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Travel + Fun

09th Jul 2018

Camping hacks to make your outdoors experience TOTALLY kid-friendly

You don't have to be the mama version of Bear Grylls to go camping with kids.

Alison Bough

camping with kids camping hacks children

You don’t have to be the mama version of Bear Grylls to go camping with kids.

Do you have fond camping memories from your own childhood? Or does the thought of sleeping in a tent fill you with horror? Whether it’s your first family camping trip or you’re a campfire pro, bringing the little ones along doesn’t have to mean hard work.

Here are six top hacks that will make your outdoors experience totally kid-friendly…

1. Luxury flooring

camping with kids camping hacks children

If you’re a regular camper or planning a few trips, a couple of yoga mats can be a great investment that will put a layer of comfort between you and the cold, hard ground. A great alternative – one that may already be in your home – are foam play mats. These colourful clip together mats are also easy to find in most good toy shops.

2. Lilos aren’t just for the pool

camping with kids camping hacks children

Inflatable lilos are a cheap and handy alternative to expensive airbeds. Just blow ’em up, cover them in a sheet and hey presto everyone will get a great night’s sleep.

3. Mucky boots

camping with kids camping hacks children

A simple basket can prevent a world of dirt – great for storing mucky wellies, runners and shoes, and a helpful visual reminder for kids to remove their footwear BEFORE entering the tent.

4. Light the way

camping with kids camping hacks children

Solar-powered garden lamps are a fantastic way of making nighttime more child-friendly and are also super useful if anyone needs a pee after dark!

5. Get a grip

camping with kids camping hacks children

Apart from keeping your hair out of your eyes while you start the BBQ, these cheap-as-chips hair grips will keep your tent ‘doors’ clipped back.

6. Little glowworms

camping with kids camping hacks children

You’ll find packets of glow sticks in most bargain and euro shops. The kids will love wearing them at night and you’ll be able to spot them a mile off.