Packing light is always the goal when heading into the backcountry with small kids in tow. I am sharing our packing list to help you on your next hut trip that doubles as a winter essentials list when heading into the backcountry with kids.
Each winter trip is unique as weather can vary so much. There can be many variables like avalanche territory and distance with which supplies you will need to bring. So please always do your own specific research prior to hitting the trail too. The most important thing is to research your hut to know what supplies you will need. I like to pack surival and cooking items along just incase we don't make it all the way to the hut. Winter is Canada can be very intense and it can be risky with small kids in the backcountry so you must bring all surival essentials and prepared to start a campfire and keep kids warm.
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Checklist for your next winter hut or backcountry camping trip:
It can be chaos preparing for backcountry trips with kids. Here is everything that I put on my packing list when doing on overnight either at a hut or remote cabin getaway.
Clothing
Base Layers
- Moisture-wicking thermal top and bottom
- Sports bra and underwear (preferably wool or synthetic)
- 3 Layers for the kids with extra wool base layers
Mid Layers
- Insulated jacket or fleece
- Softshell or lightweight insulated pants
Outer Layers
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Waterproof and windproof pants
Accessories
- Warm hat (covers ears)
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Waterproof gloves or mittens with liners
- Sunglasses or ski goggles
- Wool or synthetic socks (bring extras)
- Snowshoes
Footwear
- Insulated, waterproof boots
Hut slippers or camp shoes
Sleep System
- Adult Sleeping bag and baby/kids sleeping bag (appropriate for the hut’s temperature range)
- Sleeping pad (if required by the hut)
- Earplugs
Gear
- Backpack (35-60L for overnight trips) ideally a backpacking specific one
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Lightweight camp stove, fuel, and cooking set
- Insulated water bottles or a hydration reservoir (protected from freezing)
- Trekking poles (optional but useful in snow)
- Microspikes, crampons, or snowshoes (depending on conditions)
- Avalanche safety gear (if in avalanche-prone areas): beacon, probe, and shovel
- Satellite phone
- Chariot and ski attachment
Food & Cooking
- High-calorie meals (instant meals, pasta, rice)
- Snacks (trail mix, chocolate, dried fruit)
- Hot drink mixes (tea, coffee, cocoa)
- Utensils and lightweight bowl
- Reusable mug
- Cooler bag
- Water filtering system
Toiletries & Personal Items
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 30+)
- Biodegradable soap and small towel
- Personal medications
- Small first-aid kit
Emergency, 10 Essentials & Miscellaneous Items
- Multi-tool or knife
- Firestarter (matches, lighter, or fire steel)
- Emergency blanket or bivvy sack
- Repair kit (duct tape, zip ties)
- Notebook and pen/pencil
- Power bank for electronics
- SOS Survival Kit
Optional Items
- Lightweight book or deck of cards for entertainment
- Camera or binoculars
- Portable solar charger
- Kid Essentials
- Trail Magik use code 'Kidswhoexplore' for 10% off
- Backcountry tent
