Took the boys camping for the first time last month and honestly it was a disaster. Forgot the tent stakes, Coleman stove wouldn't light, and one of the kids got sick halfway through. We packed it in after one night. I want to try again but I'm worried about doing it wrong. What am I missing? Should I practice in the backyard first or am I overthinking this?
Dude, first camping trip is always rough. Sounds like you learned a ton though. Next time will be way better because you know what actually matters now.
Hey, at least everyone made it home safe. That's the real win. Figure out what went sideways and tackle it one thing at a time next trip.
Don't give up on camping. Seriously. Start smaller next time. Backyard camping or a state park close by. Let them get used to sleeping outside before you commit to a full trip. And make a checklist. Laminate it. Check it before you leave.
The boys remember the experience more than whether everything went perfect, trust me. My kids still talk about a camping trip where it rained all night and we huddled in the car. Made it a story instead of a failure and they thought it was hilarious.
Oh man, forgotten tent is rough. Been there. My first camping trip with my two I forgot the sleeping bags. You learn fast though. What else went sideways? Sometimes it's just one disaster that ruins the whole thing, other times it's a domino effect.
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That's rough man. At least you tried, right? My daughter's only 3 so I'm still in the backyard camping phase, but I respect you going all in.