We have gotten a few questions about the backpack we used while we were in Sun Valley hiking. After many hours of researching and talking to a lot of friends we finally chose a backpack that we loved. This blog post is quick and easy but outlines the essentials for hiking with a baby. The longest hike we did was 6 miles, but we hiked everyday so I put together the things that got us through our hikes with a 5 month old baby and a dog!
Backpack- We went with the Osprey Poco Plus, we looked at them at REI and the Poco plus seemed to have enough storage AND the best shade option. We ended up finding it on sale through REI outlet, but it only comes in blue so if you are looking for a girlie color you'll have to play full price.
Our second choice was the Deuter Kid Comfort, they had similar reviews but after trying both on at REI we went with the Osprey. They both are pretty expensive but worth it.
A few other hiking must haves were:
Camelback Backpack- My sister in law got us this, I felt bad having Jay carry the baby and all the stuff so it was nice that I was able to carry some of the supplies so I didn't add extra weight to Jays bag. Plus I drink a ton of water so camelbacks are the best for hiking no matter what.
Waist Leash For The Dog- I don't know why I haven't gotten this sooner. A waist leash is the best thing ever. I got it to go running with the dog and the stroller but now I use it for everything. It is so nice to be hands free and help Jay out with the baby.
Baby Sunglasses with Strap- We have regular sunglasses, but they didn't stay on when we were hiking so the sunglasses with the strap was the best. They stayed on no matter what.
Plum On The Go Pouches- Now that Leo is doing solids the pouches are where it is at. Also it helped hold him over till we got back to the car so I could nurse him.
Swaddle Blanket- I packed one of these and am so glad Leo hiked with shorts on and the sun would be shining down on him so I was able to tuck the blanket in to keep the sun off of his legs or arms. So it's great for making sure they have extra coverage from the sun.
Diapers, Wipes, Nursing cover, Sun hat, and a light jacket for baby- These are all givens, but I wanted to add that. We used the sunhat before we put the shade up but its nice to have both.
Chewbeads Stroller Toy- We hooked these to the back of the backpack, these are great cause he couldn't drop them.
Camelback Backpack- My sister in law got us this, I felt bad having Jay carry the baby and all the stuff so it was nice that I was able to carry some of the supplies so I didn't add extra weight to Jays bag. Plus I drink a ton of water so camelbacks are the best for hiking no matter what.
Waist Leash For The Dog- I don't know why I haven't gotten this sooner. A waist leash is the best thing ever. I got it to go running with the dog and the stroller but now I use it for everything. It is so nice to be hands free and help Jay out with the baby.
Baby Sunglasses with Strap- We have regular sunglasses, but they didn't stay on when we were hiking so the sunglasses with the strap was the best. They stayed on no matter what.
Plum On The Go Pouches- Now that Leo is doing solids the pouches are where it is at. Also it helped hold him over till we got back to the car so I could nurse him.
Swaddle Blanket- I packed one of these and am so glad Leo hiked with shorts on and the sun would be shining down on him so I was able to tuck the blanket in to keep the sun off of his legs or arms. So it's great for making sure they have extra coverage from the sun.
Diapers, Wipes, Nursing cover, Sun hat, and a light jacket for baby- These are all givens, but I wanted to add that. We used the sunhat before we put the shade up but its nice to have both.
Chewbeads Stroller Toy- We hooked these to the back of the backpack, these are great cause he couldn't drop them.
Clearly he loved the backpack. The backpack weighed a ton with our chubby baby so Jay carried it. We did a few 4 mile and a 6 mile hike and he said it was fairly cool and comfortable. I just thought I'd share with you our must haves since we both got a few text messages about hiking backpacks.
Cheers,
Jess
Cheers,
Jess