Hedvig – The freedom to go wherever you want
— Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Hedvig Hjertaker, and I’m an adventurer, speaker, and mom. Over the past ten years, I’ve developed a strong passion for outdoor adventures that challenge willpower, resilience, and independence—simply because being in nature makes me happier. In 2023, I walked solo to the South Pole as the youngest woman in the world—it was incredible!
Today, my adventures look a bit different, but they are just as big, together with my partner and our daughter (11 months). We’ve walked Rallarvegen with a stroller, hiked Trolløypa (170 km) from Lillehammer to Høvringen with a sled, skis, and tent, and taken many small trips using a baby carrier.
We’re even considering a cycling adventure before winter returns. I live by the motto: “life isn’t more fun than we make it,” and now I choose to make life as fun and adventurous as possible for my daughter too.
— How would you describe your everyday life with a baby right now?
Everyday life is both calmer and more intense at the same time. It’s no longer guided only by my needs, but also by hers. It requires a bit more logistics and planning, but I also feel more present—I notice small things like birds chirping, butterflies, and ladybugs that my baby points at. Life moves more at her pace now, and it actually feels really nice!
— What does it mean to you to get outdoors during the day?
It truly means everything. It’s like hitting a reset button—fresh air, daylight, and movement make me a better version of myself, and therefore a better mom too!
— How has it changed since you became a mom?
Before, I could go on long trips and expeditions whenever it suited me, without thinking much about others. Now it’s more about adapting and planning trips so they work for the whole family.
It’s actually been really fun, because it challenges me in a new way! Will she sleep as well in a sled as in a baby carrier? Can we change diapers in strong wind? And is it possible to stay in a tent for several days in a row?
It can be hard to predict how trips will go with a baby, but the best part is that it almost always goes much better than we think! Babies are incredibly adaptable, and the sense of achievement from going on adventures together as a family is just as great as any solo expedition.
— What do you love most about having your baby close when you’re outdoors?
I love seeing how happy and energetic she becomes from experiencing the world from a higher perspective than the floor. Those little dangling legs bring me so much joy in themselves!
— What is the best thing about using a baby carrier on trips?
I find it so special to see how she becomes calmer when we’re out in nature. It’s interesting, because we know that nature, rhythmic movement, and natural stimuli can have a regulating effect on the nervous system—for both babies and adults.
— Do you have any small routines that make your outings extra nice?
We often end up singing nursery rhymes while we’re out, haha! It’s very cosy—and something we definitely never did before.
My 6 best tips for outings with a baby in the Voksi Huddle
- A high-quality baby carrier is key to enjoying outings with your baby. We’ve tested different carriers and found that the Voksi Huddle is, and remains, our absolute favourite. It needs to be comfortable for both the baby and the wearer, and easy to put on and take off.
- A wind- and waterproof carrier cover keeps your baby warm and dry in bad weather.
- A wool fleece suit is ideal in a baby carrier because it both insulates and helps manage moisture.
- Food and drinks for both big and small are essential – and chocolate is always allowed on adventures!
- Accessories such as a balaclava, sun hat, and booties are important all year round.
- Lower the bar – the most important thing is simply getting outside.
