Kids Camping Gear: 10 Items For a More Enjoyable Trip

Taking your kids or grandkids camping? Here's some great kids camping gear to keep them comfy and entertained…

Do you want to take your kids or grandkids camping?

Want to get them off the screens and into the great outdoors? Where they can see wildlife, get dirty, and, of course, eat campfire treats at night?

From fun items to gear that'll make them more comfortable, this list of kids camping gear will help!

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Great Kids Camping Gear

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As you can see in the video, we love camping with our grandkids. We often plan trips around what they would enjoy most, and it helps to take certain items along with us.

Most of these items can be found at any camping store in various brands. For ease's sake, however, I've linked to some well-reviewed products you can order online.

1. Headlamp

Everyone needs to have some sort of light device so they can see at night. Flashlights are great, but headlamps are more fun.

Plus, because they are hands-free, kids won't not drop or lose them. They simply strap this light to their head, turn it on, and have light in any direction they look. 

The particular model I linked to works for both kids and adults. Fun and practicality for everyone.

2. Kids Hydration Backpack

Hydration is obviously very important when adventuring. If you're planning on taking your kids on hikes, bike rides, or other outdoor fun, they can comfortably carry their own water in these backpacks.

Best of all, you don't have to keep hounding them to drink; they'll think it's fun to drink from them. Nor do you have to stop the fun for them to dig out a water bottle. They sip through the straw and keep on going.

3. Kids Binoculars

Another excellent camping item you might want is children’s binoculars. They come in handy when trying to see wildlife or other natural attractions.

Kids will have a great time exploring views on hikes and just playing around outdoors. 

These pair of binoculars were designed with kids in mind. It has thousands of positive reviews because they are durable and offer nice crisp views. 

They also come in 13 different colors and patterns. You will be sure to find one that your child will love!

4. Foldable Camping Chair

Kids need a comfy place to rest after a day of adventuring. These camping chairs are just their size and come with a cupholder, too.

This foldable children’s camping chair doesn't take up your precious storage space. Plus, it's incredibly lightweight and folds into a small case that most kids can carry on their own.

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5. Tick & Mosquito Repellent

Bug bites can quickly turn happy, playing kids into grumpy, whiny kids. And who can blame them? I'm the same way when I get eaten up by mosquitos.

That's why tick and mosquito repellent are must-haves for camping.

Buzz Away is an excellent bug repellent for both mosquitos and ticks. It’s a combination of several essential oils, including citronella, geranium, lemongrass, peppermint, and more. So, it naturally deters mosquitos and ticks and smells good, too!

As a botanical formula, it’s DEET-free and safe for kids to use. 

6. Walkie Talkies

I don't care how old you are; walkie-talkies are just plain fun. And kids especially love them.

It's a win-win for parents, too. For one, walkie-talkies keep kids busy, running around everywhere to test them out again and again. Can you hear me now?!

For two, kids can hang on to one of the walkie-talkies and you to the other to stay in contact with the kids at all times.

7. Waterproof Hiking Backpack

The hydration backpacks are great if all your kid needs to carry is water. But sometimes, they need to be able to carry additional gear. That's where the hiking backpack comes into play.

This particular backpack is designed for a child’s height, which means it will be comfortable to wear for long periods. Plus, it's waterproof to protect its contents from rain and splashing.

8. Telescoping Marshmallow Roasting Sticks

What kid does not like fireside treats when camping? Check out these fun telescoping roasting sticks that are perfect for the whole family. 

They are sturdy and made from suitable quality materials. They also have a long reach, so children don't burn themselves near the fire. 

9. Kids Hammock

Okay, this next item is definitely not a necessity. But talk about an entertaining piece of gear that your kids or grandkids will love!

It is a kid's hammock that comes complete with carabiners and 9’ long tree straps. You can set this up on a shady campsite for your kids to hang out, nap, or read in, all while relaxing outdoors. 

There is one thing you will want to keep in mind, however. Many national and state parks prohibit attaching anything to the trees. If that is the case where you are camping, then you will need to get a hammock stand to bring along. 

10. Durable Cargo Pants/Shorts

You certainly don't need to spend a fortune on your kids’ camping clothing. Most of the time, old shirts, pants, and shorts will do. 

But you may want to consider getting your child a pair of sturdy cargo pants if you're planning any long hikes or bike rides. They'll help keep your kids comfortable and cool, which means a more enjoyable day for everyone.

These particular convertible pants are made from durable materials, which will not tear as quickly as other clothing when kids play outdoors. 

These pants have zip-off legs so your child can cool down on hot days. The pants also have handy pockets that can easily hold items your child may take on a hike, like a compass, whistle, or binoculars.