What to Pack when Camping with Children

Not only is it essential to have a family-friendly campsite booked when taking your family camping, but it’s also necessary to have a list of all the things you’ll need to ensure you have a stress-free trip.

To help put your mind at ease, we’ve put together a family camping checklist of all the things you’ll need to pack when taking your children on a camping adventure.

Babies | Kids | Teens

Packing list for babies

Aside from the obvious essentials, we’ve got a few baby camping items to put in the car or nappy bag to make your trip as easy as possible. Camping with your baby for the first time? View our tips for camping with a baby.

Wipes

While baby wipes are always handy, antibacterial wipes are also essential when camping with a baby. Camping in the incredible outdoors means dirt, grass, and grime can end up anywhere, so get some biodegradable wipes to keep necessary surfaces clean.

Extra blanket

With unpredictable weather conditions in the UK, you may need extra blankets for warmth. Blankets can also bring the familiar comforts of home to a new and strange environment.

Nappy bags

You won’t want to keep used nappies around your pitch with any other litter for very long, so pop them in a nappy sack and straight to the bins provided on the campsite.

Baby monitor

Taking your baby monitor from home is a great way to feel the same sense of security when they’re napping and not in your eyeline.

Kids camping essentials

You’ll know what’s essential to pack for your trip away with kids, like beach towels and their favourite snacks. We’ve also listed some other essential items below, so they’re not forgotten and your trip with small children is as stress-free as possible.

First aid kit

A basic first aid kit is essential wherever you go, especially on your family camping trip. Having a first aid kit to treat scrapes, cuts, and minor illnesses should suffice.

Insect repellent

Keep insects at bay with whichever repellent works best for your family. Sprays, wristbands, patches and creams are all readily available. If anyone is prone to being bitten, pack your preferred treatment too.

Sunscreen and hat

You’ll spend more time than usual outside when camping so protecting your children from UV rays is paramount. Remember to pack sunscreen, hats and sun- protective clothing.

Torch and headlamp

For nighttime trips to the facility block, playing card games in the dark, and telling spooky stories, a torch and headlamp are essential.

Games

Don’t forget to pack entertainment and games the whole family can enjoy.

Family-friendly outdoor games

Many of our campsites have a play area or dedicated area for ball games to keep kids entertained. Other outdoor games and toys to pack might include a frisbee, twister, wooden blocks or even a kite! Just make sure you know the rules on using these items on your campsite.

Card and board games

You can’t always predict the weather on a family camping trip, so indoor toys, board games, cards, or even a pen and paper are great boredom busters on rainy days.

Tech and phone chargers

Although camping games will keep your children occupied for hours, technology has become an inevitable part of our world and, therefore, a part of camping. Whether your children like to play games on phones, send messages to friends or watch television on tablets, remember to pack the appropriate chargers.

Books

According to iconic children’s writer, Dr Seuss, “the more you read, the more you’ll know. The more things you know, the more places you’ll go”. Pack a few books your kids will enjoy, for bedtime or for rainy days.

Beach toys and shade

You can’t have a beach trip without building and breaking a few sandcastles. Make sure you pack buckets and spades, as well as a source of shade for sunny days. Read our full beach packing list if you're camping along the beautiful UK coast.

Kids camping chairs

Don’t forget to pack enough chairs for the whole family. Whether it’s for mealtimes or playing games, having a designated seat is a must.

Extra pair of socks

Whether the nights turn cold and your kids need extra layers, or they end up jumping in muddy puddles, spare socks will always come in handy.

Pillows

Another item to add to your checklist when camping with kids is high-quality pillows. This can be the difference between a good night’s sleep and a bad one - the last thing you need is sleep-deprived children. Pillows are also much needed for that extra comfort on any long-distance car journeys.

Kid-friendly cutlery and dinnerware

Cutlery is up there on the list with camping essentials. There’s nothing worse than cooking a delicious meal on your camping stove and finding you have nothing to eat from or with. Make sure you bring cutlery for the children, as having their own plates and cutlery teaches them to look after and clean their own dinnerware.

Sleeping bags

Whether they are adult-size or designed for children, don’t forget to pack sleeping bags for the kids. A well-made, high-quality sleeping bag will keep everyone warm at night and ensure a deep sleep, which is essential for a full day of exploring the following day!

Footwear for different activities

Don’t forget to pack different shoes for the activities you’re planning. Options include:

• Beach shoes to prevent any scrapes and pokes while paddling and rockpooling.
• Comfy walking shoes for days out
• Sandals or easy slip-on shoes for the campsite
• Wellies for wet days

Waterproof jackets and umbrellas

Prepare for unpredictable weather by packing reliable waterproof jackets and some umbrellas. Make sure to take a look at our guide to waterproof jackets.

Teen camping essentials

Ask older kids to help do their own holiday packing and encourage them to bring items they know will keep them occupied during your camping trip. Here are a few ideas:

Headphones

Headphones are easy to forget, so make sure the right ones are packed.

Bikes and scooters

Exploring on two wheels is a great way to discover the varying landscapes around our campsites. If you’re still deciding on your campsite, take a look at our best cycling holidays in the UK.

Portable power bank

If you’re going to spend time away from the campsite exploring, a good power bank ensures photos can be taken all day long.

Are you thinking of taking the whole family away, but not sure where to go? Check out our best family campsites in the UK. If you're looking to save money on UK camping trips and benefit from UK retail discounts and more, join the Club.