Camping with Kids Checklist: Essential Gear for Family Adventures
Tips and essential gear items for family camping with babies, toddlers, and kids
Author Erica Zazo camping with their 2-month-old baby, AJ. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
May 28th, 2026
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The first time we took our daughter camping, she was two months old. Adventurous? Yes. A little in denial about how much gear two new parents and a newborn would need for a comfortable weekend outdoors? Absolutely.
We set up a massive family-sized tent with a Pack n’ Play tucked in the corner and an ultralight chair next to it for my wife to breastfeed. We fumbled through diaper changes by headlamp in the middle of the night and swung her to sleep in a hammock at nap time. It was chaotic, a little absurd, but one of my favorite camping trips we've ever taken.
We took another camping trip with our daughter at eight months and then again at fourteen months. With three camping trips under our belt before she turned two, we realized that each one was smoother than the last because we figured out what kid-friendly camping gear actually mattered to bring along on the adventure.
Here's the thing about camping with babies and little kids: it's a lot. And it’s not your average camping gear checklist. It takes more gear, more logistics, and more variables to manage. But there's also something irreplaceable about watching your kid experience the outdoors for the first time, like when they marvel at swaying tree branches overhead, fall in love with the flickering fire, and fall asleep to wind instead of a white noise machine. Those moments are truly worth every bit of the extra planning it takes to get out there.
No matter if you’re a beginner camper or a seasoned one when it comes to car camping, the first time (and, heck, even the 10th time) camping with a kid is a whole new endeavor. After several camping trips in our daughter's first year and a half, I’ve managed to dial in the ultimate kids camping checklist. This list includes my go-to picks for a family-friendly tent, sleeping bag(s), feeding and changing accessories, a hiking child carrier, and more.
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Camping with kids gear checklist
Baby carriers & transportation
| CATEGORY | OUR FAVORITE |
|---|---|
| Baby carrier | Osprey Poco Soft Child Carrier |
| Kid carrier | Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier |
| Changing pad | Osprey Poco Changing Pad |
| All-terrain stroller | Thule Urban Glide 3 Stroller |
Sleep & shelter
| CATEGORY | OUR FAVORITE |
|---|---|
| Standard family tent | REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent |
| Larger family tent | REI Co-op Westward 6 Tent |
| Baby/toddler sleeping bag | Kelty Space Cadet Sleeping Bag |
| Alternative sleeping bag | Therm-a-Rest Honcho Poncho - Kids |
| Family sleeping pad | NEMO Roamer Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad - Double |
Comfort & camp living
| CATEGORY | OUR FAVORITE |
|---|---|
| Family seating | Kelty Low Loveseat |
| Activity ground blanket | NEMO Victory Patio Blanket |
| Portable high chair/booster | Phil & Teds Lobster Clip-On Portable High Chair |
| Camp lighting | BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern |
Food & cooking
| CATEGORY | OUR FAVORITE |
|---|---|
| Family camp stove | Jetboil Genesis 2-Burner Stove |
| Kids dishware | Lalo Stainless Nesting Snack Bowls |
| Cooler | RTIC 32 QT Ultra-Light Cooler |
| Kids water bottles | Hydro Flask Kids 12 oz Bottle |
Health & safety
| CATEGORY | OUR FAVORITE |
|---|---|
| Baby sunscreen | Babyganics Sheer Blend SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen |
| Bug protection | Lemongrass Farms Trek Kids Natural Insect Repellent Spray |
| First aid kit | Welly First Aid Kit |
Organization & storage
| CATEGORY | OUR FAVORITE |
|---|---|
| Gear duffel | No Reception Club The Hideaway Carry-On Duffel |
| Kids backpack | Osprey Daylite Jr. Pack |
Clothing & weather protection
| CATEGORY | OUR FAVORITE |
|---|---|
| Kids rain gear | Helly Hansen Bergen 2.0 PU Rain Set |
| Kids insulation layers | Patagonia Baby Micro D Snap-T Fleece Jacket |
| Kids sun shirt | Patagonia Baby Capilene Silkweight Hoody |
Hygiene & personal care
| CATEGORY | OUR FAVORITE |
|---|---|
| Quick-dry towels | Nomadix Ultralight Towel |
| Portable bathing solution | Sea To Summit Wilderness Wipes |
Entertainment & activities
| CATEGORY | OUR FAVORITE |
|---|---|
| Nature exploration tool | Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube 8 x 32 Monocular Telescope |
Why camping with kids requires special gear
Family car camping setup featuring the REI Basecamp 4 tent. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
Sure, taking kids camping comes with a learning curve, but it's totally manageable, especially once you know what to pack. The right setup makes all the difference between a stressful trip and one that's full of fun memories that will make your family want to camp over and over again.
It’s most important to consider how comfort, and more importantly, safety, looks when bringing a kid outdoors and along for a camping trip. From bug spray and sun protection to first aid and a solid sleeping system, kids' and family camping gear must be dialed in not only for a comfortable time outdoors, but a safe one, too. Plus, when it comes to comfort, a bad night's sleep in the woods can result in a miserably crabby and irritable kid (and equally miserable and crabby parents).
Check out this list of gear so that you can build out a solid family-friendly camping gear kit to use across all seasons and all ages of your kiddos’ lives.
Camping with a four-legged kid instead? We've also got you (and your fur baby) covered with our Dog Camping Essentials Checklist.
