A First-Timer’s Guide To Camping With Friends And Family
Camping is a great outdoor bonding activity with family and friends. While camping with kids involves plenty of work, it’s great to get out there and spend some quality time with them in the woods. This type of activity leaves you connected to nature and your loved ones. Check this quick guide to camping with friends and family below:
A good plan makes your camping trip more memorable, enjoyable, and comfortable. Make a master list of everything you will need. When scheduling, expect heightened after-bedtime noise on holiday weekends when campsites are crowded.
Here are some tips that you should remember:
● Choose a campground that can be easily accessed by driving your car or a brief hike.
● Pick a campsite with kid-friendly activities.
● Hiking and camping activities should be near the campground (walking distance).
● Choose a park offering full amenities (e.g., bathroom, shower, and water spigot) for the
comfort of your children.
● Invest in high-quality camping tents and gears.
● Make a reservation using the website of the park or by phone.
● Check the weather before leaving.
Food Preparation and Cooking
Young children and teenagers don’t only look forward to the views and camp activities, but also the food cooked and served.
Here are some tips when preparing food:
● It’s important to consider your heat source for cooking (e.g., stove, direct fire, charcoal).
Preferably, use a basic camping stove.
● Pack all cookware and tableware essentials (e.g., frying pan, knife, plates, tin mug,
spoon, and fork).
● Avoid food waste by chopping veggies at home.
● Eat the most perishable food first to avoid worrying if the cooler does not keep your food
cold.
Prioritize Safety
Safe camping is a happy camping experience. Ensure the safety of your friends and family by:
● Checking for possible safety hazards (e.g., cliffs, overhanging limbs).
● Leaving enough space between your camping tent and the cooking area.
● Discussing campsite rules (e.g., no going to restricted areas, buddy system, keeping food
and trash contained, no playing inside the tent, cleaning before leaving).
Camping Must-haves
Aside from a high-quality camping tent and camping stove, you also need the following things to enjoy the whole experience with friends and family:
● Camera (capture clear and beautiful photos for your travel blog)
● Fordable camping chairs
● Towels
● Flashlights, headlamp, and lanterns (inside and outside the tent)
● Insect repellent
● Cooler and ice packs
● Toilet paper
● Toys for small kids
● Magnifying glass
● Bug catcher kit
● Sleeping bags
● Swiss Army knife
● Garbage bags
● First aid kit
Prepare Special Bonding Activities
Make your camping memorable by preparing something special for everyone to enjoy such as:
● Fun games (e.g., riddles, charades)
● Stargazing (e.g., using telescope)
● Storytelling (e.g., childhood camping experience or fantasy).
Now, you are ready for your first camping trip. Enjoy every moment of it and don’t forget that this time is a perfect bonding experience. Limit using your gadget and spend time talking, hiking, telling stories, and having fun with your family and friends.
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