What to pack for wintery walks with babies and toddlers
Puddlesuit, snowsuit, or waterproofs
If it’s light rain or simply chilly then a lightweight puddle suit will suffice. Snowy and cold? A snowsuit is ideal for staying snug. Chucking it down? You’re gonna want some big old waterproofs. For heavier rain I love the waterproof dungaree trousers from H&M (though I actually found them on Vinted!) Pop a raincoat on over the top and they’re perfect.
Hat, scarf, gloves
We don’t always need these, it depends how cold it is. But we usually need a hat. If it’s windy I also like to take a balaclava to keep the windchill off Leo’s very pinchable cheeks.
An extra pair of socks
Hear me out. If your child likes splashing in puddles as much as mine there’s every chance their boots or wellies could come off and their socks soaked through. This is why I always pack an extra pair of socks. Just in case.
Nappies
When nature calls nature calls. It’s important to change nappies regularly but it is also trickier to change them in the cold and wet. The answer here is a quick change and if you’ve got another person with you who can hover above and shield you from the elements slightly that can go a long way. We use a mix of reusable and Pura pull-up pants.
Nappy bags
I mean, if you forget these you’ll probably have a really stinky walk home clutching a soiled nappy. Nice.
Portable changing mat
A foldable changing mat is so useful. Ours neatly slots into the elasticated front of our backpack.
Snacks
An absolute must. You never know when hunger will strike
A flask and water bottle
A flask of hot cocoa for everyone to enjoy and a reusable water bottle. You may beg to differ that the hot cocoa is essential but I stand by it. Of course a water bottle for your baby or toddler is crucial. I often find Leo doesn’t pipe up about being thirsty as quickly in the cold weather so I’m conscious to offer him water more frequently.
Waterproof picnic blanket
Technically optional but we think it’s a necessity. We love our Pacmat because it packs down so easily and is so compact to carry with us. It’s perfect for pitstops with a warm cup of cocoa or for providing a bigger space to lay the changing mat on when poonamis occur.
A baby carrier
I recommend the Ergobaby 360 or the Littlelife S2 back carrier. I prefer the former for more straightforward or shorter walks and the latter for more strenuous hikes or climbs.
First Aid Kit
It doesn’t matter where you are - unless you’re planning on hiking hospital corridors - having a first aid kit handy is always wise. You never know when you might have a nasty graze, bite or head bump that needs attention.
Wellies or Boots
So you likely won’t pack these so much as put them on before you head out but I usually like to take a pair of backup boots or wellies to put on when we get back to the car as chances are, the others will be truly drenched in mud. I’ve always been quite particular about which shoes we get Leo as foot health is so important and the bones of the feet are vulnerable to deformity while growing (right up until the age of 18!) so a proper fit is important. Barefoot is the way in warmer months but in winter I do put Leo in shoes outdoors. I’ve heard great things about Bobux, Start-rite and love those snowboot/bootees but personally have found Clarks boots the best fit on Leo’s wider than average feet. I’d love to know your recommendations though!
Other Essentials
These are the things like water, wipes/muslin cloths, barrier cream etc.
So there we have it. Our essentials (plus a couple of optionals) for wintery hikes. These don’t just apply in winter but are great to remember for chilly Spring and Autumn days too, or if you’re traveling somewhere cold with your baby or toddler and want to know what to pack for toddlers in the cold weather.
Have I missed anything out? Is there something you absolutely swear by for chilly hikes? Let me know in the comments!
