What The Best Camping With Toddlers Checklist?
- Layers of clothing for changing weather
- Extra clothes for accidents or messes
- Comfortable shoes for walking and playing
- Favorite snacks and treats (like marshmallows for roasting)
- Toys, books, or games for downtime
- First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, etc.)
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Flashlights or glow sticks for fun at night
- Cozy blankets and pillows for sleeping
With these items, you’ll be well-prepared for a fun and stress-free weekend camping trip with your toddler!
Why Trust Us?
As a mompreneur with 28 years of experience running baby retail and rental businesses, I’ve helped countless parents find the best products for their little ones.
I’ve camped with my own kids and know what works (and what doesn’t) when you’re out in nature with toddlers.
I’ve also written reviews on different strollers, so I understand the gear you need for a smooth camping trip.
My goal is to share practical, real-life tips to make your camping adventure fun and stress-free.
Key Takeaways
- Plan Ahead: Choose a family-friendly campground with various activities and make sure to pack extra essentials.
- Pack Smart: Bring plenty of diapers, wipes, and a variety of clothing layers. Include snacks, toys, and comfortable sleeping gear for toddlers.
- Safety First: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit, use white noise for better sleep, and ensure you have a flashlight and other safety gear.
- Comfort and Fun: Use a big tent for extra space, embrace baby carriers for easy mobility, and plan engaging activities for your kids.
- Stay Organized: Clean up your campsite before setting up and use portable potty options for potty training toddlers.
- Enjoy the Outdoors: Embrace the natural environment, explore different areas, and make the most of your time in the great outdoors with your family.
Introduction
Camping with toddlers might seem like a challenge, but it can be a lot of fun with the right approach.
Whether you’re new to camping or a seasoned pro, bringing little ones along requires some extra planning.
This blog will give you practical tips and ideas to make your camping trip enjoyable and stress-free.
Read my insightful blogs about finding the right Outdoor or Travel Stroller as well as stroller alternative, like hiking carriers etc. They might be of great help.
1. Keep it Short
When you’re camping with kids, keeping things short and simple can make everything easier.
Plan shorter hikes or activities that won’t tire them out too quickly.
Meals and snacks should be easy to prepare and eat, so everyone stays happy and full. For bedtime, keep routines quick and comforting, so they settle down smoothly.
By keeping activities and routines brief, you’ll help avoid meltdowns and make sure everyone enjoys their time outdoors.
To find out what stroller would be best for the outdoors, take a look at my blog on Best All Terrain Strollers for Outdoors.
2. Bring Along Some Favorites
Bringing along some of your child’s favorite things can make camping more enjoyable for everyone.
Pack their go-to snacks, like cookies or fruit, to keep them happy and satisfied.
Don’t forget their beloved toys, books, or a special blanket to make the campsite feel more like home.
Having familiar items helps them feel secure and comfortable, especially when they’re in a new environment.
These small comforts can make a big difference and help create positive camping memories.
3. Choose a Campground with a Variety of Activities
Choosing a campground that offers different activities can make your trip more exciting and fun for kids.
Look for places with easy trails, playgrounds, or areas for fishing and swimming.
Some campgrounds have organized events or programs for kids, like nature walks or craft sessions.
Having a mix of activities keeps everyone entertained and helps prevent boredom.
Plus, it gives kids the chance to try new things and have new experiences, making your camping adventure even more memorable.
4. Figure Out the Sleeping Arrangements
Before you head out camping, it’s important to plan how everyone will sleep comfortably.
Choose a sleeping setup that works best for your family, whether it’s a tent with a small air mattress or a cozy sleeping bag.
Make sure to bring extra blankets or pillows to keep everyone warm and comfortable.
If your toddler sleeps with a special toy or blanket, don’t forget to pack those too.
By figuring out sleeping arrangements ahead of time, you can help ensure a good night’s rest for everyone, making your camping trip more enjoyable.
Read our most popular Affirmation Blog: 142 Powerful Words: Affirmations For Mothers.
