Family camping trips can make for memorable experiences, providing bonding time and learning opportunities for everyone involved. In contrast to commercial camping, wild camping involves venturing into remote regions, far removed from fellow campers and modern conveniences. While this may not seem like the most family-friendly activity, the freedom to connect with the natural environment can be a remarkably rewarding endeavour. If you want to head into the great outdoors with your family, here are some tips to help you make the most of your wild adventure.
First-Aid Kits
A well-stocked first-aid kit is one of the most important items to bring on any camping trip, particularly one where you plan on being far away from civilization. Travel-sized first aid kits are ideal for camping, as they are lightweight and portable without compromising quality. At the very least, a first-aid kit should contain plasters, sterile dressings, triangular bandages, antiseptic wipes, disposable gloves, and safety pins. You may also want to include a small pair of tweezers to help remove splinters and medication such as painkillers and antihistamines.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
You may be meticulously checking the weather forecast in the days leading up to your wild camping trip, but you can never be 100% certain. That said, packing weather-appropriate clothes for every possible weather condition is unrealistic and will result in a one heavy backpack. Provided you’re prepared with waterproof gear such as lightweight cagoules, sun protection like wide-brimmed sun hats, warm layers for chilly evenings, and sturdy footwear, you'll be well-prepared for any weather conditions you encounter.
Sun Protection
Speaking of weather-appropriate clothing, protecting yourself and your family from the sun’s harmful UV rays is crucial, particularly in the height of summer. Young skin is delicate and fragile, so the utmost care should be taken to protect your children against sunburn. Along with sun hats and lightweight layers, good-quality sunscreen with a factor of at least 30 will help reduce the risks. It is also advisable to pack aftersun or cooling aloe vera gel to soothe any burns that may occur.
Portable Toilets And Showers
When embarking on a wild camping trip, you forego the convenience of commercial campsite toilets and showers. However, you can still enjoy some of your creature comforts when miles from the nearest public toilet. If you have young children, encouraging them to relieve themselves behind a bush can be tricky, so a portable camping toilet is an excellent solution. Similarly, a solar shower in a bag will help keep your family clean and hygienic regardless of how muddy the countryside is.
Wild Camping Safety
Wild camping safety is something worth paying attention to. Along with a well-stocked first aid kit, safety accessories like head torches, multi-tools and compasses will help to keep your family protected from harm in all circumstances. Keep in mind that if your camping destination is remote, your smartphone may not have service or signal. As such, it is advisable to pack a survival whistle, as three sharp blasts of a whistle is an internationally recognised distress call. Here are some more outdoor safety and survival tips for kids.
Food And Water
Packing plenty of nutritious food, snacks, and water for your wild camping trip will keep everybody energised and satisfied. When selecting food and drinks for outdoor adventures, portability is key. Items should be convenient to carry and travel well, as you may not plan on bringing a cool bag. Consider dehydrated or freeze-dried camping food you can prepare on a portable camping stove, and pack plenty of on-the-go snacks, like cereal bars, nuts and dried fruit.
Hydration is crucial; each family member should aim to drink at least two litres of water daily. Along with as much water as you can comfortably carry, consider bringing a water filter or purifier, which will allow you to drink water from streams and rivers without getting risking illness.
Leave Nothing Behind
One of the primary rules of camping, hiking and any other outdoor activity is to leave no trace of your presence. This means disposing of your waste responsibly by taking it with you when you go. You should also exercise caution with campfires, as fire is a remarkably destructive force. We should all aim to enjoy the countryside safely, responsibly, and respectfully, so do your part to conserve its beauty by adhering to the Countryside Code.