What to Pack for Family Backpacking

If you’ve been interested in attempting backcountry camping, also referred to as backpacking, with your family but feel overwhelmed by the equipment required to begin, it is completely comprehensible! Even experienced car campers frequently hesitate at the notion of venturing into the backcountry while carrying all their belongings on their backs.

We have compiled a list of essential items for family backpacking, which includes some unexpected favorites. Allow us to guide you through the necessary gear for a successful backcountry camping trip with your loved ones.

When it comes to backpacking, there are certain essential requirements that correlate with the fundamental requirements for survival in any setting. These encompass attire selection, meal planning, arrangements for accommodation, and the distinct aspect of backpacking: the means of carrying all the necessities.

Safety Gear

Satellite communicator

If you are planning to go deep into the wild for a long period of time or hiking alone, it is recommended to have a Satellite communicator, but it is not essential. We did not possess one when we embarked on our initial backcountry journey with our baby.

In the end, we were fortunate that things took a turn for the worst but we were okay.

After having our first experience of backcountry camping with a baby, we decided to invest in an Inreach. Additionally, since I frequently hiked alone with our daughter, this also influenced our decision. It is possible to occasionally rent satellite communicators and phones.

whether it’s the Spot or the Inreach, both are great options. However, the Spot is more affordable and it’s worth noting that the two way Spot communicator was not available at the time we bought our Inreach.

First aid kit

It is important to always carry a first aid kit with you. Make sure to pack additional items such as extra bandaids, polysporin, tweezers, blister bandaids, duck tape, and any necessary medications. Additionally, remember to include Benedryl in case of an unforeseen allergic reaction.

Bear spray

Every adult should carry easily accessible bear spray and ensure they are familiar with how to use it.

Get Fitted

If you are able to reach a backcountry outfitter by driving, it is strongly advised that you and your family visit the store in person and get fitted for packs. Although it is tempting to order online and have the pack delivered to your doorstep, as is the case with many items these days, it is recommended to take the additional measure and go to the store for a fitting.

Consider the Pack Volume

In addition to small, medium, large, kid, and adult sizes, there is a wide range of options for pack volume too. Since you are considering family backpacking, it is only natural that you will require backpacks suitable for covering longer distances and accommodating more belongings.

If you plan to go on longer hikes, your pack will need to carry more volume. However, if you and your family only intend to go backpacking on weekends or for a few days at most, a pack volume of 38-55 liters would be a suitable choice for the adults.

However, if you plan to hike longer distances, such as one week or more, or if you will be accompanied by young children and carrying their gear, it may be wise to invest in a larger backpack with a volume exceeding 55L.

But Don’t Ignore the Weight!

While it may be tempting to maximize pack volume for accommodating excessive snacks and clothing changes, it would not be wise to neglect personal weight limits.

It is advisable to limit the weight of your pack to no more than 15-20% of your body weight as a general guideline. Although adults, especially those carrying a baby or toddler, may be able to exceed this percentage slightly, it is not recommended for children due to their growing frames and potential negative effects.

Cooking, Food, and Water

Stove

We utilize a solitary Jetboil for cooking, employing its accompanying small cooking attachment as our pot, without incorporating any additional pots.

On occasion, it may require some additional time for cooking in order to prepare sufficient food for our entire family. However, my husband and I are willing to wait a few extra minutes to have our meal.

The Jetboil can quickly cook food and boil water.

Utensils and bowls/plates

Each of us possesses a cup.

The rest of my family uses inexpensive camping mugs, whereas I bring my hydroflask coffee mug since I prefer my coffee to remain hot.

Additionally, we each possess a bowl and a spork/spoon/knife provided by ucogear, as we have selected this brand due to its reputed durability.

We do not carry a plate.

A bowl has the ability to function as both a plate and a container, particularly for soups or dishes with a higher amount of liquid.

Food

We are concerned about the weight for our 10-13 day long trip this summer. Despite conducting extensive research, I have concluded that packing light food is not the solution.

The concept involves packing food that is light in weight but has a high ratio of calories/fat to keep you energized for a longer period.

For our extended journey, we opted to have freeze dried meals for our evening meals, including sausage, dried cheese, tuna in olive oil, and an additional item yet to be determined for our midday meals. As for our snacks, we packed some bars, crushed chips, and trail mix. In the morning, we will have instant coffee, along with oats mixed with dried apple chips and sugar (we might consider adding powdered milk). Additionally, we have packed dark chocolate and Oreos as a delightful indulgence while on the trail.

Cozy Place to Sleep

To ensure a cozy night’s sleep for your family after all the hiking and lifting, tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads are essential components.

If you are going backpacking with your family, you will most likely need a tent that can accommodate multiple people. Typically, backpacking tents can accommodate up to 4 people, but if you have a few small children, it is possible to fit up to 6 people in a single 4-person backpacking tent.

It is common for families, including ours, to choose multiple 2-person tents as we usually have more than one adult or older teen with us. When it comes to backpacking, a tent specifically designed for this activity should weigh around 2.5 pounds per person. Therefore, if you are the only adult hiker on your backpacking trip, it is likely that you will only be able to carry one tent.

When deciding between a 4-person tent or a 2-person tent (or tents!) for your family, it is important to ensure that it weighs about 2.5 pounds per person. Additionally, it is crucial to verify the seasonal rating of the tent to ensure it is suitable for the expected weather conditions.

To hike to Mount Everest base camp, a four-season tent is necessary, whereas for backpacking in the Smokies in June, a two or three season tent suffices. Furthermore, make sure to verify if your tent includes a pre-installed “footprint” that acts as a protective layer between the tent and the ground. Alternatively, you can buy a separate footprint, which assists in safeguarding your tent against the elements and prolonging its lifespan.