Packing for a Multi-Terrain Hike

Packing for a hike can seem straightforward enough: Light backpack, water bottle, hiking boots and some snacks, but during a transitional season like the fall, you don’t always know what you’re going to come up against.

Getting out on the steep hills, rugged trails or flat paths with the family can sometimes make packing for all situations a challenge. With varied terrain and changing seasons leading to fickle and, sometimes, unpredictable weather, there are a few odds and ends you can add to your family’s bag — just to cover all your basis.

Chance of Ice

In the event ice and snow is covering some upcoming trails, Yaktrax can slip on your hiking boots and help gain traction. With a variety of sizes for men, women and children, any age hiker can keep up. Just choose your size and slip on before venturing over slick paths.

Pack a few body warmers to have on hand, in case sore muscles or a cold front comes in. You can slip them into the kids’ gloves, shoes and hats or use the adhesive kind to sneak under clothing.

Chance of Rain

A lightweight slicker is always great to have on hand for a transitional season hike. Something light, foldable and protective is a great staple to have — especially for outdoorsy families. Having a light, waterproof jacket rolled up tightly in your backpack is a great fall back for fall weather. Check out Eddie Bauer’s lineup of impossibly light backpacks and jackets that can fold up into themselves in a pinch.

Family trek. Photo: Vian1980 | Dreamstime.com

Inside those tiny backpacks, bundle a few pairs of dry, clean socks in the event you or the kids need to change or layer up. Bring Ziploc or waterproof bags to keep portable chargers, dry food or anything else you want to protect from impending weather. You will thank us later.

Chance of Sun

Sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses and hats are always great accessories to travel, especially on a hike. No matter the season, you’ll find the kids will get regular use out of UV-protective sunglasses.

Don’t forget safety precautions, like first-aid kits, self-cleaning water filter systems, fire-starters, maps and portable phone chargers. You might not want to weigh yourselves down on just any easy hike, but having some back-up in the car for safety is ideal.

Shop more camping and hiking gear to get some inspiration for your next hike, with the added security of having a few emergency back-ups.