AI Summary
Camping with the family is an awesome way to escape the daily chaos and reconnect while enjoying nature. Most kids love a camping trip, but parents should take a few steps to make sure camping with kids goes smoothly — going outdoors solo or with friends is easier since you’re ready to leave the comforts of home behind, but your kids might not be totally on board or ready (even if they say they are).
If you’re in charge of organizing the camping trip with the kids, you’ll need to plan what to pack, choose the campsite, find activities to keep the kids entertained, and get the right gear for a fun and memorable trip with the little ones.
Here’s a quick list of simple camping hacks for camping with kids to keep in mind before heading out on your RV Rental adventure. These tips can make a huge difference in keeping everyone safe and avoiding a trip cut short by injuries or sickness.
Find the best way to camp — maybe a cozy RV?
If it’s your kids’ first camping trip, try having them sleep in a tent before the trip — set it up in the backyard or even inside your house. Let them chill there a bit and get used to what could be their sleep spot for 4-7 nights. Or, you could rent a campervan for 4. Our campervans come stocked with camping gear, a cleaning kit, and bedding. Traveling with your family in an RV is a unique experience and definitely creates unforgettable memories.
Plan your trip ahead when camping with kids
When you get to the campsite, check out your spot before letting the kids run around. Make sure to set up your tent(s) away from trees to avoid any falling branches. Kids Health highlights how important it is to watch out for hazardous waste, broken glass, and signs that unwanted animals or insects might be nearby. For instance, if there are lots of berries around, bears might be drawn to your site.
Check the weather forecast before you go and don’t rely on kids to pack right since they don’t usually think about their needs like adults do. Dress them in layers so they stay warm but can take off clothes if they get too hot. Bring waterproof jackets or hats in case it rains and don’t forget sturdy hiking boots for exploring.
Pack enough, but don’t overdo it
Whether you’re new to camping or a pro, making a packing list for camping with kids can feel overwhelming because you want to cover all your bases for the trip.
Even though campervans come with bedding, kitchen, and cleaning kits, and most campsites have picnic tables and running water, it’s smart to have a few extra supplies for eating, sleeping, and fun outdoors. Beyond the basics, pack plenty of clothes for the kids and remember that layering is always key when camping outside. Bring a beach blanket, camp chairs, and a basic first aid kit. Don’t forget to pack ingredients for s’mores (graham crackers, marshmallows & chocolates) — such a fun campfire treat for both adults and kids.
Most kids don’t need much to stay entertained. Being active outdoors is usually enough excitement, but things like bubbles, a deck of cards, a play tent, and fishing gear can keep them busy during the trip.
Talk with kids about safe camping and water habits
Set clear rules for your kids before the camping trip. You want them to have fun, but wild horseplay or running around can quickly lead to injuries. They should always stay within earshot and tell an adult before leaving the campsite. Camping with Gus also recommends kids wear shoes all the time around the site to protect their feet.
Make sure your kids only drink water you know is safe. Streams or creeks might have unsafe water that can make them sick. Bring bottled water, use trusted water sources at the camp, and think about packing iodine tablets or water filters as backups.
Avoid insect troubles by taking precautions
Insect repellent is a must, but you can do even more to keep bugs away from your kids. Mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus and Zika, so wear hats, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts, and avoid hanging out near still water for too long.
Ticks are common on hiking trails, so again, hats, long sleeves, and long pants help keep them away. Keep kids on trails and out of dense brush, and check them thoroughly after hikes. If you find a tick, pull it out carefully upward by the head with tweezers.
To avoid issues with bees or wasps, leave bright or patterned clothes at home, and keep food and drinks covered. Check bedding before sleep and bring calamine lotion and Benadryl in case of stings. And if a kid gets stung and has trouble breathing or a rash, get medical help immediately.
Let adults handle the campfires
When it comes to campfires, adults should be the ones to light the fire, add wood, and put it out at night. Store matches and lighters somewhere kids can’t reach, and make sure the fire is fully out before leaving.
Protecting your kids while camping is the best way to have a great trip. Be ready for bugs, wildlife, and weather, and teach your kids to be careful around the campsite and fire. Kids might want to push limits, but with clear rules and good prep, they’ll have tons of fun while staying safe.
