There is a unique joy in watching your children discover the outdoors. Spending time outdoors means that you need these pro hacks for long lasting adventure gear for your kids. Whether it’s their first time spotting a deer or the pride they feel after finishing a long hike, these moments create memories that last a lifetime. However, getting a family out the door requires significant effort and, often, a substantial financial investment in gear.
We understand, kids make a mess and might accidentally mess with expensive equipment. But you can avoid some of these problems with pro hacks for long lasting adventure gear for your kids.
Don’t Let the Mud Dry
When you return home from a trip, the exhaustion sets in. It is tempting to dump everything in the garage and deal with it later. For parents juggling tired kids and unpacking, this is understandable. However, letting mud and dirt dry on technical fabrics is one of the fastest ways to degrade them.
Dirt particles act like sandpaper. Over time, they grind into the fibers of tents and backpacks, wearing down the material and the waterproof coatings.
The Fix:
You don’t need to do a deep clean immediately, but do a quick rinse. Hose off muddy boots and wipe down tent floors before storing them. Another great option is to protect your gear from the weather and elements during the trip, so you avoid having to clean mud while outdoors or deal with dried, gunky mud once you’re home.
Mind the Zippers
Ask any seasoned camper what breaks first, and they will likely point to the zipper. Sand, grit, and sticky pine needles are the enemies of a smooth closure. If a zipper fails on a sleeping bag or tent, you lose insulation and protection from the elements.
The Fix:
Keep an old toothbrush in your cleaning kit. Gently brush out the zipper teeth after sandy or dusty trips. If a zipper feels stiff, avoid forcing it. You can buy specialized zipper lubricants, or in a pinch, run a graphite pencil along the teeth to help the slider move smoothly again. Teach your older children to be gentle with zippers—pulling the fabric taut with one hand while zipping with the other prevents snagging.
Store Sleeping Bags Loosely
Space is at a premium in most family homes, so it makes sense to keep sleeping bags stuffed in their compression sacks. Unfortunately, this damages the insulation. Compressing it for months at a time crushes the fibers, leaving you with a flat, cold bag. Trust me that you don’t want a flat, cold sleeping bag while you are out camping, especially in colder climates.
The Fix:
Store sleeping bags in large mesh sacks (often included when you buy them) or hang them up in a dry closet. They should be loose and breathable. If you are short on hanging space, store them under a bed in a large cotton pillowcase. This simple step ensures the bag retains its warmth rating for the next chilly night under the stars.
Prepare for Your Next Journey
Using these professional tips to maintain your gear is an act of care for your family. Take a moment this weekend to check your gear closet. A little maintenance today means you will be ready to go the moment the mountains call.
