The definitive packing list for your next family-friendly nature stay
An Unyoked dad's guide to everything you need and everything you don't.
We get it. You and your partner are busting to get out to nature, but there's the wee matter of the tiny human you brought into the world a few months (or even years) ago. At Unyoked, many of us have recently transitioned into young parents, so we know better than most that feeling of needing to escape into the wilderness — and studies show nature time is just as powerful for little ones as it is for us. As with all things parenting, it's just a matter of planning. With that in mind, here are our top 5 must-haves for getting unyoked with bub in tow.
PS. This guide is intended for kids aged 6 months to four years. We'll do another feature on bigger kids and teenagers.
Moses Basket/Porta-cot
Kids love sleep, and unless they're a bit bigger, you probably don't want them in your bed! (Even then, actually.) If you're bringing a newborn, Moses baskets fit perfectly between the bed and kitchen counter so they can be right next to you, and they're super light. For toddlers, a portacot which folds up for easy carrying is your friend. There are plenty of brands on the market, all of whom are great, and all our cabins are the same inside (so you know you’ll be good to go no matter where you choose) Be sure you don't forget their favourite toy, nobody needs a meltdown out in the great beyond!
Gumboots
If your kids can walk, they probably love stomping in puddles. Being out in the wild means access to some of the more epic of these, so bring wellies and waterproofs and let them go bananas. Even if it rained a few days before, you'll be guaranteed some very fun mud.
Weather appropriate gear
You probably know by now that young kids can't regulate their own internal thermometers. That means if it's hot, they're likely to burn up before they can tell you, and conversely at night, they could get a little colder than you. Keep an eye on the forecast and pack extras for both outcomes just in case. You can reuse most (lightly) dirty stuff - in nature, nobody cares when you shower.
Blank paper/crayons/pens
Drawing is something we encourage adults to do at our cabins to remind them of how awesome it is to be a free-associating kid. Nature provides loads of stimulus, like birds, trees, valleys, mountains and other things your kid probably only ever sees in books. Bring them stuff to doodle with and let their imaginations run wild.
Gazebo/Umbrella
Inclement weather can be a bummer, but it shouldn't stop you and your little ones from getting outside. Something light and easy like a gazebo can provide extra sun protection for delicate skin. Umbrellas are also good for this purpose and can double as rain protection for splashy adventures.
What else do we supply in the cabin? All that info is right here.
Ready to get unyoked as a family? Find your nearest cabin. Still got some questions, head to the FAQs or flick us an email at hello@unyoked.co
Keen for a few extra tips about what cabin to choose first? We’ve got you.