Mom’s Survival Guide: Hiking with Kids (and Pee Breaks Too!)

Section 1: Set Your Hiking Goals Realistically

Key tip: A family hike is not about how far you go—it’s about how you get there together. So set goals based on age and stamina, not distance or elevation.

• For toddlers: stick to loops under a mile with lots of natural “play stations” (logs to climb, rocks to jump off).

• For early school-age kids: 1–3 miles is doable with breaks and snacks.

• For older kids and tweens: challenge them with longer routes and let them help navigate.

💡 Pro Tip: Let kids help pick the trail—it gives them ownership and excitement from the start.

Section 2: What to Pack (That You’ll Actually Use)

Moms know it’s all about the bag. The best hiking backpack for kids isn’t the biggest—it’s the one that’s organized, light, and easy to grab in a moment of chaos. Here’s your must-pack list:

Essentials:

• Water bottles or hydration packs (one per person)

• Snacks with protein and carbs (trail mix, cheese sticks, granola bars)

• Small first-aid kit (Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, antihistamine)

• Sunscreen and bug spray

• Hats and sunglasses

For the unpredictable:

• Extra socks and underwear

• Ziplock bags for trash or muddy clothes

• Mini pack of wet wipes

• Emergency whistle

• Compact rain ponchos

Mom gear that saves the day:

• A lightweight blanket for rest stops or surprise picnics

• ZipHers pants for you—because when nature calls, you want an easy, discreet, no-drop option

• Portable potty or foldable seat for younger kids

🧺 Bonus tip: Use packing cubes or gallon freezer bags to group gear by category—less digging, more enjoying.

Section 3: Engaging Activities to Keep Kids Moving

Keeping kids engaged means fewer complaints and more adventure. Here are a few trail-tested games and tricks:

1. Scavenger Hunt

Make a list of trail finds: a yellow leaf, a smooth rock, a bird feather, a funky-shaped stick. Give each child their own “trail detective card.”

2. Nature Bingo

Create cards ahead of time or print free versions online. Let kids mark off birds, bugs, clouds, and wildflowers as they go.

3. Trail Story Time

Let your kids invent a story as you hike. One person starts with a sentence and you go around adding to it as you walk.

4. “Animal Tracker” Mode

Encourage quiet moments by pretending to track animals—use footprints, rustling sounds, or even animal droppings as clues!

Section 4: The Bathroom Break—A Real Talk for Moms

Ah yes, the moment your child says, “I need to go,” and you’re nowhere near a bathroom.

For the Kids:

• Teach privacy early: Show them where to go, how to be discreet, and how to wipe and pack out used wipes when needed.

• For younger children, consider bringing a portable potty with disposable liners.

• Keep wipes and tissues in an easy-access side pocket.

For You:

Let’s be honest—squatting behind a tree is rarely graceful, and often a cause of stress for moms who just want one moment of peace on the trail.

That’s why we designed Ziphers pants—adaptive outdoor pants with a built-in zipper system that lets you go without pulling your pants down. It’s discreet, comfortable, and designed for real life.

💧 No more full bladders, frantic searches for cover, or sacrificing your dignity. With ZipHers, you’re prepared.

Section 5: Dress for Comfort (and Mess)

The key to a happy hiking family? Dry feet, breathable layers, and clothes that can take a beating.

Kids:

• Quick-dry shirts and leggings

• Layers for temp changes (fleece or zip-up jacket)

• Proper trail shoes or sneakers with grip

• Extra socks are non-negotiable

Mom:

• Moisture-wicking top

• Zip-off or lightweight legwear

• ZipHers pants for restroom ease

• Supportive shoes (bonus points for waterproof)

☀️ Weather Tip: Even cloudy days can lead to sunburn—sunscreen isn’t optional!

Section 6: Snacks = Sanity

Don’t underestimate the power of snacks. A snack break = a rest break + mood reset. Offer snacks frequently, especially at natural stopping points like trail markers or overlooks.

Best Trail Snacks:

• Apple slices with peanut butter packets

• Trail mix (pre-portioned to avoid spills)

• String cheese

• Crackers or granola bars

• Refillable silicone snack bags = eco-friendly win

🍫 Chocolate or gummy worms? Totally allowed at the halfway mark.

Section 7: Safety First, Adventure Second

A few basic precautions go a long way:

• Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back

• Download offline maps

• Teach kids to stay on the trail

• Go over basic animal safety

• Dress in bright or reflective clothing if needed

• Keep a small safety card in your bag with emergency contact info

And yes, those ZipHers pants are perfect for quickly getting ready in an emergency—you never know when you’ll need to act fast.

Section 8: Ending on a High Note

Celebrate each hike with a ritual: a trailhead photo, a special snack in the car, or even a sticker chart for completed hikes. It creates positive associations and builds excitement for the next one.

Let them lead on the way back. Let them retell the best part. And when they inevitably fall asleep on the ride home, you’ll know it was a day well spent.

Final Thoughts: Moms Hike Differently—So We Designed for You

The truth is, hiking as a mom takes creativity, stamina, and a lot of flexibility. You’re the leader, the snack source, the boo-boo fixer—and the one who has to pee without warning.

That’s why ZipHers was created: by women, for women who live active lives—even when those lives are filled with kids, chaos, and restroom emergencies.

With smart design, adaptable gear, and a sense of humor, hiking with kids can become not just doable—but joyful.

Here’s to messy moments, muddy boots, and memories that last a lifetime. 💚

👉 Ready to make your next hike with the kids a little easier? Shop ZipHers adaptive outdoor pants and feel the freedom of going when you need to—without missing a moment.