Camping with kids is one of the best ways to spend quality time together, soak up the great outdoors and make memories that last a lifetime. From late-night hot chocolates to mornings waking up under canvas, there’s something special about escaping to nature as a family. That said, if you’re not prepared, things can go from magical to meltdown pretty quickly!

In this guide, we’ll share our top tips for camping with kids, learned from experience, covering everything from what to pack to embracing the mess.

10 tips for better camping with children

Let’s get stuck into our top tips and tricks for keeping things simple and stress-free (well, mostly) while camping.

1. Choose the right campsite

Trust us when we say that not all campsites are created equal, especially when you’ve got little ones in tow. 

It’s essential to look for family-friendly sites with clean toilets and showers, baby-changing stations, and perhaps even a play area. Some UK campsites offer extras like petting zoos, nature trails, and even on-site entertainment in the form of shows put on by staff, which can add a bit of excitement without piling on the parental pressure. 

It’s also worth checking whether the site has designated quiet hours. Getting your little campers to nod off in peace can be a lifesaver on your trip.

2. Practice at home 

If it’s your child’s first time sleeping in a tent, a trial run in the garden can be a brilliant way to ease them into it. Let them play in the tent, snuggle into their sleeping bag, and listen to the sounds of the outdoors, all from the familiar comfort of the garden. 

You could even cook tea outside on the BBQ to make it feel like a real adventure. This relaxed introduction can help your child feel more confident about the trip, and helps you spot anything that might scare them, so you can soothe those worries in advance. Bonus: it gives you a chance to spot any gear gaps before heading off for the real deal.

3. Pack layers and waterproofs

We all know British weather doesn’t always play ball, so layers are going to be your best friend on camping trips with kids. Bring plenty of clothes you can stack up or strip off depending on the day, and always pack:

• Waterproof coats and wellies
• Extra socks (there can never be enough)
• Hats for sunny, rainy and chilly days
• Some dry spares for emergencies
  

4. Keep a flexible routine

Parents of kids in school will understand that, even on the weekends, a loose routine can help little ones feel settled. Try to keep meals and bedtimes roughly in line with what they’re used to, and bring along bedtime favourites like a storybook or comforter. 

That said, don’t sweat it if things go off schedule! Part of the fun of camping is going with the flow. A later-than-usual night snuggled under a blanket, watching the stars might become one of their favourite memories.

5. Bring creature comforts

Even the most adventurous child might feel a little unsettled away from home, so pack something that feels familiar. A favourite teddy, the pillow from their bed, or a cosy fleece blanket can do wonders for bedtime reassurance. 

If you’re after a warm and comfortable sleep setup, the Stellar Junior Sleeping Bag from Vango in blue or pink is a great shout. These cute and cosy sleepers are just the right size for kids, perfect for keeping them warm through chilly tent nights.

6. Embrace the mess

Camping is gloriously messy; there’s no avoiding muddy wellies, sticky fingers, and grass stains… and why would you want to? We think the mess is one of the best parts of the camping experience. The trick is to accept that things are going to get mucky and come prepared. 

A dedicated bag for muddy clothes, some old towels or flannels, and a big picnic rug make a big difference. Wet wipes will become your best friends, and honestly, once you let go of trying to keep everyone perfectly clean, things get a whole lot more enjoyable.

7. Get them involved

Kids love to feel useful, so letting them help out with simple campsite tasks can make the whole experience more fun. Even toddlers can carry pegs or help unroll sleeping mats. Older children might enjoy helping set up the tent or planning what to eat. 

If you want something quick and easy to pitch together, the Outwell Parkdale 6PA Air Tent is a brilliant family option. It’s spacious, can sleep six, has a built-in living area, is made of waterproof and fire-retardant materials, and doesn’t take all afternoon to put up thanks to its inflatable nature. This tent is perfect when you’ve got helpers with short attention spans.

8. Plan activities, but leave room to explore

It’s always handy to have a few activities in your back pocket; think colouring books, nature scavenger hunts, or a football, but some of the best fun comes from simply letting kids explore the world around them. Whether they’re collecting sticks, spotting birds, or building dens in the woods, the UK countryside is the perfect playground when you’re there to keep them safe.

9. Keep meals simple

Any parent will tell you that hungry kids are grumpy kids, so quick, easy meals are your best bet. One-pot wonders like pasta or chilli are a winner, and breakfast can be as easy as cereal or toast. 

If you fancy making your campsite cooking even easier, the Kampa Colonel Field Kitchen is a fantastic bit of kit. It gives you plenty of space to prep, a proper surface for your portable stove, and storage for all your bits and bobs. It’s ideal for family feasts in the fresh air and removes the stress of juggling pans and plates during prep time.

10. Make it magical

The smallest touches can make your trip feel truly special. Toast marshmallows, hang up some fairy lights, bring glow sticks for after-dark fun, or look up a few constellations together before bed. These simple moments of wonder are what turn a good camping trip into a great one—and the ones your kids will talk about for years.

Be happy campers with Norwich Camping & Leisure

We’re not going to lie and say camping with kids in the UK won’t need a little more planning and extra patience, but the rewards are absolutely worth it. With the right gear, a relaxed mindset and a sense of adventure, you’re all set for happy faces, muddy knees and brilliant family memories in the great outdoors.

Here at Norwich Camping & Leisure, we have absolutely everything you’ll need to make your camping trip one you’ll never forget. From the best family tents on the market to useful camping accessories you’ll use year after year, we’ve got it all and are ready to advise and recommend the ideal items for you. Visit our Norfolk site in person to see one of the country’s biggest outdoor displays of tents and awnings, or browse our website from the comfort of your home.