7 Tips for Camping with Little Ones

Camping season is right around the corner, which means lots of time set aside for family. However, if you’ve been camping before, you must admit that camping with little ones is a lot different from camping with adults. Keep these tips in mind as you camp with little ones this season.

#1. Practice before you go- Little ones can be unpredictable, especially when we throw unpredictable situations on them, so make sure you practice before you go! You can practice camping in your living room or even in your backyard.

#2. Know the area you’re camping in- Forgetting something that you need is bound to happen. Get to know the area you’ll be camping in to help in case you need to go out and grab a necessity.

#3. Know the weather- Even if the forecast calls for 70 degree weather, always pack warmer clothing. Camping weather can be a little unpredictable, so packing clothing for both extremes only makes sense.

#4. Plan- It’s best if you do a little planning before you take little ones camping. Have an idea of when dinner and bedtime will be and try to keep it to their normal schedule as much as possible. Although some kids can be flexible, others can become extremely irate at the slightest change of their schedule. Also, make sure you have some entertainment for your little ones. Weather setting up camp, cooking dinner or just hanging out, entertaining your kids with a travel activity book will be fun.

#5. Pack fun foods- Camping can be a little intimidating to little ones that have never been before. Packing fun foods can help eliminate some of the unknowns of camping. S’mores, hotdogs, and other yummy camping foods can help your little one get behind the idea of camping, quickly.

#6. Bring comfort with you- Little ones need to feel the security of something they love with them. Sure, you’re enough, but that blanket or stuffed animal that they love will help them feel even more secure. Allow them to bring a toy or blanket with them as you camp, this will help them feel settled and excited about the adventure ahead.

#7. Stay close to home- Sometimes it’s hard to plan a camping trip that’s “close to home.” However, when you have little ones, life is a little unpredictable. Staying close to home can allow you to pack up if needed and head to the comfort of your own home. If the kids get sick, unexpectedly, you don’t have to trek to far back to your own ‘bunker.’ As the kids get older, your camping adventures will be able to spread out further and further.

If you are just beginning to plan your camping trip, be sure and read my Intro to Camping as a Family, my 10 Must Bring Items and 10 Rucksack Essentials.

What are your best tips for camping with little ones?