How our Outdoorsy Family Gets Ready for the Best Summer Ever: Camping & Hiking Adventures

As a full-time travel family, we’ve camped under the stars, hiked through national parks, and watched our kids grow up one trail and campsite at a time. And while nature provides the magic, being prepared makes all the difference. If you're planning family adventures this summer, here’s everything we recommend to make your camping and hiking experiences smooth, safe, and unforgettable.

Rooftop Tent Camping with our Daughter and Pup

Camping Essentials for Families

Gear We Never Leave Without:

• High-quality tent or rooftop tent – We have been using the FSR High Country King Rooftop Tent which we absolutely LOVE for its ease of setup, huge king size bed (with memory foam mattress), and built-in lighting. But previously we've used our REI Halfdome tent which we have had for about 10 years now and never lets us down.

• Collapsible kitchen gear – Space-saving pots, nesting bowls, and a folding dish tub make cooking at camp way easier.

• Butane Camping Stove – Especially useful if you're camping somewhere with burn bans or no fire rings. We've been using the classic Coleman one for years and its never let us down.

• Solar-powered string lights – Create cozy vibes and help your kids find their way around camp after dark. Headlamps are a must as well!

• Bug and Sun protection – We pack both DEET-free spray and essential oil-based options for the kids Badger Balm is one of the cleanest brands we have found for both bug and sun!

• First-aid kit – Stocked with bandaids, tweezers for splinters/ticks, sunburn relief, and allergy meds.

• Large Water Jug: Hydration is key and if you plan on camping a lot, get a large reusable jug instead of buying plastic ones all the time!

• Cooler: We have had the Pelican cooler for years and it does a great job of keeping ice for about 3 days! We also recently tried the Dometic CFX2 electric cooler and love it - but it does require access to electricity.

🧺 Bonus: Our “Camp Kitchen” bin always includes:

• Olive oil + spices

• Reusable utensils

• Cast iron skillet

• Coffee setup (because… priorities)

• Tin Foil for on Fire Cooking

• Dr. Bronners Biodegradble Soap

• Baby Wipes

Kid-Friendly Camping Tips:

• Let the kids help choose and set up their sleeping spot – ownership = less complaining.

• Pack a few nature toys, bucket, shovels, washable toys. Grab something special to make camping extra exciting!

• Pack a special “campfire kit” – marshmallows, skewers, and glow sticks = instant nighttime fun.

• Bring a pop-up play tent for toddlers – it doubles as a shady reading nook or nap zone.

Hiking Near Glacier National Park with the Kid Carrying Backpack

Hiking Adventures: Gear + Tips for Families

Must-Haves for the Trail:

• Daypacks with hydration bladders – Lightweight, easy to sip on the go, and perfect for hot days (kids can have one too!)

• Trail snacks – Our go-to's are jerky, trail mix, apples, granola bars, and electrolyte drink mixes.

• Lightweight kid carrier – For younger kids who might get tired halfway through, we used the Deuter pack for years with our baby/toddler and loved it! Now that she is 4 we got the Baby Tula Preschool carrier.

• Hiking shoes or trail sandals – Waterproof and quick-dry are ideal for muddy summer trails. This is super personal but I love Salewas for a lightweight hiking 'sneaker' and Chacos or Tevas for a hiking sandal.

• Binoculars + nature journal – Turn any hike into a scavenger hunt or wildlife sighting adventure.

Pro Tips:

• Start early to beat both the sun and the crowds.

• Check local trail conditions before heading out—especially after rain.

• Always bring more water than you think you'll need.

• Let each kid carry their own small pack (with a snack, water, and flashlight—they’ll feel like true explorers).

How We Make It Special

• Trail games: I spy, nature bingo, or “how many shades of green can you find?”

• Family mantra: “We hike slow, we hike happy.” Stops for bugs, flowers, and snacks are part of the journey.

• Trail magic kit: A tiny tin with surprise treats (gummies, stickers, or a note) to hand out when spirits dip.

Breakfast at Camp in Shenandoah National Park

Final Thoughts

Camping and hiking with kids isn’t always easy—but it’s always worth it. With the right gear, a flexible mindset, and a sense of adventure, this summer could be your most connected and joyful yet.

Wherever your trail leads, we hope this helps you feel more prepared to make memories outdoors together.