Nature sounds, cool (or warm) temperatures, eating outside, sleeping on the ground, and experiencing the wonder of the outdoors with your children, what could be better… or worse?
- Your first camping adventure with kids doesn’t have to be far from home or elaborate. Even if you are an experienced camper, add children to the experience changes nearly everything. How about a trial run at a local state park or even the backyard before embarking on a multi-night remote adventure? This trial run will help with confidence for a longer more complex experience, as well as help you fine tune your packing list.
- Starting when your children are small allows them to grow up with camping as a family norm. Honestly, there are some advantages to waiting until the kids are old enough to help and understand the camping experience, but I feel like it is worth it to start when they are young. As they say “the days are long but the years are short.” Now that we have a couple teenagers, I agree… and I am thankful for the many camping trips with littles as well as still being able to experience the outdoors with my children.
- Where do you want to go?
- What’s the weather like?
- Are you going to tent camp, glamp, or try an RV?
- Can it snow in June? (In Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, Glacier - yes)
- How warm/cold is too warm/cold to be comfortable for sleep?
- Is low 40s in April in North Carolina going to be comfortable for my toddler in the middle of the night? (Probably not)
- Should I bring heavy jackets when camping in the Rockies in summer? (Yes)
- What is the bathroom and water situation?
- Sleep - Does your baby or toddler sleep well in a Pack-n-play? Get a tent large enough to accommodate it. Does your child have a favorite blanket, snuffy, or pillow? Bring it. How do you sleep on the ground? It might be wise to invest in a better sleeping pad or cot… because parents also need a goodnight’s sleep. No ready to invest in a tent? You can rent camping equipment, an RV, or reserve a “glamping” tent or Yurt.
- Food - Camping food can be adventurous or simple. If your kids are new to camping, it could be wise to keep food familiar. We also like to pack snacks… so many snacks. *Remember NO food, or other smelly items, in your tent. Different campground have different specific regulations regarding food storage - usually in a vehicle or bear box. Follow all campground guidelines.
- Shoes and Clothing - Pack for the weather and bring layers. An extra change or clothes and shoes beyond what you think you need is usually a good idea, just in case.
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