Tips For Camping & Hiking With Kids

I grew up in a household that went camping a lot, thanks in part to my father being a Boy Scout Master. I had a lot of fun, and learned a lot of valuable skills for later on in life. It's been important to me that I pass that on to my daughter, and we try our best to do plenty of day hikes and a few camping trips here and there. Now that's she's three, she's not content to just hang out in the backpack carrier like she did when she was a baby. We get to keep our eyes on not only two crazy Corgis, but one little whirlwind that's full of questions and faster than a speeding bullet when she wants to be. ;) Here's a few tips to make your summer camping and hiking outings a breeze:

Teach responsibility by letting your child(ren) carry their own backpack. There are many toddler and small child sized backpacks available out there if your child doesn't already use one for school. You can purchase them cheaply at thrift stores and yard sales even. On top of several usual hiking supplies - a small pen sized flashlight, their own water bottle (I love the Vapur ones since they are lightweight and when empty take up no room!), and a small snack that can't melt such as a snack bar, create a little outdoor kit for them to carry things in. Items such as a magnifying glass so they can get a closer look at bugs and leaves, as well as a small ziplock bag for treasures like pebbles and seashells (only IF the park allows it!). You can also create check-lists of items to be on the look out for with pictures for younger kids (almost like a picture bingo!) or for older kids, a written list. Older kids may also enjoy having a journal to write in their exploits, or a blank pad for drawing nature scenes in.

Stop by the dollar store and pick up a stack of the glow in the dark sticks and necklaces. Not only do kids have a blast playing with them, you can easily spot your child should they wander a few feet away from the campfire at night.

Have kids help with small chores around your campsite or when breaking for snacks while hiking so they can learn how to do things themselves. Obviously, very young children don't need to learn how to start a fire, but they can help gather kindling to start the fire, or pack away trash to be disposed off when you leave the park.

Take advantage of the campfire to not only teach them about camping traditions, but to spend quality time and talk about everything with your kids. They grow fast! Leave the high tech toys like iPads at home, and instead tell stories you make up on the fly. (Do bring along at least one cell phone though, just in case of emergency!)

If you are car camping, such as a site in a KOA campground, or some state parks, don't be afraid to bring along their portable potty. If your tent is big enough, it is usually easy to keep inside to cut down on scary middle of the night trips to the nearest bathroom. (Which can be quite a bit of a walk in some campgrounds!)

While there are plenty of things you'll want to bring along with you when hiking or camping, I can't stress enough having a fully stocked first aid kit carried on someone at all times. This is one item you'll really want to splurge on, because you'll be amazed at how quickly you can go through gauze and such if you have one injury. Plus, a lot of the basic first aid kits you can buy off the shelf are lacking in other things you'll need, such as anti-itch ointment for those pesky mosquitoes.

And speaking of mosquitoes, don't forget the bug spray and sunscreen. Dress appropriately for your trip, and remember the weather can always change - be sure to pack a warmer top or jacket just in case.