6 Family Camping Trip Ideas To Try Out Next Time

Whether you are an armchair-loving, indoor kind of person or an outdoorsy adrenaline junkie, or you want to do so something other than a city break, or perhaps you enjoy camping trips with your family or friends. Something about hiking through nature and sleeping under the night sky makes camping universally appreciated and loved. However, camping also implies somewhat unpleasant situations. For example, you are the only one willing to do the ‘hard work’ (setting up the tent, making a bonfire, cleaning the camping lot), or you and your family are not sure what to do. These six tips for a successful family camping trip will help you circumvent any unsavoury situations you may encounter.

four tents on a field with mountains in the distance representing a family camping trip
Photo by Xue Guangjian from Pexels

1. Do not go on an extended camping trip if your kids are not ready for it

The fact that you are free to choose whether to explore the great outdoors or sit in a chair next to your RV and gaze at the surroundings for hours is why we think camping is one of the most versatile and stimulating activities. Perhaps you have been on countless camping trips in your lifetime. However, consider that your kids may find it stressful and scary to spend a few days in the ‘wilderness,’ especially if this is their first time.

One possible solution is to do a ‘camping drill.’ They can spend a day or two in a tent in your garden, allowing your little ones to feel the beauty of sleeping under the starry sky and having great fun. If you don’t have an outdoor space, you could set up a camp for an afternoon in the nearby green area where camping is allowed. This experience will help your kids ease into the process without leaving their comfort zone entirely.

So, our advice is to grab your tent and other camping gear, pack everything up in your car or RV and give your children a camping trip trial run!

2. Let the kids participate when you start setting up your camp

Make this family camping trip an opportunity to teach your kids the basics of camping from early on. Things such as setting up the tent, cleaning the terrain, peeling with a knife, and other essential skills may seem to you like an unavoidable task that has got to be done, but your kids will most surely enjoy doing something they have never done before. When surrounded by fantastic nature, they will feel compelled to help you create your humble abode while bringing barrels of fun into the entire process.

Creating the perfect campsite with your kids will make the process fun instead of tedious.

A family siting around a campfire by the lake
Photo by Brooks Rice on Unsplash

3. Careful planning is crucial for a successful family camping trip

If you want you and your family members to be happy campers on your family outing, you will have to devote a certain amount of time to careful planning. Decide what supplies you need and quantities, check if anything is broken or missing from your camping gear, etc.

Remember that planning does not concern only items and tools that are useful on a campsite. Yes, you must bring a knife and blankets, but paying attention to external circumstances such as weather and the camping site location is also essential.

Owning an RV will make planning much easier since you won’t have to worry about damp tents and cold nights because it will provide great shelter. However, it would help if you were confident that your vehicle is reliable. Therefore, your RV should stay in peak condition throughout the year. Riding and camping in an RV that has not been used in a while or left out in the parking lot for too long are perilous. Most avid campers store their RVs when they do not need them. You should also consider it because it will ensure your family’s safety and comfort.

Also, if you know that your son is terrified of insects to the point of anxiety, he probably won’t change his mind throughout a single night in the forest. For this reason, inform yourself about unpredictable factors to comfort your child. You can talk to fellow campers who have already visited this location.

a perfect view from an orange tent
Photo by Scott Goodwill on Unsplash

4. Familiarise yourself with the rules and regulations of the site

It is also an excellent opportunity to inquire about the incumbent rules and regulations in the national park, forest, campsite or mountain where you intend to go camping:

  • In some areas, pets may not be allowed, and not knowing this in due time could ruin your plans altogether.
  • Make sure to check if there is potable water at the campsite. If not, check if there is a nearby town or village where you can fill your water tank. 
  • Ensure you have all the necessary equipment, such as a fire extinguisher or first aid kit.

The great outdoors won’t be too enjoyable if you do not adequately prepare for the family camping trip.

5. Pack your entertainment as well as your camping equipment

As we have discussed, the planning phase is trickier than it may seem initially. There are many things to check, buy, pack, and think about, and it all may soon become too overwhelming to appreciate what camping is actually about – having fun! So, don’t let the preliminary stress of planning your trip wear you out. To ensure you have fun, bring stuff such as:

  • a small canoe if there is a lake in the vicinity, 
  • toys for the kids, 
  • water pistols in the summer
  • frisbee in the winter, 
  • a badminton set, 
  • a telescope to explore the constellations you probably do not have a chance to see if you live in a big city.

There are plenty of games and fun activities for the most successful family camping trip ever!

a campsite with a bright tent and starry sky
Photo by Ihor Malytskyi on Unsplash

6. Turn off your smartphones and laptops

It might be that you have already been aware of all the practicalities we have mentioned. You might have already known that you must plan your trip copiously beforehand. However, it is vital to perceive this trip as a chance to see and spend time in nature and bond with your partner and kids. For this to happen, you have to make it clear that technology has got to be put aside for the time being. Otherwise, your family might miss out on the glorious moments a camping trip can provide.

As you can see, a successful family camping trip is more than doable if you follow a few simple tips. With some planning, obtaining some necessary information and a speck of imagination, you can organize a memorable family trip that everyone will want to repeat.

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1 Comment

  1. Great post! Thankyou for sharing an amazing tips with us. It would really helpful those who are looking for it.

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