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Out of a lot of things that shake parents to the core with regards to their kids, traveling with them is probably one that strikes the most fear. Couple that with camping — now that sounds like it is going to be one heck of an adventure.
Roughing it has always been a fun activity, more so when you are with other people. Setting up tents, cooking food on the bonfire, and playing tabletop or card games. However, camping with family may be a different story. This is not to say that it would not be as fun, but as a parent, you will have to be cognizant of what is happening in the area. And we are not just talking about what your kids are doing, but also being aware of a slight change in the breeze, moving bushes, and so on.
Instead of having a carefree weekend in the wild, you are now thinking of maybe looking up if there is travel insurance for camping (if you are camping abroad, you definitely should get one) or if there are convenience stores and clinics near the area. But there is a way for you to circumvent worries of losing the excitement of camping on your end. So here is a list of helpful hacks that you can do when you plan to camp with your kids.
Label your camping supplies
Just so everything is organized before you set out, make sure that all your supplies are divided into categories, and labeled properly. For instance, items brought for making food should be placed in one pack labeled cooking supplies. Separate that from food packs that are ready to eat like chips or cookies so that your kids will not rummage through all the bags and make a mess.
Set expectations for travel time
Camping will excite your kids, so much so that they will keep asking ‘Are we there yet?’ incessantly. Instead of shrugging them off or getting angry (which is dangerous if you are driving), just set the expectations before you drive out. Tell them how long the travel to the area is going to be, you can even show them a map. Encourage them to bring toys or download their favorite films to keep them entertained for as long as possible. You can even plan stops in between so that you can also take a break from the long drive.
This is not going to stop them from asking if you are near the camping site, but it will help make them understand the distance you are traveling and not ask it as often.
Set up stations
To keep the camp organized, divide the site into the following sections:
- Cooking section
- Bathing section
- Tent section
- Garbage section
This helps with more with making sure your camp is clean during and after the trip. It is dangerous to leave food and trash lying around because it might attract unwanted visitors (like bugs and raccoons). And this is also one of the ways to make sure your kids will not make a huge mess because they know their parameters.
Give the kids their own packs
The packs should not just include stuff that will keep them entertained, but also materials that will keep them safe. Put a headlamp or glow sticks, a small first aid kit, food bars, a whistle, sunscreen, and maybe an extra shirt. This is perfect if you are planning to explore the surroundings; the packs are not too heavy, but it is filled with necessities.
The most effective way to keep them interested in the camping is allowing them to participate in the planning and the packing. It will truly make it a family activity if they can have their say in the activities you will be doing, even the food you will be bringing. While planning a camping trip with the kids can be worrisome, it is still a unique experience to have.