As summer arrives, it’s the perfect time for family adventures. A budget-friendly option is a family hiking day—here are 5 essentials to pack for your next outing.

This post has been sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Summer brings a long list of activities for kids: camps, swim lessons, and family trips. Those plans can add up quickly, so we balance our schedule with low-cost outings too. One of our favorite, wallet-friendly ideas is a day at the local trails. A nearby nature park can deliver hours of exploration, fresh air, and easy family bonding without a big price tag.

We didn’t start taking regular family hikes until we moved to a house that backed up to a nature park. Even after living in the area for years, we had no idea such a lovely park was right nearby. It’s beautiful in every season and has a small nature center that kids love—and yes, clean restrooms, which parents always appreciate.

We usually make a day of it: pack a picnic, load the cooler, and head out to explore the trails. Because these outings are frequent during warm months, I like to keep certain staples on hand at home so we can grab them and go.

I often shop at Sam’s Club for bigger packs of beverages and snacks to keep in the fridge and pantry. For hydration I stock smartwater® and vitaminwater® so there’s always something ready for the cooler. Buying in bulk saves time and money—and in-club pickup makes shopping with kids faster and simpler.

Besides drinks, I pick up easy, packable snacks like Cheez-it® Duoz and fresh fruit. These travel well in backpacks and are kid-approved. My husband usually handles the packing while I prepare sandwiches and any fresh items for the picnic—sandwiches are convenient for hikes because they’re simple and often don’t require strict refrigeration for short trips.

One of our favorite memories was a trip to Tahquamenon Falls while visiting family near Indian River, Michigan. We carried our essentials and spent the day hiking to the waterfalls—stunning scenery that made the walk well worth it. That trip reminded us that good planning makes outdoor adventures stress-free and enjoyable for everyone.

5 Essentials for Family Hiking Day Trips

• Plenty of fluids – Hydration is the top priority, especially on hot days. Pack water and electrolyte drinks to keep everyone energized and prevent dehydration.

• Food and snacks – Bring easy-to-pack items for lunch and grazing: sandwiches, fresh fruit, trail mix, and portioned snacks like Cheez-it® Duoz. Snacks provide quick energy and keep kids happy between stops.
• First aid kit – A small kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any personal medications is essential for bumps, blisters, or insect bites.
• Sunscreen – Apply SPF before you leave and reapply during the day. Sunscreen helps prevent painful sunburns so the whole family can enjoy the hike.
• Bug spray – Protect against mosquitoes and ticks by using repellent and wearing long pants when the trail calls for it. This reduces the chance of bites and makes the outing more comfortable.

These five items form the core of our family hiking packing list. Depending on your trail and season, you might also add hats, extra layers, trail maps, or a lightweight blanket for the picnic. Keep gear simple, organized in a backpack, and ready to go for spontaneous trips.

With a little preparation and these must-haves, you’ll be set for an enjoyable family hiking day. Pack a picnic, fill the cooler, and head out to explore nearby trails. Happy hiking!