Jess’s Top Tips: Fun Family Camping Traditions to Start This Summer!

There’s something truly magical about family camping trips: fresh air, the crackle of a campfire, and starry skies that seem to go on forever. But what really makes camping special for kids (and grown-ups alike!) are the little traditions you create together.

These traditions turn an ordinary trip into a treasure trove of memories your Little Trekkers will cherish for years to come.

Need inspiration? Jess, our Social Media Manager (and big fan of family camping adventures!), is here to share her favourite fun and easy camping traditions to start with your crew this summer.
You can follow Jess HERE to keep up with her family’s summer camping trips!

1. Special First-Night Meal

Kick off every trip with a meal that marks the start of your adventure, campfire hot dogs, marsh

mallow-topped hot chocolate, or your family’s favourite chilli.

Jess’s family tradition is homemade pizza night in a pizza oven, what’s not to love!

2. Torch Stories (or Shadow Puppets!)

After dark, switch off the lanterns and let everyone tell a spooky (or silly!) story by torchlight. Or make shadow puppets on the tent walls,guaranteed giggles before bed. 

3. Decorate the Tent

Make your camping spot feel like home. Let the kids hang bunting, fairy lights, or hand-drawn welcome signs. It’s a fun way to get them involved and proud of “their” camp.

4. Morning Pancake Breakfast

Pick a morning to whip up pancakes on the camping stove. Kids can help mix and pour batter or choose toppings, think berries, honey, or chocolate chips, Yummy!

5. Nature Treasure Hunt

Before you go, make a little list of things to spot: a pine cone, a feather, animal tracks, or a yellow flower. Turn walks into mini-adventures as you explore together.

6. Family Camping Photo

Choose the same moment each trip, like just after pitching the tent, to snap a family photo. Over the years, you’ll create a timeline of wonderful memories. Jess does this every trip, so be sure to follow her summer camping adventures!

7. Wish on a Star

Bundle up, lay back and watch the night sky. Make a wish on the first star you see and see who can spot the most constellations.

Camping Memory Journal

Pack a notebook where everyone can draw, write about their favourite moments, or collect leaves and petals. It becomes your family’s own camping diary.

Camping Disco

Set up a mini dance party with USB fairy lights and a Bluetooth speaker. Let the kids (and grown-ups!) show off their best moves under twinkling lights. A perfect way to end a day outdoors!

Campfire S’mores

Finish the day roasting marshmallows over the campfire to make delicious s’mores. Jess’s family even makes a gooey s’mores dish in the pizza oven — yum!

Ready to Make Your Own Traditions?

Camping isn’t just about where you go, it’s about the little moments you create together. Whether it’s silly torch stories, secret marshmallow stashes, or pancake mornings, these traditions turn every trip into a story your kids will love to tell.

What camping traditions does your family love?

Share them and tag us, we’d love to see your magical moments!