Enjoy family time in the great outdoors with a few essentials you’ll need if you’re planning a camping trip with the kids.
There’s nothing like a camping holiday to bring the family together. The days are long, the fresh air is unlimited and you’ll make memories to last a lifetime.
Of course, there’s a fair bit of preparation and packing that goes into camping trips with kids, with some campsites offering nothing more than a parking spot and a place to pitch your tent.
The good news is that our camping range has all your needs covered. Stock up on these camping must-haves to ensure an enjoyable camping experience for the whole family.
1. Shelter and shade
Of course, kids won’t want to stay in the tent all day, so you’ll need another form of shelter, especially on hot or rainy days. Invest in a gazebo or a retractable awning to serve as an extra alfresco zone for mealtimes and family game nights.
2. Somewhere to sit
Whether you’re sharing stories around the campfire, enjoying meals together or simply taking a moment to soak in your surrounds, a camping chair will give you a comfortable perch to do all of the above. Look for cushioned seats and good back support, as well as cup holders or pockets in the arms – you can get adult and kids’ camping chairs to cater for the whole family.
3. A folding table
Even if your campground has picnic tables, it pays to bring your own folding table to cater for tasks like cooking and eating meals, crafting and colouring, sorting fishing tackle, playing cards and keeping items off the ground.
4. Kitchen supplies
You can’t have a campfire cookout without some camp cooking essentials. Think a portable barbecue or stove, a kettle or even a pizza oven. You’ll also need a cooler box or chest to keep food fresh, a water drum or dispenser, melamine or enamel cups, plates and bowls and let’s not forget the ultimate must-have camping accessory – the marshmallow toasting fork.
5. Lighting
If your kids are afraid of the dark, be sure to bring along some lighting options to illuminate your campsite when the sun goes down. Try string lights, LED solar stake lights or lanterns outside, and headlamps, torches or portable night lights for task-specific lighting.
6. Power
Going off grid doesn’t have to mean doing without power altogether, and there are definitely occasions when you’ll want some battery backup. Power stations, cord reels, charging cables and batteries of various types and sizes will give you the ability to play music, charge your phone or run small appliances.
7. Hygiene helpers
If your camp site doesn’t have toilet, shower or laundry facilities, and you’re staying for a few days, never fear – you can take them with you. This is particularly helpful with little ones – think camping toilets and sinks, camping showers, changing cubicles and even portable washing machines.
8. Safety and protection
Ensure the resident creepy crawlies don’t ruin your camping experience. Stock up on protective measures like citronella candles, mozzie coils and bug zapping lanterns, and don’t forget a well-stocked first aid kit to treat any bites and scratches.
Tailor it to you
While there is certainly a case for packing only the necessities to truly immerse yourself in nature, when camping with kids, it pays to plan for all eventualities. From foam floor matting and hammocks to outdoor games, binoculars and floaties, think how your family likes to holiday and bring along all the gear you’ll need to make your camping trip one to remember.