Have you tackled a family camping trip yet! We just pulled out our tent and took a six and three year old on the camping adventure of their dreams to a local Jellystone Resort. If you’re gearing up for a family camping trip with your little ones in tow, you’re probably researching ALL of the right things to bring on the trip – from safety, to fun, to the modern conveniences of home, so you are well-prepared and (maybe a little) over-prepared. Below we’ve rounded up an EXHAUSTIVE list of all the must-have items that will make your next outdoor adventure a breeze.
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PS! At the bottom, grab our camping checklist so you leave your home fully prepared!
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1. Kid-Friendly Tent
First things first, let’s talk shelter! A spacious and durable tent is essential when camping with kids. Look for one that’s easy to set up (because who wants to struggle with poles and instructions in the wilderness?), has rainflys & a screened in porch in case it rains (or there are too many bugs!) We saw many families with two tents – the parent tent and the kid tent, but we personally weren’t quite ready for that. We’re also a house divided on whether or not tents should have one sleeping area or two.
The Coleman Evanston Tent is the perfect starting. It features the must have rainflys & screened porch, fits up to 6 people (and two queen size blow up mattress!), & is super simple to set up.
If you want to go camping, but feel like your family won’t survive it in a tent, you can easily rent an RV through Outdoorsy – drive it, tow it, or have it delivered!
2. Sleeping Gear
Next up, sleeping arrangements! A comfortable sleeping pad or air mattress can turn a restless night into a restful one for both kids and adults. Opt for one that’s lightweight yet sturdy, and don’t forget cozy sleeping bags that are warm enough for chilly nights under the stars. You can make the first trip extra fun by letting your kid pick out their new sleeping bag! Coleman makes a fun glow in the dark one or opt for the traditional camp look!
Check out: Coleman Kids 50°F Sleeping Bag
Check out: KingCamp Kids Sleeping Bag Flannel
Sleeping Gear Roundup
3. Chairs for Everyone!
Everyone will want a chair when sitting by the fire at night or resting in between activities. If you’ve got a baby or toddler, mealtimes at the campsite can be a bit of a challenge without the right gear. If you aren’t game for holding babies while eating, a portable high chair that folds up compactly and is easy to clean can be a game-changer. It keeps your little one secure and at the right height for meals, whether you’re at the picnic table or gathered around the campfire. Another thing you might want to consider is a rocking camp chair if any kids need to be soothed to sleep!
Check out: SunnyFeel Kids Camping Chair
Chair Recommendations
4. Outdoor Games and Activities
To keep the kids entertained and active, bring along some outdoor games and activities. Think frisbees, bubbles, a kite, or even a scavenger hunt kit tailored to the natural surroundings. These can provide hours of fun and help create lasting memories of your camping trip.
Don’t feel like you have to bring stuff – there are so many games you can create using nature: Jump the brook, throw the rock the farthest, hide and seek, play in the creek, search and find for unique nature pieces.
Check out: The Ultimate Book of Scavenger Hunts
Outdoor games & activities we love
5. Campsite Lighting
As the sun sets, good lighting becomes crucial. LED lanterns or string lights not only illuminate your campsite, add a cozy ambiance, and are another way to create some fun for kids. Look for options that are durable, weather-resistant, and have adjustable brightness settings to suit different needs throughout the evening.
Check out: Biolite SiteLight Overhead String Lights
Light Recommendations for Camping
6. Safety Essentials
One our of first camping adventures at JellyStone (in the bougie cabin section), our daughter scraped her knee & we foolishly didn’t pack any bandaids. Luckily, our friend (& PA and retired airforce man) knew better – and now so do we! Pack a comprehensive first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Bug spray & sunscreen are ALSO a must to protect their delicate skin from the elements. Also, ladies – if you aren’t wanting to walk far to use the bathroom – pee funnels are a must! (Yes, they are awkward at first, but trust me!)
Check out: Survival First Aid Kit
Safety Essentials for Camping
7. Food Storage & Food Prep Tools
You likely aren’t eating out every meal, so proper food storage is a plus. The right cooler can get you through the weekend, or you can opt for a fridge. We’ve covered all of the cooler camping options here, but for a weekend camping trip, our favorite is the RTIC cooler on wheels, which can keep food cold for up to 5 days.
Check out: RTIC 52 Qt Wheeled Hard Cooler
Food Storage & Prep for Camping
8. Power, Navigation, & Communication Tools
We always have a non-tech compass, walkie talkies, and back up power supply with us (just in case). It’s also a good idea to bring batteries for flashlights (if they aren’t rechargeable!) If you love tech tools and will be doing a lot of hiking, consider a wearable GPS and satellite communicator (for when you are two far for walkie talkies).
Check out: Midland Long Range Walkie Talkie
Camping Equipment Recommendations
9. Water Proofing Supplies
Stay prepared for rain with these must-haves: store supplies in a waterproof box and use a smaller tent for extra storage. Pack rain jackets or ponchos, a waterproof match kit, blanket, and backpack to ensure comfort and dryness. These essentials will keep your family dry and happy, no matter the weather.
Check out: Rubbermaid Lockable Outdoor Storage
Waterproof Camping Supplies
10. Camp Fire Fun
Last but definitely not least, make sure to have fun at the campfire. Obviously, smores are a must. If you’re not the best story teller, you might want to bring a book of campfire stories. After you finish the smores, let your fire burn out in color then stargaze through a telescope.
Check out: Gskyer Telescope with Carry Bag
Campfire Must Haves with Kids
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Here’s our complete packing list so that you don’t miss a thing! Happy camping & core memory making!
