Camping in the forest can be a terrific adventure for toddlers. There’s so much to explore! For parents, camping with toddlers involves a lot of practicalities. To prepare you for your upcoming adventure with a toddler in tow, our 16 top tips reveal some must-know, camping hacks for your trip…
1. Do a ‘sleeping in a tent’ trial run Kids’ first experience of a tent is often a pop-up play tent, which is of course, for hide-and-seek. Camping in a tent will be a completely new experience for them, so pitch the tent in the garden ready for nap time, or overnight, and let your toddler practice sleeping in a tent. Here's our line up of the best family tents.
2. Go for glamping To make life easier when camping with toddlers, consider ‘glamping’ in one of our pods or choose our weatherproof ready camp tents. Avoid the hassle of having to pitch up and pack down your own tent, and enjoy additional facilities.
3. Pack portable ‘everything’ If tip two is not an option, you will need to think ‘portable camping gear’ when packing for your trip. Everything from high chairs to bunk beds and drinks bottles to carriers should be easy to set up and take down to save time and space.
4. Pack plenty of clothes Toddlers have a tendency to get messy and need a change of clothes regularly at home. When camping, the clothes count will increase, so pack items for all weathers and don’t forget the wellies and suitable walking shoes.
5. Pack a playpen With a toddler, sometimes you need eyes in the back of your head! A handy playpen enables you to know where your little one is, and useful for nap and playtime.
6. Be prepared for naps A day of exploring will tire your toddler out. Be prepared for naps, especially when you’re off-site because you will need to factor them in when planning the rest of the day’s adventures.
7. Prepare for teething Camping with teething toddlers can be a challenge, so bring plenty of easy to clean teething rings and chew-friendly toys.
8. Get set for scavenger hunts You can download free nature scavenger hunts online. They’re worth having when you’ve got a toddler in tow on a forest walk or even just around the campsite.
9. Bring a headlamp for your toddler Navigating a campsite at night can be tricky for your toddler, but give them a headlamp, not only can they see in the dark, but it’s a fun game for them too and gives them a sense of security.
10. Choose age-appropriate hikes Pick short distance walks when hiking as a family because toddler legs quickly tire. Choose a route that’s no more than a mile long.
11. Be prepared for toddler wearing If you’re planning a long-distance hike as part of your camping trip, pack a toddler carrier backpack for when your child gets tired. This will help avoid cutting your walk short.
12. Pack plenty of sun cream On and around the campsite and during excursions off-site, make sure your toddler is protected from prolonged sun exposure by packing plenty of sun cream.
13. Bring plenty of healthy snack choices Toddlers are serial snackers and are likely to burn more calories when camping. Having plenty of healthy snack choices to hand will prevent HANGRY tantrums – think fruit, nuts, carrot sticks, cereal bars etc…
14. Plan easy meals Fast, easy food is ideal when camping with toddlers. After a tiring day for all the family, quick-fire meals like hot dogs, bacon sandwiches, scrambled eggs and beans on toast are perfect.
15. Pack a first-aid kit Come prepared with plasters, bandages, gauze, cleansing wipes, ice packs and more to deal with toddler-related injuries likely to occur when they’re exploring.
16. Don’t forget the essentials
Whether you go it alone or choose our ready-made camping facilities, your family is welcome on our campsites. We invite you to enjoy a memorable forest camping adventure together. We look forward to seeing you very soon!
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