Okay so we're going camping in 2 weeks with my 8yo and honestly I'm spiraling. We have a decent tent and sleeping bags but I feel like I'm forgetting something obvious. Made a list:
What else am I missing? Also any camping hacks that would make this less stressful?
Don't forget a headlamp or flashlight for each of you - not just for the tent but for bathroom trips at 2am. Trust me on this one. Also wet wipes, so many wet wipes.
Bring way more snacks than you think you need. Like double it. Bored kids are complaining kids, fed kids are happy kids. Also a headlamp or flashlight for your 8yo - staying up past dark feels magical when you've got your own light.
Add: bug spray (deet), a basic first aid kit, some kind of entertainment for downtime (cards, a book), and honestly just accept that everyone will be slightly uncomfortable and that's part of the adventure
What's your kid's sleep situation like normally? My 8yo was terrified of the dark in a tent for the first time even though she sleeps fine at home. Brought a small battery-powered lantern inside and it changed everything.
Camping pillows are weirdly necessary. Your son will complain about the regular pillows being weird, you'll be annoyed, but those camping ones actually help. Also bring way more snacks than you think you need.
Two weeks is actually plenty of time to figure this out, don't spiral yet lol. The fact that you already have tent and sleeping bags puts you ahead of most people. You're gonna do fine.
Cards. Bring a deck of cards. Seriously. Around the campfire at night when they're tired but not quite ready for bed, cards save your sanity. Also a small speaker for music if your campsite allows it.
You're not forgetting anything obvious honestly. What you might be spiraling about: How to keep them entertained if they get bored, backup plan if the weather goes south, where to poop (seriously - does the campsite have a bathroom or are you doing the shovel thing?)
What's the backup plan if your kid hates sleeping in the tent? Have you practiced sleeping bags in the house yet? Some kids freak out about the enclosed space or the sound of the nylon. Better to know now than at mile 0 from civilization.
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Firewood - make sure you actually have enough and that it's dry. Wet wood = no fire = sad kids and sad adults. Also bring a lighter in your pocket, not just matches. Trust me on this one.