Even before my daughter was born, there was only one kind of holiday for me: camping. Whether it's sleeping in a tent under the stars, traveling in a camper van, or simply exploring on foot, no luxurious 5-star hotel in the world can replace the joy of camping. And now, with my daughter joining me on these outdoor adventures, my love for camping has only deepened. Even though I’ve had the opportunity to stay at family hotels and can see what many people like about them, they are not an alternative for me.
Give me a small breakfast on a picnic blanket in front of a tent instead of a lavish hotel breakfast buffet any day. And forget about those fancy 4-course meals where parents struggle to keep their kids at the table. I'd rather savor a steaming pot of pasta with pesto prepared on a gas cooker between the tent and the lake.
Camping with kids means:
Improvising.
Being outdoors.
Embracing nature.
In all of this, there are so many adventures and valuable lessons for our children. We parents grow through these experiences too.
Over the years, I've learned what items are essential for a successful camping trip with children:
- Tent (and everything that goes with it)
- Camping mat or air mattress
- Sleeping bag
- Pillow (I have also used a cozy hoodie)
- Cozy fleece
- Rainwear
- Swim shorts
- Headgear
- Plenty of underwear
- Clothes (for quick changes)
- Waterproof shoes
- Flip flops
- Backpack for the children (for all the treasures that will be found)
- Picnic blanket
- Towels (be sure to bring a few)
- Lamp for the tent + flashlight
- Entertainment (a book, toy, or painting materials to feel at home)
- Basic food (pasta, bread, granola bars)
- Gas cooker
- Crockery, cutlery, and cooking utensils
- Water container
- Toiletry bag for each child
- Laundry bag for dirty clothes
- Wet wipes (in case there is no water)
- Sun protection
- Mosquito repellent
- First aid kit
If you're looking for a vacation filled with adventure and unforgettable memories, camping with your kids is an absolute must. If you're not sure where to start, Campspot is a good place to start looking for your next destination. If you are in the EU, Bergwelten.ch has a valuable list of tips for choosing the perfect campsite. Happy camping!
