Does a bear poop in the woods… yes, and now you do too. Or in a vault toilet if you picked the right campsite. Regardless, having a good list of the right equipment is essential to a good camping experience. And that’s amplified for every little person you bring along.
What gear do we NEED:
If you’re starting as weekend warriors, this is the list to get started. The longer you camp or the further from the trailhead the more, or more expensive, gear you’ll need.
1. Tent
Get a size bigger than you think, meaning if you have 4 people in your family then consider a 5 or 6 person tent. BUT, know that many campsites have a tent pad that only measures 10’ x 10’.
2. Sleeping Bags
Get warmer than you think you’ll need. Look for our guide on Sleeping Bag temperatures, but know that the listed temperatures for men’s bags are typically survivability, not comfort. So consider getting a bag rated for 10+ degrees colder than you expect to experience. It’s always easier to unzip the bag than to be miserably cold.
3. Cooler
Most decent coolers will be find for a weekend, but if you’re planning to bring more sensitive foods or go longer without restocking consider buying a higher end cooler.
4. Cookware
Cast Iron pans make great cookware for both home and the campsite. We tend to do one pan cooking in a large cast iron pan. For plates and utensils it’s easier to do a simple recyclable option until you’re camping regularly and it’s worth the expense.
5. Toilet Paper
Always bring toilet paper. Many sites will have some sort of toilet access but never depend on them for the paper. Then if you do need to go in the woods, you’re covered… just make sure to bury your waste.
6. Bug Spray and Sunscreen
7. First Aid Kit
8. Layers
Bring extra layers of all the essential hiking gear plus warmer night clothing.
Essential Gear For Hiking With Kids
What do we WANT:
These are not strictly necessary, but sure do help the experience.
1. Sleeping Pads
While I think there’s value to roughing it, there’s also something to be said for a good night’s sleep. A decent sleeping pad help with both warmth and comfort. Get higher R values for colder environments.
2. Sun Shades
When sitting around the campsite you don’t want to track dirt into the tent but you may want to escape the sun and bugs. A good shade goes a long way.
3. Head Lamps
You may get away with a flashlight from home, but a headlamp is nearly essential for navigating the campsite, and the latrine, at night.
4. Cook Top
Cooking over a campfire is great for many foods, but if you want easier control and less soot on your pans, bring a cook top
5. Coffee
This might be an essential, for me it is.
Starting Simple…Know Thyself
If you’ve read any of our posts, you’ll know that the operating principle is GTFO, Get The Family Outside. Mindset and adventure are far more important than having all of the right gear. Don’t be afraid to improvise with something you already own and just go for it. But also know the things your family needs for a good experience. For me, coffee is non-negotiable. For you, it may be a nice, oversize camp chair. Invest in the difference makers, not the hype.
