Tips on Successfully Camping with the Kids (2022 Update!)

Camping with your family can be a memorable experience that immerses your kids into life in the outdoors...

04.04.2022

...but much like high-altitude alpine climbing or running with raging bulls…it can be a challenge. There are new factors to consider and more gear to pack when you add kids into the equation, but we promise it is worth it. If you’re still uneasy at the thought of being crammed in a tent with the whole ‘fam’, fear not, we’ve got some tips to keep spirits high and the laughs rolling!

TIP #1 - PICK A GOOD CAMPSITE

Obviously, the precursor to any good camping trip is choosing the perfect camping site; this being one that is comfortable and free from hazards. Look for a campsite that is flat and offers protection from the elements (trees are great!), this will ensure a great night's sleep. But before you go and pitch your tent, go for a walk and scout the surrounding area for any hidden dangers (lakes, pits, spiky bushes). Once you’ve found a cozy, safe and protected site it's time to pitch your tents and light the campfire! If you need some inspiration for a great campsite, check out our article on some of the best campsites around Australia.
 

 
TIP #2 - PREPARE DINNER EARLY

Hopefully, your kids will have spent the day burning their energy around camp and are starting to settle down in the late afternoon. Now it's time to capitalise on one of the best parts of camping with kids - early nights! Serve dinner while the sun is setting to not only make things easy, as you have light, but also encourage some early snoozing. By preparing and serving dinner early you increase the chance that you and your partner might get some alone time out under the stars. 

 

TIP #3 - KEEP THEM HYDRATED

Staying hydrated whilst camping can be a challenge for adults, let alone kids. It's important you make sure your kids are drinking plenty of water and that water is readily available should they need to fill up their bottle or cup. Just as in actual camping every kid and adult should have their own water bottle, the Camelbak Eddy Kids Water Bottle .4L are great as they are spill-proof and kid-safe. We also recommend having a larger water canister at your camp that is easily accessible, such as the Sea to Summit Pack Water Tap or Hydrapak Expedition 8L Packable Water Container. 

 

 
TIP #4 - CHECKLISTS ARE YOUR FRIEND

When you're trying to focus on packing for your camping trip but the kids are proving to be a distraction, it's time to get yourself a checklist. The Rite In The Rain Waterproof Notebook is perfect for writing your checklist and keeping tabs on your to-do’s. Having a robust and comprehensive checklist ensures you don't forget your essentials and reminds you of the smaller items when you're preparing for your camping trip. We’ve attached a barebones list below to help get you started and release the pressure of the night-before pack when the kids want to help out...

 

TIP #5 - TEST RUN

Finally, make sure you have your systems dialled in before you embark on the real deal. The best way to do this is by simply camping in your backyard, this way you can check all of your camping equipment works and scope whether camping with kids is for you. Worst case scenario… you end up back in your warm bed with a better understanding of what you need or don't need for your upcoming camping trip.

CAMPING WITH KIDS CHECKLIST:

• Tent
• Sleeping mats
• Sleeping bags
• Camping chairs
• Camping table
• Lanterns
• Headlamps
• Water bottles
• Water storage container or pack tap
• Stove
• Cooking equipment
• Plate, bowls and cups
• Esky
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

 

Planning on heading bush with the whole family? Chat to our friendly team of Outdoor Gear Specialists in-store or online today and don’t forget to share your adventures with us on Instagram by tagging @wildearthaustralia and #mywildearth in your next post.