Baby/infant-specific gear (ages 0-12 months)
Baby carrier
What to look for
Comfort for short-term wear, proper head and neck support, infant safety features, ease of getting baby in and out, storage pockets for small essentials, and built for shorter hikes
Our Choice: Osprey Poco Soft Carrier
What we liked: Thoroughly padded, sleeves on shoulder pads for teething babies, provides prolonged comfort for the parents and the little one, ideal for napping baby
What we didn't like: Not ideal for kids over two years old (in my experience), waist belt not ideal for larger bodies over standard XL
Osprey Poco Soft Carrier
12-month-old AJ strapped into the Osprey Poco Soft Carrier on a hike in Keystone, CO. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
For the first year of life, a soft carrier is your best friend at the campsite (and, honestly, at home too). When camping, a soft carrier helps keep your baby close and hands-free while you set up camp, wander the campground, or tackle a short hike. The Osprey Poco Soft Carrier is our top pick for its thoughtful features and comfortable design.
This carrier is best used for babies from 4 months to 2 years old or weighing up to 33 pounds. It has padded shoulder straps and a wide waist belt that distributes weight and sits comfortably on all pressure points above your hips. Baby can be worn facing forward or towards you, which was our kid’s preferred place to nap until she was one. And if you time it right, it's the perfect place for them to nap outdoors, too.
I also appreciate that it has a breathable mesh back panel for the baby, which comes in handy on hot days. Pockets are plentiful too, with ample places to stash a phone, pacifier, or snacks. Use this carrier around the campsites and on shorter hikes. For longer trails, read on in the toddler section for our review of the Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier.
Check out more of our favorites in our Best Baby and Toddler Carriers for Hiking guide.
Diaper changing essentials
What to look for
Waterproof surface, portability, easy cleaning, functional features like pockets and attachment points to backpacks
Our Choice: Osprey Poco Changing Pad
What we liked: Folds flat and packs down to fit in a hiking daypack, water-resistant material that’s easy to clean, and built-in pockets for holding diapers and wipes
What we didn't like: Could be considered “over-featured” for its simple use case
Osprey Poco Changing Pad
Changing a baby outdoors at a campsite comes with unique challenges. You need a surface that's soft and free of debris, like dirt and sand, and that's where an outdoor-oriented, travel-friendly changing pad makes all the difference.
Not all changing pads are built for outdoor or on-the-go use. However, I’ve found the Osprey Poco Changing Pad to be a great fit for active parents who want a convenient, functional place to change their kids outdoors.
The Osprey Poco Changing Pad is equal parts durable, functional, and packed with convenient features. The changing pad weighs less than one pound and includes pockets for diapers and wipes, an easy-to-clean foam surface, and a flat-folding design that makes storage and packing a breeze. The padding also provides a softer surface for changing a baby or toddler. I’ve set this pad on the bench of a picnic table at the campsite and even in the middle of the trail.
The Poco Changing Pad is also ideal for traveling at the airport or for everyday use at restaurants or in the park. It's become an essential part of my pack when I'm out hiking, adventuring, and camping with my kid. For an even lighter weight (and super affordable) option, consider throwing the Ubbi Changing Mat in your car camping gear kit or hiking backpack.
Baby sleep systems
What to look for
Temperature rating appropriate for babies, safety considerations, easy setup, family tent compatibility
Our Choice: Kelty Space Cadet 30 Sleeping Bag
What we liked: All-in-one sleeping bag system for kids, wide age range from 8-20 months and 2-4 T, easy to slip on and off for diaper changes
What we didn't like: May be too tight around the arms and neck, depending on your kid’s size
Kelty Space Cadet 30 Sleeping Bag
The Kelty Space Cadet 30 is a kid-sized sleeping bag suit rated for 30-degree comfort. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
We tend to camp with our kid in the shoulder seasons (early spring and late fall) to avoid overly crowded campgrounds and make sure we can secure a spot at our favorite state parks. But with that comes the risk of colder weather than we’d like at night. In order to have a sound sleep for us and our little one, it took some thought and research to dial in our kid’s sleep setup, specifically, the type of camping sleeping bag or camping blanket that would keep her warm at night.
Also, at her young age, we worried about smothering our little one in a fluffy sleeping bag. And that she might not be warm enough with so much extra space around her in an adult-sized sleeping bag. That concern faded when we found out about the Kelty Space Cadet 30 Sleeping Bag, an innovative suit that’s part sleep sack, part sleeping bag, and is specifically designed for kids.
This sleeping bag, or sleep suit, fits snug around your kids' feet and covers them all the way to the tip of their fingers, thanks to flap over hand muffs. It features an ultrasoft fleece lining around the neck and promises a comfort rating down to 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you’re camping in warmer weather, you can opt for the lighter Kelty Space Cadet 40. We are also a big fan of the fact that you can unzip the bottom of the Space Cadet so toddlers can walk around and stay warm while the upper part of the sleep sack stays zipped tight.
Bonus item: As your kid gets older and may transition to a camp blanket, consider the wearable Therm-a-Rest Honcho Poncho, which can be used to bundle up not only in the tent but also around the campsite.
Sun protection for babies
What to look for
Mineral-based formula, pediatrician approval, ease of application, water resistance
Our Choice: Babyganics Sheer Blend SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen
What we liked: Non-toxic and formulated for babies and young kids’ skin
What we didn't like: Thick to apply, leaves white residue
Babyganics Sheer Blend SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen
Not all sunscreens are created equal, and with young kids…what's in the bottle matters. It's common for conventional sunscreens to contain chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin, which is especially common in babies and toddlers. Steer clear of adult sunscreen until you know your child can handle their ingredients. We've used Babyganics Sheer Blend SPF 50 for our daughter's younger years.
