I’m sure you can relate here. You are avid campers. Adventures at heart who can take on any challenge and love the outdoors. You have a baby and think: I can camp with a baby- how hard can it be? Well, I must say, I learned a few things along the way when we camped with a baby starting at 7 weeks old. There was really no other option as it was the beginning of the pandemic and we HAD to get outside! Couped up with an infant, locked inside all day- what more were we to do than decide to go camping! Here are a few things I learned:

1. Bring the essentials- We all know babies require a lot of attention and a lot of STUFF! You still need to bring some essentials but keep it to the bare minimum. My list included a glorified diaper bag with enough to supply the days we were going camping: diapers, wipes, burp cloths, breast pump if you’re breast feeding and absolutely require one (I used a handheld one that was perfect for times when I needed relief- no outlets or battery required), formula and bottles, baby sunscreen, hat, extra clothes in case of accidents, stroller or wearable baby carrier, portable mini sleeper or travel bassinet, a couple books, teether, blanket and baby food depending on what stage they are in. When she started getting older we brought a travel seat (bumbo) that was great for mealtime.
2. But don’t bring everything– There are items I skipped that are unnecessary or bulky so leave at home the baby swing, too many toys, too many clothing options, highchair, and crib. If you like to travel or are looking to camp frequently, invest in some portable options. I mentioned some above but a travel seat for mealtime and travel basinet or crib are great investments and space savers.
3. Stick to your at-home routine– I know its hard to take a baby out- especially when you have your at-home routine down. I stuck to mealtime, nap time, and bedtime routines to make it easier for the baby and for myself! It didn’t always go as planned but I tried.
4. But be flexible– You don’t want to be THAT parent that has the crying baby at 3am. That said, know that things happen, and babies are unpredictable. But going camping shouldn’t include sleep training or cry-it-out methods. Be mindful of your neighbors and introduce yourself when you get there so they know you are doing your best as a parent with a baby.
5. Pick a good time of the year- When my husband and I went camping before kids, we would camp in the wind, rain or snow! Now we need to be a little more thoughtful on where and when we go. Depending on where you live, you may want to avoid super cold times of the year- your packing list will increase with bulky jackets and blankets. If you go when its super hot, make sure you have shade available for your little one.
6. Be mindful of the location- I usually pick campsites that have pictures or really good descriptions of the sites. With kids, its always good to keep in mind if there are fire pits, picnic tables, trees for shade, and near any major roads. Look at the site map to know what’s around you.
7. Think about where you will throw away diapers- If you are planning on hiking to a secluded location, keep in mind diapers. You cannot bury them. Bring an odorless bag and dispose of the diapers when you find a trash can or proper place to throw away. There are alternatives like hybrid diapers which have reusable cloth on the outside with disposable inserts that would cut down on the waste.
8. Keep clothing choices in mind- In order to avoid bugs and sun exposure, I frequently dressed my little one in long sleeves and pants. If its warm, I would find a lighter material of clothing or wrap in a muslin blanket if they are still pretty young.

Just remember camping with a baby isn’t going to be the same as camping pre-kids BUT you are making the right choice in sharing your passions and hobbies with your little ones and making those memories. Be flexible and don’t expect perfection- but do expect to have fun! 😊

What are some of your favorite tips for camping with a baby or kids?