Camping With Kids: Tips, Checklist, And How To Make It Fun!

Camping with little ones can be an adventure, but it requires extra planning. This guide will help you navigate your first camping trip with kids, from choosing the right gear to keeping everyone entertained.

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Why Choose Camping?

Affordable way to travel: Camping allows families to explore new places without breaking the bank.
Bonding experience: Gather around the campfire, roast marshmallows, and create lasting memories together.
Connects kids with nature: Trade screentime for fresh air and exploration.

Getting Started

Borrow or buy secondhand gear: Look at Facebook Marketplace, dollar stores, or rental services to save money.
Choose your comfort level:
- Glamping: Enjoy all the amenities.
- Tent camping: A classic adventure for families.
- RV or camper: Spacious and comfortable option.
- Yurts or cabins: Combine comfort with the outdoors.
- State/National parks: Immerse yourselves in nature (with varying amenities).
- Backcountry camping: Experienced campers only.

Preparing for the Trip

Do a trial run at home: Pitch your tent in the backyard to see how your kids adjust.
Camp with friends: Share the load and create a more fun atmosphere for the kids.
Plan activities for the kids: Pack games, toys, and books to keep them occupied.

Food Prep is Key!

Plan meals ahead of time: Pre-cook some food to save time and hassle.
Keep meals simple: Focus on easy-to-prepare options like hot dogs or walking tacos.
Pack grab-and-go snacks: Cut up fruits and veggies beforehand for easy access.

Staying Organized

Make a checklist: Divide it into categories like “kitchen” and “sleeping” for easy packing.
Prepare a staging area: Store all your camping gear in one place, ready for your next trip.
Pack clothes for everyone: Don’t forget swimsuits and comfortable shoes!

Sample Camping Checklist

Kitchen

camp stove
campfire grate
frying pan
portable coffee maker (we used a percolator and put it right over the campfire)
storage bin for food
plates
bowls
cups & mugs
silverware
paper towel
sharp knife
cutting board
cooking utensils (spatula, tongs, mixing spoon)
water jug with dispenser
pudgie pie makers
insulated stainless steel water bottles
small bins for washing dishes
a dishwashing sponge with soap in the handle
dishcloths
washcloths
aluminum foil
Tupperware for leftovers
fire pit roasting sticks (marshmallows!)
garbage bags
large clothespins for clamping garbage bag to the table
cooler
frozen water jug to use as an ice pack, then drinking water when it melts

Sleeping

tent ( 4/8 person Basics Dome Camping Tent With Rainfly and Carry Bag)
sleeping mats
sleeping bags
extra comforters
pillows
tarp to keep the bottom of your tent clean and dry
lovies, stuffed animals, or favorite blankets for little kids
portable nightlight
portable noise machine (especially if you have staggered bedtimes)

Around the Campsite

mat for shoes in front of tent
camp chairs
kids camp chairs
lanterns
flashlights
headlamps
clothesline
clothespins
insect repellant & citronella candle
extension cord
stacking drawer organizer

Clothing

When packing clothes, I packed one outfit per day for my kids plus one extra t-shirt and pair of shorts since kids tend to get dirty, spill, and have accidents.

For the adults, we just kind of mixed and matched athleisure type clothes.

Make sure whatever you pack you’re ok with getting dirty. Everything will smell like campfire smoke by the end of your trip, too!

t-shirts
long sleeve shirts
sweatshirts
raincoat
athletic shorts
pants
socks
warm camp socks
flip flops (for the showers/beaches)
tennis shoes or hiking boots for walks/hikes
underwear/bras
water shoes
Tevas / waterproof walking sandals
swimsuits
hats
sunglasses
hats & gloves if you’re camping in cold weather
jacket if you’re camping in cold weather

Health and Hygiene

bandages
Benadryl
pain reliever
infant/child pain reliever
thermometer
prescription medication
alcohol wipes
travel size body wash
travel size shampoo
travel size conditioner
toothbrush
toothpaste
deodorant
face wash
moisturizer
washcloth
makeup remover
makeup (I didn’t end up using much if any, but it’s nice to have some concealer or tinted moisturizer if you want to freshen up for any reason)
brush & comb
ponytail holders
sunscreen
glasses & contacts
bug spray
aloe
hand sanitizer
travel toilet paper (just in case!)
lip balm with SPF
bath and beach towels

Fun Extras

glow sticks
bug kit
cards
games
construction vehicle toys
shovels and buckets for the mud
bubbles and bubble machine
books

Embrace the Unexpected

Camping with kids won’t always be smooth sailing. Be prepared for meltdowns and forgotten items. But with a little planning and a positive attitude, you can create a memorable and enjoyable family adventure.