Camping with toddlers is not for the faint-hearted, it can be a rewarding and memorable experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Here are fifteen tips to ensure your camping trip with little ones is safe, fun, and less stressful.
Overview
- Camping with toddlers
- Preparation is key: what to bring when camping with toddlers
- Safety and comfort when camping with toddlers
- Entertaining toddlers while camping
Camping with toddlers
Camping with toddlers introduces them to nature and adventure at an early age. With the right preparation, you can create many adventurous family memories.
Take a look at our suggestions below to help make your trip more enjoyable for all.
Preparation is key: what to bring when camping with toddlers
1. Practice camping at home
Before heading into the wild, set up a trial camping experience in your backyard. This helps toddlers get accustomed to sleeping in a tent and using camping gear. It also allows you to identify any potential issues or fears they might have in a controlled environment and the worst-case scenario is that you end up back inside.
2. Meal planning
Meal plan for your camp trip and aim for simple, nutritious meals that can be prepared easily at the campsite. Pre-cook and pack meals like pasta, stews, or grilled chicken to reduce cooking time. Don’t forget utensils, a bib, a portable stove, and if you can power a portable fridge that’s even better.
3. Snacks a plenty
Pack plenty of healthy snacks to keep your toddler satisfied and energetic. Consider options like fruit, nuts, cheese sticks, and muesli bars. Having a variety of snacks can prevent meltdowns and keep your little one happy throughout the trip.
4. Prepare for any weather
Weather can be unpredictable. Bring clothing and gear for all conditions, including hats, raincoats, and warm layers. This ensures your toddler stays comfortable regardless of the weather.
5. Sunscreen and bug-repellent
Protect your toddler from sunburn and insect bites by packing kid-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day and use insect repellent as needed, especially during dawn and dusk when bugs are most active.
6. Take a potty
A portable potty is invaluable when camping with toddlers. It offers convenience and maintains a level of normalcy for your child. Don’t forget nappies - chances are your toddler will wear nappies overnight.
Safety and comfort when camping with toddlers
7. Think safety
Always prioritise safety. If you are camping near water, choose a campsite far from the water's edge. Set boundaries around the campsite, keep a close eye on your child, and ensure they know basic safety rules.
Enjoy your campfire safely by making sure that children are kept at least 1 metre away from campfires so they don’t trip and fall into the fire.
When adventuring with kids of any age it is best practise to keep your phones charged when camping in case of emergency.
8. First aid kit
Toddlers are prone to bumps and scrapes, always pack a first aid kit. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, insect sting relief, tweezers, and any necessary medications like anti-inflammatories.
9. Bring a hiking backpack
If you plan to hike, bring a child carrier backpack. This allows your toddler to rest while you explore. The pram probably would not get too far on uneven tracks, though it can be worth bringing it along to leave at your campsite.
10. Bring a toddler camp chair or mat
When it is meal time or time to sit around the fire at the end of the day, your child will need somewhere to sit themselves. The novelty of a child-sized camp chair may even keep them contained for longer than a minute.
11. Dress toddlers in layers
Dress your toddler in layers to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day. Lightweight, breathable fabrics work well in the heat. Gum boots and crocs are our favoured footwear to bring along.
12. Create a cosy sleep environment
Get a good night of sleep when camping, use a good-quality sleeping bag or portable cot, and bring their favourite bedtime items. A well-rested toddler is a happy camper
Entertaining toddlers while camping
13. Glow Sticks
Glow sticks are a fun and practical item to bring along. They provide a soft light source that can be comforting for toddlers at night and can also be used as safety markers around the campsite. Join a few together and adorn your toddler to help you keep track of them when the sun goes down.
14. Take toys
Bring along a selection of your toddler’s favourite toys and books. These familiar items can provide comfort and entertainment, helping to keep your child engaged and happy.
15. Gadgets
You may have every single thing on this list covered but camping with a toddler is not an easy feat. Bring the iPad - you are going to need it at some point. You can charge it and any other electronics by adding a dedicated second battery to your vehicle. This will give you more power to use the devices you need without the risk of running your main battery down to zero.
Powering your camping trip for ease
Choosing a REDARC dual battery means you’re able to power your fridge, phone, ipad or camera for longer, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worry.
It’s the little luxuries that can make all the difference for a successful camping trip with kids.
Good luck and don’t forget to tag us in your snaps @REDARC_ELECTRONICS
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my toddler entertained while camping?
Bring a variety of toys, books, and outdoor games. Balls are a good option. Involve them in simple camping tasks to keep them engaged, like food prep and washing up. It’s going to be tiring but you are making memories, enjoy it.
Where does a toddler sleep when camping?
A portacot is perfect if it will fit in your tent. Otherwise simply take the mattress out of your cot or toddler bed at home and bring that.
What age can kids sleep in their own tent?
Over 12 is commonly said to be an appropriate age to let children sleep in their own tent providing it is close to your tent. Never let toddlers or young children sleep in a tent alone, they could leave the tent in the night and get lost. Although your kids may be confident in their ability to sleep in a separate tent, there is the risk of strangers to consider.
