If you as a parent of a new-born are skeptical about embarking on a camp with the child at such a young age, it may be interesting to learn that several parents have taken their toddlers for such expeditions. They have fascinating tales to narrate about their experiences and tips on camping with a baby. However, you need to exercise caution. For helping you sail through this tide; we have listed a few tips when you are camping with a baby in the following details.
1. Weather Conditions
It is important to study the weather conditions of the campsite, before your visit. This is vital because you can pack the essentials for keeping the baby and the rest of the group comfortable if the climate becomes frosty. In the event of rainy conditions, we recommend that you carry a waterproof tarp for the infants to play on: a blanket becomes dirty on the wet mud, and then the tots may not have a place to rest on.
Normally, during nighttime the temperatures are cool at the outdoors; therefore, ensure you take warm clothes, including mittens and hats, for keeping the baby comforted.
2. Remain Close to Home
Under our list of tips on camping with a baby, we strongly advise selecting a camping ground located in the vicinity of one’s home. This is because you can always exercise the option of taking the infant home if things do not go as planned.
Moreover, toddlers can get impatient being seated in the car for long durations and they would prefer short distances – their comfort must be given priority. Additionally, start early and give yourself ample of time to drive to the encampment area and make efforts to reach the site before it turns dark. You can have plenty of time to set up the tent and get organized.
3. Basic Amenities
As a parent-cum-camper, while camping with a tot in tow, it would be advisable to select a campground that provides basic amenities such as potable water and flushing toilets. You can also opt to rent a cabin or room. It may be useful to know that many national parks contain child-conducive quarters and offer cabins on rent. Some recreational parks are situated near motels and can be visited if the need arises.
4. Baby’s Clothes
The infant’s clothes become sweaty during the day, and you must make sure that you change their garments in the evening or before bedtime for keeping them cool and refreshed. Make the babies wear clothes comprised of woolen material; in these garments, babies remain warm when it is cold and are kept cool when the temperatures rise.
You must also wear socks for keeping their toes warm. It is also suggested to cover them with fleece blankets for their warmth when putting them to sleep for the night.
5. Sleeping Arrangements
During the camp-based expeditions with newborns, it is imperative that their sleeping arrangements are considered. Some people advise that mats be placed for every person, including the child, at a foot’s distance, inside the tent.
Another option that you can avail is camping cots, which are specially designed for outdoor camping. It provides a flat surface, and you can snuggle the baby for warmth. Nevertheless, if carrying an air mattress, it must be borne in mind that a source of electricity is required and a solar generator should be brought along. You must also remember that the air mattress becomes cold in the night and a sheet should be atop the mattress before lying down; by doing so, you can keep you and your child warm.
Also, keep checking on the baby at intervals through the night to gauge whether they are feeling cold. If you perceive that they need warmth, then make them adorn sweaters to warm them. However, if it gets very chilly, then you must consider bringing the baby closer to your body for their comfort.
6. Extra Supplies
Many camping parents are also of the opinion that extra supplies must be brought along. These include diapers, clothes, and wipes. It is better to be well-prepared rather than running home for getting more provisions in case of unforeseen circumstances.
7. Warn the Neighbors
There may be other campers in the vicinity, and it may so happen that they get disturbed if your baby wails loudly at night. For this reason, we recommend chatting with the neighbors to inform them about your child’s behavioral patterns, so they are prepared. You could also consider packing earplugs for giving to the neighboring campers.
8. Nursing Recommendations
Included in our tips on camping with a baby are some suggestions to remain comfortable during breastfeeding. You can make yourself comfortable by folding the sleeping mat and placing it beneath for additional cushioning. You must also take measures to keep yourself warm when nursing.
9. Infant Backpack
Do not forget to pack an infant backpack for resting the baby during the hiking expeditions. Also, choose the safety harness varieties for preventing the baby from sliding out when you are bending. You may use the best waterproof backpacks for camping outdoors.
10. First-Aid Kit
You must also bring along a first-aid kit to tend to any injuries of the baby. The kit must include bandages, an antiseptic solution, sunscreens (for a child above six years), and a pest spray, as advised by the doctor.
You may also find it helpful to learn that some conditions the children may suffer from are contact dermatitis, caused as a result of being exposed to poison ivy, and bee stings. Therefore, it would be wise to consult the medical experts on the course of action to be taken during such incidences. Also, the required items are a must to keep in the bags.
11. Nature Settings
Kids need toys to keep themselves entertained, but make an exception when going on a camp or carry only a few. By doing so, you can teach your child to be comfortable with nature when outdoors. Their hands may get soiled when holding a stick or playing in the dirt, so be sure to wash their hands after play-time.
12. Stick to Normal Routine
You may also want to consider taking along a ‘Pack-n-Play’ for a camp when accompanied with a toddler. Your baby may be accustomed to sleeping or playing inside, and it would be advisable to allow them to stick to their normal routine. Here, the dual purposes of a bed during sleep-time and playhouse through the day are also served.
13. Avoid Taking Stress
As a parent, it is natural to take stress when camping with the little ones, but our advice is to avoid becoming stressful. Babies can sense if you are tensed; as a result of which they may become discomforted. Make the trip enjoyable and fun-filled, even if things do not seem to be going your way.
14. Travel in a Group
It can be more comforting if you are going to a camp with a baby and a group of friends are coming along. Extra pairs of hands are always welcome. They can keep an eye on the toddler or feed them if you are cooking or feeling tired.
It can be challenging to go for a camp with infants, but many parents claim that it can be an enchanting experience for the mini-ones when you follow the tips on camping with a baby. The tots are sure to be enamored by the rustling of the leaves, sunlight, tall trees, and a balmy breeze. That look of wonder will be memorable for you as a parent: be sure to tell them about their reaction when they are old enough to understand.