In our latest interview, we sit down with the creators behind @in.search.of.adventures, a growing Instagram account that showcases the joy of family exploration. With 3,200 followers and counting, this family has inspired many to embrace the great outdoors, sharing their hiking trips, camping experiences, and scenic getaways. From the challenges of travelling with young children to their favourite hidden gems, they offer a glimpse into the beauty of nature and the importance of making memories together. Read on to discover how they balance adventure with family life and what drives their passion for exploring the world around them.
- How did you get into camping/hiking/outdoor activities? Have you always been into outdoor adventures or is it something you started to do/enjoy once you had children.
I grew up on a smallholding with parents who encouraged spending time outside and with my brother in tow you would often find us scrambling up hay bales, mucking out animals or disappearing off on our bikes through the surrounding countryside. I believe this motivation to be outside sparked an interest in hiking when we became teenagers. Now as a parent myself I teach our kids the importance of spending time outdoors through hiking, camping and outside play.
- Where is your favourite place to go on our adventures with and without your children? Is there anything you look for/search for when planning adventures with your children that differentiates from your couples/solo adventures.
Our favourite place to explore is The Lake District which is why we relocated last year to be closer to the place we love. We’re currently working our way through hiking all 214 Wainwrights, however some of them are too challenging for the children so I accomplish these solo. When I'm planning a family hike I have a lot more to consider with their capabilities at the forefront, however I believe building up stamina and strength is important for confidence and self growth. There’s no greater feeling than being in a remote space or on top of a mountain simply taking in the natural beauty around you so when I'm planning adventures this is what I aim for.
- Why do you think getting outdoors is so instrumental in children's development? How has it affected your children's life for the better? Would you recommend it to other parents and why?
Hiking provides children with countless opportunities for discovery, creativity and problem solving. Whether it be climbing rocks, collecting natural resources or figuring out the best way of crossing a stream. We’ve noticed a dramatic difference in our youngests physical ability and confidence within the past year which we believe is down to hiking and other outdoor activities we do as a family.
- What are some of the activities you would recommend for families when camping?
Our favourite activities to do when camping other than hiking are cooking outdoors, forest walks, nature trails and time by the river.
- What's the most challenging situation you've faced in the wilderness, and how did you overcome it?
We’re really lucky and to date haven't faced a really challenging situation in the wilderness but like other parents with little ones can often get tricky behaviour or whinging. Our theory is we get this no matter where we are so in these moments we slow things down and if it means having lots of snack breaks then so be it.
Depending on the season we adjust what length and grade hike we do, for example we save challenging mountain hikes for warmer months where we have longer daylight hours to enjoy plenty of breaks. In colder months where there is often wind chill we stick to lower to middle ground hikes.
- What are some essential safety tips you've learned through your experiences that you can share with our readers?
*Know the trail (do research into where your wanting to explore and plan a route)
*Watch the weather as sudden weather changes can happen (I use MWUK & Met Office for checking the forecast)
*Invest in warm, layerable clothing and wear comfortable footwear
*Always keep your children in view
*Bring the right gear! Our must have items in the backpack when hiking with children are:
*Spare Clothes
*Hats and Gloves (Season Dependant)
*Picnic Blanket or Sit Pads
*Waterproof Coats
*Baby Wipes/Nappy Bags
*First Aid Kit
*Head Torches
*Suncream (Season Dependant)
*Power bank
*Water Reservoirs
*Flask of Coffee
*Lunch and Snacks
*Emergency Blanket
*Hand Warmers
- What advice would you give someone looking to embark on their first major outdoor adventure with children? Are there any books, documentaries, or resources you'd recommend to someone wanting to deepen their understanding and skills in outdoor adventuring?
Ensuring the kids are warm, focused and have good energy levels is key to them being happy on outdoor adventures. Applying a good layering system to your clothing is important for moisture management, insulation and weather protection.
Along with correct clothing and carefully selecting what area we explore in, another thing that is key to keeping the kids happy are those all important snacks. You can never have too many and now our eldest challenges her physical strength more she requires lots of pocket energy snacks. I usually give her items such as flapjack, jelly sweets and some dehydrated fruit snacks to pop in her pocket so she can dip into them whenever needed.
In closing our conversation with in.search.of.adventures, it's evident that their passion for family adventures goes beyond a pastime—it's a lifestyle. They inspire us all to embrace the spirit of adventure, no matter how close to home it may be. Their journey highlights that the most important part of any adventure is the memories created along the way. We’re excited to follow their future explorations! If you haven’t already visited their page, it's definitely worth a look!
