6 Family Camping Tips

June 11, 2009 by Monica
Filed under Fun & Learning

Getting away from the city life is one of the reasons families choose to go camping. Early and late summer are usually the best seasons for planning a family camping, because you don’t need to carry lots of warm cloths. Here are some tips that will ensure your vacation is both a safe and fun experience for your family..

1. Get your gear. If you have small children, you may want to select a tent that will accommodate all if you. Older children would appreciate the independence of having additional pup tents.

Tip: practice assembling the tents in your backyard so as to avoid wasting time at the camp site.

2. Selecting a campsite. Research the many campsites online that offer comprehensive information on the area. This will enable you to decide not only what equipment, clothing, and food you need to take, but the available hiking areas and points of interest as well.

Ensure that the campsite you select is an official campsite area. Moreover, when researching camping sites it’s a good idea to look for those areas that are on the high ground so you your tent and equipment will not become water logged if it rains.

Don’t hesitate to make a phone call to make your reservation and get your questions answered.

3. Make a checklist and encourage your kids to make their own. Among the items on your checklist, some of the more important items you will need are:

* Cooking gear such as a frying pan, a few pots, a bucket, barbecue grill or stove, bags with a Ziploc, and cooking utensils. I’m not a canned food lover, but they could be a good idea for camping. Better yet, prepare your meals at home and package them in containers for the trip. Also bring water, a can opener, hot water kettle and a cooler with a block of ice.

* Clothing. Depending upon the location, wearing light layers is a good idea as well as packing some jackets for the evening hours. Plan for every day and keep unnecessary luggage to the minimum. As for shoes, I’d bring a pair of sandals and hiking boots, if there’s some hiking involved.

* Sleeping bags, first aid kit, flashlights, cell phone, garbage bags, toiletries, sunscreen, ointments, a map of the area, insect repellent, and rainwear.

* Camera. Don’t forget your camera!

* If there’s something to forget it is the portable TV and video game gadgets. Enjoy the sound of the nature and invent games for the evening. There’s no point in packing the business of the city to the campsite.

For a complete checklist on what to bring on a camping trip, there are many camping websites that offer a myriad of suggestions. Also, you can probably get a good deal on specialized books for camping with children.

4. When you reach the camp site, choose an area to set up the tents. Ensure there are no rocks or debris where the tent will be set up. Most campgrounds will post warning signs or instructions regarding specific animals and vegetation.

5. When preparing a campfire, if appropriate, ensure that it’s set up further away from the tents. Douse the fire before going to bed.

6. Don’t take anything with you and don’t leave anything on the campsite. Take care of your garbage and bring it back home if you suspect it’s going to cause a problem to the camping site. Remember to always ask about unclear policies about garbage disposal.

Finally, enjoy the entire camping experience and let your kids enjoy the nature.

photo credit: matt.simpson3