Camping is one of the most popular holiday alternatives to paying for a flight. If you’re looking for a more adventurous journey during which you can enjoy a little time away from home while teaching your kids about living simply and enjoying the outdoors, camping is for you!
However, if you’re unprepared, camping with the family can prove itself to be a chore. There’s a lot to consider, from travelling, to equipment and location, all of which (if you’re looking for a perfect holiday!) take some attention to detail to get right.
Luckily, though, it doesn’t have to be all that complicated. Considering these five simple tips ensures camping with kids doesn’t have to be messy.
1. Don’t Wild Camp
Wild camping, particularly when travelling with younger children, is a bad idea. It is often challenging to keep kids engaged for extended periods of time, so as you can picture, going to an isolated place where there isn’t much to do isn’t a fine idea.
Instead, opt for campsites and try to discover the most family-friendly choices. Many of these areas offer a host of activities for the whole family to enjoy, from kid’s shows, and archery to ziplining. Wild camping can be overwhelming and sometimes scary for kids, whereas campsites blend together a little civilization and the great outdoors.
If you are determined to experience wild camping with your children, however, be sure to get the experience right. Off road caravans, and camping trailers, will bring some much-needed added comfort and security.
2. Prepare for All Kinds Of Weather
There is nothing worse than enjoying your camping holiday and being put through an unexpected, drastic change in the weather you are unprepared for. Research the area you are visiting and tailor clothing decisions to the specific region.
In general, if the weather is unpredictable, dressing your children in layers is the best way to go.
3. Comfort Items
A child’s first time camping can often be a little intimidating. Different children respond differently to change, and sometimes sleeping somewhere other than their own bed or a hotel room may seem daunting.
To combat this apprehension, parents sometimes practice camping either locally or in their back garden, to let their children get the feel of camping.
Remember to pack comfort items, dummys, favourite toys and everything else your child loves. These are welcome additions when venturing away from home, and will help your children feel as comfortable as possible.
4. Safety! Safety! Safety!
Kids are unpredictable, and camping can be dangerous, leading to accidents and injuries if you’re not careful enough. Pack a robust first aid kit and teach your kids the proper campsite etiquette before you embark on your adventure. Don’t let a broken arm, leg or burn ruin your holiday!
5. Pack Carefully
Finally, and more broadly, make sure you pack everything you need, and try your hardest to also pack light. Though it is often hard to balance the two junxtaposing practices, you’ll want to make sure that the load you and your children carry is light.
Making Memories That Will Last Forever
Camping with kids may seem like a pain, but aslong as you’re well prepared and think of everything in advance, you’re sure to have a blast. Camping is a great alternative to booking flights, as it gives kids a chance to feed their adventurous and wandering minds.
Wouldn’t everyone want to swap that stressful airport experience for a relaxing drive to the country?