The mineral-based formula has proven to be gentler on delicate skin than others we've tried but doesn't sacrifice protection. We also camp at state parks on Lake Michigan often, and its water-resistant formula holds up through swim sessions at the beach without needing to be reapplied every five minutes. This sunscreen is our go-to for keeping our little one's skin safe on camping trips, outings to the beach, hikes, and more.
Toddler and big kid gear (ages 1-8+)
Kid carrier
What to look for
Comfort for long wear, weight distribution, safety certifications, ease of getting baby in/out, storage pockets, compatibility with hiking
Our Choice: Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier
What we liked: Packs down small, lightweight, and provides prolonged comfort for the parents and the little one
What we didn't like: Not suited for longer hiking (over 5 miles), waist belt not ideal for larger bodies over standard XL
Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier
The Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier is best suited for short day hikes or adventures around the campground. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
This soft carrier is ideal for quick day hikes while camping with a child from four months up to six years, or under 48 pounds, making it one of the more versatile carriers on the market. Padded shoulder straps and a wide, supportive waist belt distribute your little one's weight evenly so the hike stays enjoyable from start to finish. A breathable mesh back panel promotes airflow between your back and baby for a cooler, more comfortable experience, especially on warmer days.
There are plenty of pockets for storage, including a large compartment under the child seat, a front mesh pocket, and hip pockets for small items like a phone and snacks. We also love that it folds down flat, making it easy to travel with on road trips and flights. If you’re looking to go longer distances while hiking and adventuring on camping trips, consider the burlier Osprey Premium Poco Child Carrier ($450) versus the LT version.
Toddler transportation
What to look for
All-terrain wheels, storage capacity, maneuverability on trails, safety harness system
Our Choice: Thule Urban Glide 3 Stroller
What we liked: Capable of taking on uneven terrain at the campground and on hikes, sleek design, well-featured (pockets, shade canopy, suspension)
What we didn't like: Expensive and takes up a lot of room lots of room in your trunk
Thule Urban Glide 3 stroller parked at the campsite with Erica’s family. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
The Thule Urban Glide 3 has become our go-to stroller for getting outdoors and camping with the family. It’s technically marketed to joggers (which we are not) but we’ve found its burly 16-inch wheels and built-in suspension can handle campground terrain with ease, including gravel roads, root-filled hiking paths, and uneven ground. It's easily our favorite mode of transportation for getting our daughter around the campground and out on adventures throughout our camping weekends.
Some other design perks include an oversized canopy that keeps her shaded on walks around the campground and a large cargo basket beneath the seat with plenty of room for a diaper bag, water bottles, snacks, and a spare blanket on chilly days.
Family-sized tent
What to look for
Extra space for baby gear, multiple entry points, blackout capabilities for nap time
Our Choice: REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent
What we liked: Easy to assemble, ample windows and pockets, protective rainfly
What we didn't like: Lower ceilings than other family camping tents, relatively small vestibule
REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent
A view of the inside of the REI Base Camp 4 tent with a Pack ‘n Play crib inside. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
This is the Goldilocks of camping tents: not too big, not too small, but just right for camping with a family. We'd recommend this car camping tent for a small family of four or less. It's not so big that it feels like you're hauling a tiny home to the campground, but also not so cramped that two adults, a little one, and all the gear you need to camp with a baby or toddler are on top of each other all night.
Where this tent really shines is its ability to stand up to inclement weather. We've camped with our family in this tent through torrential downpours and legitimate rainstorms without a single leak. Other features we love are the large zippered doors with half windows on either side, a full mesh roof for stargazing when the rainfly is off, and a straightforward setup that doesn't require a PhD to figure out.
A baby crawls in front of the REI Base Camp 4 family car camping tent. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
Our favorite detail for camping with a baby or young kid are the small triangle vent windows on the sides of the tent. They keep fresh air circulating near your little one's face throughout the night, and make it incredibly easy to peek in and check on a napping kiddo without unzipping the whole door and risking waking them up.
For larger families or campers who want to stand up completely in the tent, we recommend the taller and wider REI Westward 6. It’s much taller and wider, and has a bigger vestibule for storing gear or staying out of the rain and sun.
Read our in-depth review of REI Co-op Base Camp Tent.
Kid's sleep comfort
What to look for
Thickness for comfort and ground insulation, durability, ease of inflation, and appropriate size for a family
Our Choice: NEMO Roamer Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad - Double
What we liked: Super comfortable, can easily fit two adults and one kid, packs down relatively small for a double sleeping pad
What we didn't like: Expensive, requires an air pump (i.e., Exped Mega Pump) for more efficient inflation
NEMO Roamer Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad - Double
The Nemo Double Roamer makes a great spot for diaper changes and lounging in the tent with baby. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
Car camping sleeping pads are a different breed from their backpacking counterparts. While backpacking pads prioritize lightweight, packable design, car camping pads are all about comfort. And since you’re packing up a car with lots of gear for camping with kids, you can definitely afford to go with a bigger and plusher sleeping pad for a more comfortable night’s sleep.
I’ll die on this hill when I say, the NEMO Roamer Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad is about as comfortable as car camping sleeping pads get. At four inches thick, you won't feel roots, rocks, or uneven ground underneath you. It honestly gives a lot of home mattresses a run for their money, and I almost exclusively use this sleeping pad when going car camping solo or with my family.
Where the Roamer really shines is its double-size pad. The NEMO Roamer Double is wide enough for two parents to sleep comfortably with a toddler in between. I don’t recommend co-sleeping with a toddler or baby if you’ve never done it before, but it’s doable when you know your little one can sleep in the same bed as you.
