Camping Props

Tag: Outdoor Gear for Kids

  • Kids Camping Gear – Essential Outdoor Equipment for Children | CampingProps

    Equipping your child with their own camping gear can make outdoor trips more exciting and fun. Here’s a comprehensive checklist of must-have kids camping equipment, focusing on safety, comfort, and enjoyment, perfect for your next family camping trip.

     

    Sleeping Gear for Kids: Comfortable & Safe

    • Kid-Sized Sleeping Bag: A weather-appropriate sleeping bag designed for children ensures comfort during their sleep in varying temperatures. Look for fun camping sleeping bags with playful patterns or glow-in-the-dark designs.
    • Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress: For added comfort and warmth, choose a kids’ sleeping pad that provides insulation from the cold ground.
    • Travel Pillow: A lightweight pillow for camping adds extra comfort for a peaceful night’s sleep.
    • Stuffed Toy or Blanket: A familiar item like a favorite blanket or soft toy can help children feel secure and relaxed while they rest.

    Kids’ Backpacks: Essential for Outdoor Adventures

    • Child-Sized Backpack: A lightweight backpack for kids, designed for comfort and practicality, is perfect for carrying their camping essentials like snacks and water.
    • Hydration Pack: A small hydration backpack ensures your child stays hydrated while hiking or exploring the outdoors.

    Clothing and Footwear for Camping with Kids

    • Waterproof Jacket: A waterproof camping jacket protects kids from unpredictable weather conditions during outdoor activities.
    • Hiking Boots or Sturdy Shoes: Comfortable, durable hiking boots for kids offer support and protection on rocky or uneven terrain.
    • Sun Hat and Sunglasses: Protect your child from the sun with a child-size camping hat and UV-protective sunglasses for added comfort and safety.
    • Socks with Moisture-Wicking Features: Moisture-wicking socks keep kids’ feet dry and comfortable, even during long hikes.

    Food and Drink Essentials for Kids

    • Water Bottle or Hydration Pack: A durable kids’ water bottle or small hydration pack helps children stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
    • Mess Kit: A compact, lightweight mess kit for kids includes child-friendly utensils, a bowl, and a cup, making mealtime easier while camping.
    • Snack Box: A seal-tight snack box keeps trail mix or other snacks fresh and ready for kids to enjoy while on the go.

    Outdoor Exploration Tools for Kids

    • Binoculars: Kids’ binoculars are perfect for birdwatching or stargazing, allowing young explorers to get a closer look at nature.
    • Compass: A basic, child-friendly compass encourages kids to learn about navigation while adding a fun element to outdoor adventures.
    • Nature Journal: A small nature journal for kids allows them to document their outdoor experiences, whether through drawings or writing.
    • Outdoor Explorer Kit: A fun, interactive kids’ explorer kit sparks curiosity and provides kids with tools to explore their surroundings safely.

    Camping Comfort Items for Kids

    • Kids’ Camping Chair: A foldable kids camping chair is lightweight, portable, and comes in bright colors and fun designs, making outdoor relaxation more enjoyable.
    • Pop-Up Tent for Play: A kid-sized camping tent provides a fun space for children to play or have their own private area during the trip.
    • Bug-Repellent Bracelet or Stickers: Keep pests away with child-safe bug repellents, including bug-repellent bracelets or stickers.

    Fun Activity Gear for Kids

    • Kids’ Outdoor Cooking Set: Introduce your child to outdoor cooking with a child-sized camping cooking set perfect for preparing simple meals during the trip.
    • Glow-in-the-Dark Camping Gear: Make nighttime activities more fun and visible with glow-in-the-dark camping gear such as balls, frisbees, or lanterns.
    • Outdoor Games: Enjoy family fun with outdoor games like a frisbee, kite, or a glow-in-the-dark ball perfect for night games.

