Camping With An Infant
by Camping Jewel
While some people balk at the idea of taking an infant camping, I never stopped camping just because I had a baby. We just brought her along and she grew up a natural camper.
Baby is just as easy to take care of while camping as while you are at home. You just need to bring along a few extra supplies...the same ones you probably bring when traveling anyway.
The portable crib is great for daytime naps and containment. At naptime, put up the crib in a screenhouse if you use one, under a tarp, or just under the shade of the tree. I would put mine in the shade behind the tent, where I could see baby but she could not see me so she would fall asleep. Cover the top of the crib with some netting to keep out bugs and falling leaves or other debris.
The portable crib also works great as a playpen, just like at home, to hold baby safely while you are cooking, cleaning, or even relaxing next to her.
Make sure you bring along baby's favorite toys. The same toys you use at home are perfect to bring along for camping, of course not including the big bulky ones.
One of our favorite gadgets was a little chair we had that attaches to the side of the table and sort of hangs off the table. We used to carry that in the car and take it with us to restaurants and other people's homes. When camping the chair worked fine with the picnic table and we used this instead of a high chair.
For sleeping put baby in the sleeper pajamas so she stays warm. Then a small pad or blanket spread out off to the side of your air mattress works fine for him. You can roll up some towels to use as bumpers, or, depending on the size of your tent, you can also use the portable crib right in the side of your tent.
I preferred to have my daughter with me in my sleeping bag...sometimes we would zip two sleeping bags together and the three of us (hubby too) would sleep in there with baby in between us all snuggled up. On chilly nights I would always cuddle her close for the body heat.
The front carrying pack or backpack are also great for camping, making it easy to walk around while still holding baby. Finally, if you have room and have a swing, bring it along! Another familiar way to keep your baby comforted and occupied.
Pack appropriate sunscreen, hats, and insect repellant for your baby as well. There are many natural alternatives you can use that are safe for your baby while still providing protection.
Yes, it takes a little bit of effort and equipment to bring your baby camping with you...but it takes effort and equipment to go anywhere with a baby. Having a baby doesn't mean you need to stop enjoying outdoor life. As in nature...you can adapt, and teach your baby to enjoy camping life with you.
About the Author
Camping Jewel runs Your-Camping-Guidebook, a friendly resource with camping tips for beginning and family campers. An avid Scouter with a Girl Scout, a Cub Scout, and a soon-to-be-Eagle Scout, she has raised three camping kids who are as at home at their campsite as they are in their home.
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Your Camping Guidebook
An easy guide to the joy of family camping, what you need, and how to get started.
http://www.your-camping-guidebook.com/
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