Outdoor Blog

20 Family Camping Hacks to Keep Kids (& You) Happy

Published

4 years ago

May 20, 2021

One of the most fun experiences you can have as a parent who loves the great outdoors is introducing your little ones to camping, hiking, and more.

Learning to appreciate nature at an early age, as well as the basics of outdoor safety and survival, can set a child up for a lot of success. While it can be a lot of fun to share your love of nature with your kids, there are also challenges that come along with family camping. With these tips in mind, your kids (and you!) can rest easier, stay safe, and have more fun on your next trip.

Family Enjoying Camping Holiday In Countryside

With some preparation, a family camping trip can be lots of fun!

General Family Camping Hacks

To start off, let’s look at the big picture, and some general camping ideas to keep in mind during your next family camping trip. The good news is that natural wonder is going to do most of the work for you! If you can make sure your kids feel safe, involved, and engaged, it’s easy to have fun, learn, and bond as a family when camping together.

1. Involve Kids in Some Decisions

The key to having the best camping trip possible with your kids, no matter what their age, is making sure they feel engaged and involved with the process. If you can convince them that this is something they want to do and have some say in, it’s a lot easier to go along with the plan.

Otherwise, you’ll be spending most of the time trying to convince them to pay attention, stop complaining, or see the value in the natural world around them. So the first step is to make sure you involve them in some decision-making when you’re getting ready and out on the trail.

2. Be Flexible and Understanding

On the other side of things, you should also approach your child’s first camping trip with reasonable expectations. They may not love it right away, and it can take some time to figure out how to have fun together as a family.

You know your children best, so listen to them, pay attention, and be ready to understand when they get stressed out, tired, or bored. With this guide in mind, you can avoid a lot of the common pitfalls, but children of any age can always throw you a curveball.

3. Anticipate Challenges

On that note, an integral part of the first-time camping experience is to anticipate potential challenges you may run into. Think about stress points in your everyday life with your child and then integrate solutions into your camping checklist.

For instance, a picky eater might need additional food options to try. Or for kids that are potty training, you might want a travel toilet to encourage them to use it. Make sure to bring kid-safe insect repellent and consider other safety issues like potentially poisonous plants.

4. Stay Organized

This one might sound a little silly. As a camper or backpacker, you know that organization is key to a smooth trip even without kids. As a parent, you know that being perfectly organized with kids is nearly impossible. So the trick here is to organize as much as you can beforehand. Especially if you’re planning on camping as a family often, organizing everything you need into set totes, packs, and bins can help.

You should organize items by type and when you’ll need them. So, bug spray, sunscreen, and your first aid kit need to be accessible anywhere: on the trail, at a campsite, in the car. Items like sleeping bags and cooking materials can be stored by type for easy unpacking when you make camp. The more specific you can get the better!

5. Take Advantage of Childlike Wonder

One plus side of camping with kids is that everything is new to them! That means they’re often naturally excited about seeing new things, exploring new places, and learning about camping and hiking from you. So use that to your advantage!

Enjoy the time without kid’s TV shows to watch and try to connect with them as much as you can. Camping can be an excellent bonding activity and simply sharing what you know about nature, trail etiquette, and more, is often enough to make a family camping trip a big success.

two cup of cocoa or hot chocolate and skewers of roasted marshmallows over campfire

Kids can be picky eaters so make sure you include a few treats in your camping menu!

Getting Ready: From Food to Fun

Still, there’s a lot you can do to ensure everyone has fun. One refrain here will be to prepare, prepare, prepare. Anything you can do in advance will make it easier when you get out on the trail. Things may still change and surprise you, but you’ll reduce the potential problems that might turn up.

6. Practice At Home

One way to iron out the kinks before your next camping trip is to “go camping” at home first. Whether you do this out on a lawn, or even in an indoor play area if you don’t have outdoor space at home, a practice run can make family camping a much easier endeavor.

You can anticipate many different problems that may come up, but for a truly stress-free camping experience, you should try it at home first. You may be surprised what your child finds difficult or stressful! And once you know, you can prepare for it in advance.

7. Pack Foods They Like

While a camp kitchen doesn’t offer the greatest variety of food options, camping food has gotten a lot better than it used to be! There are tons of ready-made camping meals available now, and some that even cater to kids specifically. One trick here though is just knowing what your kid likes to eat and involving them if possible in meal planning.

For instance, they may be more likely to eat the healthy parts of a meal if you let them pick which veggies to go with. But it can also help you figure out what they’re most likely to eat on the trail. After all, one of the biggest limitations of camping is having a set amount of food to choose from. Consider packing some fun treats, like marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for s’mores or other campfire favorites.

8. Help Them Pack

For young children, you’re most likely packing for them. But as young as possible, you can try giving them a packing list to work off, as well as a duffel bag or small backpack to fill. You should of course check their work later and help them understand the list as much as you can.

This is one of the important lessons you can teach just by involving them in camping trips early on. So even if they’re not ready to pack on their own, let them help and be part of the process if you can.

9. Dress in Layers

It’s always a good idea to dress in layers if you’re going out into the wilderness. You always want to have more options than necessary for levels of warmth and wind protection. After all, the whole idea of going camping is to be (somewhat) out in the elements.

