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Kids Gear Guide 2025
Deuter Kids Comfort Carrier
From the moment I saw another dad walking around a crowded farmers’ market with his kid perched securely in a backpack, I needed to ditch the stroller and get one for my family. I chose Deuter because I’ve loved the day pack I've owned for years from their brand-and the features and materials on the Kid Comfort carrier were noticeably nicer than those of others I tried on. I’ve been on countless hikes and strolls through the farmers market with both kids enjoying the ride from this pack, and equally important, being comfortable myself too. ~ KG
Osprey Poco LT Carrier
The Osprey Poco LT has been a total lifesaver for getting out and exploring with my one and three-year-olds. It’s light enough that I don’t feel like I’m carrying a small boulder, but sturdy enough to handle all the bumps and twists on the trail. The kids ride in comfort, and I stay comfortable, too. The whole thing folds down small enough to toss in the car for spontaneous adventures. Not to mention it has an awesome storage compartment for the most important gear you’ll take with you–the snacks. It’s made for parents who refuse to sit still, and can (almost) guarantee nap time success. ~ KO
BLIKA Portable Camping Toilet
This foldable toilet seat is a total lifesaver for camping and road trips, especially if you’ve got kids! It’s super easy to set up, packs down small, and makes bathroom breaks way less stressful. It’s great for kids but sturdy enough for adults, too, which is awesome for those late-night campsite runs. Just make sure you get one without crossbars on the bottom (trust me, you’ll thank yourself) and if you can, grab one with a toilet paper holder–it's such a nice bonus. Honestly, it’s one of those things you don’t realize you need until you have it, and now I never leave for a trip without it! ~ RB
Sirui Traveler X Tripod Kit
I picked this tripod up for my boy when he tags along on hunts. The size, weight, and price caught my eye, and it hasn’t disappointed. It’s light enough for him to carry, and I don’t mind when it inevitably ends up in my pack because he’s got too many rocks in his. It deploys fast, stays steady, and doesn’t get in the way. The stock head’s kind of meh, but slap an Outdoorsmans Pistol Grip on there and you've got yourself a fine glassing system. ~ JM
Vortex Bantam Binoculars
I know a fella who siphoned a hundred bucks from every paycheck for years to make sure his wife didn’t find out how much he spent on his binoculars, only to one day hand them to their kids, who inevitably destroyed them while trying to look at a cow elk in Yellowstone Park. Get these Bantam binoculars for your kids instead. Worst case scenario, you’re out an hour or two’s wages. ~ BL
KUIU Youth Gila Hoodie and Attack Pants
I went against the grain and picked up some legit technical gear for the kid. Sure, he’ll outgrow it fast, but it'll get passed down, and the real win is how much more comfortable (and excited) he is out there with me. Managing a 50-pound nine-year-old’s body temp is no joke. I’m sweating, he’s freezing. KUIU cuts the guesswork and a few layers out of the mix. Bonus: he’s stoked to look the part… though I’ll miss that Pikachu hoodie bouncing down the trail. ~ JM
Stuck In the Rut: Chasing Dreams
In an ever-evolving world of digital media consumption, screen time, and AI creation, as parents, we need to be extra mindful of what is presented to our children and what kind of real experiences we want them to learn from. There is no substitute for being outdoors and learning the skills that are needed to provide for your family. As a father of a three-year-old son, I am so excited to read this to him every night and emphasize the importance of fresh air, feet in the grass, and meat on our tables. Author Tana Grenda has perfectly captured this sentiment in her children’s book, Stuck In the Rut: Chasing Dreams. This is a story of her own family’s passion and perseverance for hunting. Whether it’s through rushing streams or breathtaking landscapes, it encourages young hunters to follow their dreams and embrace the thrill of the hunt. If you're a parent or know someone who is, I highly recommend getting this book as a gift this holiday season! ~ PP
