Your Camping with Baby Checklist

If you are new to camping with your baby, you might be looking forward to instilling a love of nature in your child and having fun as a family, but how? What are the specific steps you need to take to get to that happy place?

My baby left for three days of camping today. The preparations aren’t so different with a baby or a young boy or a childless couple. Do what we did. Start with a list.

Draft your list at least a week before you go then look over it a few times during the week, adding things you hadn’t considered. Ask experienced hikers what they recommend you take. And, think of your baby. What needs does your baby have that you must meet even while camping? Whether you are hiking and camping in the wild or in a well groomed campground, walk through your day and anticipate what your baby will need.

These are a few suggestions to get you started on your own camping with baby checklist.

Food
If your baby is exclusively breastfed, you don’t need to worry about special foods or snacks. Breastfeeding makes life so easy. If your baby eats solid foods, you will need to plan foods that can be adapted for baby or just bring baby or toddler foods.

Sippy cup (if child is drinking water)
Snacks (again, if)
Bibs

Clothes
Bring lightweight clothes that are easy to layer. There will be accidents, so plan either 2-3 outfits a day or be prepared to wash.

Cotton shirts that snap at the crotch
Wool pants that insulate against temperature changes
Hoodie (to keep the neck covered)
Hats
Footie Pajamas
Extra socks

Diapers
Camping with cloth diapers can seem daunting before you’ve done it. Like most other situations, though, once you really dive in and do it, you’ll be an expert in a couple of days.

Diapers
Diaper Covers
Wipes
Wet bags
Spray bottle
Natural hand sanitizer

Grooming
For just a short camping trip, don’t worry about baths. You can use a wash cloth and warm water for cleaning.

Baby Brush
Wash Cloth

Baby carrier
If you have a versatile baby carrier, you can use the same one for both serious hiking and around-the-camp snuggling. Especially if you will be hiking and this is your first time with baby, put your emphasis on making sure you will be comfortable away from camp. If you have to choose between carriers, closer to camp you can just hold your baby.

Backpack carrier for hiking
Sling or soft carrier for around camp

Toys
Maybe your baby will love the new experience enough that he won’t need toys, but do you want to take a chance? Make sure you have some familiar and comforting items for your child. A calm, happy baby helps everyone to enjoy their adventure.