What every pint-sized explorer needs for their next big outdoor quest!
Is there anything more exciting than setting off on an adventure? Whether it’s a ramble through the local woods, a bug hunt in the back garden, or a full-blown weekend camping trip in the Yorkshire Dales, young explorers love nothing more than preparing for the journey ahead.
But before they put on their boots and charge into the wild (or the park), there’s one very important task at hand: packing. And let’s be honest, when children pack on their own, things tend to get… creative. One sock, three acorns, and a plastic giraffe? Ready for anything!
To make sure your little adventurer has everything they need — and maybe fewer glittery rocks — here’s a proper Young Explorer’s Packing List. It’s playful enough to keep kids interested, but practical enough to keep parents sane.
1. The Right Footwear
Before anything else, make sure your adventurer is stepping out in comfortable, sturdy shoes. Think walking boots, wellies, or trainers that you don’t mind getting muddy. Fancy sandals might look good, but they don’t stand a chance against a determined puddle. We picked up a pair of supportive hiking boots for Indie, with some pretty impressive grip, for less than 20 quid from Mountain Warehouse.
Top Tip: Pack an extra pair of socks in case of soggy surprises (which are almost guaranteed).
2. A Proper Bag
A small rucksack is ideal – something lightweight, with enough room for a few essentials. It should fit comfortably on their back and ideally have two straps (no shoulder-sling bags unless you want mid-forest whinging).
What to look for: Water-resistant material, side pockets for drinks, and a top flap they can open without needing a parent-level degree in zip navigation.
3. Water Bottle
Adventuring is thirsty work! A refillable water bottle is perfect – it’s eco-friendly and means fewer sticky hands. For younger explorers, a juice carton might feel like a special treat.
Bonus: You can freeze the juice carton the night before and use it to keep snacks cool for a while.
4. Snacks (Because of Course)
No adventure is complete without snacks. Choose easy-to-carry, low-mess options like fruit bars, bananas, flapjacks, crackers, or mini sandwiches. Avoid chocolate unless you want to discover a melted mess stuck to a compass.
Snack Tip: Pack one or two for your young adventurer… and one for yourself. You’ve earned it.
5. Nature Tools
Young explorers love to observe the world up close, so include one or two of these in the kit:
- Magnifying glass – for bugs, bark, and weird wiggly things
- Binoculars – even if they’re toy ones
- Bug jar or container – with ventilation holes
- Notebook and pencil – for sketches, lists, or writing “I saw a snail” seventeen times
6. Weather-Wise Gear
The UK weather is famously unpredictable, so it’s always best to pack for the worst, even on the sunniest of days.
- Light waterproof jacket
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- Woolly hat/gloves (in colder months)
- Fold-up poncho (these are fun to say and wear!)
Real-life scenario: You start the day with sun, experience drizzle by lunch, and end up ankle-deep in mud by 3pm. Be ready.
8. One Special Item
Every young adventurer needs that one special thing – whether it’s a lucky stone, a small toy, or a cuddly mascot for courage. It may have no obvious purpose, but it offers comfort, confidence, and just the right amount of adventure magic. For Indie, it’s Tiddles, her well-loved, ‘seen it all’, Jellycat Tortoise.
9. Optional Extras for Big Explorers
For slightly older kids (or keen parents), you might also consider:
- A simple camera (disposable or digital)
- Field guides for birds, bugs, or plants
- Torch or headlamp
- String or twine (you’d be surprised how useful this is!)
Final Thoughts: Let Them Lead
Packing is more than just preparation – it’s part of the adventure! Let your child be involved in choosing what to bring (within reason), and talk through why each item is useful. It helps build independence, decision-making skills, and makes them feel like the true explorer they are.
And remember: not everything needs to be perfectly practical. Sometimes a stick is a walking stick, and a sword, and a telescope, and a magical dragon detector. That’s half the fun.
So lace up the boots, zip up the bag, and set off for adventure – whether it’s the back garden or the local hills. Just don’t forget the snacks!
