Beginner Camping Tips and Tricks for Families. Are you new to camping? Planning a family camping trip can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never done it before, or if you’re bringing the little ones along. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We have some beginner tips to make your experience a breeze.
A few things to consider first:
Backyard Camping – Why not start with a trial run right in your own backyard? It’s a great way to test your gear and let the kids get a taste of real camping before the big adventure. Trust us, it’s a win-win!
Borrow from Friends – Don’t rush to buy everything. Reach out to friends or family who may have camping gear you can borrow. This way, you can figure out what works best for your family without breaking the bank. Our family camping essentials list can give you an idea of what you might need.
Meal Prep – Before we head out, I do some meal prep. I cook up all the yummy meat in advance, chop those veggies and fruits like a ninja, and plan quick, easy meals that my kiddos already love. That way, we spend less time cooking and more time having fun with the fam in the great outdoors.
Toys: We also have a small backpack of camping only toys. Inside, you’ll find a cute play camping tent, magnifying glasses for observing nature’s wonders, toy binoculars to spot wildlife, pretend camping food for imaginative play, and adorable bug catchers.
Now, let’s move on to our family’s camping checklist. Feel free to customize it according to your family’s needs!
The Essentials:
Tent
Sleeping bags (or sheets & blankets)
Sleeping pads or air mattresses
Portable crib for younger kids
Pillows & children’s favorite sleep items
Clothing & Useful Equipment:
Clothing (plus extras for kids!)
Pajamas
Jackets
Diapers (if needed)
Camp chairs
Beach blanket
Baby wipes (versatile for various uses)
Basic first aid kit
Sunscreen
Hats
Toiletries (for each family member)
Toilet paper
Camp towels (one per person)
Flashlights/headlamps (one per person)
Fire starting tinder, kindling & firewood for the fire pit
Matches or lighter
Insect repellent
Beginner Camping Tips and Tricks for Families
Camp Kitchen:
Camp stove & propane/butane
Lighter
Plates, cups & utensils (plastic utensils simplify things)
Cooking utensils, pots & pans
Cooler with ice
Reusable water bottles for everyone
Portable high chair or booster seat for younger kids
Food items for meals, and plenty of snacks
S’mores supplies + roasting sticks
Water & other preferred beverages
Formula or baby food for infants (if applicable)
Paper towels
Trash bags
Fun & Games:
Bubbles
Glow sticks
Favorite games, coloring books & crayons
Other items we love:
Hammocks
Portable Ninja course
Books to read
Swiss Army Knives
Fishing Gear
Swim vests (if needed)
Kayaks and paddles
Remember, this is just a starting point. Feel free to add or subtract items based on your preferences and specific needs. And browse these blog posts for more tip about camping and ideas of where to camp!
