Essential Camping Gear Guide for Families

Looking to check off a family camping trip from your summer bucket list? Don't fret about what to pack when camping with kids. We've got you covered! Whether you're a camping pro or a newbie, our comprehensive packing list ensures you won't miss a thing. Get ready to create lasting family memories with a well-prepared and enjoyable camping experience. In this post we’ll cover everything from “What you need for family camping” to “How to make family camping fun and easy”. Let us help you kickstart your adventure with a fun and fully stocked family camping packing list!

 

 

 

 

What are Camping Must-Haves for Families?

 

The essentials:

 

 

1. A spacious tent

 

Choose a tent that accommodates the whole family comfortably and offers extra space for storage. We recommend Nomads Roam’s Instant 3-4 person tent or 5-7 person tent depending on the size of your family. 

 

 

2. Sleeping Gear

 

Bring comfortable sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and pillows for a good night's sleep in the great outdoors. Nomads Roam offers a variety of sleeping equipment from sleeping bags and pads to portable pillows. The last thing you want on your family camping trip is some grumpy kids so make sure to invest in a good sleep!

 

 

3. Camp Kitchen Essentials

 

Pack a portable stove, cookware, utensils, plates, cups, and a cooler to prepare and enjoy meals together. For more in depth tips and tricks, check out our other article “Camp Kitchen Essentials: Tools and Tips” for outdoor cooking success!

 

 

4. Lighting

 

Ensure you have lanterns, headlamps, and flashlights for nighttime illumination and easy navigation. You can check our website for all these things and more.

 

 

5. First Aid Kit

 

Keep a well-stocked kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, insect repellent, and any necessary medications. We recommend checking out our articles on “Insect Identification Guide - Bites & Stings”for a more comprehensive guide on outdoor safety.

 

 

6. Outdoor Seating

 

Bring camping chairs or foldable chairs for comfortable seating around the campsite.

 

 

7. Clothing and Footwear

 

Pack appropriate clothing for various weather conditions, including jackets, hats, and sturdy shoes for outdoor activities. You can find a variety of options from rain jackets to sandals to boots on the Nomads Roam website.

 

 

8. Safety Gear

 

Have a map, compass, and/or GPS device for navigation, along with a whistle, emergency blankets, and a portable phone charger. Check out our article on “Essential Navigation Skills: Reading Maps and Using a Compass” if you aren’t sure where to start!

 

 

9. Toiletries and Hygiene Items

 

Include toilet paper, biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, toothbrushes, and other personal care items. Here at Nomads Roam, we recommend our Portable Shower and Portable Privacy Sheet along with our Portable Laundry System to make your family camping experience clean and comfortable.

 

 

10. Camping Accessories

 

Don't overlook essentials like a camping knife, multitool, duct tape, rope, and a waterproof tarp. Nomads Roam offers a selection of Water Bottles and Gadgets like Multi-tool Shovels and Self-powered chargers.

 

 

11. Extra Supplies

 

Lastly, bring extra batteries, trash bags, reusable water bottles, and a basic toolkit for any unexpected needs.

 

 

How do you occupy kids while camping?

 

Bored kids can be a real challenge when camping. In order to have a fun and safe experience, consider these tips and don’t forget to check out our post on “Camping with Infants and Toddlers: Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Trip”.

 

 

1. Entertainment

 

Don't forget to bring games, cards, balls, and other activities to keep the family entertained during downtime.

 

 

2. Outdoor Activities

 

Plan nature hikes, bike rides, scavenger hunts, or geocaching to explore the surroundings and keep them active. These are not only fun, but educational and can spark a lifelong passion for camping!

 

 

3. Campfire Fun

 

Enjoy classic campfire activities like storytelling, singing songs, roasting marshmallows for s'mores, and playing campfire games.

 

 

4. Stargazing

 

Take advantage of the clear night sky and teach kids about constellations or play games like "find the North Star." At Nomads Roam, we recommend Star Map Tracker and Star Gazer to help identify cool stars and plants!

 

*Remember, safety is paramount, so always supervise kids during activities and ensure they follow campground rules. With these ideas, your camping trip will be filled with endless entertainment for the little ones!

 

 

Camping with animals:

 

 

 

 

Here at Nomads Roam we understand that your furry friend is most definitely part of the family. Here are some tips for camping with pets!

 

 

1. Pet-Friendly Campgrounds

 

Before heading out, research and choose campgrounds that are pet-friendly. Check their policies regarding pets, leash requirements, and any restrictions on certain areas or trails.

 

 

2. Essential Gear

 

Pack essential gear for your pet, including a sturdy leash, collar with identification tags, harness, food, water, bowls, waste bags, a comfortable bed or sleeping pad, and any necessary medications.

 

 

3. Familiarize yourself with Camping Gear

 

Allow your pet to get acquainted with camping gear such as tents, sleeping arrangements, and crates, ensuring they feel comfortable and secure in these new surroundings.

 

 

4. Secure and Supervise

 

Keep your pet on a leash or in a secure, designated area to prevent them from wandering off or encountering wildlife. Always supervise your pet, particularly around campfires, water bodies, or potentially hazardous terrain.

 

 

5. Pet-Friendly Hikes and Activities

 

Choose trails and activities that are suitable for your pet's physical capabilities. Be mindful of their endurance and take breaks when needed. Avoid strenuous hikes during extreme weather conditions.

 

 

6. Wildlife and Poisonous Plants

 

Educate yourself about the local wildlife, poisonous plants, and potential hazards in the area. Keep your pet away from wild animals, toxic plants, and areas with known risks.

 

 

7. Comfort and Hydration

 

Provide ample shade, fresh water, and breaks for your pet to rest and cool down. Protect their paws from hot surfaces by using booties or choosing appropriate hiking trails.

 

 

8. Waste Disposal

 

Always clean up after your pet. Use designated waste bags and dispose of them properly to maintain cleanliness and minimize the environmental impact.

 

 

*Remember, camping with pets requires responsible pet ownership and respect for the environment and fellow campers. By following these guidelines, you can create wonderful memories with your furry companion while enjoying the great outdoors.

With our guide, you can confidently embark on a family camping experience that is well-prepared, enjoyable, and filled with lasting memories. Happy trails!