There’s no doubt about it, camping is hard work. Organizing gear, getting a reservation, preparing food for several days ahead, packing the car, and making sure there is enough to do to entertain the whole family—it can overwhelm. But it’s worth it!
Nothing says summer like a hot roasted marshmallow right out of the campfire! {Golden brown…not on fire!} Getting away from the hustle and bustle of life for some fresh air and family time is the perfect little weekend getaway. When I was a kid we used to go camping in the mountain ever summer.
This year I am even more excited because my Hubby & I are picking up a two person tent, and we will be using it for the first time over the next few weeks. I’m looking forward to dipping my toes in a cold mountain lake, making s’mores over the campfire and exploring the trails on our bikes. If we have room I would love to strapping a kayak on my SUV and paddling areas that are off the beaten path.
I am a list person, and having one “go to Camping list” helps to ease the packing & preparation process. To help you get out under the stars, we’ve put together some tips for camping with the family and a camping checklist of what to take.
Tips for Camping with the Family
First, reserve a camping spot. Campgrounds can fill up quickly so plan ahead to get a spot. And try to leave early in the day on Friday (or head out during the work week) to avoid commuter traffic and have a better chance of setting up camp before it gets dark.
Prepare the gear. Use the camping checklist below to make sure you take what you need, but not much more. Check the tent, stove, matches/lighters, and lanterns beforehand for damage and working condition.
Prepare the food. The checklist doesn’t include food—you’ll have to create that yourself. Here’s a tip: Write down what you plan to eat for each meal (breakfast, lunch and dinner.) Then prepare what you can at home—marinate the meats, cut the vegetables, wrap the potatoes in foil. You’ll be thankful once you get to camp.
When you pack the cooler, set out the foods meal by meal, thinking about how you’ll serve each meal so you don’t forget condiments and necessary utensils, can opener, etc.
That’s it for the tips! Now on to the checklist. Have fun!
Car Camping Checklist
Feel free to download a copy for yourself!
I love checklists! They give me great ideas plus help me to not forget things!
That is a great checklist! We want to try camping when our littlest is a little older. So fun!
One of the kids requests this summer was to go camping! I am so taking notes on this list!
We have never gone camping. Mainly because I’m a girly girl and really don’t want to sleep outside. BUT I have a boy who wants to do it so sooner or later I will have to!
I’m not a camping fan but I’m all about being prepared. Making a list is a great idea! I hope you and your husband enjoy your time outdoors. <3
I was always overwhelmed by the idea of camping. And you just confirmed my feelings! As I child I went camping with other-people’s parents, not my own. And I’m afraid my kids did the same. LOL.
Camping is still on my to-do list. I have never been and really would love to try it out one time. I must keep your list.
These are all great tips but I am more likely to go glamping than camping! As I get older, I find it more challenging to rough it!
Great list! I would love to follow your Pinterest camping board. How do I find it?
This is good to know. I am planning on doing this sometime this year and wasn’t really sure what I needed to bring. This is helpful.
Wow! That’s a lot of stuff to take camping. I don’t camp regularly so didn’t realize it was that involved.