Many families love camping during in the summer holidays, and why not? All that fresh air is great for the soul… and, sleep. Camping adventures are magical, especially for kids, as it gives them the freedom they need to relax and enjoy themselves. And, there’s nothing quite like the joy of roasting marshmallows, exploring nature, and sleeping under the stars.

However, when it comes to sleeping in a tent the reality can fill most parents with dread. For all those wildlings and adventurers out there, we have some excellent tips, hacks and advice to ensure your trip is a dream! Here’s how to make your camping trip both fun and restful.

Choose the Right Campsite – very important!

Location, location, location! As a parent with young children, there’s lots of important things to consider such as amenities, safety and noise. So we suggest:

• Opt for a site that’s quiet and away from busy areas like bathrooms and playgrounds.
• If you have young children, choose a spot close to amenities for those inevitable midnight bathroom runs.
• Make sure the site offers some natural shelter from wind and sun, like trees or bushes.

Cosy is Key

Recreating the comfort of home while camping can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. The sleep environment plays an important part of getting a good night’s sleep so it’s worth investing time in this when setting up camp.

• Comfortable Bedding: Invest in good-quality sleeping bags and sleeping pads or air mattresses. Bring your own pillows and blankets from home for added comfort and familiarity.
• Layer Up: Nights can get chilly, even in summer. Dress your kids in layers, so they can easily adjust to the temperature.
• Tent Talk: Make the tent a no-screens zone. Use this time to tell stories, read books, or play quiet games to wind down before bed.
• Soft Glow: Soft warm lighting will help create a cosy atmosphere and help to settle the children down before bed. Why not take some solar fairy lights for that magical touch.
• Accessorise: Earplugs and eye masks are essentials for blocking out the noise and light. Bed socks will also help to keep the early hours chill away.

Routine, Routine, Routine

Kids thrive on routine, and camping shouldn’t be an exception.

• Consistent Bedtime: Try to keep bedtime as close to your kids’ regular schedule as possible. The excitement of camping can make this challenging, but a consistent bedtime helps signal to their bodies that it’s time to sleep.
• Wind-Down Activities: Implement a calming pre-sleep routine, like a short walk, some gentle stretching, or a quiet conversation about the day’s adventures. All much easier to do when camping and the usual distractions at home are not around.

Embrace Nature’s Rhythm

Camping is a great opportunity to reset our internal clocks.

• Natural Light: Use natural light to your advantage. Spend time outside during the day to soak up sunlight, which helps regulate sleep patterns.
• Darkness: When it’s time to sleep, make the tent as dark as possible. Use blackout shades or bring along a sleep mask for particularly bright nights.

Be Prepared for Those Little Night time Disruptions

Middle-of-the-night wake ups can be very disorientating especially when you’re not in the comfort of your own home, so be prepared and make this as easy as possible for you.

• Easy Access: Keep a torch or headlamp within reach so that you don’t have to go routing around for one.
• Snacks and Water: A small snack and a bottle of water nearby can be a lifesaver for late-night hunger or thirst.
• Comfort Items: Don’t forget your child’s favourite stuffed animal or comfort item. Familiar objects can help soothe night time anxieties.

Manage Expectations and Go with the Flow

Lastly, remember that part of the charm of camping is its unpredictability. There might be animals rustling outside your tent or an impromptu midnight giggle session. Embrace these moments and manage your expectations. A perfectly restful night might not happen every night, and that’s okay.

Camping with kids is about creating lasting memories and enjoying the great outdoors. With these tips, you can make sure that everyone gets enough rest to fully appreciate the adventure. So pack those sleeping bags, grab your waterproofs and sunnies, and get ready for a summer holiday full of fun, laughter, and yes, some good nights’ sleep too.