For the unprepared, family camping holidays can be truly horrific experiences. From the equipment – or, as is often the case, lack of equipment – to all manner of food, medical and sleeping problems, your break away from it all and into nature’s buxom can quickly turn into the holiday from hell.
- family camping holidaysjjay69 / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
In order to make sure your family camping holidays don’t fall into this category, it’s important to take precautions and consider likely scenarios. Of course, there are some things you simply can’t avoid, and some you can’t plan for, but with enough preparation beforehand, you could protect your trip away from certain disaster.
The number one measure we would always recommend to anybody going on holiday anywhere it to make sure you’re ensured – especially if you’re going abroad. An E111 card can be grabbed from the supermarket or post office over the counter, and can literally be a lifesaver in some situations. If your camping holidays ever take you outside the UK, this card means you’re insured and can receive hospital treatment. It’s an essential.
Next up is another essential piece of the camping puzzle – actual camping equipment. It may be that people in your party already have the bulk of the equipment you need from various festival outings or camping trips, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they know how to sue it effectively. Tents should be equipped with groundsheets and be waterproof, obviously, and should be erected with time and care. A sloppy job could lead to problems at the most inopportune of times…
Following on from this, clothes are also a big part of your camping trip. Where are you going? Is it hot, cold, likely to rain? Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, you can check weather conditions in advance using the internet. Taking a few minutes to check on the upcoming temperatures for the region your visiting can reduce the number of items you take away, and save you from constant visits to your tent to change!
One of the most dividing factors among family members during camping trips – or any other trip – is food. It goes without saying that everybody has different tastes, and sometimes it can be difficult to accommodate them all at meal times. One easy way is to find somewhat generic, universal places to eat, such as diners or cafes. Another option, and a cheaper one for campers, is to take the family to a local supermarket, get them to pick and choose their meals and cook them back at the site.
Activities are an even more divisive factor during camping holidays. We suggest making a pact with another adult in the group to either grin and bear it, put your foot down when required, or split the party when required. Everyone has their own idea of how to spend a camping holiday, so don’t be too disheartened if you find the family at loggerheads over breakfast.
In conclusion, with a simple bit of planning, a family camping trip can run like clockwork. If it doesn’t, however, please remember that you’re not the only one it’s happened to!
