my top tips for camping with kids

01.

start simple

Do a test-run! We didn’t do this with our first toddler camping foray, choosing to just hot-foot it on a road trip to France, but for our youngest's first trip we did a test run in my sister-in-laws lovely Cumbrian back-garden (our postage stamp Manchester ‘yarden’ didn’t really offer the space!) This was great as we had the shower and toilet facilities, plus lovely food, but it was a great way to introduce the idea of sleeping in a tent to our littlest. 

02.



don't put all your eggs in one basket!

If travelling with other people make sure you have what you need in your vehicle. As described above sometimes not everyone makes it!

03.

Arrive in good time to set up before you lose the light and the kids get tired.

This is a really important one in my books. Packing to go anywhere with kids can be stressful but the added layer of organisation required for packing for camping can be intense. So it's really important to be organised, get on the road and arrive in good time as there's still a lot to do when you arrive!

04.



tent - a case where bigger is better

Better to opt for something a bit bigger than you need. This will give you storage space/a place to hang out if the weather’s bad/a separate space to put the kids to sleep - something that always makes bedtime a bit easier! We don’t have blackout lining, it’s something on our list. But bedtime is bound to be later with so much fun going on! Oh and don’t forget a mallet! On a recent trip a very kind Swedish guy came over to offer his after seeing me and my mate struggling without one!

05.

Pick family friendly campsites

This makes such a difference in my book. I don't mean play areas, just like-minded people who don't judge when the baby's up early or a pre-schooler tries to advise them on how to light their fire, (as on our last trip!). Having families around also makes it easy for kids to make friends and play. Which leads me to the next point...

06.



Go with mates

If you have friends with kids the same age it can make the whole experience all the more fun for them and you if they have other kids to play with. More adults also makes life easier in terms of cooking, washing-up etc.



07.

keep food simple

Lots of sites have cafes if you can’t be bothered cooking, or find a site with a nearby pub. It’s always good to have an alternative option for if it's raining or you can't be bother cooking. Take loads of snacks - healthy and treats. Plan any meals you want to cook.

08.

make it magical

Camping in itself brings a magical sort of vibe, but there are a few things that can make it even more special for kids. Think glow sticks, face painting, camp-fire stories and star-gazing. Check out my '8 fun photography challenges with kids' - all of which can be easily done while camping as well as the FREE PDF photo scavenger hunt!