Camping is Fun!

There’s no doubt that kids love camping… But adults? Although for many it’s a love or hate thing, there are a lot of us in the middle who just need a little bit of persuasion. While escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life might be the reason some families choose to go camping, for others its a simple case of economics but whatever the reason –  for kids it’s the ultimate adventure.  Camping can actually be a lot of fun, but only if you are organized. This means knowing what to pack versus what not to pack and more than anything it means having a very comprehensive camping checklist. With the long summer holidays just around the corner we’ve compiled some useful tips that will help ensure your camping holiday is both a stress free and fun experience.

Camping Checklist suggestions: (For a good printable checklist: click here)

• If you have small children then consider selecting a tent that will accommodate all of you comfortably (we are a family of 3 and I wouldnt use anything less than a 5 sleeper!).  On the other hand, if you are camping with teens, it may be a good idea to purchase additional pup tents to give them some sense of independence. For first time campers – it might be an idea to practice assembling the tents in your garden – this can help to avoid starting your holiday on the wrong foot (Yes, Ive seen this happen on many occassions) or alternatively – seek out resorts that offer the service of erecting your tent for you! I can personally recommend this option!
• Depending on just how much you want to “rough it” consider choosing a campsite that is close to amenities and has good onsite facilities. Use the internet to research whats nearby and better yet, ask around. At least someone you know will have had a great camping experience and equally someone you know will have had a bad one! Alternatively for a comprehensive list of campsites and caravan parks in SA you can try this one: CampSA
• Remember that while we’re all probably more comfortable on air mattresses than insulating mats, with our heads on feather pillows rather than the type you blow up, these can be bulky to carry. If you do take an air mattress, dont forget your pump!  Extra blankets are also essential, as, even in the hottest months, nights can get cold.
• Always pack a good bottle of sun protection as well as a gazebo, sun umbrella or tarpaulin – SA summers can be scorchers!
• If you dont have a skottel braai and your site is electrified then consider buying a 2 plate stove top so you can have two pans on the go when kids are hungry and you’re dying for a cuppa.
• Lights are essential – get good battery operated lanterns in addition to gas lamps and a couple of hand torches  – head torches are a  fun option for the kids too and also prove very useful when you are braaing in the dark!
• Other essentials include a washing-up bowl, dishcloths, scourers, washing-up brush, copious rolls of toilet paper and kitchen roll, baby wipes, pots and pans, plastic glasses and plates etc. Its worth investing in a box that stays packed with all your camping gear – that way, you wont be running around looking for everything an hour before you leave!
• Bring tons of clothes – if the weather’s bad clothes will get dirty and wet, and if there’s no laundry on site it’s hard drying them in a tent! Take a drying line and pegs too – if for no other reason than to keep your towels nicely dried. AND dont pack your sunday best either – campaign and good clothes generally dont go hand in hand!
• Pack plenty of food and drink. Good campsites will usually have drinking water on tap and a decent shop, but the latter can be expensive, and kids in the outdoors need lots of fuel and liquid. Think about the kinds of things that are easy and quick to cook, such as pasta and couscous, baked beans and eggs. Snacks are also important, especially dried fruit and nuts, but take plenty of containers to keep the ants out.
• And finally – remember to pack some of your kids’ favourite toys, for days when it is raining and when staying in the tent is the only option.

Lastly –  try enjoy the entire camping experience.  Sleeping under the stars, exploring, getting close to nature and relishing the time spent with family will hopefully leave you with great memories that will last forever.

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