Skip to main content
Thursday, October 29, 2026Oct 29

This story is free to read.

Kid camping 101: Things to keep in mind when adventuring with your mini-me

Adorable little girl hiking in the forest
Adorable little girl hiking in the forest Adorable little girl hiking in the forest

Quick Tips

Attach a whistle somewhere on your child’s clothing, or place one around their neck, that they will have with them at all times. They can blow the whistle if they get lost.When helping your child pack, keep in mind that the backpack should only weigh about 10 percent of his or her body weight.Keep the kids involved, whether it’s assigning them the task of preparing their own pack or giving them chores that they alone are responsible for around the campsite.

We’re sure our Camping Guide has you itching to set out into the woods, but for parents with young kids, camping can be complicated. Here are some quick tips and things to keep in mind when adventuring with your mini-me in tow.

Dress Rehearsal

Let’s talk preparation, and not just when it comes to packing gear. If this is the first camping trip your kid will experience, it’s a good idea to rehearse. In other words, go for a longer hike in the woods to see how they fare, pitch a tent in the backyard to practice, and generally spend some time outside after dark (with flashlights in hand) so that Junior can grow accustomed to the sights and sounds.

Bring More