How to Go Camping With a Toddler, and Have Fun
Camping with a toddler can be a bit challenging, but it can also be a LOT of fun too. It just takes a bit of prep work, which is where my camping with a toddler checklist comes in.
Camping with a toddler is definitely a different experience. You’re trading in those peaceful mornings and kick-back-with-a-book kind of vibe for something a little more…energetic. But it’s such a great idea for so many reasons.
Besides creating some of the most wholesome childhood memories for your toddler, camping is usually a good way to escape, reconnect and refocus on family time. There’s no need for screens when you have the great outdoors to look at. Plus, your toddler will just be soaking up the freedom to run around while being so close to you all time.
But I won’t kid you, camping with a toddler (or young kids) is not necessarily easy. It does involve some extra planning to make sure you have everything and aren’t left with your toddler screaming for snacks at midnight (for example). So take on board these handy tips to make sure it’s a camping adventure you all want to remmeber.1. Bring plenty of snacks
Toddlers are notoriously fickle eaters, so it’s important to bring along plenty of snacks that they’ll enjoy eating. Pack some of their favourites, especially if they don’t need to be refrigerated, to keep them happy.
It’s a good idea to bring along some non-perishable food items in case you can’t find anything suitable for your toddler at the campsite.
Best snacks to take camping
When planning a camping trip with small children, it’s important to pack the right snacks. After all, no one wants to be stuck in the wilderness with nothing to eat but energy bars and granola. Instead, try to pack a variety of snacks that will satisfy your hunger and give you the energy you need to explore.
Trail mix is a great option because it contains a mix of nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate. Jerky is another good choice because it’s high in protein and easy to store.
And if you’re looking for something sweet, bring along a bag of marshmallows or some dark chocolate. With a little planning, you can make sure your camping trip is fuelled by delicious snacks.
2. Bring along some toys and games
Toddlers can get bored easily, so it’s important to bring along some toys and games to keep them entertained. As the weather may not be guaranteed to be great it is wise to bring a mixture of things to do in any situation.
A few small toys, colouring books, and crayons should do the trick and are some of the must haves for camping with toddlers. If you’re worried about losing any of the pieces, consider packing them in a zip-top bag.
Best toys to take camping with toddlers
Camping with a toddler can be a wonderful adventure for everyone involved. We all know that the weather can be unpredictable though and sometimes a 2 year old camping can get cranky, so having a stash of activities for both indoor and outdoor can really help keep everyone happy.
Storybooks and puzzles are some of our camping essentials with toddlers, they can be enjoyed in all weathers whether picnicking in a field or relaxing back in the tent. Even on the journeys there and back these can be used to keep toddlers entertained – which can help the travelling go smoothly.
Fun for all the family is the aim when camping with a toddler after all, so try to choose activities that everyone can enjoy. That could mean bringing simple classic outdoor items like frisbees, water pistols bean bags, bucket and spade or a soft bat and ball. It’s also a good idea to have a few ‘quiet’ activities like this camping quiz on hand, in case the weather takes a turn.
Card games, simple board games and portable puzzles are all great options. With a little planning, you can ensure that your next camping trip is one the whole family will enjoy. A colouring book is probably our favourite, portable, tried and tested source of entertainment suggestion for camping with a 1 year old or 2 year old. Check out this
