7 Essential Tips for Camping With Kids

Camping continues to rise in popularity and if you have kids, it’s a great way to build a love for the outdoors at an early age.

Here are our seven essential tips if you’re camping with kids. 

1. Pick the Right Camping ground

The camping ground you choose depends on the age of your children, the needs of your family, and the activities your family enjoys doing together. Some have beaches, lakes, rivers, playgrounds, hiking trails, fishing, mini-golf, tennis courts, and much more.

There are more developed campgrounds with amenities such as toilets, showers, pools, fire rings and grills, and kitchens. Do some research before making a decision and pick what’s best for you and the family. 

2. Trip Preparation

Prepping for the trip is the least fun but most important. While packing, keep everything organized, and make a checklist. Clear plastic totes are the best for easy access.

Besides the obvious tent, sleeping bags, lamps, and food, you’ll need some extra gear when you’re bringing little ones.

Bring plenty of sunblock and bug spray. For babies and toddlers, there’s more info here for an organic, DEET free option. Check the weather and bring enough clothing for the kids to be comfortable outside.

Don’t underestimate the importance of snacks. Bring plenty of snacks for everyone. 

3. Be Flexible

Weather changes plans change, and things happen. Be flexible and take it slow. If you were planning on an all-day hike but the weather takes a turn for the worse, have a backup plan.

With kids, chances are high that plans may need to be adjusted. Plan ahead of time for things to happen and don’t stress. 

4. Set Boundaries

Safety is a top priority. Talk with your kids when you arrive at the campground and lay down the rules.

Let your children know how far they’re allowed to go, what happens if they get lost, and hazardous activities or areas that are off-limits. At night, make sure there’s easy access to flashlights. Many flashlights from a variety of brands like Klarus, Fenix, and FlashlightWorld come with relatively long battery life and are both durable and affordable at the same time.

Thinking of safety ahead of time ensures that you’re ready for any situation.

5. Bring the Entertainment

There will plenty of playtime in the dirt and other outdoor activities but bring some extra toys and games for the outdoors.

Bring a kite, balls, binoculars, squirt guns, glowsticks, card games, and crafts. Make all toys and games camping friendly and leave the electronics at home. 

6. Involve the Kids

Involving the kids in every aspect of the camping experience makes it more memorable – even if it takes longer.

Make camping a teaching experience. Teach the kids how to set up a tent and how to build a campfire. Hand out small tasks such as gathering firewood, filling water bottles, and setting up sleeping bags. 

7. Stick to Your Normal Routine

Don’t throw bedtime out the window and do the same things you normally do before putting the kids to bed. Put on pajamas, brush teeth, and read a bedtime story. Keep a stricter schedule with babies and toddlers. 

Prepared to Go Camping with Kids?

If you’re planning on going camping with kids soon, don’t stress. Make it fun, involve the whole family, and go with the flow. You’ll learn what works for your family and each time will be easier. 

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