Is it okay to take a baby out on a hike? What is the best way to carry a little one? What gear should I take with me? Many people have asked me these and related questions, basically, how do I hike with my baby? Just like adults, our precious little ones need time in nature, and they will grow up to love the outdoors.
“Just living is not enough…one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.”
~Hans Christian Anderson
At What Age Can I Take My Baby On A Hike?
It is best to wait until your child is at least a few months old.
How Do I Transport My Baby?
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- Front Carriers: For really little ones, the easiest method to take your baby with you on a hike is in a child carrier. For babies 1-5 months old, it is typically best to carry them in a front carrier. As they get older, 6-14 months, a back carrier is more comfortable for us parents. Some options are Stokke’s My Carrier Cool and the ERGObaby Four-Position 360 Cool Air Baby Carrier. Both of these can be converted from a front to a back carrier as your baby grows.
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- Back Carriers: For older children who can keep their heads up and handle longer adventures, you’ll need a child carrier. A highly regarded one is the Deuter Kid Comfort II Child Carrier, for longer all day adventures with a 6+ month old baby and his adventurous parents!
- Trail ready strollers: Luckily nowadays there are a lot of options. Some strollers have large air filled rubber tires, such as the Stokke Trailz, the Thule Glide, and the BOB Revolution SE Stroller.
Tips for Hiking With a Baby
- Keep your baby protected from the sun! Babies’ skin is very tender and delicate, and therefore you need to make sure that they always have a tightly knit hat (UPF rated is best to make sure that harmful UVA and UVB rays aren’t coming through) and a lightweight blanket. A blanket not only keeps the baby warm if temperatures get cool, but will keep out harmful sun rays if you have your baby in a stroller.
- Only hike in good weather.
- Check on your baby regularly.
- Plan lots of extra time! Babies need attention, and the extra weight you’re carrying will slow down Mom (or Dad) too.
Happy Trails! Stay tuned for detailed gear reviews and how-to articles coming to Hiking Baby soon.