If you’re worried about co-sleeping, opt for setting up a small Pack n’ Play in your tent. I like the compact Pamo Babe, which we used for camping until our kid started sleeping in a “big kid bed” and brought with us any time we traveled in our kid’s early years.
Car camping with a baby looks different than your average setup. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
kids sleep comfort
What to look for
Comfort for multiple people, portability, durability, stability on uneven ground
Our Choice: Kelty Low Loveseat
What we liked: Fits two comfortably, easy for young kids to climb up on, fewer items to pack and carry
What we didn't like: Low profile may make it hard for some folks to sit down
Kelty Low Loveseat
Every campsite needs a spot where the whole family can actually sit and cuddle up together next to the campfire. This two-person camping chair is wide enough for two adults to sit side by side comfortably. Your toddler, of course, can steal a seat too or sit on one of your laps for storytime by the fire.
The Low version of the Kelty Loveseat, which I prefer, is a low-profile, slightly reclined design that keeps you closer to the ground and campfire. That’s a bonus for little ones since this chair is much easier for them to climb into and enjoy than a standard-height camp chair. Our 14-month-old had zero issues shimmying her way up onto the seat next to us without any help, which is more than we can say for most camping chairs.
Bonus features include two large cup holders on each armrest and durable 600D padded nylon fabric that has held up for half a dozen camp seasons (and dozens upon dozens of park outings). You can also opt for the standard-height Kelty Loveseat if you’d rather not sit low to the ground—or the Kelty Couch, which also sits lower to the ground and can seat a family of 3 (or kids plus a dog)
Kid-specific camping upgrades and considerations
Have the essentials covered? Read on for kid-friendly camping gear to add into your existing car camping kit. These additions help make camping with little ones even more comfortable and convenient.
Kid-safe lighting solutions
What to look for
Soft ambient modes, child-safe design, fun features to engage kids
Our Choice: BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern
What we liked: Several lighting options, including a multi-color mode that turns your campsite into an instant party
What we didn't like: Expensive, not super durable (aka don’t let your kid drop it like I did)
BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern
If you're looking for a functional and fun camp light, the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 delivers on both. It works double duty as a practical lantern and one that kids genuinely love, thanks to a range of modes including an ombre sunset setting, a multi-color mode that cycles through the entire rainbow, and a warm mode you can dim down for bedtime or use as a night light. It's rechargeable, easy enough for toddlers to tap through on their own, and runs for over 10 hours on a single charge. It also comes in two additional sizes: the smaller AlpenGlow 250 and the even smaller, palm-sized AlpenGlow Mini. It also has a built-in hook to hang from a tent ceiling or at a campsite.
The one thing we'd flag is durability. Our daughter dropped ours on a hardwood floor at home, and it didn't survive the fall, which was a real bummer at this price point. Great light, just handle it with a little more care than we did. Browse more camping lights in our Best Lanterns and Camping Lights guide.
Family cooking efficiency
What to look for
Faster cooking times (hangry kids), larger capacity, safety around children
Our Choice: Jetboil Genesis 2-Burner Stove
What we liked: Compact and easy to pack, easy-to-adjust flame
What we didn't like: Expensive
Jetboil Genesis 2-Burner Stove
Trust us: You don’t want to have to fuss with cooking over a fire if you don’t have to (or don’t want to). S’mores being the exception, of course.
For most meals, cooking at the campsite requires a list of camping kitchen essentials, including a stove. Cooking with a kid in tow is much easier with a car camping stove that's fast, reliable, and easy to use, versus managing cooking a meal over an open flame. We recommend the Jetboil Genesis, which checks all of those boxes.
This compact two-burner system connects to a standard propane canister and pumps out 10,000 BTUs, meaning you can boil water for coffee, cook up a Mickey Mouse pancake breakfast, or throw together a quick campsite taco dinner within minutes. Two large burners fit up to two 10-inch pans side by side, so you can knock out a whole family meal without too much fuss. It folds sandwich-style and packs into an included carrying case (that also fits a pot and pan if you buy the Jetboil Genesis Cook System), keeping your camp kitchen organized and compact.
Learn more about our favorite camp stoves in our Best Camping Stoves guide.
Enhanced bug protection for families
What to look for
Area treatment vs. personal spray, kid-safe formulations
What we liked: Non-toxic and safe for sensitive skin, made entirely from plant-based and bio-based ingredients, great smell, spray pump
What we didn't like: Doesn’t last as long or fend off bugs as well as DEET-based sprays
Lemongrass Farms Trek Kids Natural Insect Repellent Spray
I hesitate to spray DEET on myself, so there’s no way I’m going to spray that on my little one. If you're in the same boat, stick to an all-natural bug spray formulated specifically for children's sensitive skin.
Whenever we're outside and camping as a family, we use Trek Kids All-Natural Bug Spray. It's plant-based, free of harsh chemicals, and has a light lemongrass and peppermint scent that's a far cry from the chemical-saturated smell of conventional bug sprays. It keeps the bugs at bay without us having to worry about what we're putting on our kids’ skin, which is why it’s always with us on car camping trips.
Gear organization & storage
What to look for
Quick access to baby supplies, separation of kid vs. adult gear, and durability
Our Choice: No Reception Club The Hideaway Carry-On Duffel
What we liked: Easy to dial-in organization with so many compartments and pockets
What we didn't like: Potentially over-featured for some, heavy
No Reception Club The Hideaway Carry-On Duffel
Packing for a camping trip with a baby or toddler means keeping track of a lot of small, easy-to-lose items. This compartmentalized, fully customizable duffel makes organizing your kid's gear significantly more dialed than throwing everything into a single bag. Packed with pockets, organizational dividers, and included packing cubes, you can dial in exactly where everything is so it's organized for the campsite.
