Anyone else's kids refuse to try new foods on camping trips?

Dec 29·1 min read

We just got back from a camping weekend at Ozark National Forest with my kids (5, 8, 9) and I prepared this whole meal plan with s'mores, hot dogs, chili, etc. My oldest literally brought his own PB&J sandwiches and barely ate anything else. My wife says I'm overthinking it but I feel like camping is supposed to be part adventure part food experience? Am I crazy for being annoyed? How do other dads handle this?

6 comments123 views

Comments(6)

HHank C.RegularDec 30

Did you try cooking over the fire? My kids are way more adventurous with food when it's campfire cooked instead of on a camp stove. Something about the novelty I guess.

WWade T.RegularDec 31

Five year olds especially get weird about food away from home. Don't worry about it, they won't starve for a weekend. Just bring peanut butter sandwiches or whatever you know they'll eat.

KKeithNew DadDec 31

Ozark is beautiful though. Even if they only eat hot dogs the whole trip it's still worth it for them to be outside that much.

LLance K.RegularDec 30

We've had better luck letting the kids help cook at the campsite. Something about making it themselves makes them more willing to try it.

CChristopher L.New DadDec 31

This is why I just bring stuff from home that I know they'll eat. No stress about trying new foods, I know they're fed, everyone has a better trip.

BBrandonNew DadJan 1

Oh man the camping food battle is real. We started bringing stuff we know they'll eat plus one new thing. Makes them less stressed and we don't waste as much food.