Whether it’s a bike ride on the weekend, a walk through the woods, or a family outing to the park, with the right gear, you can plan family outings with ease—even in the fall.
What you really need depends less on packing as much as possible and more on what you plan to do, how old your child is, and where you’re going. While younger children may still ride comfortably in a stroller or bike trailer, older children will likely want to set off on their own bikes.
We’ll show you which outdoor gear is best suited for which family outing, what to look for when choosing, and which accessories make your time outdoors easier.
What outdoor gear do you need when traveling with kids?
For many children, getting their first bike means a big step toward independence. Suddenly, they’re no longer just tagging along with Mom or Dad—they’re riding on their own two wheels to the playground, through the park, or on their first bike ride together.
To make sure this is fun, the child’s bike should, above all, fit their size and riding ability. A bike that’s too big might seem practical at first glance because the child can “grow into” it for longer. But it can be harder to control, especially for beginners.
You can’t determine the right size based on age alone. Body height and inseam length provide a better guide. In our guide “Children’s Bike Sizes Explained Simply,” we’ll show you how to measure correctly and figure out whether, for example, 12, 16, 20, or 24 inches are the right fit.
Stay Flexible on the Go with Bike Trailers and Strollers
Not every child is yet able to pedal on their own during a longer ride. A bike trailer can be handy for family bike outings. Your child rides comfortably along, and depending on the model, there’s extra space for snacks, jackets, or other items you’ll need along the way.
Models that can be used for various activities are especially practical. For example, some bike trailers can not only be pulled behind a bike but, with the right accessories, can also be used as a stroller or for jogging. If you enjoy a variety of activities, this means you don’t have to buy a separate product for each one.
When making your selection, you should therefore consider not only size and storage space but also what you’ll mainly be using the trailer for. After all, someone who regularly plans longer bike rides will have different needs than a family that also wants to use the trailer for walks or sports activities.
The most popular bike trailers
If you’re mainly getting around on foot, a stroller can be practical. Especially on longer walks, a day at the zoo, or a family outing, little legs will eventually get tired—even if your child can already walk just fine on their own.
Which model is right for you depends mainly on where you’ll be going. For paved paths and the city, lightweight and maneuverable models are practical. If your outings frequently take you along forest trails, gravel, or uneven terrain, sturdy wheels, good suspension, and a smooth ride become more important.
You shouldn’t underestimate the importance of storage space and folding size either. If you want to store jackets, snacks, and a change of clothes—or regularly transport the stroller in your car—these very details can make a big difference in everyday life.
If you’re planning your next vacation or are curious about the different types of strollers available, you’ll find all the information you need in our guide “Travel Strollers Compared: Lightweight, Compact, or Comfortable?” There, you’ll also get tips on which stroller is best suited for air travel, train travel, car travel, or various other types of travel.
What should you make sure to pack for an outdoor outing with kids?
Drinks and snacks belong in your luggage just as much as weather-appropriate clothing. An extra jacket, a change of clothes, and sun or rain protection can quickly come in handy, depending on the weather. A small first-aid kit is also a sensible addition for longer trips.
Especially as fall approaches and the days get darker earlier, visibility also plays a bigger role. If you’re out on a bike ride, you should check that all necessary lights are working before you set off. Reflective elements on clothing, helmets, or accessories can also help you be seen more easily in low-light conditions.
On wet paths, fenders are handy so your clothes and back don’t get soaked with splashes after just a few puddles. A side stand also makes it easier for your child to park the bike safely during a break.
When buying your bike, pay close attention to what’s included in the package and what you might need to arrange separately. At StrollMe, for example, Woom bikes come standard without fenders or a side stand. However, both can be easily rented as add-ons.
At StrollMe, you can rent children’s bikes, bike trailers, strollers, and other products tailored to your current family’s daily routine. If your needs change, you can switch to a different model later.
This can also be handy if you’re not yet sure which product will work best for you in the long run. Maybe you’d like to start by seeing how often you actually use a bike trailer or which stroller works best on your usual routes. That way, you don’t have to commit to a specific model right away.
| Rent | Buy |
|---|---|
| Fair rental price—starting at €7 per month | High upfront costs for premium models |
| Always the right model | No switching without a new purchase |
| Flexible based on your chosen rental period—cancelable monthly thereafter | High costs and hassle for repairs |
| Service & repairs included—no extra costs | Tedious resale, often below market value |
| Free return shipping—create a label, send it, done | Waste of resources due to short, often one-time use |
| Sustainable—refurbished products conserve resources | Product lock-in due to high upfront costs |
| Theft protection (optional) |
