Is the entire concept of going on a camping trip with an infant overwhelming? Well, you are not alone in this. Many first-time parents assume that outdoor adventurers are off-limits till the kids grow up, but that’s not true!
An adventurous life is promised even if you have a toddler at home. All you need is a well-wrought checklist to follow while planning for an outdoor trip with the baby. Most importantly, you will need a lot of patience and extensive research.
You will go slower, cover less ground, hike with difficulty, and even spend sleepless nights. But it’s your chance to make exciting memories with your little one in the wild. Now that you have a little one to carry along, you will actually be more observant of nature and what it offers. So, with no further ado, let’s gear you up for the next camping trip!
Camping With a Baby
Firstly, new parents need to understand that having a baby does not stop them from having fun. Most of them feel camping could be a hindrance and could disrupt the regular routine for the toddler. They are scared about safety, discomfort, and everything else.
But camping in the wild always helps you learn new things. Let your little one experience these new things. A little dirt on their hands won’t end the world. Take a leap of faith and go on a camping trip together. The first two trips might seem like a bit of a hassle but as you and your baby get used to stepping outdoors, nothing can stop you from hiking up mountains for the weekend.
Another reason many doctors suggest parents go camping with their kids is because such trips help children adapt to new changes mentally and physically. They will get a break from the technology-driven world and learn to stay more grounded. If you have 2-3 year olds, try going with other families. This way, your kids will start learning how to bond with others.
On the physical front, when babies are exposed to new environments, they start developing good white blood cells to fight diseases. Their bodies get exposed to different temperatures helping them adapt to ranging altitudes and noises. Be it beaches or the mountains, your kids deserve to be a part of your travel plans.
Fun fact: babies exposed to the outside environment have better immunity and the ability to adapt to changes and cope with future hurdles.
Things you need on your checklist
Diapers
Well, if you have babies on the trip, diapers are a must. Regular diapers are thicker and not eco-friendly. Many parents pick cloth diapers for daily use, but you might need different ones when you are on a hiking trip. Check out eco-friendly diapers or linen diapers. They are usually thinner and biodegradable. You can also check for hybrid diapers like gDiapers which are compostable and degradable.
Diaper bags
If you are a first-timer, you will definitely need to bring an ample amount of diaper bags to the trip. You will need sealable and waterproof bags for storing as well as to dispose of used diapers.
Washcloths, wet wipes, and towels
Well, kids are always messy and babies are messier! So keep an ample amount of wet wipes in your bag along with washcloths and towels. They come in handy to clean your baby after feeding, bathing, and even a nasty round of game in the mud.
Going into the wild can be messy, even for adults. Let your children experience the mess and feel at home amidst nature. If you are camping on a lakeside, you can wash your towels then and there. So it’s better to pack less, but on a high mountain, you might want to have more towels.
Camping baby carriers
When it’s time for camping, leave all your cuddling back at home and let your baby get used to the actual hiking in a camping baby carrier. They will be safely strapped to your back or front as you hike up the wild. Backpack carriers are the perfect choice for longer hikes, while baby strapping carriers are easier for short trips.
Baby camp chairs and cribs
Portable baby cribs are trendy in the market these days. It isn’t easy to set up a campsite with an infant in your arms. So it’s always a good idea to carry a portable crib and let the infact relax in it as you get into action. Baby cribs are also beneficial during nights. Babies who are used to sleeping in cribs might have a hard time sleeping in a tent. So you can set up a crib inside your tent for the night. And then comes baby camp chairs which are perfect for camping in the green. They will hold your toddler in one place.
Bug repellents and sunscreen
Babies can only cry. They cannot express their discomfort in any other way, thus making it your duty to protect them. There are high chances that your baby will become a victim of bugs in the wild. Some might develop allergies due to bug bites which can cause nasty rashes and hurt your baby. So you must pack bug repellents in your bag for the trip. Before you go full-fledged applying the cream on your baby, you should always test them first. Apply the repellent near your baby’s ankles and see if it causes any reactions. If it does, consult your physician and go for a different brand.
The same thing goes for sunscreen. Skin patch testing is vital. Sunscreens are essential items on a camping trip with a baby. Babies have sensitive and delicate skin that quickly react to changing temperatures and the raging sun. Try applying organic and natural sunscreens on your little ones. If your baby is below 6 months, sunscreens are a big no-no. Instead, try covering them up completely in long-sleeved clothes or baby wraps.
Food
Food is the top priority on your list. Babies can be really unpredictable when it comes to their hunger. If it’s a breastfeeding infant, you won’t have much trouble. But for solid-eating children, you’d need to carry food items that are disposable and require less cooking time. You can pluck berries and random fruits on the way. Please make sure they are edible before you feed your child. Carry some jelly beans so your kids can nibble on them during the hike.
Large tent
Usually, tents need to be cozy and comforting. But with a baby around, go for a large tent. Babies cannot adjust to sudden confinement. They like to be in the open and need enough space to process their new surroundings. Some babies will find it really suffocating to stay in a small tent. So it’s better to get a large tent with enough space for them to crawl around and discover new spaces.
Camping clothing
Regular clothing is not usually not apt for a camping trip. Dress your baby in layers as a change in altitude or temperature can affect them if it’s their first time. Check out camping clothes such as wind cheaters, raincoats, and jumpers. You peel off the layers or add more based on your baby’s preference as they start adapting to the new environment. Also, check out for fleece-based clothing. It provides a good amount of heat and keeps babies comfortable.
