Going on a camping trip this summer with kids? Here is a great guide to help you and the kids have a fun time camping. Whether this is your first camping trip or tenth camping trip these camping essentials will keep you stress free.
This was our first year camping in a tent with kids. Our previous adventures of “camping” included sleeping in a cabin with solid walls. The kids were really excited for the new experience of tent camping. I grew up tent camping and looked forward to sharing the experience with my kids.
Here is a list of basic camping essentials that will help to make your camping trip a memorable experience.
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Get Set for a Restful Night
Tent –Practice setting up your tent before you go. If you have a brand new tent, it is good to do a trial run and make sure you can successfully set it up. Also, if your tent is older, you will want to check it for holes or mold if it’s been stored for a while. Better to test out your tent now so you don’t have to sleep in the car the first night.
Mallet and shovel– You may need these tools to help you set up your tent. Some ground can be very hard and you won’t be able to just push a stake in the ground easily.
Sleeping bag– Wash and completely dry your sleeping bag before going. Check the temperature range for your sleeping bag and make sure it will keep you warm on your camping trip.
Air mattress or sleeping pad– Inflate your air mattress and leave it inflated for a day. You can check for leaks before your camping trip.
Flashlights, lanterns, glow sticks-Check all batteries in your flashlights and lanterns and bring along extra! Glow sticks are nice to use as nightlights in your tent. The kids also can have some fun playing with the glow sticks.
Bug repellent spray or candle – Don’t let pesky bugs ruin a night under the stars. Bring along bug repellent and candles to keep the bugs at bay while you enjoy the stars.
Duck Tape– You may need to make an emergency repair to your air mattress or tent. Bring along duck tape for quick repairs!
Meal Prep
Campfire supplies: Wood, charcoal, matches, lighter, newspaper or fire starter.
Be prepared to make some yummy meals during your camping trip. Check your campground to see if there is a fire ban. You can bring a bag of charcoal to use in a specified grill at your campsite if campfires are not allowed. Not all camp grounds let you pick up wood from the forest so bring along campfire wood of your own. Find a location where you can buy fire wood before arriving at your campsite. Many gas stations and campgrounds sell firewood bundles.
Kitchen gear– Decide what you will need to make your meals while camping. Camping stove, pots, kettle and foil wrap are a must. Silverware, cooking spoons, serving spoons and a knife are also useful.
Food, water and cooler– Make sure to bring non-perishable food and plenty of water. You will need water for drinking, cooking and washing.
Stay Clean and Comfy
Clothing – Check the weather before your camping trip. Bring a variety of clothes for cold or warm weather.
Toiletries – Soap, finger nail clippers, old wash cloths and towels, baby wipes and toilet paper will keep you comfortable.
First aid kit– Restock your first-aid kit! Band-Aids, burn cream, pain medicine, bug bite cream, and sunscreen are all essentials in your kit.
Folding chairs– If you want a comfy spot to sit, bring along some folding chairs.
Entertainment
While camping is all about enjoying nature it’s nice to bring along a few toys and games for some downtime activities.
Toys-Buckets, shovels, binoculars, magnifying glass, coloring books.
Games– Deck of cards, Spot-it and Uno are all fun choices for a wide age range.
With this list of basic camping essentials you can relax and enjoy the time with your family. I made a printable checklist to help you prepare for your camping trip. Each category has a list of basic essentials you will need to bring with you on your camping trip. You can grab your Camping Essentials Checklist by filling out the form below. Happy camping! 🙂
Get access to the checklist in the Freebie Library by filling in the form below!
