The beautiful weather outside and the massive amounts of closures of indoor facilities, like movie theaters and malls, have led people to want to explore more of the outdoors. This summer, more families are opting to visit serene parks and natural areas instead of the typical amusement park or other entertainment attractions. Before venturing out for a summer hike with your family, make sure you are prepared with the necessary supplies, like comfortable shoes for kids and energy-boosting refreshments, to make your outing fun and safe. Here is how to get ready for your family hike.
Find a Family-Friendly Spot
Start planning your family hike by choosing the ideal trail for your brood. Scout out locations by looking for local recreational areas near your house, state parks or national parks in your region. Check out the difficulty level and length of each trail you are considering before starting out. Younger children may need to begin with shorter, easier hikes that are one mile or less. Older children may be able to handle longer, more strenuous hikes. Consider choosing a spot that offers great views and fascinating native wildlife.
Choose Comfortable Hiking Gear
It’s also smart to equip each member of your family with hiking gear that will make the trip more successful. Opt for a pair of new puma sneakers for your smallest hikers to prevent sore toes and tired feet. Keep clothing lightweight and breathable, preferably with moisture-wicking options. Older kids can carry a light backpack to help with supplies. Give younger kids something small to help carry, such as binoculars, a safety whistle or a magnifying glass.
Pack Water and Snacks
Make your family hike even more enjoyable by combining it with a picnic-style lunch and a vinyl tablecloth. Pack sandwiches, chips, snacks and plenty of water. Fresh fruit makes for an easy, healthy snack on the go when trekking the trails. Additionally, consider packing high-energy snacks that are packed with lots of protein to keep your family members going on the trail.
Protect Your Family from the Sun and Bugs
Sun and bug protection are a must during any hike during the summer. Before going outside with your family, apply plenty of sunscreen to keep harmful rays away. Apply bug spray before going out into the woods or other natural areas to prevent mosquitoes, ticks and biting flies from turning your leisurely hike into a nightmare. Use a convenient spray to cover your ankles and shins right above your New Balance shoes.
Have an Emergency Plan
Finally, don’t go out into the deep wilderness with your family without some sort of safety plan. Have a plan of action if anyone gets lost. Brief children before going out about what to do if they get separated from the group. Bring a first aid kit that includes supplies for cuts, scrapes, burns and other mishaps. Don’t forget to keep your cellphone charged and handy and let other people know your plans if you want to go somewhere with limited or no service.
A hike in the summer with your family is a great way to get exercise, fresh air and some essential bonding time. Explore nature with your loved ones safely and enjoyably with these tips.
