Camping with kids is a brilliant way for your family to spend quality bonding time with each other. Aside from being an affordable short getaway, camping is a great way to instil your kids with quality life skills and lessons. It is also a chance to disconnect and experience a much simpler lifestyle.
In this article, we look at how you can introduce your kids to camping for the first time and make your trip a huge success.
Further reading: How to prepare for a long car ride with kids
Have the right camping equipment
When it comes to camping, nothing is more important than having the right equipment.
Some essential items to bring include a sturdy tent that can withstand any weather conditions, warm sleeping bags, a portable stove for cooking meals, and a first aid kit in case of any emergencies.
Be sure to check the weather and bring appropriate clothing including rain gear, hats, and warm layers.
You’ll also want to bring activities and games to keep the kids entertained during downtime.
Focus On Sleep
One of the most crucial aspects of camping with kids is ensuring that they get a quality night of rest. Everyone is happier after a good night’s sleep!
This means bringing along blow up mattresses if necessary, along with comfortable sleeping bags, pillows, blankets and anything else your children may need to fall asleep easily.
Sleeping in a new environment may be a little intimidating to your little ones. Ensure the experience is as calm and comfortable as possible. Don’t forget bedtime stories and crucial comforters and soft toys for younger children.
A good night of sleep is also essential to get everyone ready for the next day’s activities. Plus, if the kids sleep well, so does mum and if mum’s in a good mood, everything is OK!
Stay Close To Home
For your first family camping trip, you needn’t head out into the wilderness. You can stay as close to home as possible to ease your children into the camping life.
One of the best ways to do this is to pitch a tent in your own backyard!
A cosy night in the backyard with songs, games, activities and toasted marshmallows will be a dream for the kids. It will also be a dream for mum since you don’t have to suss out an appropriate camping site and you have a real toilet.
Practicing setting up a tarp or pitching a tent in your backyard is also a fantastic way to get your children familiarised with all things camping related, in the privacy and safety of your own home.
We don’t know a single child who wouldn’t jump for joy at the chance to rough it out in their very own backyard. It will be like a sleepover party under the stars. Camping with kids has never been so easy.
Plan A Simple ‘camping with kids’ Menu
Planning a simple menu with easy meals when camping with kids is a game-changer.
Some easy favourites are toasted marshmallows, energy bars, campfire pizzas and grilled cheese sandwiches. Always ensure to keep foods cold until you are ready to cook, especially if you’re serving cheese, meat or any other perishable.
Be sure to get the kids opinions on what foods they’d enjoy on the trip. This will make them feel involved and avoid any potential tantrums that may dampen the mood.
Camping with kids will be a success if you have the right fuel to keep them full of energy and in a good mood.
Book A Campsite
If you are feeling adventurous and looking to light a campfire somewhere other than your own backyard, booking a campsite in advance is essential.
Some things to factor when choosing an appropriate site are how far away it is and if your children will be able to endure the duration of the ride. As well as the facilities the site will provide. Choose a site that isn’t too far from home for your first camping trip.
Keep things easy and to get the kids into the groove of camping. Slow and steady wins the race!
Conclusion: Camping with kids
Camping is a truly wonderful experience that broadens children’s horizon and can help you bond with your kids on a deeper level. Some for the happiest memories are made on camping trips.
So, grab the tent, take a few deep breaths and give it a go.
