Camping holidays good for the family budget
If you are one of those families who choose not to spend money on expensive package holidays a camping holiday can be a much better option. This is especially true if you are on a budget. However lots of us have hang ups about camping. We think it is all going to be creepy crawlies and chemical toilets.
Many modern campsites and tents are a lot more comfortable than you would expect. Some campsites provide their own tents with separate bedrooms and fully sprung beds and amenities. Almost home from home!
However if you are considering investing in your own tent then there are a number of other things you need to think about before you choose and purchase your tent. This article article may help you choose the best tent given your own particular circumstances.
Luxury Mobile Homes
Camping doesn’t necessarily mean you need to stay in a tent as many sites have luxury mobile homes. These come with fully equipped bathrooms and luxury amenities. Many even have their own master ensuite.
Although mobile homes are generally more expensive than tents they are still great value for money when you are travelling with a family.
Packing for camping holidays
When camping with children, preparation is everything. You should make a list that includes all the important things you need to take.
This is especially important with babies, when you might want to take your own supply of nappies, wet wipes and possibly baby food. Medication and inhalers are also very important to remember to pack. Your family holiday could become very challenging if something as important as these were forgotten.
If you forget to pack something of less important the shops on the campsites are generally very well stocked.
Items such as first aid kits, cough syrup, sun cream are also recommended to take with you. When it comes to night times, it is worth remembering that the temperature will drop quite dramatically and this will make the ground cold and damp.
Also work out what time you are planning to arrive at the campsite. Will the shop or cafe be open? If not pack some non perishable food to make a quick supper.
Bedtime tips on camping holidays
It is a good idea to bring along a mat or inflatable mattress to raise children off cold ground while they are asleep. All family members should have a torch and do remember to bring plenty of batteries for games consoles or anything else that you may need batteries for.
If you are concerned that the children are going to be woken early by the sunlight consider investing in curtains or something to block out the morning sunlight.
The temperature in a tent can change quite quickly from being very hot to very cold. So it is worth keeping a careful eye on small children and young babies to make sure they are warm or cool as appropriate.
Keeping children entertained
One of the biggest challenges canl be keeping your children entertained. Most campsites will have some form of entertainment, but it is recommended to take plenty of books and games to keep everyone busy.What clothes should you pack
Camping is meant to be about having fun and getting a bit dirty so bear that in mind when packing clothes. It is best to choose clothes that you aren’t too bothered about.
- Bring at least two pairs of shoes per child
- Water proofs even if your are travelling somewhere hot.
- And make sure you pack warm clothes for evenings and night time.
- Plenty of beach towels that roll up small are also very useful
- Many campsites have a launderette on site and often provide washing lines. There are not always tumble dryers though. Find out from the campsite or your booking agent exactly what is provided if you are holidaying in a mobile home or fixed luxury tent. Research before hand really is the key to making sure that your camping holiday is a success.
Familiarise your family with the camp site
When you arrive at the campsite, make sure older children get to know the layout and where your tent or mobile home is in relation to the rest of the site.
Walk around the campsite with them and set some boundaries as where they can go and what they can do.
Camping holidays can be such fun and you and the kids will create some great memories – so enjoy.
