Five tips for camping with the kids

Going camping is a great opportunity for bonding time with your family. It's a great way to disconnect from your phone, and reconnect to the sights and sounds of the wild world. If you're ready to take your kids camping, but are a little bit worried about how it will all work out, here are 5 tips for a seamless experience.

Keep a hand and food washing station near the tents

Kids play hard, and even careful adults can pick up a lot of dirt on camping trips. It's not fun to have to sweep, doubled over, in the tent after every time someone drags half the woods into the tents going in and out.

Get a large 2 gallon or more water container with a faucet and a flat basin big enough to step in, and set it up so people can wash their hands and feet before going into the tent. Keep towels close so dirt doesn't immediately stick to your hands and feet again after washing.

 Bring on the wipes

Baby wipes, and anti-bacterial wipes, are very handy while camping. If there's limited access to clean running water, a quick wipe down can help keep things tidy between soap and water wash downs. Wipes are a great way to keep you from going crazy at those sticky smores faces, while still enjoying every moment of the experience.

Bring fun things to do

If your kid isn't used to going camping, they might need some sort of icebreaker to make learning to climb trees or get up close and personal with nature more appealing. You can help by bringing along bubbles, bug nets for catching bugs, sports equipment, and other fun outdoor things they can enjoy. As a side benefit, these things can help keep them busy so you have more time to relax yourself.

If you have an extra tent, using it as a play tent is a great way to ease your own personal burden also, as you won't find yourself constantly picking up toys just to go to sleep or change.

 Organize a little

Camping will be less stressful for you if you are prepared enough to enjoy it. Keep all of your stuff in clear containers so you can see what is inside, and plan a menu with simple campfire food in advance so you know what you'll be eating.

 Keep it lit

Not only is a dark campsite scary for a little kid, it can also be dangerous. Get a headlamp for everyone, and get packs of glow sticks to go alongside the usual flashlights and lanterns. You may also want to bring extra batteries for the inevitable flashlight left on overnight. It's better to have options when it comes down to good lighting.

Camping is a memorable experience your children will look back on fondly—once they get used to it. Help them remember these times by camping often, and making it a pleasant experience for everyone.