Pack plenty of clothing for your camping trip. Be prepared for them to get dirty and/or wet. There are some basic clothing items that you will need in both the summer and the winter, such as undergarments, socks, rain gear, long pants and closed sneakers. Even in the summer, the nights will be probably be cool, and you should be prepared with plenty of layers and warm pajamas. Bring tall socks for hikes (in case of poison ivy and ticks), and bring thick socks for winter. In the summer you should also have a hat, a bathing suit, water shoes, shorts and short sleeve t-shirts for each child. In the winter you should have a warm coat, gloves, a ski mask, waterproof long underwear and a scarf.
Be prepared for anything and everything when camping with kids. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, towels, bug spray, anti-itch cream, toothpaste and toothbrush, for everyday use. Mosquito nets can be helpful at night. Bring plenty of toilet paper, in case the campgrounds do not provide it. Bring a large canteen for each person. Bring a flashlight for each kid; flashlights can ensure safety at night, and they provide great fun for kids. Bring extra batteries for the flashlights. Bring a compass and a map. Additionally, bring pictures of each kid in case they get separated from you. If you have young children, make them each a necklace with their name and your contact information. Lastly bring a fully equipped first aid kit.
Having a good tent with warm sleeping bags and good pillows will enable everyone to get a good night’s sleep. Be prepared for rain. Put a tarp under your tent, and bring a rain tarp to put on top as well. A pocket knife is a must for camping trips--you never know when you will need it. Bring some activities for downtime such as balls, board games and cards. Lastly, if you will want to sit on chairs, bring some along.
The best advice for meals is to plan in advance. Know how you will cook everything you bring, and how you will store it once it is cooked. Bring extra in case something goes wrong. You will need matches or a lighter to start a fire. Bring a few pots and pans, a can opener, and a cooler filled with ice for perishables. Canned food is an easy option for camping trips. Bring plenty of bread for sandwiches. Kids will love to make smores for dessert, so bring marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers. Bring eating utensils, and a few raccoon-proof containers for food storage. Lastly, bring trash bags, paper towels and dish soap for cleanup.
