Planning a Family Camping Trip in 6 Steps

Family camping trips can be fantastic experiences for both adults and children, but without proper research and planning they can quickly become stressful. Children (and many adults) of today are used to using technology in every aspect of their lives, but taking a break from the internet, social media, emails, and technology is beneficial for both our mental and physical health. Camping out in nature and focusing on reconnecting as a family is a precious opportunity, but you need to ensure that you can cope with the challenges that camping with children can present. Another option that you can enjoy with your family is St Martin Boat Rentals where you can have an amazing time with your family and friends. This article guides you through six important steps to follow when planning your family camping trip.

1. Pick a camping destination

The first task is to choose where you will be camping. You should consider not only where you want to go, but which campsite has the best amenities in terms of restrooms, showers, or an on-site shop. If this is your very first trip into the wilderness, it is a good idea to ease yourself in with as many conveniences as possible rather than heading straight out into the wild.

2. Buy and test your equipment

You will need a waterproof, secure tent, sleeping bags, head lamp, cooking equipment, camping chairs, washing kit, and plenty more camping gear. If you do not have anything, you might have to spend a lot of money but you can reduce the cost significantly by using a Cabelas promo code. When you have your gear, it is a good idea to test the tent out in the garden or a nearby park, so you know how to put it up before you go on the real trip.

3. Start packing as soon as possible

Packing for a camping trip can be complicated and stressful, so start as soon as you can. You need to ensure that everyone in the family has enough clothes for every day of the trip; plan for different weather conditions and include spares in case your clothes get too muddy or wet to be worn again. Waterproof clothing will be essential, as well as plenty of layers. The kids may want to bring toys from home, but bear in mind that you do not want them to bring toys with lots of parts and pieces that can be easily lost.

4. Plan your route

If your journey is going to take a long time, it is best to plan in some breaks and stop-offs to give everyone a break and a chance to stretch their legs. There may be some attractions or places for picnics along the route, which can break up the travel time and give the kids a focus for the journey. Again, involving the kids in choosing what you do along the way will help them to feel more positive about it. Click here for things to watch out for.

5. Make a meal planner

You may not have access to a local store for groceries, so it is vital that you plan and buy your meals, snacks, and drinks before you leave home. You usually will not be able to refrigerate food, so dry snacks, fruit, and vegetables will be ideal. In terms of planning for main meals, ask the kids what they would like to eat and think about how you can adapt them for a camping stove. Any preparation you can do ahead of time will make your life much easier; for example, chopping vegetables, mixing batter for pancakes, making soup for reheating, and so on. Click here for 50 camping meal ideas for kids.

6. Research and plan your activities

Finally, it is a good idea to plan your activities before you leave home to ensure you can avoid bored and frustrated children pining for their smartphones or tablets. Do some research into activities or days out that are local to where you will be camping. Ask the kids what they would like to do or try when you are away, and be sure to bring a pack of playing cards, coloring books, reading books, puzzles, and some board games.