Ten camping essentials for families

 

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, from basics like tents and sleeping bags to optional extras like inflatable mattresses, portable grills and bug zappers.

Stock up on these camping must-haves to ensure an enjoyable camping experience for the whole family.

1. A tent, of course

From simple domes to inflatable structures and tailgate canopies that attach to your car, there are tents of all shapes and sizes to choose from. For families with young kids, a multi-room tent will allow you to spread out and accommodate different sleep times. The trick is to over-accommodate by at least one or two people – a six-person tent will comfortably fit a family of four with extra space for storage. (Don’t forget the pegs, poles and stakes to keep it firmly in place).

2. Sleep essentials

Swags and sleeping bags are the usual bed of choice when you go camping, keeping little ones snug and toasty in all temperatures and rolling up tight for easy transportation. Or if room allows, why not dial up the comfort with an inflatable mattress or a folding stretcher bed?

3. 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.

4. 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.  

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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.

Now you’ve got the basics covered, it’s time to level up your camping experience with this portable camp kitchen portable camp kitchen D.I.Y. project!