The Ultimate Checklist for Family Camping Trips | Historic Cornwall (original) (raw)

Camping holidays let families to spend quality time together while enjoying the great outdoors. Nevertheless, planning and packing for a camping trip with children requires some additional preparation and forethought.

Choosing a Campsite

Selecting the right campsite is key to a successful camping trip. Consider amenities like toilets and hot showers to make the experience more comfortable for kids. Check if your chosen site has an electric hook-up for any medical devices and to recharge phones or tablets. Research the activities that are available onsite or nearby to keep children entertained. Choose a child-friendly destination with things like playgrounds, trails and a lake or beach. Consider proximity to emergency services should you need them.

Camping Equipment Essentials

Tent & Bedding

Choose a quality family-sized tent with sewn-in ground sheets. Bring sleeping bags with warmth ratings suitable for the weather conditions. Self-inflating mattresses provide comfort and insulation from the cold ground. Don’t forget pillows to ensure a good night’s sleep after an activity-filled day.

Cooking & Eating

Pack cooking supplies like a gas camp stove, fuel canisters, pots, pans, utensils, cups, plates, and a box opener. Bring a cooler with ice packs to store perishable foods. Pack nutritious camp-friendly options like sausages, beans, eggs, cheese and durable fruits and vegetables. Don’t forget the all-important bag of marshmallows for evening bonfires.

Seating & Shelter

Camping chairs provide comfortable seating for adults around the fire or meal table. Pack a waterproof picnic blanket or tarp for kids to lounge on. Bring a canopy or extra tarp to create shade on hot, sunny days.

Lighting & Power

Outdoor solar string lights illuminate pathways and tents after dark. Pack LED lanterns and torches with spare batteries. Be sure to pack a power bank to keep mobile devices charged for emergencies or entertainment.

Clothing & Footwear

Dress in layers to stay comfortable as the temperature changes. Pack sun hats, sunglasses, and sun cream to protect from the sun, and choose closed-toe shoes or hiking boots for safely exploring the outdoors. Sandals are fine for showers or beach trips. Have plasters and insoles on hand in case of blisters. Take a warm hat and jacket for chilly evenings by the campfire. Consider glow sticks or reflective gear to keep kids visible at night.

Medical, Safety & Hygiene

A well-stocked first aid kit is a camping essential. Small kits for travelling should include antiseptic, waterproof plasters, dressings, tweezers, scissors, safety pins, antihistamines, pain & fever relief, and any personal medications. Additionally, pack insect repellent, bite cream and aloe vera gel to treat sunburns. Bring hygiene basics such as biodegradable soap, wet wipes, and toilet paper; don’t forget the hand sanitiser – use it regularly throughout your trip.

Staying Entertained

Fill free time with classic camp activities like hiking, swimming, fishing, wildlife spotting, treasure hunts and outdoor games. Bring a bat and ball, playing cards, frisbees, and skipping ropes, and pack arts supplies like paper, glue, markers, and colouring pencils for creative pursuits while relaxing at the tent. Downloaded movies on a tablet or some bestselling children’s books make great screen-free entertainment. Don’t forget batteries for torches needed for late night toilet trips or tent games.

Food & Drink

Store food securely to avoid unwanted attention from wildlife. Keep perishables chilled and bring staples that won’t get damaged if they get wet. Prepare simple meals requiring minimal cooking, like foil packet dinners. Stuff a pot with breakfast supplies so morning meal prep is fast and easy. Stay hydrated in the sun by packing plenty of water – allow at least two litres per person, per day. Bring travel mugs for hot drinks like tea or hot chocolate by the fire.

Waste, Rubbish & Recycling

Adopt a strict carry-in, carry-out rule for the duration of your trip. Use reusable containers and utensils to minimise waste. Pack waste bags for collecting all litter and a sealable box for food scraps until it can be disposed of properly. Many campsites now provide recycling bins for cardboard, glass, cans, and plastics. Check the facilities beforehand so you can come prepared to sort waste.

Pet Supplies

If bringing a family pet, their needs require special consideration. Pack a lead to keep dogs secure, with poo bags and a travel crate for when you are away from the tent. Bring enough food for the trip plus an extra day in case you get delayed returning home. Remember water and food bowls and a towel to wipe muddy paws. Check if your chosen site permits pets or if there are restrictions such as required immunisations or exclusion from public areas – abide by any campsite rules regarding pets.

Packing It All In

The final challenge is condensing all your camping gear into your boot space. Make a packing plan outlining the large bulky items and prioritise equipment you will need first upon arrival like tents, bedding and cooking supplies – load these last. Pack tidily and securely stowing lighter items on top to prevent damage in transit. Waterproof bags add an extra layer of protection for clothing and bedding in case of rain during unloading.

Label cartons clearly so you can easily find gear later. Tuck small loose items into pouches or reusable shopping bags to prevent them from getting lost or strewn about on the journey. Do a last check, ensuring all gear is packed before setting off on your camping trip.

Final Trip Preparations

Perform a trial run by pitching your tent in advance to ensure you understand the setup and that you have all required parts. Check all camping gear for damage and replace anything that’s worn or faulty. Review campsite rules and guidelines, noting facility availability, extra costs, and restrictions.

Pack as much as possible in advance to avoid last-minute shortages. Ensure your first aid kit is recently replenished with unexpired medical supplies. Leave your detailed camping itinerary with family or friends at home, including your contact details and return date should they need to contact you while you are away.

Conclusion

Camping with kids creates lifelong memories built on time spent together in nature. Proper planning and preparation ensure your family camping trip is a complete success. Use this complete checklist when packing and before you set off on your adventure to have the best family holiday ever.