5. Snack Attack
Snacks are a big part of any camping trip, especially with kids.
Pack a variety of easy-to-eat treats like granola bars, fruit, and cheese sticks that are perfect for quick energy boosts.
Bringing along some trail mix or pretzels can help keep little ones satisfied between meals.
If you have a campfire, don’t forget to include ingredients for s’mores—kids love roasting marshmallows and making these sweet treats.
Keeping a good supply of snacks handy helps keep everyone happy and can make your camping experience more fun and relaxed.
6. Get a Big Tent
A big tent can make a huge difference when camping with kids. It gives everyone extra space to move around, play, and store gear.
With a larger tent, you can set up a cozy corner for the kids to sleep and have enough room for your family to hang out comfortably.
It also helps if the weather gets rainy or windy, giving everyone a place to stay dry and warm.
Having more space means less clutter and a more enjoyable camping experience for everyone.
7. Clean Up the Campsite First
Before you set up your camping spot, make sure to clean up the area.
Pick up any sticks, rocks, or trash that might be lying around. Clear the ground of any debris to make it safer and more comfortable for your family.
A tidy campsite not only makes setting up easier but also helps keep bugs and animals away.
8. Bring Plenty of Diapers and Wipes
When camping with toddlers, it’s important to pack more diapers and wipes than you think you’ll need.
Toddlers can go through a lot of diapers, especially with all the extra activity and changes in routine.
The quality of your diapers will be a determining factor in how any diapers you need to bring with.
Better and usually more expensive diapers will be more absorbent and will decrease the amount of diapers you need to bring with.
Wipes are handy not just for diaper changes but also for cleaning up spills, sticky hands, or messy faces.
9. Embrace Baby Carriers
Using a baby carrier can be a real lifesaver while camping with toddlers.
It allows you to keep your hands free for other tasks while keeping your little one close and secure.
Carriers are great for hikes or walks where a stroller might be too bulky.
They also help your child feel safe and comfortable, especially when they’re tired or need a nap.
Plus, carrying them in a carrier can make it easier to navigate rough terrain and keep up with the rest of the family’s activities.
10. Use White Noise to Sleep
White noise can be a helpful tool for getting a good night’s sleep while camping.
The gentle, steady sound helps drown out background noises like chirping insects or rustling leaves that might disturb your child’s sleep.
You can use a small white noise machine or even a white noise app on your phone.
Just make sure it’s set to a volume that’s comfortable and not too loud.
By creating a consistent and calming sound, you can help your little one settle down and sleep better, even in a new and noisy environment.
Tips For Camping with Young Kids
Camping with young kids can be a great adventure if you’re prepared. Start by picking a campsite that’s close to home or not too far from basic amenities.
Pack plenty of snacks and easy-to-eat meals to keep everyone happy.
Bring along their favorite toys, books, or comfort items to help them settle in.
Keep the day filled with simple activities like exploring, playing games, or roasting marshmallows by the fire.
And remember, patience is key—kids love to explore, and letting them do so makes the experience more fun for everyone!
How to ENJOY Tent Camping with Toddlers
Tent camping with toddlers can be a blast if you go with the flow.
Let them help with simple tasks like setting up their sleeping area or collecting sticks for the fire—it keeps them busy and makes them feel involved.
Bring cozy blankets and pillows to make the tent extra comfy, and create a fun bedtime routine, like telling stories or watching the stars.
Don’t stress too much about keeping things perfect.
The goal is to enjoy being outside together, so laugh off the little messes and focus on the fun moments!
What to Pack For Tent Camping with Kids
Here’s a simple list of what to pack for tent camping with kids:
- Sleeping Gear: Family-sized tent, toddler sleeping bag or travel bed, 2-3 extra blankets, 1-2 pillows, and a portable nightlight.
- Clothing: 3-4 weather-appropriate layers, 1 waterproof jacket, 1 pair of waterproof boots, 4-5 pairs of socks and shoes, 1 sun hat, 1 warm hat, 2-3 pairs of pajamas, and 4-5 changes of comfy clothes.
