We believe that getting fresh air and stretching your legs is the key to happiness - but it helps to be prepared and safe at the same time. So, to help you out we've pulled together a list of the 10 things that we think you need to hit the trails this season - and any other for that matter.
The key to being prepared and relaxed when you hit the great outdoors are as follows:
Light backpack / Fanny pack: Let's start here. You need a place to put your necessities that isn't the pockets of your pants or jacket. In some cases that might be okay, but if you are outdoors as a family - a small bag is essential. While fanny packs might not be the most fashionable, we are a fanny of how lightweight and small they can be. [shop]
bug spray: Bug spray has come along way in recent years. It no longer leaves you in a very stinky and sticky cloud - there are many options to help keep you bite free. [shop]
phone charger: There is no excuse for your phone dying in the woods - and your phone can help keep you safe. These portable chargers are fairly small and pack a bit of a charging punch. [shop]
retractable cord: A charger is no good without a cord - and why carry around more than you need to. We found these retractable ones on Amazon and love them. They are nice and compact so they don't take up much space. Again, your phone keeps you safe... so let's keep it charged. [shop]
bandaids: Little cuts and blisters can distract you from all the fun you are having. Keeping a few bandaids in your bag will take the sting out of that boo-boo. [shop]
binoculars: Don't you want to see some of nature a little closer? We do. There is a big range in pricing so you can easily find something to suit your budget. We love the idea of giving the kiddos a pair of lower cost binoculars and perhaps keeping the nicer pair for ourselves [shop]
sunglasses: I'm sure that your eye doctor would agree with us that sunglasses are a necessity. While anything is better than nothing, you don't have to spend $$$ to protect yourself. Amazon has many polarized options that are around $20 for men and women - but don't forget the little ones! [shop]
trail book: Sure, your smartphone is great but there are some trail guides out there. You can only google "small bird with red" for so long but a quick flip through a book will help you find that answer. Some ideas? birds, trees, fish, bugs. [shop]
water bottle: Hydration is really important for everyone in the family. There are many options out there to help you stay hydrated. We love the idea of a collapsible water bottle since it will take up less space as the hike goes on - but any water bottle is better than no water bottle [shop]
small snacks: We never leave home without snacks and would suggest you do the same thing. There are a lot of options out there besides that traditional trail mix. [shop]