Knowing when, where, and how you camp will help you select the right shelter for you and your adventure. Choose a tent that can handle the most severe conditions you expect to encounter, but don’t buy more tent than you truly need.

• Four-season tents, with extra poles to withstand heavy snow and high winds and designed for extremely cold temperature, are essential for winter use, or any time you might encounter winter-like conditions. Also known as mountaineering tents, they are the heaviest and sturdiest of the bunch and can be used year-round, but are generally too hot and heavy for warm weather. If you plan on winter camping, get a four-season tent. Examples of four-season tents include: the Mountain Hardwear Trango 2, the Sierra Designs Stretch Dome, The North Face Mountain 25, the Bibler Fitzroy, and the Eureka! Alpenlite XT.

• 3-4 season convertible tents convert from four-season to three-season use with the removal of a couple of poles or panels. They tend to be heavier than standard three-season models, but offer greater versatility than a three- or four-season tent alone. They can also save you money since you buy one tent instead of two. Examples of convertible tents include: the Marmot Swallow, the MSR Fusion 2, and the Sierra Designs Omega.

• Three-season tents are designed for spring, summer, and fall use. While not designed to withstand heavy snow loads, they should hold up if you encounter a light early- or late-season snowfall. Most recreational hikers and backpackers choose a three-season tent for non-winter excursions. Examples of three-season tents include: the Eureka! Timberline 4, the REI Quarter Dome UL, the Marmot EOS 1P, the Sierra Designs Light Year CD, and the MSR Trekker Tent.