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WorldExecutivesDigest|Get Your Family In Shape: 5 Ways to Prepare for a Family Hike|Is your family spending a little too much time in front of the screen? You need to find a way to get everyone away from their devices and outside. A family hike is a perfect way to do that.
Not only will going on regular hikes make you more fit, but it also provides a way for your children to experience nature. If you’re ready to get out into nature, then there are some things you need to do to prepare. Keep reading to learn five things you need to do before you head out for your hike.
- Dress Appropriately
You aren’t going to have the comfort of air conditioning and heating when you’re out in nature. You’re going to have a hard time if you don’t pay attention to the temperature during your hike.
A t-shirt and comfortable pants work great if it’s warm outside. If you expect the temperature to change throughout the day, make sure to bring along extra layers to put on.
You also can’t predict what will happen with the weather. Make sure you bring along umbrellas and your kids rain jacket to protect everyone from the rain.
You can also expect you and your kids to get dirty. Don’t go hiking while you’re wearing your best clothes. Make sure everyone is wearing old clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dirt on.
- Get the Right Gear
You don’t need the best hiking gear if you only go out now and again. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bring the bare essentials.
The first thing to bring is a first-aid kit. While someone getting hurt isn’t very likely, you never know when an accident will happen. Your first-aid kit will allow you to treat any injuries when they happen.
You may also encounter a lot of bugs during your trip. Make sure you have plenty of bug spray to keep the critters away. Tick repellent is especially crucial if they are common in your area. You don’t want anyone to get bitten and end up with Lyme Disease.
- Prepare a Few Snacks and Drinks
Your family is going to be using a lot of energy during your trip. Someone is inevitably going to end up getting hungry.
You don’t need to prepare an entire meal. Bring along a few snack bars and nuts for people to eat while they’re walking. It will help stop people from getting hungry and give them energy.
It’s also essential to make sure nobody becomes dehydrated during your trip. Keep plenty of water on-hand, so nobody goes without a drink.
- Know Your Routes
Not all hiking trails are straight-forward. Some of them may branch off and go in different directions. It’s important to learn the route your family is taking beforehand and stick to it when on the trail.
Knowing your route also allows you to plan your day. You can see how long each path is and make an estimate for how long it will take. It will help you prepare food and drinks for the trip.
Your trail should also have maps available for you at the entrance. Make sure you grab one so you can make sure you’re on the right path while you’re on the trail.
- Educate Your Kids
It takes a lot of work to keep nature looking great. You don’t want your kids to show up and leave garbage lying around everywhere.
Make sure to educate your children about what behavior is acceptable on your hike. You should put all your trash into a garbage can, and everything you take onto the trail should be carried out. You want to leave things as they were before you got there.
Don’t Under-Prepare for a Nature Hike
Going for a walk in the woods might seem like an easy task. Unfortunately, it can cause issues if you don’t do the right preparation. Make sure to follow the tips above, so your family hike is a success.