We fit multiple days of clothes, shoes, hat and gloves, diapers, changing essentials like creams and powders, and a few favorite toys all in one bag. In action, this looks like onesies in one cube, diapers and wipes in another, snacks and pacifiers in the front pocket, and shoes in its own separate section. This bag helps make sure you always know exactly where everything is without fumbling around the tent and in a massive duffel trying to find what you need. It’s also one of the more versatile bags we own as we use it for flying and travel year-round, not just at the campsite.
You may also want to check out the No Reception Club Getaway Bag, which is our pick for Best Adventure Travel Backpack for Families.
Gear organization
Our Choice: Daylite Jr. Pack
What we liked: Kid-sized (list size range/measurements), feature-packed, adorable colors and patterns
What we didn't like: Too small to pack clothes for longer than two days
Daylite Jr. Pack
Erica’s daughter AJ roams the campsite wearing her Osprey Daylite Jr. Pack. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
There's nothing cuter than seeing your kid wearing a backpack. Seriously. The Osprey Daylite Jr. Pack is the perfect starter backpack for young ones. It's essentially a shrunken version of the adult Daylite Pack with all the same pockets, zippers, and features, including an internal hydration bladder sleeve.
Getting kids into the habit of carrying their own pack early is a great way to build excitement around camping and hiking, and letting them pack their own snacks, a toy, or a favorite stuffed animal for a camping trip goes a long way in prepping them for future adventures. It’s also a practical pick for pulling double duty as a school backpack, too.
Specialized camp surfaces
What to look for
Easy cleaning, soft surfaces for play, waterproof materials
Our Choice: NEMO Victory Patio Blanket
What we liked: Waterproof bottom, easy to stake down for windy days
What we didn't like: Heavy and bulkier than other groundcover options
NEMO Victory Patio Blanket
The NEMO Victory Patio Blanket is a great addition to your family car camping kit for several reasons. For starters, families with young kids can have a soft and protected spot for their baby to crawl around on during their early years of camping. You can also throw it down at the tent entrance as a place to wipe feet and store shoes before heading inside. Trust us: you don't want your kids tracking mud into the tent, so avoid it at all costs if you can.
The waterproof bottom means wet or muddy ground won't soak through, and stake loops at each corner keep it anchored on windy days so it doesn't take off across the campsite. The Victory Patio Blanket comes in medium, large, and extra large sizes, depending on your needs. Level up your campsite with this patio blanket at your tent, near the campfire, or under a shade tent or shelter to lean into true comfort camping.
High chairs and feeding gear
Portable high chairs
What to look for
Portability, safety straps, easy cleaning, stability on uneven surfaces
Our Choice: Phil & Teds Lobster Clip-On Portable High Chair
What we liked: Easy to use, rock solid attachment
What we didn't like: Requires a sturdy table, like a picnic table
Phil & Teds Lobster Clip-On Portable High Chair
For younger kids who aren’t big enough to sit at a picnic table by themselves, you’ve got to get creative about feeding time and figuring out a spot for them to sit. Not many are willing to lug a high chair to the campground (I don’t blame you, I never would). Consider investing in The Phil & Teds Lobster Clip-On Portable High Chair, which clamps directly onto a picnic table and makes a stable seat for your kid to sit at for dinner or hang out at the campsite.
It's lightweight, folds flat, and works from around six months through toddlerhood, making it a practical pick across multiple camping seasons. We use this at restaurants and brewery visits too. It’s super versatile and convenient when you don’t want to fuss with a full-blown high chair. Heads up: We don’t advise attaching this to a regular camping table, as you need a sturdy foundation to use with this clip-on high chair.
Kids dishware & utensils
What to look for
Durability, kid-safe materials, easy cleaning, lightweight
Our Choice: Lalo Stainless Nesting Snack Bowls
What we liked: Durable, non-plastic, great for storing leftovers
What we didn't like: Bulky to bring if you’re limited on space, non-insulated
Lalo Stainless Nesting Snack Bowls
Obviously standard kitchenware (glass and ceramic bowls and plates) don't mix with the outdoors. Especially with kids and toddlers who tend to knock things over and have their fair share of clumsy moments, it's smart to bring bowls, plates, and dishware you know will stay safe and won't break at the campsite. The Lalo Stainless Nesting Snack Bowls are a great investment for exactly that reason.
Made with durable stainless steel that holds up to drops and repeated camping trips, they nest together compactly so they take up almost no space in your camp kitchen, are the right size for toddler portions, and are easy to rinse clean even without a proper sink nearby. They also come with lids, making them spillproof and easy to store leftovers in them. That way your camp dinner (and the food your kid inevitably doesn’t eat because they’re scarfing down s’mores) doesn't go to waste!
Food storage & cooking
Family-sized coolers
What to look for
Insulation quality, size for family needs, durability, ease of transport
Our Choice: RTIC 32 QT Ultra-Light Cooler
What we liked: Includes basket rack and reusable ice block, lightweight, bottle opener, and tight rubber latches to keep lid shut tight
What we didn't like: Not as sleek as competitor coolers
RTIC 32 QT Ultra-Light Cooler
Keeping baby food, milk, and produce and meat for cooking camp meals cold at the campsite isn't optional, it's essential. The RTIC 32 QT Ultra-Light is our go-to cooler for weekend car camping trips with the family. It's way lighter than other coolers in this category (the brand argues up to 30% lighter than comparable rotomolded coolers) and it can keep ice cold for multiple days at a time.
