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Ah, camping – one of my fondest childhood memories. We used to camp right on the creek. When I was very young, we camped in a tent and then we eventually graduated to a camper – woohoo! As a child, I had SO much fun. The great outdoors is the perfect playhouse for kids and adults alike and it’s important to get out and explore. Appealing to so many different senses, the outdoors are such a great learning environment for kids.
Camping may seem daunting to do with a toddler, but it can be done, I promise! To help ease your mind and give you and your toddler an unforgettable camping experience, read below!
What to Pack – Essentials
I tried to compile necessities for any situation, but the things you need from this list may vary slightly depending if you are staying in a tent, camper, or cabin. Choose whatever works best for your situation, and remember, always prioritize safety!
Sun Protection
Thinksport Kids Mineral Sunscreen is our favorite go-to! If your tot gives you trouble while applying it, try the Solar Buddies Sponge Applicator for Kids. I’m telling you, this is a total game-changer for babies and toddlers. It’s never a bad idea to wear other sun protection items on your kiddo like hats and sunglasses, too.
Bug Repellent
Here at Happy Moms Club, we love all-natural items for our kids. Our favorite natural bug spray alternative is Babyganics Insect Repellent which works wonders and is amazing for babies and toddlers sensitive skin. Another great option is Mosquito Repellent Stickers which you can stick anywhere on your kiddo’s clothes and it does a pretty good job of keeping mosquitos at bay.
Portable Highchair
Your tot may or may not use a highchair anymore and if they don’t, hear me out on this one! This Go with Me Venture Portable Chair seats anywhere from a baby to 8 years old. It serves as a highchair or foldable chair, has a canopy, and can be used sitting, standing, or in big kid mode! This is a great portable chair to have around for your kiddo and will grow with them for years to come.
Pack n’ Play or Toddler Bed
Depending on what’s appropriate for your child, you’ll want to add a Pack n’ Play or Portable Toddler Bed to your list. Also depending on your sleeping situation and the amount of light coming through your window/tent, you may want to consider purchasing a Slumberpod which is a must-have for any traveling scenario in our book! This creates a blackout atmosphere for your child and is amazing for room sharing. It even has compartments to put your baby monitor and sound machine in (pending electricity of course)!
Drinking Water and Snacks
You’ll want to pack a variety of meals to eat (think simple, nutritious meals that are easy to prepare at the campsite like instant oatmeal, pre-cooked pasta, or canned beans). But specifically for your tot, you’ll want to pack an array of healthy, easy-to-pack snacks (such as fruit, crackers, cheese sticks, and granola bars), and clean drinking water. Pack an insulated sippy cup or grab some disposable straw cups so you don’t have to worry about washing.
Clothes and Shoes
If you’re going where it’s hot, pack lightweight, comfortable clothes for your tot. Pack a few layering options as well just in case. You’ll want to pack good closed-toed shoes like sneakers and water shoes if you’re visiting a lake, creek, or river. If you’re swimming, pack your rash guard swimsuits and reusable or disposable swim diapers, too! Don’t forget your child’s life jacket!
Comfort Item
Bringing your child’s favorite blanket or stuffy is a must to help them feel secure in their new sleeping environment.
First-Aid Kit
This is super important when you’re spending time outdoors, you never know when you might need it! This is our favorite travel first-aid kit.
Portable Potty
Unless you are staying in a cabin or a camper that has a potty, a travel potty can be extremely helpful if your tot is potty training! A simple, compact travel potty like this one will be tremendously helpful while camping and is just a great item to keep in the car to have on hand.
Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer
These will come in handy a lot while camping! They will make clean up much easier and will help to maintain hygiene on the trip.
ID Bracelet
As I mentioned in my Toddler Beach Essentials post, these reusable, waterproof child ID bracelets could literally save a life. If we are traveling or going anywhere crowded we ALWAYS wear one of these on our child just in case!
Toddler Carrier or Stroller
For hikes and long walks, a comfortable toddler carrier or sturdy stroller is essential. Our favorite hiking backpack for our toddler is the Luvdbaby Hiking Backpack which holds my toddler comfortably, is breathable and features a changing pad plus a sun and rain hood!
If bike riding is more your style, make sure you have a trusty bike seat or pull behind for your kiddo. Don’t forget a helmet! We love this cute flowery one for girls and this awesome outer space one for boys.
Now that we’ve gotten all of the essentials down, below I’m going to list some fun, optional items to bring along for your tot as well!
Optional
Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Giddy Buggy Flashlight
PINK Owl Camping Lantern & Headlamp Set for Kids or GREY Owl Camping Lantern & Headlamp Set for Kids
Melissa & Doug BUTTERFLY Child’s Camping Chair or Melissa & Doug Child’s BUG Camping Chair
Melissa & Doug Kids Hiking Play Set
Children’s Campfire Songs Book
We love camping and the quality family bonding time that comes along with it. Camping with a toddler does require some extra preparation, but with the right essentials, it can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. Always practice safety, and have fun! Enjoy your many adventures and cherish the amazing memories that you’ll make and will last a lifetime for both you and your kiddo!
What are some toddler camping essentials you can’t live without?
XOXO,
Katie
