Top 10 Essentials For Hiking With A Baby 

So, you've decided to take your tiny human on a hike - AMAZING! Getting your kiddo outside at an early age is so beneficial for both baby and parents! But, before you embark on this adventure, you need to make sure you have all the necessary gear. Here are the top 10 essentials for hiking with a baby:

1. A baby carrier: This is not the time for a fashion statement. You need a carrier that distributes weight evenly and has good back support. We have done a lot of trial and error. We love our Osprey Poco Carrier. However, we have also recently discovered the Luvdbaby Premium which is almost half the price and adjusts with your kiddo as they grow.
2. Sunscreen: Protect your baby's skin from the sun's harmful rays. You don't want your little one to come back looking like a tomato or feeling like a hot potato. Some key thinks to look for in a natural baby sunscreen are, fragrance free, zinc oxide, and unless you want to tackle a slippery baby... easy application. My favorite is the Blue Lizard sunscreen stick. Non toxic ingredients and an easy apply stick.
3. A hat: First of all... who the heck doesn't love a little nugget in a bucket hat?! A sun hat with a wide brim that protects your baby's face, neck, and ears from the sun is very important, even if your carrier has a top cover.
4. Appropriate clothing: Make sure your baby is dressed appropriately for the weather conditions and their age. If its roughly above 70 degrees throughout the hike you little one should be just fine showing some skin (as long as the skin is covered in sunscreen). But always bring a change of clothes and extra layers. Babies and Mother Nature can be unpredictable...
5. Diapers and wipes: Bring more than you think you need. You never know when a diaper disaster might strike. Just make sure to pack them in a place that's easily accessible, so you're not digging through your backpack like a crazy person. We love the Yugi Baby Green biodegradable wipes. We are firm believers in "leave no trace" so while they are biodegradable don't just leave them. We usually drop dirty wipes and diapers in a doggy bag until we find a trash can to toss it.
6. Snacks: Make sure your baby is well-fed and hydrated. A hungry baby is a cranky baby, and no one wants to deal with that on the trail.
7. First aid kit: Accidents happen, even to the tiniest of humans. Make sure you have a first aid kit with essential items like band-aids and antiseptic wipes. And don't forget the baby-friendly bug spray.
8. Insect Repellent: Insect bites can be irritating and uncomfortable for babies, so consider bringing a baby-safe insect repellent. Look for one with natural ingredients such as citronella or lemon eucalyptus oil.
9. Pit Stop Supplies: Make sure to bring a diaper changing mat for the many changes that are inevitable. I'm also a huge fan of bringing a Seat Pad for popping a squat to breast feed or diaper change.
10. A sense of humor: Let's be real, hiking with a baby is not always going to go according to plan. But if you can laugh at the chaos, it'll make for a fun experience.

Hiking with a baby can be an adventure of a lifetime, as long as you're prepared. Getting your baby to love the outdoors early is priceless. But be gracious with yourself. If your hike isn't as long as you would've liked or if there is a tantrum on the trail... that's okay (it'll at least scare the bears away!). Take lots of breaks and enjoy the great outdoors. Pack these essential items, keep a sense of humor, and don't forget to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.