It’s often said that family camping is a unique adventure that brings people closer together. Camping together as a family can be enjoyable, no matter if you have young children, babies, or are trying a new multi-generational vacation with grandparents. If you’re new to camping, here are some basic planning tips to make your family camping experience easier.
Plan Your Camping Trip Early
Family campgrounds often get booked early in the season, sometimes even during the prior camping season! Plan your camping trip by selecting a date, plus some backup dates, and finding an available campsite.
Camping is less expensive than staying in a hotel or motel, so the money saved on the nightly costs could be used for traveling a further distance to see interesting sights. You will also have the flexibility of planning and cooking your own meals, or dining out at a nearby restaurant if you want – allowing you to further adjust your budget for a family-friendly vacation.
Find a Campground That Offers Activities
Research the campgrounds in advance to find out what is offered. Some are merely camping locations, requiring you to drive short distances to participate in activities within the community. Others offer a variety of activities, either free or fee-based, that can include many different age groups.
Know what you’d like to do while camping – is it merely “getting back to nature” and relaxing, or would you like to improve relationships through team-building games and challenges?
Be Flexible and Work Together
Taking on a camping challenge, when you’ve never attempted such event, might seem a little stressful at first. Remember to cover the basics – pack essential things you’ll need, without over-packing. Food and eating utensils are necessary if you’re going to eat over the campfire, and comfortable bedding or sleeping bags can make a difference for a night under the stars.
Many campgrounds have seasoned veterans who don’t mind offering helpful advice.
Sometimes, having a family event away from familiar home surroundings allows family members to accept challenges that might not have happened at home. Work together to make your family camping a pleasant adventure that you’ll remember for a long time!