    Safety Gear for Kids on Camping Trips

    • First Aid Kit for Kids: A compact first aid kit for children with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and bug bite relief ensures safety during camping trips.
    • Sunblock and Lip Balm: Protect sensitive skin with kid-friendly sunscreen and lip balm to guard against sunburns.
    • ID Card or Bracelet: Ensure your child’s safety by providing an ID bracelet with their name, your contact information, and any medical details.
    • Emergency Whistle with Compass: A kids’ emergency whistle is an essential safety tool for kids, offering peace of mind while exploring.

    Tips for Choosing the Best Camping Gear for Kids

    • Durability: Select high-quality, durable camping gear that can withstand outdoor adventures and last season after season.
    • Lightweight Gear: Kids’ camping gear should be lightweight and easy for children to carry. Choose compact backpacks and lightweight sleeping bags to make their experience more enjoyable.
    • Fun Designs: Kids will love camping gear with fun, vibrant colors and designs. Opt for gear with playful patterns to keep them excited about the trip.
    • Safety First: Always choose age-appropriate camping gear that ensures your child’s safety and comfort during their outdoor adventures.

    Kids Camping Gear Checklist

    With this Kids Camping Gear Checklist, you’ll be fully prepared for your next outdoor adventure with your little ones. Whether you’re camping solo, with friends, or as a family, planning ahead will make sure your child has everything they need for a fun and safe experience. Happy camping! 🚗⛺

    Downloadable PDF Version

    Click here to download the printable version of the checklist

  • 15 Must-Have Items for the Perfect Kids Camping Bag

    Packing a camping bag for kids involves including essentials, while keeping it lightweight and easy for them to carry. Here’s what to pack in a kids camping bag, tailored for their size and needs:

    Kids Camping Bag

    Kids Camping Bag

    Bag Recommendation

    • Type: Choose a lightweight, child-sized backpack with padded straps.
    • Features: Multiple compartments for organization and a water-resistant design.

    What to Pack in Their Camping Bag 

    Kids Camping Bag

    1. Essentials
    • Water Bottle: A durable, spill-proof bottle.
    • Snacks: Non-perishable, easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or fruit pouches.
    • First Aid Basics: Small kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and bug bite relief.
    • Whistle: For safety and emergencies.
    • Flashlight or Headlamp: Lightweight with extra batteries.
    1. Clothing
    • Extra Socks and Underwear: In case they get wet or dirty.
    • Hat: For sun protection.
    • Light Jacket: Packable and waterproof for unexpected weather.
    1. Activity and Exploration Gear
    • Nature Journal and Pencil: For sketching or writing about their adventures.
    • Binoculars: Kid-friendly for wildlife spotting.
    • Small Toy or Comfort Item: A favorite stuffed animal o     r action figure.
    • Glow Sticks: For evening fun and visibility.
    1. Play Items (Optional)
    • Compact Games: A small card game or puzzle.
    • Bug Catcher Kit: With a small jar and tweezers.
    • Frisbee or Ball: For campsite play.
    1. Extras (Optional)
    • Rain Poncho: Lightweight and compact.
    • Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Travel-sized and easy to apply.
    • Tissues or Wet Wipes: For quick clean-ups.
    • Small Towel: Quick-drying and packable.

    Packing Tips

    • Distribute Weight Evenly: Keep heavier items close to their back for better balance.
    • Let Them Choose: Allow kids to pick a few fun items to include, like toys or snacks.
    • Keep It Light: Avoid overpacking so they can carry their bag comfortably.

    This setup ensures they have everything they need to enjoy the camping experience while feeling responsible for their own gear!

    Here are some recommended brands for kids’ camping gear, known for quality, durability, and kid-friendly designs:

    Backpacks for Kids

    kids camping bag

    1. Osprey
      • Model: Osprey Ace 38 or Daylite Kids Backpack.
      • Lightweight, adjustable, and durable with great organization.
    2. Deuter
      • Model: Deuter Junior or Schmusebär.
      • Comfortable padding and bright, fun designs for kids.
    3. CamelBak
      • Model: Mini M.U.L.E.
      • Includes a built-in hydration system, perfect for hikes.

