Camping Hacks with Kids

Camping with kids can be a fantastic family holiday and a wonderfully rewarding experience, but it does require some extra planning and creativity to ensure everyone has a good time. Here are our Little Trekkers useful camping hacks and tips to make your family adventure smoother and more enjoyable.

1. Pack Smart and Light: Use packing cubes or ziplock bags to organize clothes and gear by category or day. This will make it easier to find items quickly without rummaging through the entire luggage.
2. Bring a First Aid Kit: Accidents happen, especially with kids. A well-stocked first aid kit with plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain killers, bug spray and any necessary prescription medications is a must. We have a super handy Little Life Family First Aid Kit available.
3. Plan Easy Meals: Pre-prepare meals at home that can be easily cooked over a campfire or a portable stove. Think foil packet meals, pasta salads, and sandwiches. Don’t forget snacks like granola bars, fruit and chocolate bars! 
4. Use a Tent Carpet or Foam Tiles: Bring along interlocking foam tiles to place on the floor of the tent. This adds an extra layer of insulation and comfort, making the tent feel more like home.
5. Glow Sticks and Solar Lights: Use glow sticks to mark tent lines and pegs to prevent tripping in the dark. Solar lights are great for illuminating the campsite without needing batteries.
   
6. DIY Hand Washing Station: Create a simple handwashing station using a large water jug with a spigot, some soap, and a hand towel. It’s handy for quick clean-ups before meals or after messy activities.
   
7. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Plan a scavenger hunt to keep kids entertained and engaged with nature. Create a list of items to find, like different leaves, rocks, or bugs. This can be a fun educational activity. You can print out our FREE Nature scavenger hunt. 
8. Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements: Invest in good quality sleeping bags and mats. Consider bringing along a favourite blanket or pillow from home to help kids feel more secure and comfortable. Shop our camping range. 
9. Portable Potty: For younger kids, a portable potty can be a lifesaver at night or when the campsite bathrooms are far away.
   
10. Insect Repellent and Sunscreen: Protect kids from bugs and sunburn by applying insect repellent and sunscreen regularly. Don't forget sunhats and mosquito nets! 
11. Games and Activities: Bring along some lightweight games and toys like UNO, colouring books, or a frisbee. These can be great for downtime at the campsite.
12. Plan for Weather: Always check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Bring waterproofs, hats, and layers to ensure everyone stays comfortable regardless of the weather. A warm hat is sometimes a must at bedtime, even in summer! 
    
13. Nighttime Rituals: Stick to familiar bedtime routines as much as possible to help kids settle down and feel secure in the new environment.
14. Safety Rules: Set clear safety rules about staying within sight, avoiding certain areas, and what to do if they get lost. Consider using walkie-talkies for communication if the kids are old enough.
15. Leave No Trace: Teach kids the importance of leaving the campsite clean. Make a game out of picking up trash and explain why it’s important to respect nature.

By following these hacks, you can ensure a smoother, more enjoyable camping trip for the entire family. 

Happy camping!