The weather can turn quickly in the fall, so be sure to check forecasts for the area you plan to camp. If possible, choose a campsite with some level of shelter to help protect your family from rain and other inclement weather.
If you’re planning to cook meals in your tent, bring a cooler that will keep food and drinks cold (see Tip #9). Also remember that shorter days mean you’ll be cooking for longer periods of time, so it’s best to have easy-to-prepare items and one-pot meals available to make life a little easier.
While camping, teach your kids the importance of observing wild animals from a safe distance and respecting their space. Remember that most animals are more scared of you than you are of them, so stay calm and back away slowly. Never feed wildlife, and never leave unattended food or drink containers around your camp to attract animals.
If your kids are brand new to camping, practice at home or in a local park before attempting an outdoor trip. This will give them a chance to try sleeping in a tent, playing outside at night and experiencing nature without the stress of travel or being away from home. It’s also a great opportunity to introduce them to camping basics like bug spray, water-resistant sleeping bags and the proper way to build and light a fire.
Before heading out to your destination, make a camping checklist that includes all the necessities you’ll need, including food, supplies and clothing. Kids Health suggests limiting your gear to the absolute essentials, which will help keep you from over-packing. It’s also a good idea to consider the weight and bulk of your gear when choosing equipment, especially if you’ll be hiking to your campsite.
Once you arrive at your campsite, scout out the area to find the best place for your tent and other accommodations. Choose a sheltered spot that’s out of the way of fallen tree limbs and other debris, and be sure to position your tent(s) far enough away from any bodies of water or firewood. Additionally, be sure to position your tent(s) in an open area away from trees where bears might be tempted to visit.
Make sure to store all scented items in the provided food storage lockers, and dispose of all trash before bedtime to prevent animal attraction. Also, be sure to bring a flashlight and a lantern for your kids to use at night. If you’re in an area that doesn’t restrict fires, enjoy a night of roasting marshmallows or making damper over an open flame.
Lastly, don’t forget to pack extra blankets or pillows, just in case it gets chilly at night. This will help your family feel more comfortable and cozy at bedtime. It’s also a good idea for adults to sleep with their hoods up and an extra layer of clothes on during the night in case of any unexpected temperature fluctuations.