Inspired by The Gear Junkies Article on Kids and The Outdoors I thought I would share some of my kid’s favorite gear.  Nothing turns off a kid to outdoor activities than being uncomfortable.  Cold wet, sore, and hungry will reduce your dream trip into a whine fest that will test every ones limits.  It is never the kids fault when they are miserable, as parents are responsible for the well being of our children, including keeping them happy and safe in activities we choose to introduce to them.  We spend good money on quality gear for us,  don’t skimp on your children.  Here are a few things that my kids use and love when in the wilderness.

REI Girls Ultralight Jacket

My Daughter received this jacket to use during our Grand Canyon Backpacking trip, and nearly lived in it while in the Canyon.  Wetter than expected weather called for outwear that would shed moisture, and keep her warm.  This jacket worked well.  She liked the grown up details, like the chest pocket, the headphone port on the inside (now she is bugging me to get her an ipod),  and the stowable hood.  The jacket has taken days worth of abuse,  and still looks new.

REI has a boys version as well

REI Comet Pack

My daughter tried on a lot of packs in her quest for the one that fit the best for her size and shape.  The Comet pack worked best for her,  although it still is a touch big for her frame.  Loading up the pack and wearing it for a while is key.  My biggest complaint about this pack is the side loading hydration sleeve,  which makes very difficult to balance.  We usually put her water bladder inside the main pocket to avoid this problem.   Overloading a kids pack is a sure way to make a little one miserable.  It is probably better to load less than you think than they can carry, than to end up carrying the entire pack half-way through the backpack (I have learned this through experience).

Here are a few others that may work better for different kids:
Osprey Ace 48

Deuter Fox 30

The North Face Youth Terra

A pair of Kid sized hiking poles may seem like somewhat a novelty,  but I have found that they help with balance over big rocks and steps,  and seem to give a kid something to focus on when they begin to get a little tired.

Kids Sleeping Bags

My kids use there mummy bags constantly. They prefer them over their regular bedding at home, and they get used and abused. They have synthetic fill bags, as they are easy to wash, and they do get washed a lot.  They are not as light or compressible as down bags, but they do represent a good value for a bag that they will eventually out grow.

REI has a great selection of outdoor gear for kids,  and now is a good time to shop as they have a 20% coupon on a full price item,  and a huge sale on a really great selection of good gear.

There are also a couple of other online retailers that I am fond of,  that specialize in Kids outdoors gear.