Camping with children
When we go camping with children, it’s all about creating good experiences and making the trip easy for both us and the children. It’s usually most enjoyable when we set the bar right and plan for short stages, good food and a camp that works for everyone.
Here we share what you usually think about before you pack your bag and head for the forest or the mountains.
Set expectations
Children thrive when the pace is calm and small things happen along the way. We usually let the children help to choose a campsite, collect firewood or fill water. It gives them mastery and keeps their spirits up. A little trick is to start with a short trip so that the first experience is good.
Safety does a lot for the mood
When we sleep in tents with children, safety is important. We always make sure the children know where the boundaries are around the campsite. Also give the children simple tasks that give them a small sense of responsibility. This could be keeping their own sleeping area tidy or fetching water together with an adult.
Reflective vests on clothes work well in the evening. Especially if the kids like to run around while you’re preparing the food.
Equipment that makes camping with children easier
The complete packing list can be found in the article Camping checklist. It contains all the basics you would normally pack.
Here’s equipment that you can often bring along when the kids are with you and that isn’t on the other list.
Tent and camp equipment for family trips
- Extra large seating mat or picnic blanket
An area where children can play without everything ending up on the ground works wonders. - Small folding chair for children
Many children sit better and calmer when you have a chair to sit in. - Small night lights or low-power headlamps
Children are often not so fond of the dark. So it’s nice to have a little light if you’re struggling to sleep or wake up in the night. - Extra waterproof bag for wet clothes
Kids get wet always. A separate bag for what gets wet keeps the rest of the bag dry. - Simple tarpaulin
A tarpaulin is an underrated item to take with you on a trip. It can be used for so many things. Shelter from the rain, shade from the sun or as a surface where it would otherwise be uncomfortable to sit.
Small things that make a big difference
- Wet wipes
Saving us every time we’re sticky on our fingers or face, and unbelievably so! - A bag of surprises
A small card game, a small book or some stickers will give the children a little extra joy on the trip. Can be a nice backup if the kids can’t find anything creative in nature. - Extra snacks they love
Energy is quickly used up in little bodies. Always bring a little more than you think you need. - Small shovel
Children love digging in both sand and soil. Suddenly there’s a nice area where children can entertain themselves with some simple tools.
Sleeping with children in a tent
Children sleep best when everything feels safe and warm. We often put an extra blanket in the tent to prevent the cold from the ground. A small pillow from home provides security and makes sleeping better. Many families prefer their children to sleep closest to the doorway for best air circulation or between two adults.
Food on the go
Food is often the highlight for both adults and children. REAL Turmat works well because the portions are easy and quick to prepare when the children shout that they are hungry. An extra tip is to bring along a small thermos of cocoa or hot juice as a reward in the evening.
Make the experience easy and fun
The most important thing for a successful camping trip with children is to take the trip at their pace. When we set the bar low, keep warm and provide enough food, it’s always more enjoyable. Small pleasures such as testing headlamps in the dark, listening to night sounds or roasting marshmallows make the trip memorable for the children.
If you need a full overview of what goes in your backpack, you can find the entire packing list in the article Camping checklist.
