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| One of our campsites |
When planning any road trip, it’s important to remember driving distances and travel times. Time zones or ferry schedules need to be considered in addition to the amount of driving time per day if you have a long haul to make. Rest stops are crucial for tired drivers as well as children who need to use the restroom. Don’t forget to enjoy an unhurried picnic lunch. It’s a vacation, and vacations need to be somewhat restful for all involved.
Once you have a vacation plan and have settled on some dates for the trip, begin reserving your campground site(s). This is important, especially if you plan to camp in popular vacation areas. They fill up quickly.
If you are camping in several places during your vacation, remember to consider the time needed to break camp and travel to your next campground. Everything takes longer in the field. Inform the campground if you will be getting in late, so they hold your campsite for you.
What you bring with you on your camping trip depends on where you stay and what you camp in. Primitive or commercial campgrounds. Tent, trailer, camper, or cabin. If there is no barbeque grill or fire ring available at the campsite, you’ll need something to cook on. We use a Coleman camp stove that uses propane. Propane is available at campground stores. Wood is available as well at the camp stores for campfires. Bring cooking pots and utensils. We refrain from using disposable cups, plates, and plastic ware to help the environment. Then pack appropriate bedding and towels, in addition to personal items.
Get everyone involved in packing to build excitement and family experience. Make check lists for kitchen, bedding, clothing, food, and toiletry. Don’t forget the bug spray, sun screen, hats, and raincoats. Load the vehicle and/or camper prior to the day of departure, except for perishables. Bring any reservation material you have made, a global positioning device [GPS] and maps. Always bring current maps of the areas you will be driving through or staying in.
Then enjoy your family camping experience. Make the memories that last.
always enjoy your helpful suggestions on how to survive a camping trip.
Thank you so much, Marie, for visiting my Camping with Kids blog. I try to make these posts and suggestions helpful to families and camping enthusiasts of all levels. Thanks again for the comment and for visiting my Camping with Kids blog. Please stop by again.
Having a plan is definitely important. My husband and I always like to be prepared well in advance of our trip. This is definitely important information for trips. Thanks!
Preparation is key always, especially when vacationing with children. Thank you so much, Michelle, for visiting my Camping with Kids blog. Please stop by again.
I have almost forgotten what is was like packing for a family trip. Your post brought back memories of checklists, efficient packing and long journeys, although not as long as yours Victoria Marie. Now I am on my own and the task is quick and easy.
Thank you for visiting my Camping with Kids blog, Bill. I guess you've never been camping for a month with five children traversing the countryside. Yes, checklists are a must from kitchen and bath supplies to clothing and camper supplies. Notice the extra gear carrier on the roof of the van in the photo. We needed space for children as well as space for camping gear.
I hope all is going well, Bill. Thanks again for visiting my Camping with Kids blog.