I hear from people all the time that they don’t get out camping anymore because they have children. I’m fairly blunt with them that I think that’s ridiculous, there’s no reason that having children should stop anyone camping.
So, if you want to get back into camping, or if you’ve not camped before and want to get out there then use this as a helpful resource list to get together the kit and supplies you need.
Use this list as a basis for your own lists and also remember that a trip that’s well planned is a trip that’s a lot more likely to happened and go how you want it to and if everyone enjoys it there’s going to be more of them.
Clothing
Pack for the forecasted weather and possible changes that can be expected for the area where you will be camping. Include a thermal top and pants just in case that fine weather turns to cold weather. Remember that when the sun goes down the temperature will drop, even in summer. Pack wet weather gear, sun protection creams, and rimmed hats; the summer sun can be hot and burning if you are not used to it. Use your common sense when packing clothing and work on the layering system so you can make easy adjustments.
Jeans and pants
Light windproof jacket
Rain coat
Shoes and boots
Socks, hats, gloves
Sweater
Swim wear
Thermal top and pants
T-shirts and shorts
Underwear
Shelter
Shelter is very important, particularly if there’s adverse weather or it’s cold. If it’s warm then it’s not so important unless you need protection from insects; your tent will protect you from the elements, so look around for a tent big enough to suit you and your family, if you’re stuck in the tent for a couple of days you’ll want plenty of room for the kids to play and to not be under each others feet.
You also need to have a tent that’s appropriate for the season and use, a cheap tent won’t stand up to snow on it, but it might be fine in the spring and summer. It makes a lot of difference to have bedding as well.
If you’re feeling adventurous there’s other options such as tarps and hammocks
Blankets
Cordage / bungees
Pillow or head rest
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Tarp
Tent
Cooking Food
Cooking in the outdoors is my favourite and it’s not as hard as many believe it is. You need to be able to cook a few things without having to spend hours on it. Research about the water available at your camp site before you go and having a meal plan can help you buy provisions and know what equipment you need to cook with..
Can opener, tongs, foil
Camping pots, pans, plates, and cutlery
Cooking essentials (Ziploc bags, knife, cutting board, salt and pepper, cooking oil)
Cooler
Camp stove and fuel
Folding chairs and table (it makes life easier but it’s not essential)
Food
Water + Water container
Water filter (If you’re collecting water locally)
First Aid
The outdoors is great, but it does come with its own hazards. You will need a basic first aid kit to help you deal with the scrapes and cuts and insect stings. Here’s a good tip – those bright colored kids’ plasters work miracles on small ouchies and invisible injuries that little children sometimes bring you. This is what you need in your kit, which you can buy ready-made or make up on your own.
Antiseptic cream
Aspirin
Bandaids
Burn treatment
Elastic sports wrap
Gauze
Insect sting and bite cream
Personal medication
Scissors and tweezers
Snake bite kit (If you’re in an area with snakes)
Sunburn lotion or Aloe Vera
Tape
Camp and Personal Hygiene
Staying clean and keeping a tidy camp makes a lot of difference to your enjoyment, is not that hard to do and is a must if you have children along with you. Take along a few bits and pieces to make your life a little easier. When it come to your camp it’s good to be tidy and clean, it helps to prevent animals from exploring your camp and having a sleeping bag full of dirt isn’t pleasant and it’s easy to regularly sweep up a little.
Having a bucket to collect water and wash up in, and something to sweep the tent is invaluable
Camp
Bucket or dish pan
Dishwashing liquid
Dish rags
Dust pan and broom
Laundry detergent
Pot scrubber
Personal
Brush and comb
Razor
Sanitary products
Toilet paper
Toothbrush and paste
Towels and soap
Extra Items
When you’re planning put some thought into the things you want to do while camping. Do you want to go fishing or hiking? Do you have small children with you? How are going to get to the bathroom facilities at night? does it get dark early, it it hot or cold and is there wildlife about that you can see?
If you have a good story to tell or blog let us know about it on our FB page, we’re also happy for article or review submissions, we’d love to hear from you.
We live in a beautiful world, get out there and enjoy it.
Outdoor Revival – Reconnecting us all with the Outdoor
