Taking your kids out on a wilderness adventure is a great opportunity to foster a love of the outdoors at a young age. Assuming you want to do this without breaking the bank, here’s some of the best kids’ gear for under $100.
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Merrell Moab Speed Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots, Kids – $70
If you’re planning to take your little ones out on a hike, you need affordable foot protection. The waterproof leather and grippy tread on these hiking boots will help your kids look (and feel) like they’ve been hitting the trails since they could walk. The soles are extra squishy to keep your kids comfortable, and they have a reinforced toe to keep those tiny toes safe.
Teva Hurricane XLT 2 Sandals, Toddlers – $40
Whether you’re headed to the sandy shore or a lake in the middle of the forest, Teva has you and your tiny tot covered. This update to the original Hurricane XLT provides better traction for the inevitable slips and trips that come with learning to walk. With padded heel straps and easy looping closures, your little adventurer will be comfortably cute while splashing around in whatever body of water you’re heading to next.
Osprey Moki 1.5 Hydration Pack, Kids – $65
Gone are the days of your little one asking for a water bottle every five minutes, because now she can carry one on her own back. With plenty of extra room for your kiddo’s favorite snacks, sunglasses, and maybe even a kiddie camera, this hydration pack is made with the same construction as the full-sized Osprey Hydration Pack, except it’s in miniature form.
Selk’Bag Recycled Wearable Sleeping Bag, Kids – $89
This footie pajama/sleeping bag hybrid is a great option for staying warm overnight on camping trips. Made out of 90 plastic water bottles, this wearable sleeping bag requires fewer resources and emits less greenhouse gas in its manufacturing compared to the average sleeping bag. With easy elastic hand and foot openings, you can keep your toddler’s hands and feet free until bedtime, then close the openings to keep them snug and warm while sleeping.
REI Co-op Kindercamp Sleeping Pad, Kids – $50
This sleeping pad offers the same features as the adult-sized one and has a durable polyester outer layer with a foam core. It’s also self-inflating, which makes it an easy setup for families with the youngest of campers. With an R-value of 4.5, you can take your kids camping well into the cooler months without worrying about them getting chilly at night.
Deuter Kikki 8 Liter Backpack, Kids – $55
With two different designs, this adorable backpack makes it easy for you to spot your kiddo wherever you’re adventuring. Made from recycled bottles, it’s both water-resistant and made without traditional fluorinated chemicals that are bad for the environment. With a cushioned back pad and two outer pockets, your favorite kid will be able to carry all his own gear.
SZHLUX Kids Hammock, Indoor/Outdoor Use – $20
Thanks to its compact design, this hammock is easy to pack for your next outdoor adventure. The simple setup takes the complexity out of hanging a hammock, so your favorite kids can curl up beneath the trees. Made of parachute fabric, the hammock has a sturdy construction that will last as long as your kids fit inside it.
JOYIN Foldable Beach Bucket Set – 3 Packs Collapsible – $30
Have a summer trip planned to a coast or lake? Bring these easy-to-pack, collapsible buckets for building sandcastles. Not into the beach? Take them on your next fishing trip and let the kids catch guppies and bait for your next big catch. Made of non-toxic BPA-free gel, these buckets are safe for kids and will last throughout their entire childhood.
Outdoor Equipment LED Camping Lantern and Headlamp Set for Kids – $25
With four animal designs to choose from, this cute headlamp is perfect for late-night or early-morning outdoor adventures. The matching 360-degree lantern will be your kid’s favorite new nightlight for camping adventures or late-night reading at home. Powered by three AA batteries, this lantern and headlamp set is a great addition to your little ones’ gear.
Binoculars for Kids High-Resolution – $23
These padded binoculars will help your kids explore the beautiful world around them. Made for ages three and up, the rubber padding protects their eyes, and the durable construction can withstand the rough and tumble of toddler life. You can even adjust each individual eye for the best viewing experience possible.
Which piece of gear would your kids be most excited about? Tell us in the comments below.