We love the included basket rack to keep food like egg containers and open packages from getting waterlogged in melted ice. It also comes with a reusable ice block that doubles as a dividing wall in the cooler for better organization. Tight rubber latches mean the cooler is tamper-proof (from wildlife like racoons and kids trying to sneak snacks at night). And for the adults, it has a built-in bottle opener to make it easier to crack open a beer to enjoy around the campfire.
Kids water bottles
What to look for
Spill-proof design, durability, appropriate size, easy cleaning
Our Choice: Hydro Flask Kids 12 oz Bottle
What we liked: Lots of cute colors, durable stainless steel, rubber foot
What we didn't like: Bulky and heavier than other kids water bottles
Hydro Flask Kids 12 oz Bottle
Erica’s daughter AJ sips water out of her Hydro Flask Kids 12 oz Bottle. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
You’ve gotta keep the kids hydrated while camping. There are tons of water bottles out there to choose from but we are partial to the Hydro Flask Kids 12 oz Bottle for its durability, insulated and spill-proof design, and, of course, the fun colors you can choose from. It’s rugged enough to stand up to the inevitable drops and tosses, plus it has a rubber boot to protect the bottom of the bottle from denting (or making a loud noise). It's a bit bulkier and heavier than other kids bottles, but the durability is worth it, in our opinion.
First aid & safety
Family first aid kits
What to look for
Kid-specific supplies, compact organization, emergency medications, clear instructions
What we liked: Comes in different quantities and variations, fun colors, diverse mix of bandage sizes and types
What we didn't like: Could be considered more playful than functional
Welly First Aid Kit
Scrapes, bumps, and bug bites are a rite of passage for kids when camping and exploring the outdoors. It’s smart to bring along a first aid kit so you can treat minor injuries on site. The Welly First Aid Kit is a great pick for families because it comes in several sizes and variations, includes a diverse mix of bandage sizes and types (for everything from tiny finger scrapes to bigger boo-boos), and comes in fun colors that make it a little less intimidating for kids who need a quick tune-up.
Keep in mind that Welly leans more playful than clinical, so we'd recommend supplementing it with a few extras like antihistamines for allergic reactions, tweezers for splinters, and more serious bandages like butterfly bandaids or larger gauze.
Clothing and weather protection
Kids rain gear
What to look for
Waterproof materials, breathability, easy on/off for kids, durability
Our Choice: Helly Hansen Bergen 2.0 PU Rain Set
What we liked: Sold as a set, durable
What we didn't like: Expensive
Helly Hansen Bergen 2.0 PU Rain Set
Don't let a rainstorm dampen your camping trip. Invest in a quality rain set for your kid (or kids) so that it pays off the moment the weather turns and you don’t have to hide out in your tent. A high-quality rain set, like the Helly Hansen Bergen 2.0 PU, is durable and fully waterproof. It comes as a matching jacket and pants set.
The one downside is the price. It's on the expensive side for kids’ rain gear, given how fast kids go through cheap rain jackets. But we’d argue it’s worth spending a little more money for rain gear that will last and keep your kids warm and dry when the weather takes a turn for the worst.
Kids insulation layers
What to look for
Warmth-to-weight ratio, easy layering, kid-friendly features, durability
Our Choice: Patagonia Baby Micro D Snap-T Fleece Jacket
What we liked: Super soft, fitted well for kids
What we didn't like: Limited sizes mean kids may be in between a jacket that’s too small or too big
Patagonia Baby Micro D Snap-T Fleece Jacket
A baby layered up in the spring time wearing the Patagonia Baby Micro D Snap-T Fleece Jacket. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
It’s smart to pack layers for a car camping trip to keep your kids warm no matter the conditions. Temperatures at the campsite can drop fast once the sun goes down, plus, if you camp in the shoulder season like we do, it’s ideal to layer a midlayer under a kid’s rain shell or warmer jacket.
The Patagonia Baby Micro D Snap-T Fleece Jacket is a great layer to wear on its own or under a top layer. It's made from soft, lightweight fleece that traps warmth without adding bulk around your child’s body. It’s fit and designed specifically for kids. And a full front zipper makes it easy to get on and off instead of wrestling a youngin or toddler into a crew or quarter-zip sweater. Patagonia is known for their quality too, so you won’t need to worry about this jacket wearing down quickly once you purchase it (and it has a high resale value too!).
Find more cold-weather picks in our Best Kids’ Snow Gear guide.
Sun shirt for kids
What to look for
Easy on/off, comfort for camp wear, quick-dry materials, durability
Our Choice: Patagonia Baby Capilene Silkweight Hoody
What we liked: UPF protection, lightweight and quick-dry
What we didn't like: Limited sizes mean kids may be in between a jacket that’s too small or too big
Patagonia Baby Capilene Silkweight Hoody
Erica’s daughter AJ wearing the Patagonia Baby Capilene Silkweight Hoody for sun protection in the mountains. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
Without fail, our daughter takes her hat off approximately thirty seconds after we put it on. That’s made sun protection on camping trips and hikes a real challenge in the first year of her life. We’ve found the Patagonia Baby Capilene Silkweight Hoody to be our secret weapon in keeping the sun off her head, neck, and shoulders.
The truth is: sun protection on a camping trip goes beyond sunscreen, especially when you're spending full days outside with a little one. This lightweight sun shirt is breathable, offers UPF sun protection, and is loose fitting so it’s comfortable. It also dries extremely fast, which comes in handy for beach days too. Like everything Patagonia makes, the quality holds up across multiple camping seasons. It’s buttery soft and, of course, comes in cute kid-themed designs and pops of color, which we love.
