What to bring hiking with kids on Dartmoor

A no-fuss guide from parents who’ve learned the hard way.

What to bring hiking with kids on Dartmoor

There’s a special kind of silence that falls over an adventure when you realise you’ve forgotten snacks. It’s not peaceful. It’s... loaded.

Packing for a walk with kids doesn’t have to mean bringing half the house. We often see families loaded down with bags, lunchboxes, spare clothes, and everything in between. But honestly, most of it can stay in the car. As long as you’ve got the basics for warmth, energy, and comfort, the rest can wait. Being a bit wet or muddy isn’t the end of the world. It’s part of the adventure. And honestly, kids don’t care—they’re usually fine. It’s us, the adults, who get caught up in the discomfort. Just make sure there’s something warm and dry waiting in the car for when you're done.

Here’s what we always bring (and what we wish we’d remembered when we didn’t).

1. Snacks. Then more snacks.

We’ve learned this one the hard way. Always pack double what you think you’ll need. Even if you’re only going for an hour.

Think things that won’t squish or spike their energy too hard:

• Oat bars

• Dried fruit

• Crackers or rice cakes

• A cheeky chocolate square for bribery (no judgement)

  
  

We tend to avoid sweets or high-sugar snacks. They might give a quick burst of energy, but the crash that follows mid-walk usually isn’t worth it. Steady, slow-release energy wins every time.

Pop everything in a few small containers so they can carry their own if they want to. Even just a little snack tub or their own water bottle gives them a sense of responsibility and pride. It turns them from passenger to participant. Ownership = pride = fewer complaints. Sometimes. And even when the complaints come, at least they’re holding their own raisins while delivering them.

2. Layers and footwear, even when it looks sunny

Dartmoor has a habit of throwing all four seasons at you before lunch. We always bring:

• A waterproof coat

• A warm jumper or fleece

• A sun hat and sunscreen (yes, at the same time as the fleece)

• Always a spare pair of socks tucked into a dry bag or corner of your pack

Even if they insist they’re “not cold,” they’ll want it the second you don’t have it.

And while we’re talking comfort, footwear makes all the difference. If there’s one upgrade worth investing in, it’s a decent pair of kids’ hiking boots. They don’t have to cost the earth, but they’ll offer more support, grip, and warmth than wellies ever will. Dry feet, good tread, and no blisters can make a world of difference to how far (and happily) they’ll walk.

3. Water bottles (and maybe a warm drink)

Reusable water bottles are a must. For colder months, we also bring a small flask of hot chocolate . It’s amazing what a few sips of cosy hot chocolate can do when spirits are fading.

Although some natural springs might be fine, we don’t recommend drinking from rivers or streams. As clear and inviting as they may look, you can never really know what’s upstream. Unless water is properly filtered or treated, it’s safest to stick to what you’ve packed.

4. A simple sit mat or picnic blanket

Nothing fancy. Just something to perch on when you stop. It makes snack time easier and keeps your bum dry! A folded bit of foam, an old camping mat, or a small picnic rug does the job perfectly.

5. A basic first aid pouch

Just the basics:

• Plasters

• Antiseptic wipes

• Sting cream

• Tweezers for rogue splinters

Carry it for that one time you need it, rather than the 99 times you don't!

6. A spare bag for collecting ‘treasures’

You’ll thank yourself. The feather, the rock, the moss, the stick with the bend in it. Instead of filling your pockets, they can fill their own little drawstring bag or pouch. Bonus tip: set a limit of how many things they can keep before you leave.

7. A sense of humour and low expectations

Not technically something you can pack, but possibly the most important. Some days they’ll run ahead like seasoned hikers. Other days you’ll carry them before you’ve even left the car park. Both are valid. Both count.

Optional but often brilliant

• A hammock – You can pick one up for about £15 and it rolls up smaller than a water bottle. We use ours all the time. It’s the perfect place to curl up for a snack, watch the trees, or just swing and rest for a while.

• Binoculars

• A magnifying glass

• A small nature notebook and pencil – For those slightly older kids, this can be a fun way to record what they spot, sketch their finds, or just jot down a few thoughts. It turns the walk into a bit of a mission.

• A soft toy ‘trail buddy’ – Taking their favourite teddy along on the adventure gives them even more reason to explore. It becomes part of the day’s story, and for younger children especially, it can bring a sense of comfort and bravery when heading out into new or unfamiliar places.

The goal isn’t perfection, it’s presence

There’s no perfect kit list. Just a few well-chosen items that help you show up, enjoy the moment, and handle the curveballs with grace (or snacks). So, what to bring hiking with kids Dartmoor? Hopefully we have now helped!

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