Camping With A Baby: What You Need

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We’ve never missed a summer of camping–even after having babies in January, September and March. We’ve camped while I was pregnant, we’ve camped with a 4-month old, and we’ve even camped with 3 kids under the age of 5. Camping with a baby might sound like a daunting task, but with the right preparation and gear, it can be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Spending time in nature is a great way to bond, and it’s never too early to introduce your little one to the great outdoors. You just need to make sure you’re prepared so that you can have a smooth trip. Here’s everything you need to make camping with a baby both safe and enjoyable.

Choosing the Right Campsite: What To Consider When Camping With a Baby

Before packing a single item, pick a baby-friendly campsite. Look for spots that are close to amenities like restrooms and that have easy access to your car since you’ll be bringing a lot more gear. A flat, shaded area is ideal for setting up your tent and creating a comfortable space for your baby.

You’ll also want to consider how close your neighbors might be. This can make a big difference, as noisy neighbors won’t be ideal for a sleeping baby. And, if your baby cries in the night, you’ll be a lot less anxious if your neighbors aren’t sleeping just a few feet away.

Must-Have Gear for Baby

1. Tent with Plenty of Space
   Opt for a family tent that’s roomy enough to accommodate your family and all the baby gear. A tent with good ventilation and a waterproof cover is essential. Check out my post about choosing the right family tent.
2. Portable Crib or Bassinet
   Bring along a lightweight, portable crib or bassinet. This gives your baby a safe and familiar place to sleep. We used a pack and play so that it could double as a small play area as well.
3. Baby Carrier or Hiking Backpack
   For hikes and exploring, a baby carrier or a hiking backpack designed for infants is invaluable. It keeps your hands free and your baby snug. I loved used my Ergobaby, but I’m sure there are plenty of comparable styles.
4. Sleeping Gear
   Layer your baby’s sleepwear appropriately for the weather. Use a baby sleeping sack or wearable blanket to ensure warmth without the danger of loose blankets.
5. High-Quality Baby Monitor
   If you’re camping near other people or need to step away from your tent briefly, a baby monitor can provide peace of mind. Plus many portable baby monitors have lullabies or white noise options as well as temperature sensors.
6. Changing Station
   A portable changing pad is a must for diaper changes. Pack plenty of diapers, wipes, and diaper cream. Bring a wet/dry bag for storing used diapers if there’s no disposal on-site.
7. Stroller
   Don’t underestimate how much a nice walk might help get the baby to sleep or provide a spot to let the baby sit for awhile if you need to use your hands (like when setting up the tent). An all-terrain jogging stroller is ideal.

Feeding Essentials

• Breastfeeding Moms: Any of your nursing essentials–a nursing bra and cover, a nursing pillow, a portable pump if you’re pumping, etc.
• Formula Feeding: Pack pre-measured formula and sterilized bottles. Lots of extra water for mixing formula.
• Solid Foods: If your baby is eating solids, pack easy-to-prepare options like baby food pouches or oatmeal. A small camping high chair can make feeding time easier.
• Easy Camping Meals: For the adults, check out these easy dishes for camping so that you can prepare more ahead of time and make the trip even easier on yourselves.

Clothing and Layers

Babies lose heat faster than adults, so pack layers to keep them warm. Think onesies, hats, socks, and mittens for cooler weather. Don’t forget sun protection, including a wide-brimmed hat and baby-safe sunscreen for sunny days.

First Aid and Health

A baby-specific first aid kit is essential. Include items like baby-safe insect repellent, a digital thermometer, and infant Tylenol and any other necessary medications. Don’t forget to pack a good supply of hand sanitizer.

Provide Entertainment Options When Camping With a Baby

While nature provides plenty of stimulation, pack a few lightweight toys and books for downtime in the tent. A play mat or blanket can give your baby a clean place to stretch and play. We used a hexagon baby gate to create a play area, and that was super helpful through the toddler years. Eventually we would use that baby gate to crate off the fire area.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Experience

1. Practice at Home: If it’s your baby’s first time camping, try a practice run in your backyard.
2. Stick to Your Routine: Babies thrive on routine, so try to stick to your regular schedule as much as possible.
3. Plan for the Weather: Check the forecast and be prepared for unexpected changes. Always have rain gear handy. And check out these tips on how to stay warm while tent camping.
4. Keep It Short: Start with a one or two-night trip to gauge how your baby handles camping.
5. Go Easy On Yourselves: Camping might be a little different than you’re used to–that’s ok. Go for a car ride if you need to. Or take a nap if you can. Give yourself grace.

Embrace the Adventure When Camping With a Baby

Camping with a baby requires some extra effort, but the rewards are worth it. Watching your little one’s face light up as they discover the natural world is priceless. With the right preparation, your family camping trip can be a joyful, stress-free adventure that you’ll cherish for years to come. And truthfully, my babies always slept so much better when we were camping, which surprisingly made the trips much more relaxing than we ever expected.

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