Let’s be real: there are three types of people in the world—those who love camping, those who can tolerate it, and those who would rather endure a root canal than spend a night under the stars. I fall into the first category, and I’m on a mission to pass that love onto my three kids. Sure, camping with little ones often means shouting, “Don’t eat that!” more than you’d like, but if you’re considering taking your baby camping, it’s likely because you also enjoy the great outdoors and want to create lasting family memories.
I remember the first time I went camping with my baby; I was a bundle of nerves, but honestly, it wasn’t as daunting as I had anticipated. Camping can be a hassle, and so can parenting, but it’s all part of the adventure. For this guide, let’s assume you’re going car camping—loading up the car and heading to your campsite. So, what should you pack? What should you leave behind? Grab a comfy chair, and let’s dive in!
Essential Packing List for Camping with a Baby
Pack everything you typically need for your baby, but double it up. Yes, really. Bring extra diapers, wipes, food, and changes of clothes. Kids can get dirty and hungry faster than you can say “s’mores.” Your baby’s camping routine will look a lot like home: play, sleep, and eat. The trick is figuring out how to make all that work in nature.
Here’s a handy list to consider when camping with a baby. You don’t have to bring it all, but it’ll get you thinking!
Playtime Essentials
Once you arrive at the campsite, you’ll want to set up your tent and unpack. You may quickly realize there’s nowhere to safely place your baby while you’re busy. A baby carrier can be a lifesaver, but setting up a tent while carrying your little one might be tricky. If your baby is small, you can use their car seat as a temporary seat. Alternatively, set up a Pack N’ Play and cover it with a mosquito net to keep bugs at bay.
Another creative idea is to use an inflatable baby pool filled with interlocking foam mats for a safe play area. My friend Alex once put his little one in a wagon, which worked great for keeping them safe while exploring the campsite.
Sleep Solutions
A tent is a must, and the bigger, the better! Before kids, my partner and I managed just fine in a two-person tent, but now our family of five needs a spacious 10-person tent. It’s nice to have room to stand up and change clothes, and it’s also essential to have a designated diaper-changing area.
If you’re worried about safe sleep, check out this resource on safe sleep practices. I also recommend bringing a portable sound machine to drown out any campsite noise. For non-mobile babies, a collapsible travel bassinet can work wonders.
Feeding Tips
If your baby is on an all-liquid diet, packing is straightforward: bring your boobs or a good supply of formula and clean water. Make sure to pack more than you think you’ll need, just in case. If your baby is eating solids, a vinyl tablecloth can make cleanup easier. A portable high chair that clamps onto picnic tables can be a game-changer for mealtime convenience.
Additional Camping Gear for Your Baby
Don’t forget a baby carrier for hikes—I love my Kelty pack! Using a large plastic bin for gear can double as a makeshift baby tub, especially if the campground lacks showers. Consider dressing your baby in Carhartt overalls for durability or rain pants to keep them dry during unexpected downpours. Bug spray and sunscreen are also must-haves.
So, there you have it! Camping can be a blast, even if your baby wakes up at the crack of dawn to munch on sticks. Have you taken your little ones camping? Share your helpful tips in the comments!
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Summary
Camping with a baby requires thoughtful planning and extra supplies, but it can be a rewarding experience. Ensure you have enough essentials, create safe play and sleep spaces, and find convenient feeding solutions to make your outdoor adventure enjoyable.