How To Raise A Wild Child: What To Pack For Your Adventure 

One of my most cherished childhood memories was when my older brother and I would go exploring the terrain around my home. I grew up in the countryside in Nebraska, which meant we had loads of room to do so. And each adventure started with us "strategically" packing our backpacks. I'd pack the cans of soda and fruit roll-ups; he, the Swiss army knife and squirt guns. (It was a different time.) And then we'd disappear off into the prairie grass next door, the tiny patch of woods in our backyard, or off to follow the creek that ran through our front yard.

It's an obvious suggestion but one that might take a little forethought. The first step is to evaluate where you'll be going: Will it likely have frequent refill stations along the way? If yes, you'll be able to get away with smaller, kid-friendly options like Klean Kanteen Insulated Kid Classic (which is lightweight, won't sweat, and has a top loop) or Contigo Autoseal Trekker Kids Water Bottle (which is basically spill-proof so you could toss it into a bag without worry). This way they will be able to carry it themselves, so you won't be weighed-down with multiple bottles. If not, or you are unsure, you might want to invest in a filtering system or bottle. Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle is a fan favorite—and it makes raw water safe in 15 seconds flat.

Whether you don't want to dirty your kid's school backpack or it's just not sufficient for outdoor activities, a summertime backpack is just as important as a school time one. You want these to be durable, light, and roomy enough to hold all that they might need. Another bonus: They'll feel more engaged in the activity when they get to carry some of the goods, too.

Invest in some refillable snack cups, as you'll be able to reuse them again and again, and you won't accumulate trash from single-use plastic. Lunchskins Reusable bags beat plastic baggies any day; Yumbox lunchboxes won't spill or leak and keeps foods separate.

Yes, we are fully aware that the wonders of smartphones and technology mean that you can effortlessly find your way along a trail, read up on all the plants you find on the way, and snap a few photos—all in one handheld tool. But there is a certain joy, resourcefulness, and independence that comes with figuring out something with a hard copy. (Even if it means carrying a few extra things.)

"A lot of parents say, Oh we get out in nature, but then they'll be attached to their device the whole time—and what sort of message does that give to a kid?" asks licensed physiologist Nicole Beurkens, Ph.D., CNS. "It's important kids learn that phones aren't the answer. What did you do when you were a kid? You survived, right?"

If you are going on an established trail, you can likely find and print a map from the park website. If not? Get a little crafty and find your route on Google Earth. As for the book, find one depending on the activity or terrain. Maybe it's birdwatching if you're out in a park; a book to help you identify plants and seeds if you're gardening; an illustrated guide to trees if you're on a hike. And if you're debating what level of book to buy? Err on the side of more advanced. "Kids are smart—way smarter than we give them credit for," says teacher and author Esther Wojcicki. "Let them surprise you."

Now we're onto the more logistical end of the list: protection from the elements. Always pack a first aid kit, with bandages, a disinfecting ointment like Curoxen, and hand sanitizer. Include a natural bug repellent: Kinfield Golden Hour just launched today, is DEET-free and powered by a super-strain of Indonesian citronella. (A hack I learned while on a fly-fishing adventure up north in Canada? Saturate a classic bandanna with the spray and tie it around your neck: The fabric will hold the repellent better than your skin, and it makes for a pretty cute accessory for youngsters.)