So a key part of any successful camping trip is staying safe, warm, and dry. This is especially true for little ones! Even if you’re not cold, they might be, so have the right layers for the season of your trip.

Fun Camping: Keeping Campers Happy

Take a deep breath! After all that prep, you’re ready to go and excited to head out on a peaceful trip with kids in tow. When you step out the door, however, the camping adventure truly begins. Remember: stay flexible! Even with perfect planning, things might not go exactly as expected. Keep these tips in mind to make sure the trip goes smoothly and that your little campers stay happy on the trail.

10. Find A Kid-Friendly Campsite

One thing you might consider when camping with kids is whether it’s worth it to be close to some amenities. Restrooms, a water pump, and handwashing stations can all be handy when you’re camping with kids. While these things may not be necessary for a solo trip, they can make taking care of (and cleaning up after) kids a lot easier.

You can also camp at sites with attractions like playgrounds, play areas, or even natural features like lakes. This gives you some built-in entertainment and somewhere for kids to run around without wandering too far.

11. Embrace Dirt

That said, a little bit of mud can be okay! Kids are messy, and especially so when the cleaning options are limited. Get them hiking and camping gear that’s okay to get a little muddy, and be ready for lots of clean-up along the way. This can be a good moment to teach them about caring for, cleaning, and maintaining gear, too. Dirt getting everywhere is just part of camping with kids.

12. Safety and Survival Lessons

You can teach them other important hiking, camping, and survival lessons too! One of the most engaging activities for families on the trail is to learn together. One of the most fun camping ideas is to try out different DIY fire starters with older kids. You can teach them a little bit about wilderness survival with just a little tin foil, kindling, lint, or even steel wool and batteries. It’s fun and a fire safety lesson all at once.

13. Share the Load

In the “general hacks” section, we talked about how involving your kids in decision-making and planning can make for a great camping experience. The same goes for camping responsibilities, chores, and other things. The more you can get them involved in the plan, the more fun they’re going to have and the more they’ll focus on the trip.

For kids that aren’t big enough to carry their own pack yet, you can still put a few snacks in a small backpack for them to carry. While they may not be able to carry a water jug with enough for the day, giving them kid-sized water bottles to carry can help them feel involved, responsible, and interested in what’s happening.

two kids in a camp tent at night

Overnight Camping: How to Handle Bedtime

Bedtime can be one of the toughest parts of camping with kids. But with a little planning and some clever parenting, you can bedtime in a tent stress-free and fun.

14. Familiar Bedtime Routine

One of the most important tips for camping with kids is to keep a familiar bedtime routine. Going to sleep in a strange place and after an exciting day can be difficult for children. This is especially true if they’re not comfortable or if you change their sleeping schedule too much. So try to keep to the same schedule, and do whatever you can to mimic their at-home bedtime routine.

15. Build A Cozy Sleeping Space

Comfort can make a big difference. An inviting and comfortable sleeping space will make bedtime go down easier than an uncomfortable set-up. Look out for kid-sized sleeping bags that they can set up themselves, and make sure the quality is good enough to keep you comfy. Bringing along a stuffed animal, or comfort blanket can also help a lot.

16. Add Some Special Touches

You can also make bedtime special with touches like glow sticks, string lights, and other gear for kids to use themselves. Having some control over lights can make them feel safer and more comfortable. It can also be fun to show them how to set up or sleep in a hammock if they’re old enough. This can make bedtime a bit more exciting and appealing as well.

17. Going Potty at Night

Going to the bathroom in the middle of the night can be hard for kids, especially if they’re still potty training. Having a small travel toilet to set up right outside the tent can make it easier, as can gear like headlamps or other lights that make it easier for them to see in the dark.

Make Camping Fun For Kids

So finally, let’s look at fun activity ideas that can take your family camping trip to the next level. Instilling a lifelong love of camping is as easy as keeping these great tips in mind.

18. Pack A Toy

While there are a lot of fun ideas out there for games, activities, and crafts on the trail, bringing a toy can go a long way towards keeping kids happy (and quiet). Pick a favorite toy that’s easy to carry and bring it along. This can be great for entertaining your kids while doing things like cooking, setting up tents, or anything else where you need them out of your hair.

19. Nature Crafts

Use the world around you to help provide fun activities while learning about nature. From simple games like “I Spy” to more involved activities like a campsite scavenger hunt, there are tons of games you can play on a family camping trip. Try looking up printable bingo cards or other small games to keep kids happy and entertained on your trip.

20. Invite Some Friends

The ultimate way to make a camping trip more fun for your kids is to let them invite a friend or two along! After all, most kids are more excited to spend time with each other than just mom and dad. You’ll still get some bonding time, and kids can entertain each other pretty easily. It can be a bit trickier to anticipate the needs of someone else’s child but bringing along friends can help your kids love camping.

Final Verdict:

It’s never too early to start camping with your kids! Of course, you should be careful to pack the right outdoor camping gear for your family and have backup plans in case something goes wrong, but with a little forethought, understanding, and care, camping with kids can be tons of fun.

Let the great outdoors speak for itself and look for teaching moments wherever you can. But most of all, just enjoy the time together, the campfire songs, the challenges, and everything that comes with a well-planned family camping trip.

Bonus tip: Check out this great video for a few easy craft and game ideas!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

2 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

3 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

5 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.