How to Introduce Children to Pop-up Camping

Pop-up camping is a fun way to introduce your children to the camping experience. These small travel trailers are easy to tow and park in campgrounds. Most models have seating that converts to beds, and some models even have mini-bathrooms.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Take your children camping in your own backyard to start. This can be as exciting as a road trip but without the "Are we there yet?" Or, plan an adventure in a nearby campground. If your children are old enough, they can help set up the pop-up camper.

2. Teach your children about safety as they prepare for pop-up camping. Let them help you prepare a first-aid kit for your camping trip.

3. Encourage the children pack their own camping supplies. Teach them how to roll their own bedrolls.

4. Plan meals for the camping trip with your children. Let them pick things they like, and you can pack some healthy snacks as well. If your camping is in your backyard and you can't light a campfire, fire up the grill.

5. Set up chairs around the campfire. Sing songs with your children. Chase fireflies. When it gets dark, point out constellations to them. Tell bedtime stories. If your children are old enough, entertain them with some scary stories.

6. Sleep under the stars or in the pop-up camper. If the children are old enough, let them sleep outside and you can enjoy the comforts of the camper.

7. Clean up after the camping adventure. Children need to learn that cleaning up is part of the camping experience.