How to Plan a Kid-Friendly Overnight Hiking Trip

How to Plan a Kid-Friendly Overnight Hiking Trip

There’s something seriously magical about waking up in a tent, tucked away in the bush, birds singing overhead and the morning sun peeking through the trees. If your little adventurers already love day hikes, an overnight hike is the next exciting step—and it’s not as hard as you might think!

With a bit of planning and the right mindset, an overnight hike with kids can be one of the most fun (and memorable) experiences you’ll have together. Here’s how to keep it simple, safe, and full of smiles.

1. Choose the Right Trail

This is the most important part. Keep it short, gentle, and exciting. You don’t need to go deep into the wilderness to have an adventure.

Look for:

• A walk under 5km each way
  
  
• Minimal elevation gain (no big hills)
  
  
• Points of interest like waterfalls, rivers, or swimming spots
  
  
• Designated campsites or flat, safe areas to pitch a tent
  
  

If it’s your first time, aim for a well-maintained trail close to home—you want to focus on fun, not survival skills.

2. Keep the Gear Simple

You don’t need fancy equipment or an ultra-lightweight setup. Just make sure everyone is warm, dry, and comfy.

Must-haves:

• A tent (big enough to all snuggle in)
  
  
• Sleeping bags suitable for the weather
  
  
• Sleeping mats for insulation and comfort
  
  
• Headlamps or torches (plus extra batteries)
  
  
• Warm clothes—even in summer, it can get chilly at night
  
  
• Rain jackets, just in case
  
  
• A small stove or way to heat food (kids love hot chocolate by torchlight!)
  
  

And don’t forget your first aid kit, map, and plenty of water (or a way to treat water from a stream if available).

3. Make It Fun for the Kids

This isn’t about smashing out kilometres—it’s about making memories. Build up the excitement and let the kids feel involved.

Try:

• Giving them their own small pack with a favourite snack or toy
  
  
• Bringing a mini nature journal or set of colouring pencils
  
  
• Letting them help pick the trail or choose the “camp menu”
  
  
• Telling stories by torchlight or spotting stars before bed
  
  

And always—always—pack marshmallows. Even if you’re not having a fire, they’re the ultimate camp treat.

4. Keep Meals Easy

Hiking makes everyone hungry, and kids are no exception. Pack simple, comforting meals you know they’ll eat.

Ideas:

• Wraps or sandwiches for lunch
  
  
• Pasta, noodles, or pre-made meals for dinner
  
  
• Oats or muesli for breakfast
  
  
• Loads of snacks—trail mix, fruit, muesli bars, biscuits
  
  

Let the kids help prepare dinner or hand out snacks along the way. It keeps them involved and gives them a sense of independence.

5. Expect the Unexpected

Things might not go exactly to plan—and that’s okay.

There might be a tantrum, a wet sock meltdown, or a sudden need to head home early. That doesn’t mean it wasn’t a success. Kids are incredibly adaptable and resilient. The key is to stay flexible, roll with it, and laugh when you can.

Even the hiccups become part of the story.

6. Leave No Trace

This is a great chance to teach kids about looking after the bush. Pack out all your rubbish, stay on the trail, and leave the campsite better than you found it.

Bring a little bag for collecting any litter you find—and make a game out of spotting rubbish on the walk out.

7. Celebrate the Adventure

When you get back, make a big deal out of what you achieved together. Look through photos, talk about what they loved most, and maybe even mark it on a map. It builds confidence and gives them a sense of pride—and sets the stage for your next trip!

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be an ultra-hiker or wilderness expert to take your kids on an overnight hike. With a bit of prep, a good attitude, and a few snacks in your pocket, you’re all set for a simple, joyful adventure in the great outdoors.

It’s not about how far you go—it’s about the memories you make along the way.