Camping with Kids
We just got back from a weekend camping trip and we are all exhausted because we played HARD. Camping has always been a favorite for our family – our daughter’s first camping trip was when she was only a month old. Over the years we’ve learned so much about camping with kids at different ages and stages. Here are some of the things that work for us.
Pack intentionally. We try not to take TOO much stuff with us when we camp (that’s kind of the point), but there are definitely things that make life easier when you’re traveling anywhere with little ones. The areas that I really focus on include items that will help everyone sleep best, items that make meals more convenient, and the right clothing. Getting quality sleep makes the next day a million times better. I’ve always tried to make the sleep environment feel familiar. When my daughter was tiny that meant taking the same portable bassines that she regularly napped in at home (like this one – affiliate link). As she’s grown this has meat making sure to pack favorite blankets or stuffed animals.
I also use feeding tools that are similar to whatever she is currently using at home – the same bottles, sippy cups, and now water bottles – and plan meals that I know she’ll eat. Pack what you know your child will want to eat. Trying new campfire recipes can be a ton of fun, but if your child refuses to eat them then you’re in for an unnecessary struggle.
I’ve learned that I’m personally happy to over pack on clothing. I can obsessively watch weather reports for weeks leading up to a trip and none of that matters when you wake up and it’s twenty degrees cooler than you thought it was going to be. I’d much rather have a variety of clothing that can be worn in different situations. I also prepare for all of the possible weather conditions. A rainy camping trip can be so fun when you have the gear to help you stay dry! Also, kids make messes – a lot of them – so more clothing than you think you’ll need is so important. This is also true of diapers and wipes. Whatever system you use, having extra is always better.
Plan activities, and be ok with not using them. My personal favorite camping trips are totally unstructured, with a ton of time for reading. This is not my daughter’s idea of fun. She’s the kind of kid who likes having something to do at all times. Toddlers and preschoolers especially have very short attention spans, so having things for them to do that you can pull out of nowhere is key. There are definitely activities that we always take supplies for – coloring books and markers, card games, favorite toys to play with, etc. There are also a ton of fun activities that don’t require any supplies at all – scavenger hunts, collecting rocks, using natural materials to create, hiking, skipping rocks, practicing bird calls, etc. Plan ahead so you can keep them busy, but also be open to spontaneous fun!
If you’re preparing for a camping trip, you may also want to check out these posts!
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