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Maybe this experience was extreme, but bad things do happen.
We've always been involved in "family" backpacking,
and the kids' backpacks start out almost empty until
the day warms up, and coats, sweaters, etc...
We also put in a few snacks in baggies, etc. in line with their age.
BUT, one life-saving-essential-necessity is always in each pack
... at least one large garbage bag.
We learned this on a summer back-country trip in the mountains of Alberta,
when we were caught in a wind/rain/snow storm and there were no trees or shelters.
The wind-chill was bad and our 3 girls were getting in trouble with hypothermia.
There was just no place to hide.
We cut holes for arms and head, and put the bags on over their coats.
Just that much was protection against cold wind-and-rain until we got down to warmer elevations.
... and we believe those bags may well have saved us from a disaster.
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