" Things to consider for baby's first camping vacation "

The tent, air mattresses and packed suitcases are ready to go. It's finally time to get away from it all and spend a few days off with the family. For countless families, camping vacations and children belong together just as much as sun, summer and the sea. Do you also love this type of vacation? Then you may be facing a new and exciting challenge: your first camping vacation with your baby. We have summarized everything you need to know about camping with babies and toddlers.

Off to the campsite

Camping is a wonderful way to experience peace and quiet in the midst of nature and yet not completely do without some of its advantages. But camping and children also mean a lot more luggage! After all, a lot more has to be stowed in the suitcases. The purchase of a roof box provides additional storage space. Baby carriages, travel cribs and the like will find a place on the trip.

Equipment for a family camping vacation

Don't worry, you don't have to take your entire household with you. As a general rule: create a small checklist in good time. This will remind you of the most important things that should not be missing when camping.

Checklist

Camping with babies requires a good layout in the tent. A three-person tent is the minimum. A spacious family tent is even better. This allows you to set up a small travel crib and a small, separate area for changing, playing and feeding. You should arrange this so that it is easily accessible at all times. A camping cupboard keeps things tidy and organized. Think about good insulation against dirt and cold when setting up the sleeping area. Even in summer, the nights can get chilly from time to time.

Air mattresses are poor insulators. Always place a sleeping mat or thermal blanket underneath.

Where can the baby sleep when camping?

This is primarily determined by the size of the tent. It is easy to set up a small travel crib in a spacious family tent. In smaller tents, your baby will sleep between you. The carrycot from the baby carriage has proven to be the ideal place to sleep. It is not only stable. Your little angel is safe and sound in it. If you are planning to go camping with a toddler, they will no longer sleep in a travel cot, but on their own mat or snuggled up between their parents.

No tent to hand? Caravans, motorhomes and bungalows offer alternatives

Are you looking forward to your vacation but don't have a tent yet? That's not so bad. Many campsites in Europe now offer alternatives. A small bungalow or caravan can be booked directly on the campsite before you start your trip. Accommodation in a caravan usually doesn't offer much more space than a tent. Nevertheless, you can look forward to a little more comfort, especially with a small child or baby.

Motorhome as an alternative to a tent

How much clothing for children do we need on a camping vacation?

How much clothing you take with you in your suitcases depends a little on the conditions on the campsite. Many offer washing facilities. The use of a washing machine and dryer ensures fresh laundry. This means you don't have to pack the entire contents of your closet. At this point, however, it is important to be prepared for as much weather as possible. This is particularly interesting with a small child. Rain gear is just as important as a sun hat and walking boots. Headgear is very important in summer. Babies and toddlers should wear a light hat with a wide brim so that their ears and neck are also protected.

Sun cream, insect repellent and co

Sun cream, insect repellent and co.

Don't forget preventative measures against sunburn and insect bites. A high sun protection factor is extremely important for children to protect their sensitive skin. Mild lotions that keep stinging insects away should only be applied after sun cream. For mild sunburn, after-sun lotions for babies and toddlers have a soothing and cooling effect. You should also have something with you for insect bites and a pair of tick tweezers. A small first-aid kit is of course a must. This should include

• antipyretic
• nasal spray
• Cough syrup
• Electrolytes for diarrhea
• Wound and healing ointment
• Disinfectant
• Bandages

Please note: If you require long-term medication, make sure you obtain the necessary quantity in good time. It is often not possible to obtain special medication at the vacation destination.

Beach vacation with a baby and toddler

Camping with babies often takes families close to large bodies of water. Here you can expect unforgettable days in a natural and family-friendly environment. Exciting days on the beach await you and your toddler. The first rays of sunshine make their way through the windows of the tent.

Now it's time to have a delicious breakfast and then pack your bag for the beach. From the bath towel to the baby poncho and sand toys, everything is now ready. A changing bag is therefore highly recommended in your luggage. Even if a toddler no longer wears a diaper, this bag is perfect for transporting small items.

Tip

A small pop-up tent is ideal protection against the wind and sun when on a beach vacation with a baby. Not only can they take a blissful nap there. It is also a clean spot for you to change diapers or breastfeed. If you don't have such a tent to hand, you should set up a parasol. To prevent the blanket from being constantly covered in sand, try the following trick: stretch a fitted sheet underneath and place a full water bottle in each corner. This will create a small windbreak.

Now place a cozy children's blanket and you can enjoy a day at the beach to the full. Now your little sunshine can finally build its first sandcastle or collect a few shells with mom and dad. The many treasures can be collected in a small suitcase and taken home. The next fall is sure to come and then long craft afternoons are on the agenda.

After swimming - don't forget a change of clothes for the children!

The water was nice and cool and so that your little angel doesn't freeze afterwards, a fluffy warm baby poncho or a hooded bath towel is recommended immediately after bathing. A change of clothes is also extremely important in summer. After bathing, not only should the swim diaper be changed, but dry and airy clothes should also be put on. For a day at the beach, a changing bag is a helpful option to have all the necessary items with you.

Camping vacation with a baby abroad

Of course, parents are also drawn to campsites abroad. When preparing for this vacation, you need to remember that your child may need a passport. Find out about this in good time. When camping with babies, don't forget the appropriate baby food. Camping with a small child is certainly less complicated, as no special food is required.

Camping vacations and children inevitably belong together. An incredibly intense and wonderful time awaits you. Enjoy the days off and switch off from the hustle and bustle and stress.