Camping is one way to get the entire family one step closer to nature. It delivers an experience that stimulates the senses and tickles the interest to go outside. It’s one of the best ways to get yourself out of the coach and into the real world. The best part is — kids of all ages will find this activity exciting, fun, and memorable. So if you’re planning to have a home-away-from-home adventure with your kids, then you’ve come to the right place!
In this post, we’ll talk about the do’s and don’ts when camping with your little ones as well as the packing tips that you should not miss.
Do A Camping Trial At Home
Whether your kids are too young or are still new with camping, practicing in your own backyard can help a lot. All you need to do is set up a tent outside or even inside your own space and let them sleep in it just to give them a glimpse of what would happen. You may even try camping in a park nearby.
Implement a few activities, such as singing a campfire song, S’mores, etc., and see if your little ones will react positively to the experience.
Do Let Your Kids Pack Their Own Bag
As much as possible, get your kids involved in packing their own camping gear. Don’t worry, you can always check it afterward. To begin, you can give them their own duffel bags and packing cubes so they can organize their things. Since the bag has limited space, your kids will be encouraged to bring only the most important things of all.
Here’s a quick camping checklist you can use when you camp with your children:
Accommodation
- Tent (including the poles and stakes)
- Tent footprint
- Pillows
- Blankets
- Flashlights, headlamps
- Extra batteries
Clothes
- Daytime clothes
- Sleepwear
- Slippers
- Shoes
- Jackets, warmers
- Gloves
Personal Hygiene/Grooming
- Insect repellent lotion
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Toiletries
- Soap
- Shampoo
- First-aid kit (bandaids, safety pins, sterile gauze dressings, antiseptic wipes, etc.)
Others
- Camera
- Chargers
- Maps
- Food
Do Bring Food/Snacks That Kids Like
Aside from the campfire songs and horror camp stories, one of the most anticipated activities when camping is eating. And there’s no better way to keep those hungry stomachs excited than to pack their favorite snacks.
Want to ace this part? Then ask your kids. You may want to surprise them with a new recipe but now’s not the best time to do it. So instead of guessing whether they’ll like what you’re going to prepare for them or not, bring food that you know they like 100%! Also, be sure to bring foods that are ready-to-eat and easy to prepare.
Do Find The Right Camp Location
Not all campsites are created equal and if you want to place that would match your family’s needs and requirements, then figure out what you want in the first place. Do you want it near the river or beaches? Do you need hot showers or your accessible restrooms?
Also, if it’s your first time to go out in the wild, the best location would be somewhere near your place. Once you’ve camped a lot of times, you can go to more adventurous camping sites. If you have kids younger than five, you can ask for child-friendly recommendations. Of course, don’t forget to get your kids involved again. Ask them if they have a destination in mind or any idea where they want to go.
Do Research Camping Activities
Whether you’re planning an overnight camp or a day hike, you can always ask about the activities available in your campsite in advance. This is one way to keep your trip organized and boredom-free.
Here are some best family camping activities you can try:
- Stargazing
- Nature scavenger hunt
- Water relay
- Hopscotch
- Sleeping bag races
You can also join our growing community to learn more camping stories, tips, and suggestions by clicking this link.
Do Expect Possible Challenges
No matter how well-planned your camping is, there will be minor struggles along the way so the best thing to do is anticipate and troubleshoot possible problems in advance. For instance, if your young one tends to wake up earlier than anyone, you can bring his/her favorite toy or book to keep them busy while you steal a few naps. Is your toddler still potty-training? Bring his/her potty trainer or a mini travel toilet and place it outside of your tent.
Add Your Heading TexDon’t Bring Unnecessary Technology t Here
As much as you or your kids wanted to keep everyone updated with what you are doing, try to unpack the iPads, iPods, or other unnecessary gadgets and leave it at home. Disconnect with your social media for a while and connect with nature and your family while in the camp.
Don’t Stress
Some things will not go out as planned or you may feel bad for the important things you left at home. Don’t worry, there’s nothing to worry about! Rather than contemplating on the things you should have done or brought, take this opportunity to make use of the things you have. Challenge yourself and the entire family to enjoy whatever it is that’s present during your camp and make your quick getaway worthwhile.
Camping with kids might sound terrifying but as long as you keep yourself organized and ready, you can overcome those tiny struggles. At the end of the day, this camping activity will serve as a memory that you and your kid will gladly remember.
Have fun!