Return to Family Camping: Tents Edition

Family Camping….

Do you love it? Always wanted to do it? But something is holding you back?

Camping as a family is a fantastic way to spend quality time together, in nature, and away from the distractions of modern life as we know it. Even for just a weekend, it can be relaxing just to unplug and play outside!

While camping is an easy way to spend a weekend (or longer!) away, there are some barriers parents can find daunting. Having the right gear is one of them. Gear can be both a physical and economic barrier to camping – it’s a not-so-cheap vacation of you have to spend thousands on equipment before you can leave the house!

I am here to tell you; it is not so! Regardless of your level of experience, it is not necessary to spend a mint on camping equipment, especially if you are either just starting out, or just getting back into it with kids.

Let’s start with shelter – a vital part of the camping experience. With kids, I would recommend going with a tent (and not a shelter or a bivvy). Even though it is only a thin layer of canvas or nylon, it is good to keep everything (and everyone!) contained.

7 Points to Consider When Selecting a Family Tent

1. What is the perfect size for the tent? Big enough that it will fit your family comfortably, that you can set up in a reasonable amount of time, and you can transport to the campsite. If it can do those three things, it is the right tent. If you would like a few more things to consider, continue below;

2. Something borrowed? Absolutely! If you are testing out this camping with kids thing, as around. There is an excellent chance you know someone who has a tent that is collecting dust in their shed. Make sure you set it up before you go – nothing worse than finding out too late you are missing the poles!

3. Do you want to all sleep together, or near each other? A vast tent can be great to have everything and everyone together. If selecting this option, consider the space you will be camping in, and make sure you will have room. It is also good to now how involved the setup process is, and how big or small the tent is packed up. If you plan on taking your Corolla that does not have roof racks, two small tents take up a lot less room then one massive one. If you are committed to a large family tent, it might be worthwhile to purchase something you don’t expect to be a family heirloom (aka big $$$$), as you might find yourself upgrading to two tents in a few years.

4. Do you kids want their tent? It can be an excellent option if your kids are ready for the responsibility of sleeping in their tent, as well as setting it up (or the least helping). Some great and inexpensive pop-up options on the market can have them ready in their space in minutes. Concerned about them being on their own? Remember, it is only a thin layer of material that separates you from them – you will be able to hear everything. Still concerned? TIP set the tents up with the doors close and facing each other. If they leave the tent, they will wake you.

5. Big investment or small? The sky is the limit when it comes to tent purchases, and you can go as big or as little as you like. If you are in the market for something that is going to last, a better quality tent is worth the investment. Some very lightweight canvas tents are perfect for Australian conditions. Right to note you will need roof racks for most of these.

6. What about a cheap tent? A very cheap tent? These can do the trick if you are camping in a protected campground, for the weekend. You might get a bit wet if it rains, but you should be ok. However, if you are going to an extended period, or in windy or exposed conditions, these tents will not hold up. And NOBODY wants their tent to fail when camping a couple of km down a beach, in the dunes, a few hours from the nearest gear store (been there!!).

7. Second hand? Great idea! Be sure to set it up before you buy. If it is nylon and feels crispy, or significantly faded, it probably has sun damage. Canvas tents are excellent and last a lifetime if well maintained – check for any weak or worn spots.

8. Ease of set up. Although I have mentioned this already, it deserves its own point all to itself. No one, and I mean NO ONE, wants to be still setting up the family wilderness palace while everyone else is done and relaxing by the fire!

Big or small, expensive or inexpensive, if you are getting into or back to camping with the family, keep it as simple as possible.

And remember – have fun!!!

Do you have a family camping tent story to share? Get in touch, we would love to hear it!

Cover Photo by Scott Goodwill on Unsplash