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Hiking is something I used to love to do and the more rugged the terrain, the better. I've slowed down quite a bit since having kids, but now that they're older, I love to get in a family hike in when we can. Hikes with the family aren't as strenuous as the hikes I would take when I was younger (my body would disagree, lol), but if there's one thing I've learned, it's that accidents can happen anywhere. I always believe it's better to be prepared, so I've put together a list of tips for prepping for a family hike including how to put together a cool custom first aid kit.

When doing a family hike, both my hubs and I will wear a backpack with supplies like food and plenty of water, but I'm also including a fully-stocked first aid kit.

Besides the regular first aid supplies, I added a tube of BENGAY^® Ultra Strength Cream.
Some supplies to consider including in your own first aid kit are:

• bandages
• antibiotic ointment
• tweezers
• an elastic compression bandage for sprains
• gauze pads and tape
• an allergy medicine
• an anti-itch spray or cream for bug bites
• medicine for pain

Now that your first aid kit is in the bag, there are other things to think about before going on a hike.

Footwear


Something to think about when planning a hike is your footwear. Depending on the terrain, you'll need sturdy shoes with a deep tread pattern and they should be well worn-in to guard against blisters. Never hike in new shoes!

Water


The next supply you should be packing is water, and plenty of it! A good rule of thumb is 1 liter of water for every 2 hours of hiking, per person. This will help you replace the fluid you lose from perspiring. Also think about taking an extra bottle for cleaning any scrapes or cuts that happen. It seems like a lot of water to carry, but distributing it between hikers will help to lighten the load.

Food


Again, this depends on how long you'll be hiking, but you should pack protein-rich snacks for each person. Foods like protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, and jerky are all great portable options.

Other items to consider adding to your backpack for a day of hiking with the family are:

• sunscreen
• insect repellant
• sunglasses
• hats

The clothing you wear is something else to think about. Will you be hiking somewhere that branches or brambles could scratch up legs? Consider wearing pants instead of shorts, but everything should be in a light color and in a breathable material like cotton to help you stay as cool as possible.

I hope this post helps you get prepped and get out there this summer. Hiking is a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy and now is the time to get out there!


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Do you enjoy hiking? What would you include in your kit? I love to read your comments!


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