Tenting versus camping in a trailer or cabin can be great fun. Kids love the idea of being out under the stars, sleeping in a tent and having a campfire. Children easily get bored though, miss the comforts of home, toys, hate the dark and do not always have the patience to wait for food to be cooked over the fire. Here are some tips to help make the camping trip an enjoyable family experience.
Buying a Tent for Camping
The size of the tent is important. What might work for a couple of adults might not work as well for children. Kids need space to move around to change clothes, put out some favorite stuffed animals and toys, and make it feel a bit more like home. If buying a new tent, keep in mind that if it says sleeps six on the box, it probably is not including the use of air mattresses.
Choosing a Campground Location
Choosing a good location is the key to a successful camping trip. A campground with a nice beach for swimming and lots of sand for playing will be very important to kids. Some easy hiking trails with interesting things to see will add to the adventure. A campground close to a small town offering a restaurant or arcade will help to break up the day, especially if it is raining or very hot.
Start by asking parents who have camped with kids for their opinion, keeping in mind different camping expectations and abilities. Look up campground websites to find information regarding description of campsites, nearby attractions, and if the campground has a family atmosphere. Young kids will probably have an easier time with a few familiar conveniences from home like modern washrooms and running water. A campground store would be fun for popcorn, ice cream and candy runs.
Picking the Perfect Site for Camping with Young Children
When tenting, try to set up on a patch of grass so it is a bit softer. The campsite should have some gravel to help keep away insects. A fire pit located off to the side would be safer with kids running around. A couple of well spaced trees to hang a clothesline for wet swimsuits and towels are needed. A spot close enough for trips to the bathroom on short notice would be beneficial.
What to Eat When Camping with Kids
Individually packaged cereals, small bags of chips, cup a soup and hot chocolate to warm up on cool nights and early mornings, small milks and juice boxes are all are easily kept. Opening small amounts at a time aid in consistently disposing of garbage and help keep away the bears.
Hot dogs and marshmallows seem to be expected. Campfire pizzas, which can be cooked on pizza crust, tortillas or in a metal camping sandwich maker are fun for meals or snacks. Hamburgers and skewers cook quickly. Keeping meals simple and quick will be a bonus for the young hungry camper.
What to Pack When Camping With Young Kids
Pack all of the necessities but be sure to include:
- Extra sets of clothes and shoes
- Rain gear
- Long pants for hiking
- Favorite stuffed animals etc.
- Flashlights for playing with or as a nightlight
- Beach toys, outdoor games and a few small toys
- Games to play in the tent if it rains.
- Table top propane barbeque in case briquettes or wood are slow to light
Buying the right size tent to fit the family comfortably and choosing a campground with a family atmosphere that offers enough to keep everyone busy and happy is good start for a positive tenting experience. Picking a site convenient to washrooms, packing extra's including a few comforts from home and making simple kid friendly meals will go a long way in making the first camping trips with young children a success.
 |
 |
 |
