Camping with children is an adventure in itself. It combines the outdoors with quality time for the whole family. In this article, we provide tips, inspiration and practical insights to make camping with kids a relaxing and unforgettable experience. Whether you're camping for the first time or have been setting up a trailer tent like a pro for years, these tips will make any camping experience fun with kids.
Fun camping with kids: what to look out for?
Good preparation starts with choosing a fun campsite with kids. Think playgrounds, swimming facilities, entertainment and preferably car-free zones. But also look at less obvious amenities, such as:
-
Shady spots near the pitch: ideal for afternoon naps or to play without risk of overheating.
-
Family bathrooms or children's showers: just that little bit of extra comfort for the morning or evening ritual.
-
A small farm or animal pasture: educational and a favorite with many children.
-
Camping spots near other families: so your kids make friends fast and you can have a social drink with your camping neighbors.
This will make camping not only fun with kids, but also practical and relaxing for parents.
Smart packing: kid-friendly camping gear
Camping with kids and efficient packing don't always go hand in hand. After all, if you go on a camping trip with children, you soon have the idea of lugging half the contents with you. A high chair, some outdoor toys, a nightlight and a good bed are often taken for granted in this regard. But also consider:
-
A folding step: useful when getting in and out of the camper or caravan, brushing teeth or to reach the kitchen sink independently.
-
Waterproof toy storage box: prevents lost or wet stuff.
-
An insulated water bottle: keeps water or lemonade cool during hot camping days.
-
A travel journal or coloring book: ideal for quiet moments and fun as a keepsake.
And do you really want to be prepared for your trip? Check out our article "How to avoid breakdowns and stress on the road" for smart preparation tips.
Tip from the pro: involve the kids in the packing process. That way, the adventure starts at home and they know exactly what they're bringing. Check out use this packing list for camping as a base, that way you won't forget anything!
Structure and freedom: the secret recipe
Camping is all about freedom, but children also benefit from a certain structure. Think fixed meal times and a recognizable evening ritual, even in the tent or caravan. Still, you don't have to keep the schedule too tight. Leave room for spontaneous outings, new friends and unexpected adventures.
A handy camping hack: bring a whiteboard or chalkboard that you can make a daily schedule on together. Kids like to know what's on the schedule, and you keep an overview.
Playing outside is learning
One of the biggest advantages of camping with kids? They are outside all day. Building huts, looking for bugs, jumping in ditches or helping set up the tent. These are all experiences that contribute to their development. Leave screens behind as much as possible and encourage exploring nature.
Rain? Don't panic!
Of course, you may also have to deal with rainy days. So make sure you have a "bad weather box" with games, books, craft materials and a deck of cards. Even a short car ride to an indoor playground, zoo or museum can work wonders. Many campsites in the Netherlands and Europe now offer indoor facilities, ideal for changeable weather.
Camping with kids? Do it!
Camping with children sometimes requires some adaptability, but it also provides unforgettable memories. Roasting marshmallows together, spotting animals on a walk in the woods or simply playing memory games in the awning are the moments that linger.
Are you ready to let your kids discover camping life? With the right mindset, a little preparation, a kid-friendly campsite and plenty of flexibility, it's guaranteed to be a top vacation.
