Summer is almost here and I don’t know about you, but we’re already planning some fun camping excursions with the kiddos. Camping with kids can be a truly fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. However, it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially for first-time campers. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, there are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience for everyone. In this beginner's guide, we'll go over some tips and tricks we’ve learned to make summer camping with kids a good experience for everyone (including Mom and Dad)!
Dos:
Start off by choosing a family-friendly campground with amenities such as showers, toilets, and a good area to explore or play around in. Make sure the site is easily accessible and has plenty of space for your tent, cooking area, and other equipment. We like to make sure there is a fire pit because nothing beats making S’Mores and sitting around a campfire late at night or first thing in the morning.
Involve your kids in the planning process by asking them to help plan meals and pack their bags. This will not only make them feel more invested in the trip but also teach them valuable skills such as responsibility and decision-making.
Bring along entertainment and options for the kids such as a deck of cards, coloring books, and outdoor toys. You can also plan some fun activities such as hiking, fishing, or family bike rides.
*I’ve included a full list (with links) of what our family brings on camping trips at the end of this article. 🏕Be prepared for changes in weather by bringing appropriate clothing and gear such as raincoats, warm jackets, comfortable close-toed shoes, and extra blankets. Making sure everyone is warm and/or cool enough is important! Make sure everyone has a comfortable sleeping bag and a cozy sleeping pad.
Don'ts:
Don't forget to check the camping regulations and rules before you go. Some sites may have restrictions on campfires, pets, or noise levels.
Don't rely on technology for entertainment. This can be hard for some, but push through: it’s worth it! Boredom is really beneficial for kids (and adults). It encourages creativity, increases our capacity for self-control, and builds the imagination. Remember, it’s not our job as parents to entertain our kids. Instead, we provide them with opportunities where they learn to be self-sufficient and seek out ways to entertain themselves.
Don't forget to practice good camping etiquette by respecting other campers' privacy and keeping the site clean and tidy. Make sure to dispose of trash properly and follow the "leave no trace" principle. This is especially important if you’re camping in an area where wild animals are nearby.
Don’t forget to bring along safety and first aid supplies. Make sure to pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and a first aid kit for boo-boos. Teach your kids basic safety rules such as staying away from the fire pit, using a buddy system, and sticking to the trail if you go on a hike.
Don’t forget to check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Layers are key!
What We Bring
As a family, we have gone camping multiple times, and through these experiences, we have learned the essentials of what to pack and what to bring with us. Here’s a list of what we don’t leave home without (not including food):
A Tent and a tarp (if we’re tent camping)
20˚ Sleeping Bags, sleeping pads, and comfy pillows
Extra blankets
Games: A deck of cards and Uno
A Hammock or 2
If we’re near water: Kids’ nets for catching minnows/bugs and fishing gear.
Adventure toys: Slingshots, a magnifying glass, binoculars, bikes.
Towels (because you never know)
Sunscreen, bug spray, a first-aid kit, citronella candles
Books, notebooks, and stuff to draw and write with
Lantern, Camping Stove, Jet-Boil, French Press, and Propane
Cast-iron skillet, cooking pot, reusable dinnerware and eating utensils
Toilet Paper and Paper Tow
els
Comfortable close-toed shoes, flip-flops, and rubber boots if it’s wet
Warm jackets, beanies, hats, and plenty of socks, sunglasses
Weather appropriate clothes. We like layers for cold mornings/night and warm afternoons
Chapstick, face wipes, travel toothbrushes and toothpaste, non-scented lotion, hairbrushes, hair-ties, and deodorant
Flexibility and good attitudes!
Summer camping with kids can be a truly fun experience where you make core-memories you’ll never forget. Though it can feel daunting for beginners, you can make it easier through careful planning, preparation, and researching your campsite ahead of time. Feel free to comment below or reach out with any questions you have. Whether you're planning a road trip, camping adventure, or international vacation, I'm here to help you navigate the challenges of family travel and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
And remember: Getting outside with kids isn’t easy, but keep getting outside. IT’S WORTH IT.