If you’re looking for an adventure that takes your family off the beaten path and into the heart of nature, wild camping offers a truly unique experience.
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of setting up camp in untouched wilderness, away from the crowds and comforts of everyday life.
But before you head out wild camping with kids, a little preparation can make all the difference.
These five essential tips to ensure your wild camping trip is safe, fun, and unforgettable for everyone.
1. Plan for Off-Grid Safety
When you’re heading off wild camping with your kids, safety is your number one priority.
Especially when there’s no cell service.
I recommend investing in a GPS device. Many GPS devices can enable you to contact the authorities in an emergency situation, not to mention enabling you to track your location with pinpoint accuracy.
These tools can be lifesavers if you find yourself in an emergency situation where you need to contact someone or get your bearings. They might seem like a hefty investment, but when you’re miles away from civilization, you’ll be glad you have that peace of mind.
Before you set off, safety-wise it’s also essential to make sure you have permission to camp on the land if it’s private property. Always contact the landowner ahead of time and get their explicit okay.
Additionally, do a safety check of the area. Look into whether there are any potential hazards, like wild animals or unstable terrain. It’s better to know beforehand if you’re entering a dangerous animal’s territory or if there’s a steep drop-off nearby, so you can plan or avoid accordingly!
2. Dry Run: Practice Setting Up Camp at Home
Before we dive headfirst into the wild, it’s a great idea to do a practice run at home.
Trust me, this small step can make a huge difference in how smoothly your wild camping adventure goes. I always say, if you can set up camp in your backyard (or even your living room), you’re halfway there!
Start by pulling out your tent and setting it up with the kids.
Let them get involved. Whether it’s laying out the tent poles, staking the corners, or rolling out the sleeping bags. This hands-on experience helps them understand how everything works, and will builds their excitement for the real deal.
Plus, it’s a great way to make sure all your gear is in working order before you’re miles away from home.
Once the tent is up, try a few other camping tasks.
Fire up the camping stove and cook a simple meal together, or set up a mock campsite with all the gear you plan to bring.
This is also the perfect time to go over any challenges you might face, like setting up in windy conditions or finding the right spot to pitch your tent.
3. Pack Smart: Focus on Multi-Use Items
When you’re heading off wild camping with kids, every ounce in your pack matters.
I’ve learned that packing light, but smart, can make or break your experience. The key is to focus on multi-use items that can serve more than one purpose, which not only saves space but also lightens your load.
When it comes to gear, look for items that can do double duty.
A spork, for example, is a simple tool that’s both a fork and a spoon.
A lightweight tarp can be a groundsheet, a rain shelter, or even an extra layer of warmth over your tent. It’s about being creative with what you bring.
Now, let’s talk about the kids. Get them involved by letting them pack their own small backpack with essentials. A flashlight, a water bottle, a snack, and maybe their favorite comfort item. Something small and familiar that helps them feel secure in the wilderness.
Giving them responsibility over their own gear not only lightens your load but also gives them a sense of ownership and independence.
Wild camping with kids is about sharing the simplicity of nature with young ones, so resist the urge to overpack.
Focusing on versatile, essential items, and you’ll be better prepared to handle whatever the wild throws your way, without feeling weighed down by unnecessary gear.
4. Wild Camping With Kids & Food Prep: Easy and Nutritious Meals
When it comes to food in the wild, simplicity is your best friend. You want meals that are easy to prepare, nutritious, and something the kids will actually eat.
I’ve found that planning and prepping some meals ahead of time can save you a lot of hassle when you’re out in the middle of nowhere.
Start by thinking about foods that don’t require refrigeration and are lightweight. Dehydrated meals are a great option. They’re light, easy to pack, and only need hot water to come to life.
You can find a variety of options that cater to even the pickiest eaters.
Instant oatmeal, trail mix, dried fruits, and nuts are also fantastic staples. One of my favorites for dinner is dried soy mince in a marinara sauce, mixed with pasta.
One thing I always do is involve the kids in the meal planning process.
Let them pick out a few of their favorite snacks or decide on a meal they’d like to help prepare. When they have a say, they’re more likely to be excited about eating it, even if it’s something simple like campfire quesadillas or pasta with a quick sauce.
Speaking of campfires, if you’re planning to cook over one, make sure to bring along a portable camping stove as a backup. Weather conditions or fire bans can sometimes make it difficult to cook over an open flame, and having a reliable stove ensures you can still whip up a hot meal.
Practise using the stove at home so that everyone knows how it works before you’re out in the wild.
Lastly, don’t forget to pack a few treats. S’mores are a camping classic, but even just a small chocolate bar can feel like a luxury when you’re wild camping with kids. These little extras can lift everyone’s spirits after a long day of exploring.
5. Weather-Proofing: Be Ready for All Conditions
When you’re out in the wild, the weather can be unpredictable, and being prepared for anything is key to keeping everyone safe and comfortable.
I’ve learned that a little preparation goes a long way when it comes to dealing with whatever Mother Nature decides to throw at you.
First, let’s talk layers. Dressing in layers is the best way to handle fluctuating temperatures. Start with moisture-wicking base layers to keep everyone dry, followed by insulating mid-layers for warmth, and top it all off with waterproof and windproof outer layers.
The great thing about layers is that you can add or remove them as the weather changes, keeping the kids warm and cozy without overheating.
Next, make sure your tent is up to the task. Choose a tent that’s designed to handle the conditions you’re likely to face, whether it’s a lightweight summer tent or a more robust option for colder, windier environments.
Practise setting up your tent at home so you’re confident you can do it quickly, even if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Bringing along a few extra stakes and guy lines can make all the difference in securing your tent during a surprise gust of wind.
Don’t forget about your sleeping arrangements when you’re wild camping with kids.
A good sleeping pad provides insulation from the cold ground and adds a layer of comfort that’s especially important for kids.
Combine that with a quality sleeping bag rated for the temperatures you’ll be facing, and you’ll ensure a good night’s sleep, even when the temperature drops.
One last tip! Always have a plan for wet weather. Pack an extra tarp or two that can be used to create a dry area for cooking or just hanging out if it starts to rain. Dry bags are also a lifesaver for keeping clothes and gear protected from unexpected downpours.
Wild camping with kids is unpredictable, but that’s where the adventure and growth happens! With the right gear and a flexible mindset, you can handle whatever comes your way and make the most of your time in nature.
Stephanie Simmons is an Anglo-American mum of two who is passionate about all things outdoors. She loves camping, outdoor crafting, and all outdoor activities.
Steph believes in getting the kids outdoors no matter the weather!
She created Wild Bloom Families to share her passion for the outdoors with other families.
Getting in nature can transform your physical health, mental health and happiness!
