Practical tips for a successful family camping trip

If it’s your first family camping trip this Summer, it can be a tad daunting. It’s possible you may forget a few essentials, so we have our top tips to help your trip be more prepared and enjoyable…

Plan & Pack Smart

Checklist: Create a checklist for essentials (tent, sleeping bags, pillows, first-aid kit, food, weather-appropriate clothing).

Test gear at home: Set up the tent in your back garden before the trip to make sure everything works.

Pack in plastic storage boxes: Use clear plastic boxes to organise your gear—kitchen supplies, food, clothing, etc.

Choose a Family-Friendly Campsite

Look for campsites with the following attributes…

-Clean toilet facilities and potable water

-Nearby activities (playgrounds etc)

-Flat ground

-Reserve ahead if going during peak season.

Keep Meals Simple but Fun

Prep at home: Chop veggies, marinate food, or make meals in advance.

Bring snacks: Kids burn energy fast, so keep snacks like granola bars, fruit etc.

Try campfire cooking: Let the kids help with s’mores or hot dogs on sticks.

Pack for Comfort & Entertainment

Bring cosy extras: camping chairs, inflatable beds, or favourite blankets. It can get chilly of an evening, so remember to take a beanie hat and extra socks!

Don’t forget entertainment: books, cards, board games, or our Animal Detective Sheet here.

Headlamps or glow sticks are fun and useful for kids at night.

Practice Leave No Trace

Teach kids to respect nature: clean up rubbish, don’t feed wildlife, and stay on trails.

Bring reusable dishes and bin bags.

Leave your site cleaner than you found it.

Have an amazing Camping trip with these helpful tips!