Make sure you carry enough clothes for the baby. You never know how they will react to the new place. At the same time, if you are residing near a lake or by the water, you can wash your clothes. So pack accordingly.
Baby Campgear You Might Need
Baby carrier or hiking backpack
Babies are portable and you can carry them everywhere. This is where baby carriers can make your job much easier. They help you carry kids around even on exciting hiking rides. Here is a list of some of the best baby carriers.
No products found.
The Ergobaby Omni 360 baby carrier is an all-season product which comes in 6 colors. It can be worn in all positions. Made of cotton, it is soft and very comfortable for babies to relax in. It supports babies from 0 – 48 months weighing up to 45 lbs. This carrier also comes with padded lumbar back support along with padded shoulder straps to spread the baby’s weight evenly and put less pressure on you. The product also has a large removable storage pouch where you can stuff washcloths or wet wipes for emergencies.
The best thing about this carrier is that it has a UPF baby hood for sun protection. It’s machine washable and is rated as one of the best baby carriers in town.
No products found.
LÍLLÉbaby’s Complete All Season Ergonomic baby carrier is quite popular among young mommies. This product comes in 9 exciting colors with adjustable shoulder straps. It features 6 ergonomic carrying styles and has a zip-down front option that lets young mothers feed their children on the way. It also helps them to keep a tab on the baby’s body temperature.
You can adjust the sitting area and tighten it according to your child’s dynamics. Made of cotton, the product is extra soft and easily washable. This baby carrier is a good choice if you have smaller babies weighing up to 45lbs. The adjusting panels help hold your little one in one place.
ClevrPlus Cross Country Baby backpack carrier
No products found.
ClevrPlus’s baby backpack carrier is one of the best carriers for hiking. Most baby carriers are comfortable but not apt for long hiking trips. That’s where this backpack comes into the picture. Available in 4 colors with an adjustable strap at the waist, this carrier weighs only 5.5 pounds making it comfortable for both the baby and the parent.
The shoulder and waist straps are comfortably padded, making for an easy and convenient carriage. It comes with energy-absorbing lumbar padding that keeps you cool and the baby secure. The waistband extends up to 60 degrees. This backpack carrier comes with a sun canopy and rain cover making it suitable for all seasons. The safety belts and foot stirrups hold the baby in a secure position. It also comes with a washable drool pad on which babies can rest their heads. This backpack carrier is perfect for 9 – 48 month old babies. When you’re not hiking, you can also place the carrier on the ground like a chair.
Baby camping chair
A baby camping chair is vital during a camping trip.You will want to place your kid somewhere safe as you set up the camping site. The camping chair gives your little one their own space to relax and settle down comfortably. Always go for a standalone chair instead of a booster-style seat. It is better and comfortable. Here are a few options for you to pick from.
No products found.
Baby Delight Go with Me Chair is perfect for babies aged 3 months to 3 years. It can be set up anywhere without a hassle. It has a patented design for the baby’s seating. As the baby grows, the seat fabric lifts to reveal two leg holes perfect for older babies.
This chair comes with a 5-point removable harness, which holds the baby securely. It is easily foldable and comes with a removable snack tray, sun canopy, and carry bag. This product is crafted with cotton, making a comfortable and convenient choice for babies.
Crib
No products found.
Every new parent fears one big thing. Where will the baby sleep, and how will they sleep? Munchkin brings you the answer to this problem. The Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet is one of the most comfortable bassinets in the market. It comes with mesh panels to protect your baby from bugs and insects at all times.
The fabric has high breathability and there is a 4-point safe T lock system to ensure your baby’s safety and your peace of mind. It is also easy to set up and carry around. As it’s made of polyester, steel, and cotton, this bassinet can easily be washed. This travel bassinet is perfect for babies aged 3 months to 3 years.
Mosquito Repellents
When you are on a camping trip, mosquito repellent is a must. Babies are the prime victims as they cannot shoo away bugs or mosquitoes. But when it comes to chemicals and medicines, every parent needs to be cautious. Check out these organically formulated products for your baby’s safety.
No products found.
Babyganics DEET Free Travel Bug Spray is quite popular among traveling parents. It’s devoid of DEET, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or artificial fragrance. The combination of ingredients is natural and organic, making it the best repellent for babies with sensitive skin.
This bug repellent also has no dyes and is wholly made from plant-derived ingredients. It’s infused with essential oils of citronella, peppermint, rosemary, lemongrass, and geranium. It keeps away bugs and mosquitoes from your little one at all costs.
Checklist summary
- Easy diaper-changing kit
- Biodegradable diapers
- Washcloths/wet wipes
- Sun hat
- Camping chair
- Food
- Fleece clothing
- Small first aid kit
- Baby carrier
- Travel bassinet
- Large tent
- Mosquito repellent
- Sunscreen
- Toys
Baby Camping Checklist Review
Camping with little ones is always overwhelming but exciting too. For new parents, it can be confusing but with proper planning and a precise checklist, you are good to go. Besides, camping outdoors helps your kids understand that the world is never the same and gives them an opportunity to experience nature at its best. Draw a checklist before you head out and have a blissful camping experience as a family!