How to Pack for Camping With Kids

That old phrase "less is more" doesn't apply when you're packing for camping with kids. When you're out in the wilderness, it might seem like a pain to lug more stuff, but once you have kids you might as well say goodbye to those times you only packed a toothbrush and some underwear. You want to be prepared. Here are some tips to make packing for your trip take less time than the entire trip itself. But remember that packing is part of the experience.

Instructions

1. Figure out how long you're going to be camping, and find out what the weather will be like in the camping area. Even if it's in the middle of a brutally hot summer, you want to pack warm clothes in case the temperature drops at night. The last thing you want is a freezing kid who has nothing extra to put on. If you think you're packing too much, you're doing it right. Pack a few extra sets of clothes for each child, for emergencies. Camping is dirty, and you'll be shocked at how fast your kids completely stain their clothing.

2. Pack toiletries, hairbrushes, hairbands, sunscreen, bug spray, canteen, lanterns, flashlights, matches, sleeping bags, camping equipment and towels.

3. Roughly plan your meals for your trip. You want to pack easy-to-make foods, or have some dishes made in advance that you can heat up over the fire (like a pot of spaghetti or macaroni). Easy-to-make foods are hot dogs, eggs and bacon, canned foods, peanut butter sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, juice boxes, nuts, raisins and rice cakes.

4. Pack your entire kitchen; at least that's what it will feel like. Pack pots, pans, cooking utensils, forks, spoons, knives, rags, baby wipes, trash bags, tin foil, can opener and paper towels.

5. Pack cushions, extra blankets and pillows. You won't regret it. Let each child bring one stuffed animal or special toy along with them for the trip. Each child can have their own backpack with activities for the car, beach toys and snacks.

Resources

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