- Diapers and Potty Training: At least 6-8 diapers per day, one pack of wipes, diaper rash cream, a portable potty or training seat, and 1 wet bag for dirty clothes.
- Eating Essentials: 2-3 spill-proof cups, 2-3 plates, 2-3 sets of utensils, 1 portable high chair or booster seat, a selection of 6-8 easy-to-eat snacks (e.g., fruit, crackers), and a cooler with enough drinks and prepped meals for the trip.
- First Aid & Safety: 1 first aid kit, personal medications, 1 flashlight or headlamp, 1 bottle of sunscreen, and 1 bottle of bug spray.
- Fun Items: 2-3 favorite toys, 2-3 books, 1-2 stuffed animals, 1-2 outdoor games (e.g., frisbee or ball), and 1-2 containers of bubbles or packs of sidewalk chalk.
- Convenience & Comfort: 1 baby carrier or stroller, 1 white noise machine or app, 1 portable phone charger, and 2 folding chairs or a camping mat.
- Other Essentials: 4-5 trash bags, 1-2 packs of wet wipes, 1 bottle of hand sanitizer, and 1 towel and washcloth per person.
Sleep Arrangements for Tent Camping with Toddlers
Getting a good night’s sleep while camping with toddlers can be easier than you think.
Make their sleeping area cozy by using a sleeping bag or air mattress that’s just their size.
Adding a soft blanket or their favorite stuffed animal can make the space feel more familiar and comforting.
If it’s a little chilly, layering up with extra blankets or a warm sleeping bag helps keep them snug.
To help them settle down, stick to a bedtime routine, like reading a short story or singing a lullaby.
Keeping their sleep area comfortable and familiar makes it easier for everyone to rest well.
Meal Ideas for Camping with Kids
Camping meals can be simple and fun when you get creative.
Start with easy-to-make breakfasts like oatmeal with fruit or scrambled eggs.
For lunch, try packing sandwiches, wraps, or snack packs with cheese and crackers.
Dinner can be a hit with easy-to-cook options like foil packet meals, where you wrap veggies and meat in aluminum foil and cook them over the campfire.
Don’t forget to bring some easy-to-grab snacks, like granola bars or apple slices, for quick energy boosts during the day.
And of course, making s’mores is always a fun way to end the day!
Ideas for Play For Tent Camping with Kids
Keeping kids entertained while camping can be a lot of fun with a few creative ideas.
Bring along some outdoor games like a frisbee or a ball for playing catch.
Nature scavenger hunts are a great way to explore and find interesting things like leaves, rocks, or bugs.
You can also set up a mini camping craft station with supplies to make nature-inspired art.
Storytelling around the campfire can spark their imagination, and they might even enjoy a starlit dance party or a sing-along.
The key is to mix things up and let them enjoy the outdoors in their own way!
First Aid for Tent Camping with Toddlers
When camping with toddlers, having a well-stocked first aid kit is crucial. Include basic supplies like band-aids for small cuts, antiseptic wipes for cleaning wounds, and ointment for insect bites.
A thermometer is handy for checking if they have a fever, and some children’s medicine can help with common aches or allergies.
Don’t forget to pack any specific medications they might need.
Knowing how to handle minor injuries and being prepared for them can make your camping trip go more smoothly and help you feel more confident about enjoying your adventure together.
Enjoy a Greater Slice of the Great Outdoors
Camping with kids is a perfect chance to really enjoy the outdoors.
Make the most of it by exploring different parts of your campsite and nearby nature trails.
Take time to watch wildlife, listen to the sounds of the forest, and enjoy the fresh air.
Plan small adventures like building a fort with fallen branches or having a picnic by a stream.
These simple activities let everyone connect with nature and make lasting memories.
Embracing the outdoors fully can make your camping trip more exciting and memorable for the whole family.
Essential Sleeping Gear for Toddlers
When camping with toddlers, having the right sleeping gear is important for a good night’s rest.
