Everything You Need to Know About How to Pack Light For Your Next Family Camping Trip
When you’re heading out on a camping trip with your family, one of the biggest challenges is how to pack light. While it may seem like an impossible task to bring everything you need for a comfortable camping experience without weighing down the car, there are several tips and methods you can use to ensure you’re packing light and smart.
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Create a Packing List
Creating a packing list is the best way to make sure you don’t forget anything important and don’t bring anything unnecessary. You should include main items, such as tents, sleeping bags, warm clothing and cooking utensils. Include small items like flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit, as well as any items you may not usually go camping without, like a change of clothes or kids’ snacks. Be sure to double-check your camping list against the weather forecast, and if you’re unsure of what to bring, there are plenty of printable camping checklists available online.
Share the Load
If you’re camping with other family members, everyone can be in charge of packing something. For example, one family member can be responsible for the food, another for the shelter, a third for entertainment items, etc. That way, everyone is pitching in with the packing and the load is shared amongst all the campers. You can also lighten the load by bringing fewer items that serve multiple purposes, such as a multi-tool or a tarp that could be used in a variety of ways.
Use Lightweight Gear
Instead of packing heavy items, choose lightweight camping gear instead. You may have to invest a bit more money into these items, but they’ll save your back in the long run. Look for lighter tents, sleeping bags, hammocks, and other camping essentials to cut down on the total weight you’re carrying.
Pack the Right Food
You don’t need to pack all your home comforts when camping, so focus on packing food that can be prepared easily, such as pre-packaged snacks, granola bars and dried fruit. Make sure to bring enough water for everyone, and invest in a water filter if you will be camping somewhere with poor water sources. Avoid the temptation to pack up non-essential items like hot chocolate and marshmallows – you won’t need it and it’ll only add to the weight.
Pack Clothes Accordingly
When it comes to what to wear camping, you can get away with a few key items including merino wool base layers, waterproof and windproof jackets, and any lightweight sportswear. Make sure to bring plenty of thin layers, which can be worn one over the other if it gets colder in the evenings. As a rule of thumb, bring one change of clothing for every three days that you will be camping in. When it comes to shoes, make sure to pack a few pairs of lightweight, comfortable shoes that can be used for walking, hiking, and for playing sports.
Take a Duffel Bag or Backpack Instead of Suitcases
This way, you can pack and organize your items better. As an added bonus, duffel bags and backpacks also are much easier to carry when walking from the car to your campsite. Consider buying a storage cube bag as it will allow you to separate your items and keep them organized in the bag.
Make Space in the Vehicle
One way to ensure you’re packing light is to maximize the space in the car that you’re traveling in. Make sure to make the most of the roof space and use a roof rack to store your gear. You can also invest in a roof tent, which can be used as a place to sleep instead of bringing a traditional tent. Also, make sure that the items that you’re packing are tied down and secured properly, so that they don’t move around in the car and cause any damage.
Watch a Masterclass on Packing for Family Camping
To get the most out of any family camping trip, you should watch a masterclass on how to pack light for your family camping trip. One such video comes from Bushwackers Supplies, offering useful tips and advice on what to bring and not bring when camping with kids.
By using the tips above, you’ll be able to easily and efficiently pack everything you need for a successful family camping trip without overpacking. The key is to remember the basics, plan ahead, and share the load amongst all the family members.
With the right gear and preparation, you can easily pack light and create a comfortable camping experience for the whole family. Good luck!