Camping with the Family

Taking the family on a camping vacation is a great idea in many ways. Nature experiences and outdoor life are fun for all ages, and it can bring the family closer together. With the right equipment, it’s easy to put together a truly successful camping trip.

If you’re not experienced campers, it might feel like a lot needs to be planned before heading out. But many overestimate how much equipment is actually needed, and a lot remains unused once you’re at the campsite. That said, certain things are essential, and here we share our tips:

Sleeping Bags and Sleeping Pads
Never underestimate the importance of good sleeping pads and sleeping bags. Even if the ground looks flat when you pitch the tent, there’s always something that bothers you when trying to sleep. Sleeping pads are therefore a must if you want the whole family to wake up happy and rested. Sleeping bags are also important because the weather in Sweden isn’t always predictable. Even if the day has been warm, it can get chilly at night, and then it’s crucial to stay warm. Feel free to compare sleeping bags for different seasons to find models suited for summer, fall, or year-round use.

Choose the Right Family Tent
Think about what makes the best family tent for you. Of course, it needs enough space for everyone, but is there anything else that’s important? Do you want high ceilings, a large vestibule where you can hang out and store things, effective insect mesh, or extra storage space? Is it important that the tent is lightweight, and do you need to be able to set it up quickly? Be thorough about comparing different tents, because a good tent that suits your needs can make all the difference between a relaxed or stressful vacation.

Washing at camp

Use campsite washing facilities where available. Away from facilities, carry water to a washing spot well away from lakes and streams. Biodegradable soap should not go directly into natural water: use a small amount and follow local wastewater rules. Leave No Trace recommends washing at least 200 feet (about 60 meters) from water sources. Strain food scraps from dishwater and pack them out.

Cooking and Utensils
Beginner campers often think they’ll grill every day, but on a longer camping vacation it’s not always practical to fire up the grill. Combine it with a camp stove or some other form of camping cooker for variety. Sometimes it’s easiest to just heat up soup or boil pasta with sauce. Choosing a campsite near a grocery store can also be a good idea for families with young children.

Use camping stoves outdoors, away from the tent and other flammable materials. A tent or vestibule is not a safe cooking space: MSR’s stove instructions explain the carbon monoxide and fire hazards. Check local fire restrictions before cooking.