Planning a Camping Trip with Kids? Tips for Packing, Activities & Safety
If you’re a parent in Minnesota or Wisconsin who loves camping, you know there’s something magical about taking your kids into the great outdoors. Fresh air, no screens, starry nights, and s’mores? Sign us up. But let’s be honest—camping with kids comes with its own set of challenges. Packing alone can feel like an Olympic event. Add in safety concerns, unpredictable weather, and restless little campers, and things can get overwhelming fast.
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re heading out with a destination camper or travel trailer, this guide is packed with real-world tips to make your trip fun, safe, and low-stress for the whole family. And when it comes to getting your camper ready, the crew at Minneapolis Trailer Sales can help make sure you're fully prepped before you even pull out of the driveway.
1. Pack Smart: Essentials, Not Excess
Kids need stuff—but not as much as you think. Create a checklist for each child and focus only on the essentials:
Clothes: Pack for layers and messes. Include waterproof boots, warm layers, and quick-dry items.
Comfort items: A favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or nightlight can help make bedtime go smoother.
Cleanup:: Baby wipes, towels, and hand sanitizer go a long way.
Activities: Keep boredom at minimum with coloring books, travel games, or scavenger hunts.
First aid: Pack a small kit to have available— bandages, bite cream, pain relievers, and sunblock.
Want to make your packing life easier? Minneapolis Trailer Sales has storage options and can recommend gear racks to keep your camper organized and ready to go.
2. Pick the Right Campsite
Where you camp makes a big difference. Look for camping spots that are:
Close to bathrooms or water access
Near trails or playgrounds
Easy to navigate with your camper
State parks in Minnesota and Wisconsin have detailed maps that can indicate which sites are best for families. Reserve them early in the season for the best options.
3. Keep Kids Engaged with Family-Friendly Activities
A busy kid is a happy camper. Try these ideas:
Nature scavenger hunts (bring clipboards and markers)
Campfire stories (let each kid add to the story)
Short hikes (bring small backpacks with snacks)
Build a nature fort (sticks, leaves, and lots of imagination)
Let your kids lead. It gives them ownership—and burns off a lot of energy.
4. Safety Tips That Don’t Feel Overbearing
Safety matters, but keep it simple:
Review basic rules (no wandering off, how and where to find help)
Show them the boundaries of your campsite
Teach them what poison ivy and other poisonous plants look like
Always use the “buddy system”
At night, glow sticks and reflective gear help keep kids visible
Before your trip, be sure to inspect your trailer’s lighting, brake system, and water setup to be sure everything is running safely.
5. Simple Meals = Happy Campers
Hungry kids = crabby campers. Keep food simple and easy to prepare:
Breakfast: Yogurt, fruit, granola, or make-ahead egg muffins
Lunch: Sandwiches, wraps, veggies, cheese sticks
Dinner: Foil packets, hot dogs, pasta salads
Snacks: Trail mix, fruit kabobs, s’mores kits, and juice boxes
Prepare what you can before the trip and pack meals in bins or coolers you can grab quickly. Check out our blog on camper friendly meals for some simple, tasty options.
6. Go Easy on Yourself: Start Small
Your first few camping trips with kids might not go perfectly—and that’s okay. Start with a single overnight or a weekend trip that’s close to home. Have a backup plan (games or an emergency movie on a tablet), and don’t try to do everything. It's not about a perfect trip—it’s about making memories your kids will never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When’s the best time to go camping with kids?
A: Spring and early summer are great—milder temps, fewer bugs, and parks are typically less crowded. Aim for weekends with dry weather and manageable daytime highs (60s–70s).
Q: How much screen time is okay while camping?
A: That’s up to your family! A little screen time (like a movie or music before bed) can be helpful, especially on rainy days. But unplugging for most of the trip is ideal for real-world connection.
Q: What if my camper has an issue before we leave?
A: That’s where Minneapolis Trailer Sales comes in. Our team can handle everything from last-minute repairs to maintenance checks and accessory installations. Give us a call before your trip to make sure your camper is road- and campground-ready.
Ready to Hit the Road? You’ve Got This.
Camping with kids doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a bit of planning, a positive mindset, and help from a trusted partner like Minneapolis Trailer Sales, you can enjoy a stress-free adventure that your whole family will remember.
So grab your packing list, load up the camper, and head on out. The woods (and the s’mores) are calling!