Hygiene & personal care
Portable bathing solutions
What to look for
Easy setup, privacy options, water efficiency, family capacity
Our Choice: Sea To Summit Wilderness Wipes
What we liked: Hypoallergenic, pre-moistened, and pH-balanced cleaning formula that’s gentle and safe on sensitive skin
What we didn't like: Single use
Sea To Summit Wilderness Wipes
Full baths aren't really an option when you're camping with a baby or toddler (unless you count dips in the lake as a bath). That's where the Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes earn their place in the family camping hygiene kit. They're large, thick, and durable enough to actually get a kid clean from head to toe at the campsite. The downside is they're single use, so pack more than you think you'll need.
Quick-dry towels
What to look for
Fast-drying materials, appropriate size, durability, multiple uses
Our Choice: Nomadix Ultralight Towel
What we liked: Impressively quick dry
What we didn't like: Less plush than other options
Nomadix Ultralight Towel
Kids go through towels fast at the campsite. Between swimming, showering, and cleaning up messes that are a given for camping with kids, it’s nice to have a camping towel that will do it all.
The Nomadix Ultralight Towel is an ultralight and super quick-dry towel that packs down tiny, dries in rapid speed, and soaks up water without leaving hardly any moisture behind. Nomadix Original Towel is a good option for adults or if you foresee wanting a larger towel for your kid, but the ultralight version is smaller and lighter, which works well for kids’ smaller bodies.
Entertainment and activities
Nature exploration tools
What to look for
Durability, age-appropriate features, educational value, compact storage
What we liked: Compact, sleek and durable thanks to a rubber coating
What we didn't like: An expensive toy for a kid, especially toddlers
Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube 8x32 Monocular Telescope
Birdwatching and kids are a great combo. Give your kids a tool that makes it even more fun to explore, like searching for birds with Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube 8x32 Monocular Telescope. This single tube monocular is compact and lightweight, and its smaller size makes it easy for little hands to hold and peer through. It’s a perfect entry-level option over larger, more expensive binoculars for bird watching. This exploration tool will encourage kids to slow down, look more closely, and engage with their surroundings rather than tuning out.
Our daughter isn’t quite big enough to use one yet, but we like to have this in our pocket for her to hold and play with. Plus, for parents, it’s just as fun. We use it all the time to spot wildlife and find birds at the campsite or on our day hikes.
What we learned: tips from camping with a baby
Camping with a young child is totally doable with the right family camping gear. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
Practical insights
Lesson 1: Get comfortable with the uncomfortable
Camping with a baby, young kids, or toddlers means accepting early on that you can't control everything—the weather, noise from the neighboring campsite, and rough nights of sleep included.
Enter the outdoors with a flexible mindset and a plan to manage stress while camping with kids. That way, when things go sideways, you’re not sent into panic mode. Honestly, some of our favorite camping memories with our daughter came out of getting through some tough times outdoors. Growth!
Lesson 2: Get them involved early
Even at a young age, kids love feeling like they're part of the adventure. Have them pack their own car camping gear at home, have them hand you sticks or small logs to put into the campfire, and, of course, have them help carry items (within reason) to the car. You want to instill good habits from the start, right? Getting them involved at a young age with all of the “car camping jobs” builds excitement and gives them a sense of ownership over the trip.
Lesson 3: It's okay to call it quits
Especially on car camping trips early on in your kids’ lives, there's no shame in choosing a campsite close to home. There’s also no shame in heading home if you’re within a short drive. We’ve literally driven home at midnight before because we were nervous about the weather and the prospect of an overly cold night.
If you make peace with the option to pack up…you’re not a failure. As you dial in your system and your kid gets more comfortable, you can start pushing car camping trips from home.
Building your family camping kit
Getting started (budget-conscious approach)
Camping with young kids and toddlers is best approached in baby steps. Especially when it comes to investing in gear for camping with your family, you don't need to buy everything on this list for your first trip.
Once you've done a trip or two and know what worked and what didn't, you'll have a much clearer sense of where to invest. You can also check out Facebook resale groups with community groups for families that may have hand-me-downs. Build your kid-friendly car camping kit gradually and intentionally over time. For starters, organize the nonnegotiables and borrow or rent the rest until you know what your family actually needs.
Buy:
Tent with solid weather protection
Sleeping bag or sleep sack designed for kids
Sleeping pad or small Pack n’ Play
Appropriate clothing (base layer, mid layer, jacket)
Rain gear and insulation layers as the seasons change
Cooler for storing baby food and milk
Borrow or rent (until you're ready to buy):
Camp stove and cookware
Camping chairs and seating
Lanterns and lighting
Portable high chair or clip-on seat
Buy as you go:
All-terrain stroller
Baby carrier or kid carrier for hikes
Nature exploration tools like binoculars
Waterproof paper/notebooks for drawing and coloring
Bring what you (probably) already own:
Bug spray and sunscreen
Kids dishware and utensils
Diaper bag with changing essentials
Organizational gear like packing cubes and duffels
Upgrading your kit
My mom always said, “You get what you pay for.” I am a big believer in this sentiment today, especially when it comes to great outdoor gear that’s built to last. After a trip or two you'll quickly figure out where the gaps in your kit are and what's worth spending more on.
What's nonnegotiable is having high-quality, premium gear for equipment that affects sleep, safety, and comfort. Cutting corners there can really make or break a camping trip, regardless of whether you’re camping with kids or not. But helping your kid have a comfortable night's sleep (and a safe sleep) is super important.
For example, investing in a better tent with superior weather protection, opting for a thicker sleeping pad for a cushier night's sleep, and choosing to upgrade if you think it will provide more comfort. That’s the luxury of car camping: you can bring the luxuries!
