Wild Camping as a Family

When it comes to making memories, going wild camping as a family is an unforgettable experience for people of all ages to enjoy. Introducing children to the great outdoors from an early age provides an opportunity for them to feel free, explore, and learn about the world around them.

Taking your children wild camping will create happy, valuable memories that they will remember for years to come. However, as any parent will know, planning a trip with kids takes a little extra thought. In our guide to wild camping as a family, we cover the essentials you will need to bring along, and our top activities to ensure you all have fun!

Essentials for wild camping as a family

The key to any wild camping kit is always to pack light, but if you’re bringing the whole family along, you may find that you need to bring some additional items to keep everyone happy, comfortable, and enjoying themselves.

Wild camping is better suited to older children, however with the right planning, toiletries, and equipment, you can create magical memories and enjoy some quality time as a family, away from the stressors and responsibilities of day-to-day life.

If you’re going wild camping as a family, here are a few additional items to pack in your kit:

Fleece blankets – Even if you plan your wild camping trip during the warmer summer months, it’s important to remember how suddenly temperatures can drop overnight. Keep your little ones warm by packing some onesies and cosy fleece blankets.

Sleeping bags or air bed – A happy child is a well-rested one. Packing a high-quality sleeping bag or – depending on how far you have to hike, and how much room you have in your kit – an air Mat, will ensure they have the best chance possible of getting a good night’s sleep, ready for a full day of outdoor activities.

Flashlight or head torch – It’s not uncommon for children to be afraid of the dark, especially in the quiet countryside where there may be unfamiliar noises. Bringing along a flashlight or head torch will help them to feel safe at nighttime.

Child-friendly snacks – Wild camping food can be different in texture and taste from the snacks your children enjoy at home. Make sure the kids have heaps of energy by packing their favourite foods. Fruit, veggies, granola bars, and rice cakes are ideal wild camping snacks.

Games and toys – Even after a long day of hiking, you’ll be surprised just how much energy children can have! Keep them occupied back at the campsite by bringing along games and toys. You don’t have to take up too much room in your backpack, just an inflatable ball, a skipping rope, or even a card game can provide hours of entertainment.

Our top 3 activities for wild camping with children

Wild camping is only half of the adventure. Whether you’re going hiking, cycling, or simply pitching up your tent and enjoying the countryside, it’s important to have a full itinerary of activities for everyone to enjoy. Looking for fun activities for your family camping trip? We’ve got you covered…

Scavenger hunt

A scavenger hunt is a fun way to teach younger children about nature. Compile a list of items that they can find in your surroundings. From sticks to flowers, snails, and rocks, let them loose (under adult supervision of course) to see what they can find and tick off their list.

Stargazing

When night falls, nature takes on a whole new perspective. If you’re used to living in a built-up area, this may be the first time that younger family members see the stars! Stargazing is a wholesome camping activity that the whole family can get involved with.

Fishing

If you have room in your kit for some fishing equipment, a day spent fishing is a memory that you will look back on fondly – and (fingers crossed) you’ll catch something tasty for dinner! If you fancy going fishing during your trip, do some research to confirm whether fishing is licensed in the rivers near your camp, and what permit you will need to apply for.

Final thoughts

Wild camping as a family is the perfect budget-friendly break away for children and adults of all ages. It may take a little extra thought and planning compared to your typical spontaneous camping trip, but the memories you will make wild camping with your children is well worth the research and carrying a few extra items in your kit!