Embracing Adventure Together: A Guide to Starting Camping as a Family
Camping as a family can be a transformative experience, creating lasting memories and fostering a deep connection with nature. Whether you're new to camping or looking to enhance your outdoor adventures, here's a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
Necessary/Recommended Camping Gear when Camping with Kids
Clothing Essentials:
When camping with kids, especially in varying climates or mountainous regions, ensuring they stay warm and dry is crucial. Here are some essentials:
Warm Clothing: Pack layers such as thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and wool socks, and coats.
Rain Gear: Waterproof jackets and pants to keep dry during unexpected showers.
Hats and Gloves: Protect little ones from cold mountain air with insulated hats and gloves.
Sleeping Arrangements:
Sleeping Bags: Opt for sleeping bags rated for the temperatures you expect. Kids' sleeping bags should be comfortable and warm. Plan for the worst! It is better to be prepared for below freezing temperatures than not! (Our favorite: REI Kindercone sleeping bags for kids)
Tents/Camper: Starting with a regular tent that fits your family comfortably is the best option as you get started, and the cheapest option! If it fits the budget, a camper is great for added comfort and convenience. We currency own a Taxa Mantis Off-Road camper. For great tent options, check out your local REI.
Other Essentials:
Cooking Gear: A portable stove, cooking utensils, and easy-to-prepare meals are essential. If we are in more remote areas and limiting our pack-in load, we often opt for Mountain House Freeze Dry food. They offer shockingly delicious options that even our kids LOVE, and all you have to do is add hot water! If we are camping with convenience, we bring healthy yet simple-to-prepare meals such as sausages, meat and cheese, fruit, etc.
Cooler: More than likely, you will be carrying refrigerated items. There are a large variety of coolers to choose from that fit every budget. But- what we will say is- you get what you pay for. Coolers such as Yeti, Rctic, and Mammoth hold ice for multiple days and are worth every penny!
First Aid Kit: Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and medications suitable for children.
Foldable chairs and/or weatherproof blanket: Especially when tent camping, your family will want a place to sit back and relax! Depending on space available and budget, foldable chairs or a waterproof blanket will suffice! (For reasonable chair options- check out your local WalMart, Cabelas, or any outdoor store!)
Firewood or a chainsaw and an ax: When camping in varying temperatures in mountainous regions, a heat source is necessary. Bringing along firewood or a chainsaw and an ax to cut your own firewood is necessary.
Finding Affordable Camping Gear
Investing in quality gear doesn't have to break the bank. Consider these budget-friendly options:
REI Garage Sales: Attend these sales events for discounted gear, often with significant savings on gently used or returned items. REI Garage Sales include everything from tents, to all types of clothing, shoes, and any camping gear you can imagine! This is where we started!
Online Marketplaces: Platforms like Facebook Marketplace,Nextdoor, or local buy/sell groups can be treasure troves for finding gently used camping equipment at a fraction of the retail price.
Start Small and Build Confidence
Begin your camping journey by keeping it simple. Use what gear you have and start small with purchases before investing in specialized equipment. Our family started with basic tents and storage boxes for gear before upgrading to a camper. Starting small allows you to learn what works best for your family's camping style and preferences.
Camping is for Everyone!
Embrace the opportunity to disconnect from screens, reconnect with each other, and explore the natural world together.
Embarking on a camping adventure as a family is a wonderful way to create cherished memories and cultivate a love for the outdoors in your children. By starting small, investing in essential gear, and exploring budget-friendly options, you can embark on a camping journey that's both enjoyable and affordable. Remember, the most important part of camping is the quality time spent together, surrounded by nature's beauty.
So pack your gear, gather around the campfire, and embrace the adventure that awaits!