Every family has a different idea of what a camping vacation should be. For some, it’s all about
trekking into the wilderness and enjoying the simplicity of life with just the bare essentials. For
others, staying at a serviced campsite might just be a cheap way of having a holiday somewhere
new. Either way, making a tent your home-away-from-home can be great fun.

If it’s your first time camping as a family, you’ll probably want to choose a campsite rather than
roughing it in the wilds. Facilities vary widely so it pays to do a little research before you book. Most
sites have basic toilet and shower facilities but many go much further and offer electrical hook-
ups and even wireless internet. Some allow open fires or will have BBQs for campers to use. Others
might require campers to bring their own portable stoves.

For families with children who are old enough to be safe around them, picking a campsite that
allows open fires adds a little extra fun. Keep the flames low and contained- it’s safer and better for
cooking this way- and a good campfire will give you something to gather around in the evenings. You
can warm your hands and enjoy each other’s company and conversation. Ghost stories are optional!

Getting the kids to help prepare the evening meal over a fire will give them interesting something
to do after dark but on the other hand, parents with infants might prefer a no-fires campsite for
safety reasons. It is quite possible to cook a family meal on a gas camping stove. Although toasting
marshmallows over a gas burner just isn’t the same, stoves are [Read more…]