Family camping trips have the power to create lifelong memories, forging bonds and fostering a love for the natural world around us. With the right gear and a little preparation, it's easy to unplug and connect with the great outdoors while still enjoying the comfort and convenience of home.
Follow our guide where we'll explore three key aspects of camping with kids: choosing the perfect tent set-up, easy camp cooking, and selecting campfire gear that's perfect for little Snow Peakers.
1. Selecting a Family-Friendly Tent:
A reliable and spacious tent is the cornerstone of a successful family camping trip. When choosing a tent, keep the following points in mind:
- Size & Capacity: Look for a tent that comfortably accommodates your family and allows for additional space for storage. A four-person tent is a great starting point, but consider larger options or connecting tarps and shelters to provide extra room for gear, activities, and unexpected rainy days.
- Easy Set-up: Opt for a tent with a straightforward set-up process, preferably one that can be pitched by a single person or with helpful features that are easy for little helpers to follow. Elements like color-coded poles, intuitive instructions, and quick-clip systems will make assembly a breeze.
- Weather Resistance: Ensure your tent is designed to withstand various weather conditions. Look for features like a durable rainfly, reinforced stitching, and a sturdy frame that can handle unexpected wind gusts. This will provide you peace of mind and keep your family dry and comfortable throughout your camping trip
OUR RECOMMENDED GEAR
- 1. Land Nest Medium Tent Tarp Set: A multifunctional 4-person tent and tarp set with ample space for sleeping and gathering.
- 2. Entry 2 Room Elfield: Specifically designed for new campers, the simple setup creates a living and bedroom space. Remove the inner tent for a shelter that fits up to eight people.
- 3. Alpha Breeze Tent Set: Increased ventilation, color-coordinated pieces and entry points on all sides make this a great family tent. Extend the vestibule for a covered gathering area.
2. Getting Kids Involved in Campsite Cooking
Cooking at the campsite can be a fun and rewarding experience for both parents and children. Here's three helpful tips to encourage kids to participate:
- Assign Age-Appropriate Tasks: Give kids a specific task based on their age and skill level. Younger kids can help gather firewood, wash fruits and vegetables, or set the table, while older kids can assist with chopping vegetables, stirring ingredients, or even grilling. Use various leg heights to customize your IGT Camp Kitchen to make it kid-accessible for kitchen prep, cooking, or dining.
- Come Prepared: Turn cooking into an adventure by involving kids in planning the menu, prepping & packing ingredients, and creating unique campfire recipes. Use the Tobachi 2 or Tobachi 3 containers to store prepped or leftover meals.
- Make Cleanup Easy: Establish a cleaning station with a Waterproof Gear Container as a sink and Garbage Frame to hold any trash bag to keep your campsite clean and critter free. Use separate containers to responsibly manage waste for recyclables, compost, and general trash to help leave the site better than you found it.
OUR RECOMMENDED GEAR:
- 1. IGT Camp Kitchen Starter Set: The perfect 6pc pre-built camp kitchen set-up for any family. Includes components for prep, cooking, and cleaning.
- 2. Tobachi 3 in White: Pack prepped foods ahead of time or store leftovers after cooking, this insulated system includes three individual storage containers that fit into a single cylinder compartment.
- 3. 12pc. Titanium Cutlery Set: This lightweight, ultra durable set includes flatware for four plus a convenient mesh carrying case.
Check out our kid-friendly camp recipes for easy and fun menu ideas for your next camping experience!
3. Campfire Gear for Kids
A well-equipped campfire adds magic to any camping experience. Here are some kid-friendly campfire essentials:
- Fire-Resistant Gear: Safety comes first with our range of protective gear made with aramid fabrics to prevent spark damage. Our Takibi apparel, Fireside Gloves, and Takibi Tarp Hexa Set are designed to protect against flames or hot embers.
- Campfire Games & Activities: Pack a few classic campfire games or create your own storytelling activities. These moments encourage bonding and create a cozy atmosphere for sharing stories and laughter.
- Don't Forget the S'mores: No campfire is complete without a s'more session. Roast the classic graham cracker, marshmallow, chocolate combination or invent one of your own! A Snow Peak favorite includes a melted peanut butter cup.
OUR RECOMMENDED GEAR:
- 1. Takibi Essentials Set: A 4pc set of foundation accessories for any good campfire, including flame-resistant gloves.
- 2. Kids Takibi Vest: Protection and pockets - this vest has storage for all the fun finds and protection from sparks.
- 3. Takibi Fire & Grill: Packable, portable and modular, the Takibi Fire & Grill is the ideal firepit at home or to take on any camping trip.
Family camping trips provide countless opportunities for adventure, connection, and growth. Don't let the unknowns intimidate you - with the right gear and preparation, you can let the joy of family camping unfold as you explore the beauty of nature together, creative cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Shop our Family Camping Collection for curated assortment of essential gear to make your next trip easy, clean, and fun for the whole group.