Start with a toddler-sized sleeping bag or a small air mattress that’s easy to pack and set up.
Bring along a cozy blanket or their favorite stuffed animal to help them feel more at home.
If it’s cold, consider packing a warm sleeping bag or extra layers to keep them comfortable.
Also, a small nightlight or a soft, calming toy can make bedtime easier by providing a bit of comfort and familiarity in the new environment.
Camping Clothing for Toddlers
When camping with toddlers, dressing them in the right clothing can make all the difference.
Choose layers that can be easily added or removed depending on the weather.
Pack a mix of lightweight and warm clothes, like long-sleeve shirts, jackets, and hats, to keep them comfortable in changing temperatures.
Waterproof jackets and boots are great for staying dry if it rains or if they play in puddles.
Don’t forget to include extra socks and pants, just in case they get muddy or wet.
With the right clothing, your toddler will stay cozy and happy while exploring the great outdoors.
Essential Eating Gear with Toddlers
When camping with toddlers, having the right eating gear makes mealtime easier.
Pack lightweight, spill-proof cups and bowls that are easy for little hands to manage.
Bring along durable utensils like plastic spoons and forks that won’t break easily.
A small, easy-to-clean portable high chair or booster seat can make eating more comfortable for your child.
Don’t forget to pack some snack containers and bibs to keep things neat.
Having the right gear ensures that mealtimes are smoother and more enjoyable for everyone on your camping trip.
Diapers and Potty Training while Camping with Toddlers
Camping with toddlers who are in diapers or potty training can be manageable with a bit of planning.
Bring enough diapers and wipes to last the trip, and pack them in an easy-to-reach spot.
For potty training, a portable potty or training seat can be handy for campsite use.
Make sure to bring extra clothing and a small bag for dirty diapers or clothes.
Encourage regular bathroom breaks and be patient as your child adjusts to the camping routine.
By staying prepared, you can handle diapering and potty training smoothly while enjoying your outdoor adventure.
Camping Gear for Fun
Having the right camping gear can make your trip more enjoyable and fun for everyone.
Bring along items like a family-sized tent with extra space for playing and lounging.
Pack a few outdoor games like a frisbee or a kite to keep everyone entertained.
Consider adding a portable campfire or a small grill for cooking up tasty meals and making s’mores.
A comfy camping chair or a hammock can provide a cozy spot for relaxing.
By packing gear that adds to the fun, you can create a more memorable and exciting camping experience for the whole family.
Camping Essentials for Safety and Convenience
When camping, safety and convenience are key to a smooth trip.
A flashlight or headlamp is important for navigating in the dark and keeping everyone safe.
Pack a multi-tool or small camping knife for tasks like food prep or setting up gear.
Don’t forget a fire extinguisher or water for putting out fires safely.
A portable phone charger or extra batteries can keep your devices powered up.
With these essentials, you’ll be prepared for any situation and can focus on enjoying your time outdoors.
Conclusion
Camping with toddlers can be a fantastic adventure if you plan ahead and stay flexible.
By packing the right gear, choosing a fun campground, and keeping things simple, you can create a great experience for your little ones.
With a bit of preparation and a positive attitude, your family camping trip can be filled with joy, discovery, and lasting memories.
Enjoy the great outdoors and the special moments with your kids!
References
Reddit: Any tips for camping with a toddler?
Pinterest: 130 Best camping with toddlers ideas
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FAQ’s
What is the best age to start camping with a child?
Many experts suggest starting camping with a child around 3-4 years old. At this age, they can enjoy and handle the experience better while still being manageable.
What should a 2 year old sleep in when camping?
A 2-year-old can sleep in a small, portable toddler sleeping bag or a travel crib.
How do you entertain a toddler while camping?
You can entertain a toddler while camping with simple activities like nature scavenger hunts, playing with sand or dirt, storytelling, and bringing along a few favorite toys or books.
What is the youngest age for overnight camp?
The youngest age for overnight camp is typically around 6-8 years old, depending on the camp’s guidelines.
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