When can kids start carrying a backpack on hikes?

Hiking with Kids: When Can They Start Carrying Their Own Backpack?

Hiking with your little ones can be an adventure, but it also means you end up carrying quite a bit. From snacks and water to layers of clothing, and sometimes even your child! You may be eagerly waiting for the day they can carry their own backpack on hikes. While some kids might be able to handle a 5-mile hike with their pack, most will need a little more encouragement and support before they can carry everything themselves.

When Can Kids Start Carrying Their Own Backpack?

The good news is that children as young as two or three can start carrying their own backpack on short hikes. However, don’t expect them to carry it for an entire trek just yet. Once your child graduates from a carrier or pram, it’s the perfect time to introduce them to carrying their own pack.

A great option for younger hikers is the LittleLife Daysack. It's specifically designed for toddlers, making it a fantastic first backpack. As soon as they can walk, they'll be excited to carry their own bag. Plus, the LittleLife Daysack has a handy safety rein that can be clipped and unclipped depending on where you’re heading, ideal for busier areas.

The removable rein lets parents maintain control in crowded places but still allows kids the freedom to explore. The independence of carrying their own backpack gives them a sense of pride and boosts their confidence. It also motivates them to keep hiking and fosters a love of the outdoors. Starting them off young helps them become better hikers as they grow.

LittleLife backpacks come in a variety of designs and sizes, so you can choose the one that best suits your child’s needs.

Packing a Backpack for Kids

When packing a backpack for your child, keep it light and simple to avoid overwhelming them. It’s easy to overpack, especially when your child wants to help with the packing, but try not to make the bag too heavy. At around 4 years old, your main goal should be to make hiking fun and comfortable. Stick to the essentials: water, snacks, and a light jacket. Keeping the pack light ensures they’ll actually want to carry it!

For slightly older kids, the Osprey Daylite Kids Backpack is a perfect option. This smaller pack is ideal for day trips or school adventures, and it’s perfect for kids around 4 years old. With a comfortable chest strap to help distribute the weight, this backpack ensures that your child can carry their essentials without feeling weighed down.

Don’t Give Up!

It can be tempting to carry your child's backpack for them, especially when they start to complain. But remember, kids are capable, and it's important to set clear expectations. If your child is physically able to carry their pack and has some hiking experience, make it a rule that they must carry it the entire way.

Encourage them by allowing them to pack their own fun items, like a toy or a snack they’re excited about. This can make the experience feel more like an adventure, helping motivate them to carry their own backpack.

Why It’s a Great Lesson to Carry Their Own Bag

While it might be easier to carry their bag for them when they start complaining about the weight, letting kids carry their own pack gives them a sense of accomplishment. It teaches them responsibility and independence.

It’s not until around 5 or 6 years old that kids will be able to carry a backpack comfortably for longer hikes, and even then, they may still need a little encouragement! By age 8, most kids are capable of carrying their own bag for a decent distance.

For older Little Trekkers, the Deuter Junior 18L Backpack is a fantastic choice. This well-designed pack comes with ergonomic shoulder straps, a chest strap, and hip fins, making it comfortable for longer hikes and bike rides. With plenty of room for clothing, snacks, and gear, this backpack is ready for anything your child’s adventure throws their way.

By encouraging your little ones to carry their own backpack, you're helping them develop a sense of independence, responsibility, and confidence. It’s a great way to turn every hike into a learning experience and a rewarding adventure for the whole family!