A Parent's Guide to Camping With a Toddler or Baby
Camping with a baby or toddler doesn't have to be overwhelming if you know how to prepare. Discover what to do ahead of time, what gear to pack, how to stay safe, and more.
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When my sister-in-law told me that she was going on a camping trip with two kids under the age of 2, I thought she was crazy. Babies and camping sounds like a disaster waiting to happen. But as it turns out, many families—including my sister-in-law's—love the adventure of camping, even with little ones in tow.
The fresh air, the smell of the fire, and the endless fun of exploring nature are memories in the making. Plus, camping with a toddler or baby is not only possible, but it's also enjoyable too—as long as you go into it prepared. Here are a few tips for making the most of your family's first camping experience.
Choose the Right Campground
A successful camping trip will first depend on where you decide to go. You may start by choosing a site that's more local to you, so you're not forced to make a long road trip with your child and risk arriving with a tired and cranky little one. You might be surprised by how many camping sites are nearby and just how many resources they offer!
Think ahead about what type of camping experience you want and then do some research. Check your state's Department of Natural Resources website for a list of available campgrounds. Many sites allow call-ahead reservations while others accept online reservations if you set up an account.
You might consider state parks, which usually offer perks like free shower facilities, paved trails, advanced reservations, and low site fees. Some campsites also provide fun things like splash pads, on-site pools, full restaurants, tennis courts, and putt-putt golfing.
If you choose a rural or rustic camping experience, prepare for the unexpected. Some places don't offer advanced reservations and only give spots on a first-come, first-served basis. Take advantage of your baby's early wake-up time and hit the road in time to be the first one to reserve a spot.
Consider too, your worst-case scenario for what would happen if your little one got sick. Determine how close the campground is to an urgent care center or hospital. Or pick a campground close enough to home that you could leave in an emergency.
Consider the Campsite Logistics
All camping is pretty much the same, right? You pitch a tent, start a fire, roast some marshmallows? Well, yes and no. There are usually many types of campsites within the same campground. If you can, check out online reviews to hear what other families have to say.
For example, if you're using a tent and won't have access to a bathroom, you may want to choose a site near the bathroom, especially if you're traveling with a potty-training toddler. Or, if you are using an RV or another camper, you may want to be closest to the playground so your little one can stay entertained.
Look at the campsite map and gauge what might be best for your family. Also, consider the shade and sun of your site. This might sound small, but keeping your baby out of the sun is a big deal.
If you have a tent without shade and choose a full-sun spot in the summer, you'll likely end up sweltering and worrying about sunscreen. On the flip side, an overly shaded area can be a magnet for bugs and make for a miserable, itchy camping trip. A partially shaded site is ideal because it will have fewer bugs and will provide you with some relief from the sun.
Bring the Right Gear
Although camping is supposed to be rustic, no one wants to rough it too much when trying to enjoy time with your baby or toddler. Successful camping is all about the gear, and you'll want to make sure you have the right stuff to make your camping trip fun for the whole family. When camping with a baby, consider bringing the following items:
Portable camping high chair or pod: These usually run from around $30 to $60, and they can be easily folded up and wiped down.
Hiking carrier: A baby carrier is a must if you plan to walk a lot. Look for one that's sturdy and can accommodate your baby's weight.
Wet wipes: You can never have too many wet wipes! You'll also want to bring a bag to dispose of your trash, including wipes and diapers.
Basic first aid kit: It goes without saying that you'll need a first-aid kit when camping. You never know if you'll need to remove a splinter, bandage a cut, or treat a bug bite with some anti-itch cream.
Outdoor rug or beach mat: You'll want something to extend your living space, especially if your baby is crawling. You could use many things for this, including a leftover piece of carpet, indoor/outdoor carpeting, or even a tarp. If your site is sandy, a beach mat can keep the sand to a minimum.
Playpen or Pack 'n Play: For a baby, you'll want a portable crib of some sort. Not only is it a necessity for sleeping, but it's useful for keeping your child entertained and corralled. It can be helpful for a toddler, too, especially if you need to keep them contained while you get dinner going over the fire.
Noise machine: While a battery-powered noise machine isn't exactly rustic camping gear, it can come in handy if you've got a fussy baby, especially if it helps soothe your little one to sleep.
Cooler: If you plan on storing breast milk or formula, a cooler is a must-have. In fact, you may need several coolers to store food, drinks, and more.
Lots of layers: Temperatures can drop drastically at night. Pack enough layers for your baby to add as the night goes on.
Related: 19 Tips for Camping With Kids
Guard Against Bugs
Camping with young ones can be a wonderful experience, but it may also include a lot of unexpected and unwanted mementos in the form of bug bites. To deter bugs, dress your child in lightweight clothing with long sleeves and closed-toe shoes. Use a floppy hat or one with a wide brim to keep bugs out of their face.
You can apply insect repellent, but be cautious about which ones you use. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that kids' products contain no more than 30% DEET. As an alternative, you can choose a repellant with picaridin as the active ingredient.
Never apply bug spray to a baby younger than 2 months old. Once they reach an appropriate age, only apply the spray on exposed skin and monitor your baby or toddler for any reaction.
If you can, attach a bug net to your baby's seat or playpen whenever possible to ward off bug intruders instead.
Essential oil bug repellants—such as soybeans, cedar, or citronella—can be used, although they're very short-acting. Plus, these repellants haven't been studied well, so apply them sparingly on young children. As for the "natural" products on the market, such as wristbands soaked in essential oils or ultrasonic devices, the AAP notes that they have not been proven to be effective against bugs.
Related: 24 Low-Cost Summer Activities for Kids
Keep Safety in Mind
Camping with a baby or toddler means you'll have to do things a little differently than you might at home. After all, you can't really babyproof your campsite, so you'll need to be on the lookout for potential hazards.
When you arrive, clean up the campsite before setting up your tent or other belongings. Look for small rocks, debris, sticks, and other things that could pose a danger to your child. While you won't be able to remove everything, you can certainly get rid of the obvious risks.
You should also write your campsite number on your child's hand, especially if you have a toddler. While it's highly unlikely they'll wander off without you, accidents do happen, and if someone finds your child wandering around the campground, they'll know where they belong.
If your budget allows, consider getting a mesh tent to set up at camp. Not only will it keep bugs out, but it also can become a safe place for your baby or toddler to play. You can also purchase large ones that fit chairs inside.
Finally, learn where the pools, lakes, and beach are located at camp and bring an appropriate life jacket for your child. If they happen to wander off when your back is turned, these are the first places you should look. More kids between the ages of 1 and 4 die of drowning each year than any other cause.
Key Takeaway
Camping can be a rewarding family experience, but it's not a trip to undertake spontaneously when you have a baby or toddler. Advanced planning and preparation is key. Having the right supplies and gear, as well as being prepared for accidents, can make it more fun for everyone.
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