This complete, practical, and unique guide is guaranteed to do just that, while ensuring that family outings are fun, safe, and memorable.Focusing on infants through pre-teens, it offers reassuring answers to parents' most-asked questions, including: How do I choose a child carrier that won't break my back? How far can a two-year-old hike? When will my kids be ready for backpacking? How can I entertain the kids on a rainy day in camp? What's the best piece of equipment to keep my child from getting lost? Chapters include: Family Adventure Gear, Games & Activities, Campsite Fundamentals, and Health & Safety. Also highlighted are successful strategies for hiking, backpacking, family cycling, canoeing, and car camping, with "Ages & Stages" sections zeroing in on age-specific issues.No responsible parent should hit the trail without consulting this groundbreaking guide.