Kids (like adults) love cool technical gear.  Kids also love to try out new gear in the outdoors, giving them a reason to turn off that television, chuck the video game and go outside.   Here is a few pieces of gear that my kids love to use when hiking, camping and beyond.

1. Sleeping Bags

Kids love mummy bags.  My kids use them theirs almost everyday, as it is more fun to sleep in a sleeping bag than their beds.  My young children use kid sized synthetic bags that fit them, and are easy to clean.  My youngest child has a hard time staying inside her bag.  She prefers it open over the top of her like a quilt.

2. Trekking Poles

Getting a little extra distance out of your young one may be as easy as setting them up with a set of junior sized trekking poles.  These give your child another thing to focus on,  and a reason they should make it around that next bend.

3. Headlamps

What kid is not drawn to a headlamp at night. There are many models that work well for kids and many that do not.  My 7-year currently loves to steal my Underwater Kinetics 3AAA Vizion eLED Headlamp, because it is comfortable, and easy to adjust down to her size.

4.Puffy Vests

I cannot get my 3-year out of her little pink down vest.  It is soft, it is warm,  looks like mommies vest, and Grandpa gave it to her… enough said.

5. Backpacks

All kids need a place to put their stuff.  On the trail a backpack is a great place.  While I normally carry the bulk of the equipment.  The stuffed animal, a couple of light books, a sweater, a whistle and a snack always ride along with my kids.

My 7-year old daughter has an a serious eye on Ospreys new kid specific packs.  She tried one on the other day, and it was love at first sight.