What to Pack When Camping with Kids

While some people pack to the max, loading up with extravagant kitchen set-ups, gas grills, lounge chairs and aero-beds, a camping veteran like me recommends traveling a little lighter. You do not have to take the whole house with you, but you do want to be sure you are prepared. It may feel like you are packing your whole kitchen, or entire house, but try to bring only the essentials.

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Here’s my must-have checklist for camping with kids.

• Adequate bedding/sleeping bag, pillows and extra blankets

• Lightweight clothing (for the whole fam)

• Tent and plastic ground cloth

• Hats and sunglasses

• Camp chairs for everyone

• On-the-go snacks and other food (unless you will cooking full meals, then you will need various pots and cooking utensils)

• Insect repellent

• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 15 or higher

• Water and other beverages

• Insulated cooler

• Alcohol-based hand sanitizer

• Life jacket, helmet, and other protective gear

• First-aid kit (bandages, cold packs, tape, scissors, ibuprofen, antibiotic ointment, etc)

• Survival kit (knife, matches, flare gun, rope, matches, money, fire starter, etc)

• Compass, Map or GPS

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• Sturdy shoes

• Extra set of clothes

• Toilet paper

• Baby wipes

• Plastic plates/cups/utensils

• Trash bags and Ziploc baggies

• Insect repellent

• Camera

• Whistle (to call for help)