How To Take A Baby Camping

For those of us who were seasoned campers before babies, the urge to get back out there is strong. You may be looking at your tent, camping stove and sleeping bags collecting dust and cobwebs in the back of the shed, wondering if you will ever be able to use them again.

Pretty much nothing in life will ever be as easy as doing things pre-baby, but the good news is, it is absolutely possible to go camping with a baby! 

Here are some tips and things to consider before you take off.

What age is too young to camp?

Camping is a big logistical exercise with a kid of age, let alone a baby but it can be done.

Newborn baby

Take at least 6 to 12 weeks to settle in with your new baby before tackling a camping holiday. Your body needs to heal after childbirth and you need time to understand your baby’s needs and schedule. All this is best done in the comfort and safety of your own home.

Under 6 months

Babies under six months and in their pre-crawling phase are easy to take camping from a safety perspective as they are unable to move on their own and won’t be wandering off! Breastfeeding a baby is quite straightforward, but if bottle feeding, you will need to put thought into safely washing/sterilising and heating formula or breast milk.

Over 6 months

Going camping with a baby over six months can be ideal as they have stronger necks for safer road trips and are eating some pre-prepared baby food (and less dependent on breastfeeding and bottles). They are much more mobile though, so consider packing some activities and toys to keep them occupied.

Do I need to pack everything and the kitchen sink?

Packing to take a baby camping does require a bit more thought and you will find the boot of your car fills up a little bit quicker with all of the essentials.

Your home away from home

For any camping trip you will need a good tent. Check out our best family tents guide for some tips.

Sleepy time

A portable cot for your baby – particularly for those under 10 months – to sleep in is raised slightly off the ground keeping bugs and dirt away, and can be moved outside to use as a secure playpen. Packing a pram with a bug net attachment can also provide a transport option and an excellent daytime nap location in the shade.

Bouncing fun

For babies under six months, a bouncer is a great way to give your little one some entertainment with the side benefit of giving you some baby-free time.

Dressing up and down

It is important for babies to have layers so you can safely keep your baby cool during the day and toasty warm at night. A baby sleep bag is also an excellent way to achieve this and ensure your baby feels safe and secure.

Spitting the dummy

If your baby uses a dummy, consider investing in a dummy clip. It will prevent the dummy from falling and getting covered in dirt when spat out… which all new parents know is an annoyingly common occurrence!

How do I keep my baby safe?

There are a few things you can consider before heading out that will make your next trip far more enjoyable and emergency-free.

Skip the roasted marshmallows

Do not have your baby near a bonfire or a campfire. Smoke can irritate small lungs and fire is a significant safety risk for a mobile baby. Go out for walks and explore the surroundings. For walking babies, a bit of exercise will likely lead to a great night’s sleep.

Check camping facilities

While remote trips can be a lot of fun, I would recommend a campsite with excellent facilities – including baby changing rooms. Treat this first experience as a learning step. Once you master the art of camping with a baby, you may get more confident and more adventurous. 

I would also recommend a spot with nearby shops where you can buy things and minimise the packing.

Location, location

If it is your first time camping, pick a spot no more than one hour away from home. That way, if it all ends in a disaster, you can pack up and be back in the comfort of your own home within a couple of hours. Also check in advance if your chosen site has mobile phone reception so that you can call for help in a (probably unlikely!) emergency.

Timing is everything

Consider the timing of your trip to influence your camping neighbours. In other words, don’t take a three month old camping to a popular beach side location on New Year’s Eve… consider taking a few days off of work for a quieter mid-week trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many nappies do I need to pack?

Newborn babies go through about eight nappies a day, while a six month old may use four or five. You will also need to pack nappy bags and baby wipes. If you go somewhere with easy access to shops, there is no need to pack ’emergency supplies’.

Can I go off-road with a baby?

Babies under six months can have poor neck control, so save the 4WD-ing adventure for when they are a bit older.