However, family camping for beginners can often be stressful, especially when you haven't done it before. You have the kids to think about, thus more appetites to consider, and not forgetting there's plenty more stuff to pack.
There's no need to worry though, as we have put together a list of camping tips for surviving your first.
- Check
Quickly checking to see what the weather will be like also gives you an idea of what kit you'll need to bring, as well as any emergency layers such as extra hoodies or blankets and jackets. Making sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible is a must, especially when there's potential for a sudden downpour.
- Try
There's nothing worse than forgetting something as small yet necessary as pegs. By doing a test-run while you can still pick up all essential accessories, everyone's guaranteed to be happy!
- Activities
When camping with kids, they're more likely to get restless when they realise they can't just sit in front of the TV at night time, so it's important to make sure they have plenty of activities to do. Games that require minimal storage space are best – such as frisbee, football, dominos or a classic game of charades.
You don't want to take up too much room with toys, but it would be best to pack a tennis ball if you're bringing the family's resident furry along.
Nature provides the best playground. When out in the wilderness, it's good to encourage the kids to let their imaginations run wild to keep themselves entertained.
- Meals
One thing you can never go wrong with is snacks, so be sure to bring plenty to keep everyone's stomachs happy throughout the trip when it's not yet lunch or dinner time.
Another must-have? Water. Water, water, water. You can never have enough, and it'll help you be prepared for any dehydration disasters.
- Safe
Make sure your campsite is well lit, so it's easy for people to see where they are going and what they are doing. You could also give each person a whistle to signal one another should you get separated.
Having a buddy system may also help to ensure everyone always has someone there with them, meaning you don't need to worry about the little ones wandering off on their own.
Another tip to make sure everyone stays in good health is to take a first aid kit with you, just in case any accidents or injuries do happen. Plasters, pain killers, antiseptic cream and wet wipes are simple life-savers that nobody should go away without.