Camping with children can but fun but challenging at the same time.
As well as ensuring they have the right clothing, footwear and bedding, you'll need to find ways of keeping them entertained. This blog will give you all the expert tips you need to make every family camping trip a memorable one.
Activities
Camping is the perfect way to spend quality time with your family, but it can take a bit of imagination to keep the kids entertained without Wi-Fi, TV and video games.
It's going to take more than marshmallow toasting to impress kids these days. Luckily for you, we have countless fun ideas for making memories the whole family will treasure.
Scavenger Hunt
This is a great way to get your children interacting with their natural surroundings, and hopefully keep them entertained until at least tea time! Set them free on a voyage of wildlife discovery, making sure that they only collect things that can be safely returned undamaged (we’re thinking pinecones, bird feathers, different coloured leaves, acorns etc.). They'll be amazed at some of the cool stuff they can find if they keep their eyes peeled.
You can give your scavenger hunt a bit more structure by marking items off a checklist. This will also add a competitive element to things and maintain their motivation.
Keep your kids on track by downloading our Junior Explorer's Club activity sheets via the link below.
Campsite Sports
These are always a winner when the weather is on your side. Whether you’re having a kickabout, playing a game of cricket or taking part in a water pistol fight, the whole family can enjoy a spot of exercise in the great outdoors.
Try getting your fellow campers involved and be sure to let the kids lead the games as it will help build their confidence and help them settle in. Check out our range of outdoor toys, games and sports equipment if you want something fun to do while you're away.
Geocaching
Geocaching is an outdoor pastime that has become really popular around the UK in recent years. It's basically a hi-tech form of treasure hunting, making it perfect for adventurous boys and girls. GPS is used to locate 'caches', which in turn unveil a trinket and a logbook to record who found it. Once found, you simply replace the trinket with something for the next explorer to discover.
To get started you'll need to register with a Geocaching website to determine the precise latitude and longitude of a hidden cache. Geocaches are located on public land up and down the country, so it's very likely that there will be at least one or two near your campsite.
Take a look at our Geocaching blog for more info.
Kite Flying
The wide open spaces around your campsite are just perfect for kite flying. It's an especially good activity for seaside locations with a stiff sea breeze. If the kids get bored with it, you can always stake it to the ground next to your tent as a way of locating your pitch if the campsite is a little crowded.
Board Games
Wet weather can quickly dampen the enthusiasm for outdoor activiites, so it's good to have a back-up plan. Board games are ideal for when a little bit of indoors time is needed. Not only do they give you something to do while it rains outside, but they're also a great way to wind down after a busy day outdoors.
We have a range of travel games available, including classics such as Monopoly and Connect 4. Just add hot chocolate for a relaxing evening of competitve fun with the family.
Clothing
Fun and games aside, you can't underestimate the importance of the right clothing and footwear for your little ones. A day of physical activities in the great outdoors calls for comfortable clothing, durable boots and reliable waterproofs (because we all know what British weather is like!). Prepare for all conditions and be sure to pack more then you need; you never know where the adventure will take you!
Beds & Sleeping Bags
Make sure that your kids get the best night's sleep possible by investing in the right gear. Start from the ground up by finding a bed or mattress that is soft, supportive and portable. You can choose between a sleeping mat, airbed or folding campbed depending on your budget and personal preference.
Once you have a bed sorted, it's time to choose a sleeping bag. We recommend that you opt for one that has been designed specifically for children. The right size sleeping bag wil minimize heat loss and ensure that they stay snug all night long. Avoid bringing duvets from home - they're not designed for outdoor use and will absorb moisture from inside the tent, causing them to become cold and damp.
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