Camping is probably one of the most enjoyable ways to vacation with your family. Family camping trips are a great way to bond with each other and enjoy the peaceful and serene environment of the great outdoors. It will allow you to get away and not think about all of the stressors that every day life in the city brings you. Here are a few things to consider for your next family camping trip.
Children absolutely will love the chance to do something new, fun, and exciting. Make sure you include them in all of the planning for the trip, and when you actually get there, have them help you set up the camp site.
The first thing you will need to consider is the tent. Do you want your family all sleeping under one shelter, or do you want to buy a separate tent for the children. If they are really young, I would advise buying a bigger sized tent and having everyone sleep together. Your children will certainly feel more safe and secure.
On the other hand, camping is all about freedom and getting away, so older children would probably prefer their own tent.
You are most definitely going to need supplies. Sleeping bags and backpacks should be a priority. If you plan on doing a lot of hiking, make sure you purchase light weight backpacks and sleeping bags. Backpacks for avid hikers have a lightweight frame and many compartments to store your goods. Sleeping bags are also made light weight and have temperature ratings depending on what climate you will be sleeping in.
Grilling outside during the camping trip is a must. Bring a portable camping stove or grill with your, or at least make sure that you have wood and a grill grate to be able to cook food on an open fire. You’ll want to bring pans, spatula, forks, knives, and all the other cooking necessities as well. Don’t forget a lighter or matches!
Most camp grounds have a picnic bench available but you are going to want to bring lawn chairs with you. The picnic bench isn’t all that comfortable and usually they are very dirty and not sanitary. If you plan on lying out or swimming, bring the lounge lawn chairs as well.
Most camp grounds are usually by a body of water and kids love to swim. Set boundaries for your kids so they don’t go off and swim all by themselves without supervision. Campgrounds don’t normally have life guards.
You will also need to bring plenty of sun block. There is nothing worse than getting sun burnt on the first day of a weeklong camping trip. Use it early and use it often.
Last but not least, plan your daily activities around your children. Give them a few options on what you used to do when you were growing up on a campground. You want this to be fun for your family and your kids hold the key to everyone having fun. Please the kids first and everyone will be happy.