How to Go Camping with Babies & Toddlers: Notes from a Hipcamp Mum

Hipcamp social media manager Clarice shares the tried-and-true tips and tricks she’s picked up camping with her 2-year-old.

Camping with little ones is an incredible way to bond as a family and introduce your baby or toddler to the wonders of nature. But of course, a successful trip does require some preparation to keep them comfortable and ensure you have peace of mind, especially that first time. As a Hipcamper and mum to 2-year-old Ted, here are some of my top tips to make your camping trips with babies enjoyable for everyone so you can unlock some core memories together.

1. Pack for all temperatures

Even during the warmer months, temperatures can drop significantly at night, so be prepared for fluctuating weather. For baby’s first camping trip, consider packing a few different TOG (thermal overall grade) sleep sacks and baby sleeping bags so you can adjust as the temperature changes. If you’re using a travel cot, Pack ‘N Play, or bassinet, I highly recommend placing an emergency foil blanket underneath it to provide extra insulation. One trick we’ve found helpful is using socks as mittens to keep baby warm if temps dip unexpectedly in the middle of the night.

2. Bring blackout solutions for better sleep

If you’re worried about your baby waking with the sunrise or struggling to sleep at nap time or at dusk, a SlumberPod is a game changer. It’s essentially a blackout pod that fits around your travel cot, keeping it dark and cosy inside. This means our little one can sleep soundly at his usual bedtime without being disturbed by the evening light—and he didn’t wake up at the crack of dawn! Co-sleeping parents who are tent camping can opt to hang portable blackout curtains. And don’t forget the white noise sound machine!

3. Create a makeshift bathtub

If your baby is used to having a bath before bed, bringing along a storage box or tiny paddling pool can save the day. If the campsite has access to hot water, you can fill it up and give them a familiar bath experience. The best part? The storage box doubles as a handy container for all your camping gear while travelling.

4. Snacks, snacks, snacks!

Always bring more snacks than you think you’ll need! This is a lifesaver when you’re dealing with a hangry toddler or just need a distraction while setting up camp. Having easy-to-grab snacks on hand also helps maintain a sense of routine and familiarity for little ones.

5. Choose a campsite safe for roaming

Pick a campsite that allows your toddler to roam safely, especially if it’s your first trip or you’re still gaining confidence as a camping family. Try to avoid pitches near water until you’re feeling more comfortable. At Coppet Hill, our toddler could explore safely, and it even had a big barn on-site for shelter if the weather turned bad. The freedom to wander around in the fresh air was a game-changer!

6. Bring minimal toys

You don’t need to overpack on toys. The great outdoors is full of adventure and entertainment—nature will be their playground! On our trip to Coppet Hill, we brought just a few lightweight toys, and that was enough to keep our little one entertained when he wasn’t exploring. The Host actually provided the toys for us!

7. Pack extra clothing & first aid essentials

Always pack more clothes than you think you’ll need (diapers too). Layered onesies and long sleeves are key to handling changing temperatures, and let’s be real—toddlers are pros at getting messy. Also, make sure to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, bug spray, and a basic first aid pack. Scrapes and bumps are bound to happen when little ones are out and about!

8. Try a portable high chair

If your baby is on solids and needs a high chair, look into getting a portable one. It makes mealtimes much easier at the campsite, especially if you’re dealing with a squirmy eater! I’ve found a good example of a camping high chair on Amazon.

9. Aim for a comfy and convenient bedtime feeding routine

If you’re breastfeeding, opt for a pillow with back support and call it a day. But if you’re bottle-feeding, especially with formula, I recommend using ready-made formula packs to save on hassle. Our toddler is on growing up oat milk, so we prep his bottle in a thermos and cool it down with a bit of water when it’s time for bed, ensuring it’s the perfect temperature to help baby sleep.

10. Stay flexible and have fun!

Camping is such an exciting outdoor adventure for kids, and you don’t need to overcomplicate it with too much gear or entertainment. Nature itself provides endless opportunities for play and discovery. Just remember to stay flexible and enjoy the slower pace of life outdoors. Being well-prepared with layers, snacks, and safety gear will ensure that your little camper has a fun and comfortable experience.

11. Try a wheelbarrow adventure

And for the ultimate in toddler transport? I can highly recommend using a wheelbarrow! 😂 It was hands-down the best way to get our little one around the campsite—fun outings for them, easy for us! Whether it’s moving them from the tent to the picnic table or giving them a scenic ride around camp, it’s guaranteed to be a hit (and a good laugh for everyone!). Plus, it doubles as a handy gear hauler—win-win!

Bringing your baby camping can be a bit of an adjustment, but the rewards are worth every effort! With the right prep, you can make lifelong memories while embracing the wild on a family camping trip. Good luck!