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Teaching Kids Responsibility Through Quality Gear

As a parent to three, one of my big goals is to raise kids who can take responsibility for themselves. I want them to learn how to think ahead, stay prepared, and take ownership of their things—not because I micromanage them, but because they feel capable and confident in doing it themselves. I know that through this practice and lifestyle, they will more organically find themselves understanding the inherent but often abandoned responsibility of taking ownership of their life.


One of the most practical ways that I stumbled upon that encourages this mindset is by giving my kids their own quality gear. You read that right. I know it sounds underwhelming, but I'll explain why this has worked so well!


mom and daughter at beach

Why Quality Gear Matters

Children can tell the difference between something flimsy and something solid. When we give them a quality bag, we’re sending a message: I trust you with this. Take care of it, and it will take care of you.

Cheap bags fall apart, zippers break, and straps tear—leading to frustration and waste. A well-made, utility-focused bag, on the other hand, grows with them. It helps them learn:

  • How to sort and organize what matters.

  • The difference between wants vs. needs when packing.

  • The pride that comes with taking care of their own equipment.


Teaching Independence Through Packing

One of the best opportunities to practice this skill is when preparing for a weekend trip. Whether it’s camping, visiting grandparents, or a family getaway, letting kids take the lead on their own bag builds both confidence and accountability.

Here are some practical ways to guide them that have worked well for my trio:

  1. Start small. Let them pack for one night before building up to a full weekend.

  2. Lay it all out first. Encourage them to place everything on the bed or floor before putting it in the bag. This helps them visualize what’s there (and what’s missing).

  3. Make a simple checklist. Younger kids can use pictures, older kids can use a written list. I actually love to do this with them digitally so that we can just revisit that list for every trip and tweak depending on location. It can be something as simple as a list in the notes app of your phone.

  4. Evaluate afterward. When the trip is over, ask: What did you use? What didn’t you need? What did you forget? Make notes of this on your packing list!

  5. Give them control. Let them decide how to organize their bag—even if it’s different from how you’d do it. Ownership is the goal. Accept that you don't know everything-I try to keep that humble reminder in the forefront of my teachings, always.


Quick-Start Checklist: 5 Things Kids Can Practice Packing for a Weekend Trip

  1. Clothing basics – a change of clothes for each day, plus an extra set “just in case.” Teach them young to account for the unexpected.

  2. Toiletries kit – toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, and soap in a small pouch.

  3. Personal comfort item – favorite book, stuffed animal, or journal for downtime.

  4. Weather gear – jacket, hat, or swimwear depending on the trip.

  5. Reusable essentials – water bottle, snack container, or travel mug.

Encourage kids to check these off themselves—it’s a simple system that builds consistency and independence.


Gifting Bags for Milestones

Birthdays, holidays, and big milestones are perfect times to give kids their own “real” bag. It’s not just another present—it’s a tool, a rite of passage, and a statement that says: You’re ready for more responsibility.

This is where I’ve come to love our Vertx gear.


Why I Love the Vertx Long Walks Pack

I’ve tried a lot of different bags for my son, but Vertx has become my favorite for a few big reasons, one of them being: their Tactigami system.

Tactigami is a modular system of pouches and organizers that can be attached inside the bag, moved around, and customized to fit different needs. What I love most is that my kids can set it up in one bag, use it for a trip or activity, and then transfer the same system into another Vertx bag as they grow or as their needs change.

That flexibility teaches them how to:

  • Organize with intention (not just toss things in).

  • Adapt their setup depending on what the trip requires.

  • See the value of reusing and reconfiguring gear rather than starting from scratch.


The Vertx Long Walks Pack is especially good for kids because it’s lightweight, durable, and perfectly sized. It’s big enough to grow with them into their teen years but not so oversized that it overwhelms them now.


Use code AMBERELLE for a discount on all things Vertx!


boy with black backpack

Final Thoughts

Investing in quality gear for your children is about more than convenience—it’s about teaching them responsibility, preparedness, and ownership of their lives. Bags like the Vertx Long Walks Pack give them a practical way to practice those skills every day, while also offering the flexibility to grow with them through different seasons of life.


It’s not just a backpack. It’s an investment towards empowerment 🤍


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