A family camping trip is one of those things that every family should experience at least once, so even if you are the kind of family that does not love the idea of sleeping outdoors in a tent with lots of creepy crawlies running around alongside you and the wind and rain battering at your canvas, it is worth making an effort to hit the road, get out in the wilderness and enjoy the great outdoors because, hey, if it isn’t for you, you can tick it off and never do it again, but if you do find that you love it, then you have a cheap way of getting away with the whole family time and time again!
With that being said, it’s worth noting that your family camping trip is likely to go a whole lot better if you have a few essentials in your backpack, including the following:
1. The Right Tent (With Room to Spare)
Rule number one of family camping: If a tent says that it comfortably sleeps four, you can bet your bottom dollar that it will be more suitable for two or three people, and you are better off upgrading to a tent that says it can sleep six because you are going to want to have plenty of room to move around. No one likes feeling cramped when they’re on holiday, even if it is just camping right? Always aim to invest in the biggest tent you can afford because it will just make the whole experience so much more manageable for you all.
Oh, and you should also try to look for a tent with good ventilation (no one likes waking up in a condensation swamp), a rainfly that actually covers the whole thing, and, if you can stretch the budget, a porch or vestibule for muddy boots and wet coats.
2. Sleeping Bags and Mats That Do Their Job
Don’t just grab whatever bargain sleeping bags are on sale. If the kids are cold, you won’t be sleeping. Choose sleeping bags rated for the temperatures you’ll actually face. Pair them with insulating mats or airbeds to keep everyone off the cold, lumpy ground. Camping comfort starts with a good night’s sleep.
Pro tip: bring extra blankets. They double up for warmth, picnic seating, or emergency superhero capes.
3. A Reliable Light Source
This is one thing that lots of people forget to pack in the rush to get into the car and off to the campsite, but it is really important that you pack at least one high-quality flashlight when you are camping. It will just make it easier for you to find your way from your tent to the toilets when it gets dark, and if one of the kids runs off into the woodlands or decides to hide your can opener just before dinner, it will make finding what you need simpler. Basically. A reliable light source will just make you all that bit safer, and increase convenience when you’re out in the sticks at night.
4. Cooking Kit for Hungry Campers
Forget the romantic idea of cooking over an open fire with nothing but a stick. That’s fun for one meal, but you’ll need a proper camping stove, fuel, and a few reliable pans. Don’t forget utensils, mugs, plates, and washing-up kit (yes, even on holiday, the dishes still haunt you). Meal planning is your friend here. Pack easy-to-make meals such as pasta, chilli, and one-pot stews, and don’t skimp on snacks. Hungry kids are cranky kids.
5. Food Storage and Cool Boxes
Speaking of food, don’t leave it to chance. A good cool box or camping fridge will keep things fresh and safe. Store dry goods in sealed containers to keep bugs and cheeky wildlife away. Nothing ruins a camping trip faster than discovering your breakfast has been stolen by a determined hedgehog.
6. Weather-Ready Clothing
This is the UK. You may start your trip with blazing sunshine and end it in a full-on downpour. Layers are the key to happiness. Pack waterproofs for everyone (yes, even if the forecast looks fine), warm jumpers, and plenty of socks. Extra socks are worth their weight in gold when little feet inevitably find puddles.
Don’t forget hats and gloves because it can get chilly at night, even in summer.
7. First Aid Kit (And Know How to Use It)
Camping with kids means cuts, scrapes, and the occasional bee sting. A well-stocked first aid kit is non-negotiable. Include plasters, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, antihistamines, and pain relief suitable for all ages. Sun cream and insect repellent deserve a spot too.
Bonus points if you brush up on basic first aid before you go because it could save you a panicked trip to the nearest village shop.
8. Entertainment Beyond Screens
Yes, nature is entertaining enough, but it doesn’t hurt to bring a few extras. A football, a pack of cards, board games that travel well, and books for winding down in the tent can be lifesavers. Nighttime activities like stargazing or telling ghost stories make the trip memorable.
And marshmallows. Always marshmallows.
9. Camp Furniture and Comforts
You’ll thank yourself for packing camping chairs. Sitting on the ground gets old fast, especially when it’s damp. A folding table makes meals easier too.
Throw in some creature comforts, things like pillows from home, a cosy blanket, even fairy lights for the tent, and suddenly you’re glamping without the hefty price tag.
10. The Practical Extras People Forget
Here’s the unglamorous but necessary list:
- Bin bags (leave no trace behind).
- Wet wipes (for sticky hands, muddy knees, and everything in between).
- Clothes pegs and a line (wet clothes need somewhere to hang).
- A mallet and spare tent pegs (trust me, you’ll lose some).
- A multi-tool or Swiss Army knife (because you will need it).
These little things turn a stressful trip into a smooth one.
Now that you have everything you need, you can have a great time out in the wild. Happy camping!
