Family camping is one of the best vacations out there. It’s affordable, fun, and kids love being out in nature, soaking it all in. It’s hard to beat a family camping trip, but that doesn’t mean it’s not without its pitfalls. This is when family-friendly camping tips and hints come in handy, and we’ve got the best of the best to help you out. From choosing your site to what to pack, we’ve got your family camping trip covered so that all you have to do is sit back and relax—as much as that’s possible with children. Keep reading for everything you need to know to ensure your camping trip with the clan goes off without a hitch, whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth.
- Plenty of Space
One of the smartest family-friendly camping tips is to give your clan as much space as possible, and that includes choosing the right camper trailer from the get-go. You want as much liveable indoor and outdoor space as possible, including beds for everyone and space for their gear. Plus, keep in mind that as they get older and bigger, you’re going to want more room so choosing a trailer that your family can grow into is ideal. You’ll want more storage space than you think you’ll need, because there will plenty of stuff you’ll want to bring that you haven’t even thought of yet (don’t worry, we’ll get to that).
- The Right Campsite
Choosing your campsite wisely is more important than you’d think. It’s not just about how well-groomed it is and how soft or firm the ground is, but its placement matters. You want something close to the bathrooms (especially with younger children) but away from the road, something out of direct sunlight but not beside water, and something quiet but not too isolated. It should also be big enough for your kids to play, because a small campsite can leave them restless and prone to wandering off to explore. If there’s another campsite nearby with similarly aged children, you’re golden: not only will they have someone to play with, but the other family won’t mind the ruckus of family camping like a couple might.
- Packing Smart
Packing for a family camping trip is no easy feat. When it comes to family-friendly camping tips, packing smart can’t be overstated. Kids are innately messy, and mud finds their clothes like a magnet, but you don’t want to pack too much clothing or else you’ll find yourself drowning in a sea of clean and dirty clothing in your camper trailer (note: invest in a collapsible hamper right away). You don’t want to forget any essentials, like swimsuits, hiking shoes, jackets for colder weather, hats, and sandals, but keep in mind getting dirty is part of the fun of camping. You’ll also need plenty of sunscreen, bug spray, entertainment like books and card games, a GPS, and plenty of flashlights.
- Storing Food
Packing enough healthy, fresh food is always a challenge when it comes to camping. You’ll have to plan out your restocking days with care, and eat the freshest food first so that you’re down to your non-perishables by the time you hit the grocery store. Some great family-friendly camping trips are to freeze soups, chili, stew and pasta sauces ahead of time to feed your family quickly, while also helping to keep the rest of the perishable food nice and cold. Chopping up fruits and vegetables for the week ahead will help cut down on time and dishes, and ensure your family has quick access to healthy snacks. Other than that, load up on the packaged food that you know will last you, like granola bars, trail mix, boxed pastas, and crackers.
- Tire Them Out
One of the best family-friendly camping tips you’ll get is to simply make sure your kids have fun, because if they’re busy enjoying themselves it means they’re also tiring themselves out. Hit the beach, the hiking trails, the playgrounds when you can, and take them canoeing if possible. They’ll have an absolute blast and build lifelong family camping memories, while making your life a heck of a lot easier. If they’re stuck on the campsite all day long, they’ll quickly run out of ways to entertain themselves and trouble will ensue (although we probably don’t have to tell you that!).
