A new baby does not have to mean the end of camping trips and outdoor activities. It's actually the beginning of a whole new adventure for you and your little one. Expect your family camping trips to be slower paced with more time spent on preparing food, cleaning your campsite and cleaning your baby. However, also expect to be rewarded with a new member of the family that enjoys the outdoors just as much as you do.
A practice camping trip may be a good idea for both you and your baby. This can help you assess how your baby will react to sleeping someplace new and will help ensure that you have brought all the supplies you will need. Set up camp somewhere close to home or even in your backyard. This is the perfect time to invest in a good backpack diaper bag and get it organized with all the essential supplies that you will need to keep close at hand.
When camping with your baby, never underestimate the power of being prepared. It is amazing to see how much equipment is necessary for the smallest person in your family, but being prepared can make or break your trip. When packing, start with the amount of clothes you think you will need and add one more day or so. Bring clothes that are easy to change in and out of and can be layered. Also bring extra diapers and wipes. Bring more wipes than you think is necessary.
Sunscreen and hats are important for daytime use. Keep in mind that babies under six months should not wear insect repellent, but you can drape a large piece of mosquito netting over their stroller or crib for protection.
Camping is a great place to use your portable play yard. With some familiar toys, the play yard can keep your baby occupied while setting up and taking down your tent, cooking, cleaning and provides a comfortable, familiar place for their all-important naptime. Backpack baby carriers are ideal to use for walking and hiking. If you are breastfeeding your baby you have everything you need with you. If you are bottle-feeding, you may want to use sterile bottles liners and pre-mixed liquid formula. It is also a good idea to invest in a simple child locator device. They come in many cute styles, such as a tiny teddy bear, that can be securely attached to your child's shoe or clothing and can literally be a lifesaver if an emergency arises.
When packing the bedding, make sure to bring some of your baby's own blankets that they normally sleep with and are comforting to them. If you're camping during cooler weather, bring sleeper pajamas or a sleep sack for your baby to bundle up in. Your baby can sleep right in their portable crib or you can roll up some towels or blankets to use as bumpers and lay your baby next to your sleeping bag.
The most important thing to remember when camping with your baby is to keep your little one safe, comfortable and entertained. It may take a little more effort and lot more equipment to bring your baby camping, but the smiles and memories will make it all well worth it.
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David Cummings is a devoted husband and father who regularly writes on a variety of family topics. He is committed to helping parents create more-enjoyable family time and to working with children-oriented organizations. David is also the General Manager for BustlingBaby.com - a company that offers convenient
portable play yards and
backpack baby carriers as well as other necessary mobility products.
Occupation: General Manager
David Cummings is an expert author and General Manager of Bustling Baby, LLC. He is devoted to helping parents build better family time and to ensuring a brighter future for all children through his contributions to children-based organizations.
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