The Ultimate Camping Checklist for Fathers with Three Kids
Are you planning on heading out for a camping trip with your three kids in tow? If your answer is yes, then you will need to make sure that you have gone through all of the essential items that you will need to have in orderto ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the whole family. Having a clear and organised camping checklist will help to guarantee your trip is enjoyable, safe and memorable.
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Essential Camping Supplies
No matter if you’re camping in a tent or an RV, there are some basic camping supplies that you can’t go without. Lists of basic camping gear tend to vary from one area to the next, but there are a few items that are must-haves across the board. Here’s what you need to check off your list before hitting the campground:
- Tent and Tent Stakes
- Sleeping Bags and/or Sleeping Pads
- Camping Chairs
- Cooler
- Camping Stove
- Camp Cookware
- Camping Lantern
- Clothing and Footwear Suitable for Hiking
In addition to the basics, there are a few smaller items that can make camping with three kids much easier. Consider packing these items into your camping gear to make your trip more comfortable for everyone.
- First Aid Kit
- Sunscreen & Reflective Gear
- Matches or a Lighter
- Hats & Sunglasses
- Bug Spray
- Extra Flashlights & Batteries
- Shotgun Shells for Hunting Safety/Bells for Mountain Biking
Additional Camping Supplies for Campers with Three Kids
Taking three kids camping can definitely present some additional challenges that you may not have experienced on past trips. To make sure everyone has a good time, it is important to plan ahead and bring the right camping accessories. Here are a few of the supplies you will want to add to your camping to-do list:
- Large Family Tent – you will want to invest in a large tent designed to accommodate your whole family and all of your camping gear.
- Extra Sleeping Bags – if you are bringing any extra kids or adults along, make sure you have enough sleeping bags to go around.
- Arcade Games – young kids are often cooped up in the tent for the majority of the time. Having a set of portable arcade games on hand can provide them with some much-needed entertainment.
- Camping Chairs – having enough camping chairs for everyone will provide the extra seating you may need for campfire meals.
- Portable Toilet – young kids may have trouble walking long distances to the campground bathrooms, making a portable toilet a lifesaver for families with kids.
Additionally, you should make sure that you have plenty of spare clothing and toiletries on hand in case of accidents or bad weather. It’s also essential to be prepared for any potential medical emergencies. Pack basic first-aid supplies in a waterproof bag and bring along a working cellphone (or walkie-talkies). It is also important to research any safety precautions or emergency protocols that are unique to the specific campground and area.
Safety and Tips for Campers with Three Kids
Camping is meant to be enjoyed and relaxing for the entire family. To ensure everyone’s safety and happiness, it is important to keep a few general camping tips in mind to prepare for any potential pitfalls.
- Research the Area – make sure you have a good understanding of the terrain, wildlife, and local rules or regulations before you head out on your trip.
- Encourage the Kids to Participate – kids are often more enthusiastic and excited about camping when they are given tasks to complete. Assign age-appropriate tasks to help make the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
- Plan Meals Ahead of Time – trying to keep hunger at bay while camping with kids can be a challenge. Planning meals the night before and prepping supplies ahead of time can save a lot of frustration.
- Check the Weather – be prepared to adjust your schedule based on the weather. Take appropriate layers of clothing for cooler temperatures and have a plan in place if rain starts to pour.
- Bring Games and Activities – having plenty of games in various spots around the campsite will help to keep kids entertained.
- Listen to Your Gut – never force yourself or any family members to do something they don’t feel comfortable with. Keep an eye out for potential danger or health risks and trust your instincts.
Once you have taken the time to assemble all of the essential camping gear, the list of possible activities and experiences with your kids is practically endless. Fishing, nature hikes, kayaking, building a fort, and stargazing are just a few ideas that you might want to explore on your family camping trip.
Also, make sure to keep yourself educated and informed about the many different types of camping available and the necessary gear for each type. Over the years, I have found that many people tend to overlook the camping gear required for different kinds of outdoor activities. To make sure you have a great time camping, it’s always a good idea to research any specific activity you’re planning.
To make planning your next family camping trip a little easier, here’s a handy camping checklist I have compiled over the years:
- Tent
- Tent Stakes
- Sleeping Bags and Sleeping Pads
- Camping Chairs
- Cooler
- Camping Stove
- Camp Cookware
- Camping Lantern
- Clothing and Footwear Suitable for Hiking
- First Aid Kit
- Sunscreen & Reflective Gear
- Matches or a Lighter
- Hats & Sunglasses
- Bug Spray
- Extra Flashlights & Batteries
- Shotgun Shells for Hunting / Bells for Mountain Biking
- Large Family Tent
- Extra Sleeping Bags
- Arcade Games
- Portable Toilet
- Spare Clothing and Toiletries
And last but not least, don’t forget to have fun!
Now that you know what to take camping with three kids in tow, it’s time to start planning. Here’s a helpful video by Camp Kulin that will walk you through some of the best places to camp in Australia:
Whether you’re a novice camper or a seasoned adventurer, a camping checklist will guarantee that your family outing goes off without a hitch. With the right plan, three kids and a few days out in the wilderness can be an incredible bonding experience that everyone will cherish for a lifetime.