Once you know camping is something your family is actually going to keep doing, a few other upgrades are worth the spend, like a cooler that holds ice for multiple days, a two-burner stove, and a well-organized bag dedicated to your kid's gear. The budget versions of these items will for sure get you through the first few trips just fine. But consider replacing them with higher-quality items down the road.
Age-specific quick reference
Erica’s daughter AJ (not a shark) on her first-ever camping trip at two months old. Photo courtesy Erica Zazo
Essential gear by age
Your car camping gear list for your family should grow and change as your kids do. Here's a quick breakdown of what matters most at each age and stage.
0 to 6 months: Taking a newborn camping is not for the faint of heart, but for die-hard camping families, it's absolutely doable with the right setup. At this stage, it's all about the basics:
Dial in a safe, comfortable, and warm sleep setup
Bring ample sun and bug protection
Make sure you have a reliable way to keep breast milk or formula cold
Your baby isn't going anywhere on their own yet, so most of your energy goes into planning sleep schedules, feeding, and keeping them comfortable and protected from the elements. Nail down those three categories, and you'd be surprised how manageable a camping weekend with a newborn actually is.
6 to 12 months: Your baby at this age is much more mobile (crawling and walking), which means trying your best to baby-proof the campsite becomes a real consideration. Some essentials will go a long way in making a more comfortable and efficient camping trip with kids this age.
Bring a carrier for easier hikes and explorations
Invest in an all-terrain stroller for the campground
Curate a comfortable sleep setup (crib, double sleeping pad, ideal blankets/sleeping bags, travel mat, etc.)
1 to 3 years: Families with kids this age argue it’s one of the most fun ages to camp with. They’re walking, talking, and hiking. They're enamored by exploring the campsite. They’re eager to get involved. As far as gear goes, key items in this category include:
Buy a kid carrier and hiking backpack to go on longer adventures
Invest in solid rain gear, insulation layers, and a sun shirt since kids will be running around a lot more
3 years and up: At this age, if you’ve been camping for a while already, camping starts to feel less like logistics management and more like a shared family adventure. Or, maybe this is when you’re just starting to get comfortable with the idea of bringing your kids along for a camping weekend. Regardless, there are key items to consider in your car camping kit with kids at this age:
Upgrade to a properly sized sleeping bag and sleeping pad
Increase the size of your tent as your kids (and family) grow if you need more space
Experiment with independence builders like a kid-size backpack, their own headlamp, and a monocular or binoculars to engage more with the nature around them
Seasonal considerations for family camping
Spring and fall: Shoulder season camping means one thing: pack layers. Temperatures can swing wildly between a warm, sunny afternoon and a freezing-cold night, so make sure your kid has appropriate base layers, fleece midlayers, and a waterproof shell. You’ll also want warmer blankets and thicker sleeping pads to fend off the cold. And always bring a sleeping bag rated colder than you think you'll need. You'll thank yourself at 2 a.m.
Summer: Heat and sun are the main concerns. A UPF sun shirt with a built-in hood, mineral sunscreen, a sun hat, and investing in a shade tent can go a long way. Plus, make sure your cooler can handle hotter weather if you rely on a standard ice-filled cooler to keep milk, food, and drinks cold.
Cold weather: For the sake of this guide, we’d recommend starting with spring, fall, and summer camping only with little kids. If you’re up for a cold-weather camping adventure once you’ve mastered the basics of warm weather, go for it. But this isn’t your guide for that, unfortunately.
Safety and leave no trace with kids
Camping with kids is a great opportunity to start teaching outdoor ethics early. Even at one year old, our daughter is starting to pick up on simple habits like picking up trash around the campsite, staying on the trail, and being “gentle” with plants and flowers (i.e., leaving them alone). I try to instill a sense of Leave No Trace in every element of our family car camping experience, from the time we set up or hit the trailhead to the time we pack up and drive out of the campground.
On the safety side, we set clear boundaries early around the fire and water. For older kids, it’s important to make sure they know not to stray too far from the campsite. I’d even recommend packing walkie-talkies to stay in touch with kids old enough to use them (or using the buddy system if there’s more than one kid).
And when it comes to diaper management, it’s simple: throw everything away as you would at home. We bring small compostable bags to put diapers in during the night in our tent to fend off the smell. We use biodegradable wipes to minimize waste (we do this at home, too). It’s also super important to note you don’t want to leave diapers out overnight. Just as you would with food, put diapers in a sealed, tight container or in your car to keep animals from getting into them.
Why you should trust us / About the author
Erica Zazo (she/they) is a long-time freelance writer and gear reviewer who has covered outdoor products and adventure travel for more than a decade. She's reviewed products for numerous outdoor and travel publications, including Outside Magazine, Backpacker Magazine, CNN Underscored, GearJunkie, and more, educating readers about what they need to know to get outdoors safely and enjoyably.
Based in Chicago, they spend most of the year adventuring on weekends to local campgrounds, regional trails, and out on Lake Michigan, proving that you don't have to live in the mountains to have an active outdoor lifestyle. She loves getting outdoors with her wife, Courtney, and daughter, AJ. An avid gear writer specializing in car camping and hiking, her work has increasingly focused on adventuring with young kids since the arrival of her daughter, who has been getting outside with her since she was two weeks old. Now a one-year-old, AJ has already logged more camping trips, hikes, and outdoor adventures than most kids twice her age.
Erica is an expert in all things outdoor adventure and knows what to look for in gear to keep you safe, comfortable, and coming back for more. Follow her adventures on Instagram at @onecurioustrvlr and read her stories at her online portfolio.
See more on Erica's author page.