A hiking baby carrier is designed to safely hold a child in place while walking on the trails and is styled much like a rucksack.
A baby carrier is perfect for those areas that limit the use of a pram or push-chair and a perfect alternative for hiking, walking, or similar traveling.
Baby carriers are built to let the child see in front of them while making it easy for mom or dad to more freely without feeling under pressure or strain. Baby carriers are designed in several different configurations such a papoose or sling. For effective use outdoors, the carrier has an aluminum or steel framing to hold the child.
When placing the hiking baby carrier on the back the weight should get equal distribution and balanced fairly on the shoulder and back. Plus, other muscles like the thighs can help with giving support.
Carriers are built with a solid structure to support not only the load of the child but also include hiking essentials such as the water bladders or reservoirs.
Here are 4 tips for hiking the trails with a small child:
Get familiar with the baby carrier
Before using the baby carrier for real on the hiking trails make sure to attempt a dry run without a child on board. Walk the normal trails to get an appreciation of how it feels with the baby carrier on the back.
A preferred walking trail is often in regions close to air-conditioned restaurants and restrooms to make it easier to care for the little ones.
Match the trail to the youngest hiker
Hiking trails can vary significantly in relation to the difficulty of terrain so it makes sense to match the terrain and distance of the trail to the capabilities of the youngest party.
A trail with difficult terrain is certain to cause problems for the small hiker, so go on a trail that isn’t too difficult and avoids leaving some of the party unhappy and tired.
Venture out early
Going early in the day means the child is still likely to be active. A 9am start on the trails gives the option to soak up some great vibes, work the muscles, and return to base by 12PM.
Plus, for the hiking adventure with the slightly older child who is able to walk further, the early start means it is still possible to return to base before the sun sets and light starts to fade.
Set aside time for rest stops as and when needed. A child can easily tire, so include plenty of rest stops along the course of the trail.
This is needed to refuel and rest and take on board enough water and snacks.
Put goals in place
A hiking adventure can be made more exciting if goals are set with the intention of arriving at a beautiful vista, lake, or waterfall.
But, it helps to be more flexible with children because they soon get sidetracked and might not be so energized to reach the final destination.
Matt Green, is an avid hiker and lover of the great outdoors. He is always planning his next big trip or hitting the trails for a solo hike.
He’s traveled extensively to many remote regions and has plenty of experience exploring various terrains, and stories to tell.