Preparing for Outdoor School/Classes
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We know that outdoor adventures are the best, and having the right gear makes all the difference. Here in the rainy Pacific Northwest, we believe there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. So, let us get your little explorers ready for their nature school with the best gear around!
Essential Gear and Clothing:
Backpack (lightly packed) and a rain cover
For those long days outside, a good backpack is a must. We recommend ones with at least 18 L capacity for longer days and 8 L for shorter days. Older kids might need bigger packs. Look for backpacks with hip straps for comfort and a sternum strap. Keep it light but pack the necessities, and don’t forget a rain cover! On those extra rainy days, line the backpack with a garbage bag to keep everything dry and use dry bags or zip locks for extra layers.
Our Picks:
- Deuter’s Junior Daypack (18 L+)
- Deuter's Schmusebar ( 8 L )
- Rain pack cover
- Dry bag or ziplock for extra layers
Snack, lunch, and water
Healthy snacks and lunches are the way to go. A thermos with a warm meal, soup, or tea can keep your child warm from the inside out!
Our Picks:
- Hydroflask Food Jar
- Hydroflask 16-20oz water bottle
- Hydroflask 500 mL bottle for younger kids
Underlayers/baselayers for top and bottom
The first layer should be wool, synthetic, or bamboo fibers (no cotton) to keep warm and wick away moisture. Wool is the best if your child is not allergic. Multiple layers of wool are better than fleece because wool stays warm even when wet.
Our Picks:
- Kids under layer: Bamboo & merino wool sets
- Mid-layers, including wool, fleece, and insulated vests and jackets
Mid-layers can be added or removed based on the weather and activity. Wool mid-layers are fantastic and can often be found second-hand.
Raingear, including waterproof pants and jackets
A high-quality waterproof jacket and pants are essential. Once the outer layer gets soaked, there’s no protection for the rest of the day. Re-waterproofing washes can extend the life of these items.
Our Picks:
- Kids rain jackets: Therm and Reima waterproof rain jackets
- Kids rain pants: Calikid and Therm rain pants
- Kids rain sets: Color Kids and Reima waterproof sets
Waterproof boots or shoes and warm socks
Insulated and regular rainboots like BOGS, Kamik and Reima are great because regular rain boots do not insulate well. Wool socks are a must; avoid cotton.
Our Picks:
- Bogs or Kamik rainboots
- Wool socks
Gloves, warm hat and extras
Cold hands are no fun! Make sure to have waterproof gloves and a warm hat. Extras are always a good idea.
Our Picks:
With the right gear from Little Treasures Kids Shop, your child will be ready to enjoy every outdoor adventure, no matter the weather! If you need help finding any items, just let us know. Happy exploring! 🌲🧒🌧️