    Sleeping Bags

    1. Coleman
      • Model: Coleman Kids 45°F Sleeping Bag.
      • Glow-in-the-dark features and a cozy fit for kids.
    2. REI Co-op
      • Model: REI Kindercone Sleeping Bag.
      • Adjustable length and great insulation for various temperatures.
    3. Kelty
      • Model: Kelty Big Dipper 30° Sleeping Bag.
      • Expandable for growing kids and warm for colder nights.

    Camping Chairs

    1. REI Co-op
      • Model: REI Co-op Kids’ Camp Chair.
      • Lightweight and sturdy, with fun patterns.
    2. Kijaro
      • Model: Kijaro Mini Camp Chair.
      • Compact, durable, and easy to carry.
    3. Melissa & Doug
      • Model: Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Chair.
      • Perfect for younger kids, with playful animal designs.

    Headlamps and Flashlights

    1. Black Diamond
      • Model: Wiz Kids Headlamp.
      • Safe for kids with a child-friendly beam and auto shut-off.
    2. PETZL
      • Model: PETZL Tikkid Headlamp.
      • Compact, lightweight, and designed specifically for children.
    3. GearLight
      • Model: GearLight Flashlight Pack.
      • Affordable and durable flashlights in a kid-friendly size.

    Outdoor Exploration Tools

    1. Educational Insights
      • Model: GeoSafari Jr. Kidnoculars.
      • Kid-friendly binoculars with no focus adjustment needed.
    2. Carson
      • Model: Carson BugView.
      • A simple bug catcher and magnifier combo.
    3. Adventure Awaits
      • Model: Outdoor Explorer Kit.
      • Includes binoculars, compass, flashlight, and a magnifying glass.

    Water Bottles

    1. Hydro Flask
      • Model: Kids Wide Mouth Bottle.
      • Durable, insulated, and comes with a straw lid.
    2. CamelBak
      • Model: Eddy+ Kids Water Bottle.
      • Spill-proof and easy for kids to use.
    3. Contigo
      • Model: AUTOSPOUT Straw Gizmo Bottle.
      • Affordable and leak-proof design.

    General Camping Gear

    1. The North Face
      • Offers durable kid-specific gear like jackets, backpacks, and hats.
    2. L.L.Bean
      • Great for sturdy and long-lasting outdoor gear, including kids’ raincoats and boots.
    3. Therm-a-Rest
      • Model: Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad (Kid-Sized).
      • Lightweight and compact for extra sleeping comfort.

    Where to Shop

    • Outdoor Retailers: REI, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops.
    • Online: Amazon, Backcountry, Moosejaw.
    • Specialty Brands: Look for kids’ lines from Coleman, Kelty, and Osprey

    Investing in reliable brands ensures your child’s camping gear is comfortable, durable, and suited for outdoor adventures!

    Kids Camping Bag

    Bag Recommendation

    Type: Choose a lightweight, child-sized backpack with padded straps.
    Features: Multiple compartments for organization and a water-resistant design.

    Recommended Backpacks:

    What to Pack in Their Camping Bag

    Essentials

    Clothing

    Activity and Exploration Gear

    Play Items (Optional)

    • Compact Games: A small card game or puzzle.

    • Frisbee or Ball: For campsite play.

    Extras (Optional)

    • Rain Poncho: Lightweight and compact.

    • Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Travel-sized and easy to apply.

    • Tissues or Wet Wipes: For quick clean-ups.

    • Small Towel: Quick-drying and packable.

    Packing Tips

    • Distribute Weight Evenly: Keep heavier items close to their back for better balance.

    • Let Them Choose: Allow kids to pick a few fun items to include, like toys or snacks.

    • Keep It Light: Avoid overpacking so they can carry their bag comfortably.

    This setup ensures they have everything they need to enjoy the camping experience while feeling responsible for their own gear!

    Recommended Brands for Kids’ Camping Gear

    Sleeping Bags

    Camping Chairs

    Where to Shop

    For more fun and engaging ideas, check out our guide to the best kids camping toys that will keep little campers entertained throughout the trip.