Mum Hacks for Camping with Toddlers (Tips and Tricks)

Camping with your toddler is an excellent opportunity to expose them to the great outdoors and to create lasting memories.

But let's face it, it can be challenging!

The good news is that with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be a fun and rewarding adventure for everyone. We'll share some Mum hacks for camping with toddlers to help you plan and execute a stress-free trip.

What should I take camping with a toddler?

When it comes to camping with toddlers, being prepared is key. Before you set off on your adventure, make sure to pack the following:

• Shelter and sleeping gear: Hopefully this is a bit of a no brainer! but make sure you've got a suitable tent or some form of shelter that can protect you and your toddler from the elements. Also, don't forget to pack some warm blankets, comfortable sleeping bags, and pillows to keep you both snug and cozy at night - unless you're in a hot country or camping in the middle of the summer, we often take hats to sleep in as it can be cold in the middle of the night.

• Comfort and safety items: Your toddler's safety and comfort should be your top priority. Bring a portable crib or travel bed to ensure that they have a safe and secure place to sleep. Also, pack some sunscreen, bug spray, and a first aid kit. Don't forget to bring extra clothes in case of accidents or spills.

• Food and drinks: Pack lots of healthy snacks and fluids to keep your toddler hydrated and energized throughout the day. Also, don't forget to bring a cooler, a stove, utensils, and plates to cook and serve meals.

• Entertainment and activities: Toddlers get bored easily, so bring some toys, games, and books to keep them entertained.

Can you take a 2-year-old camping?

Yes, you can definitely take a 2-year-old camping.

It's important to be realistic about what you can do with your toddler and to choose a campsite that is safe and suited for their age.

Make sure that the campsite has amenities such as running water, toilets, and and depending on how old your toddler is, nearby playground for entertainment. It might also be worth choosing a campsite that is close to home in case you need to cut your trip short - and it help not to be sat in a car for hours and hours before you get to the campsite.

Can a toddler sleep in a tent?

Yes, toddlers can sleep in a tent, provided that you have the right sleeping gear and a safe and secure place for them to sleep.

Make sure that the tent is strong, sturdy, and waterproof. Also, if you can choose your pitch on the campsite get one that's as flat and free from rocks and branches as you can.

There's a great video from Jenn Least about what she takes camping with toddlers:

What do toddlers sleep in when camping?

When camping, toddlers can sleep in a portable crib or a travel bed. Make sure that the sleeping gear is suitable for their age and that it provides enough cushioning and warmth to keep them comfortable throughout the night.

Mum Hacks for a Successful Camping Trip with Toddlers

Now that you know what to pack and how to prepare for your camping trip, here are some mum hacks for a successful experience:

1. Prepare your toddler for the trip: Talk to your toddler about the trip and what they can expect. Let them help you pack and involve them in the planning process.

2. Plan your meals ahead: Prepare some simple and healthy meals ahead of time to save time and save you having to fire up the stove for every meal - we tend to just have cereals for the kids for breakfast, perhaps and sandwich when we're out and about during the day, and then BBQ / cook on the stove in the evening when the kids were getting settled. If you're preparing food to take beforehand you could also get your toddler to "help" the meal preparation.

3. Create a routine and stick to it: Toddlers thrive on routine, so make sure to create a routine for your camping trip and stick to it as much as possible.

4. Bring plenty of wet wipes and hand sanitizer: Camping can be messy, so bring plenty of wet wipes and hand sanitizer to keep you and your toddler clean and germ-free.

5. Pack some extra blankets and warm clothes: Temperatures can drop at night, so make sure to bring extra blankets and warm clothes to keep you and your toddler snug and warm.

6. Don't forget to have fun: Camping with a toddler can be challenging, but it can also be a lot of fun. Don't forget to take some time to relax and enjoy the great outdoors with your toddler.

We camped with our kids when they were toddlers, and it can be a fair bit of work, but it is also a great family adventure. With the right preparation and mindset, you can create lasting memories and have a stress-free experience. Remember to plan ahead, be realistic, and enjoy this special time with your loved ones.

Camping with toddlers checklist

Shelter and Sleeping Gear

• Tent (with stakes and guylines)
• Ground cloth (to protect the bottom of the tent)
• Sleeping bags
• Pillows
• Portable crib/Travel bed
• Extra blankets

Comfort and Safety Items

• First aid kit
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Extra clothing (sweaters, pants, socks, hats)
• Rain poncho or rain suit
• Appropriate footwear (sneakers, sandals, hiking boots)
• Hand sanitizer
• Diapers and wipes
• Portable potty or toilet seat (if your child is being potty trained)
• Wet Wipes

Food and Drinks

• Cooler
• Food containers
• Cooking utensils
• Plates and cups
• Snacks (fruit, crackers, granola bars)
• Beverages (water, milk, juice boxes)

Entertainment and Activities

• Books
• Toys
• Art supplies (coloring books, crayons)
• Outdoor gear (bikes, scooters, balls)
• Hiking and nature guidebooks

Other Essentials

• Maps and guidebooks
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Multi-tool or pocket knife
• Fire starters and matches
• Rope/cord for hanging wet clothing or creating a clothesline
• Trash bags

We hope that gives you some inspiration to get out to a campsite with your toddler - take it easy, don't try and do too much and hopefully you have a great time :)