017: Family Backpacking 101: Packing & Gear Details, Tenting with Babies, and Kid-Friendly Hiking

Ever wondered how families actually make backpacking with kids work — from packing gear to keeping toddlers moving on the trail? In this episode, I chat with Stephanie (@thebackpackingmom), a mom of four who’s spent years exploring places like the Idaho, Tetons, the Washington coast, and even Patagonia with her kids. She shares real stories, her favorite gear, and super practical tips for everything from sleep setups to food to choosing the right trail. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to go deeper, this conversation is full of encouragement and tangible advice.

Places mentioned: 

Massachusetts 

Washington State 

Tetons 

Bugaboos 

Idaho 

Washington State Coast 

W trek in Patagonia 

French Polynesia Family Sailing Experience

Nepal - Everspace Camp 

Yurt Trip  

Backpacking packs & kid carrier backpacks: 

Gregory Packs 

Dueter 

Osprey

REI 

MEC 

Other gear and brands mentioned:

Steepandcheap.com  

Big Agnes - Copper Spur 4 person tent: https://amzn.to/3FYFj5y 

Reflectix insulation: https://amzn.to/4mYO7ZP 

Merino wool clothing  

Morrison Outdoor Sleeping Bags - kids sleeping bags: https://amzn.to/4lch0Af  

Double Sleeping pad: https://amzn.to/4063TIx  

A camping down quilt 

Backpacking food and stoves: 

Mountain House: https://amzn.to/3HHfEio  

Backpackers Pantry: https://amzn.to/4l3FZ8x  

Jet Boil Sumo Stove: https://amzn.to/3HGNiEQ  

Pocket Rocket: https://amzn.to/409vGI2  

Connect with Stephanie McNulty: 

@thebackpackingmom https://www.instagram.com/thebackpackingmom/ 

Message Stephanie on instagram to ask questions, or go on a trip with her! 

Join the FREE Facebook community: Connect with other women in your area to go exploring with, ask your gear and trip questions, search in FB groups Let’s Go Outside Podcast https://www.facebook.com/groups/1984734118616209/ 

Connect with me on IG: @besidethemountain 

Try Danika’s healthy snack recipes: https://besidethemountain.com/

Watch on podcasts Youtube: @besidethemountain

Email me: [email protected] 

Codes & Discounts:

Wee Woolies: https://www.weewoollies.com/ Use code LetsGoOutside for 10% off

Travel Gear Guide

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IEqVfpGk-5uJ29uoiScoZXLPnTY4r311/view?usp=sharing