by beconrad
Whether you are looking for a gentle introduction to the world of camping or a fun activity for the kids, car camping can be a great choice. Car camping allows you – and the kids – to enjoy the wonders nature has to offer. At the same time, car camping lets you bring along some of the comforts of home.
From your favorite pillow to a comfortable air mattress, you can literally bring anything that fits in your car. Some modern campgrounds even have electricity and heated bathrooms, so you can camp under the stars without roughing it too much.
If this is your first foray into the world of car camping, you will want to prepare carefully and be ready for a great adventure. Car camping may be easier and less stressful than backpacking through the wilderness, but it still requires some amount of preparation and careful planning.
. Let the kids pick their own comfort items. Nothing ruins a family camping trip as fast as a tent full of screaming kids. Letting every member of the family choose their own special items is the best way to keep the kids entertained and on their best behavior.
. Plan fun activities. You might be content to hike all day and take in the beauty of nature, but those simple activities could leave the kids bored and cranky. Plan some fun family activities to keep the kids entertained – like telling ghost stories or roasting marshmallows by the fire.
. Research the local campgrounds. This is even more important if you will be camping with young children, since some campgrounds are more family friendly than others.
. Bring comfortable shoes or hiking boots and several changes of clothes. You never know when a sudden rainstorm or turn in the weather will leave your clothes soaking wet. Packing plenty of extra garments and quality wool socks will help ensure every new hiking experience is a pleasant one.
. Pack extra water and more food than you think you will need. The campground may have running water and vending machines, but do you really want to run down there in the middle of the night or spend all your cash on overpriced food? Packing smart can save you money and keep the kids happy and well fed.
. Keep a fully-stocked first aid kit in your car. You should have a first aid kit in your car anyway, but be sure to check its contents before you leave for the camping trip. From minor abrasions and burns to falls and scrapes, you never know when you will need a bandage or some antibiotic cream.
Car camping can be a fun family adventure – if you know what to bring and how to keep everyone entertained. If you plan carefully and make your first foray into the wilderness fun, you just might find that car camping is everyone’s new favorite activity.
