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Your First Family Camping Trip: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to plan, pack and pitch for your first family camping trip, with simple tips to make it fun rather than stressful.

Planning · 7 min read · Updated 3 October 2026

Camping with children is one of the best things a family can do, and it is far easier than it looks. The secret is to keep the first trip short, simple and close to home.

Start small

Choose a campsite not far from home and stay one or two nights. If something is forgotten or the weather turns, you are never far from help, and nobody has spent a week in a field they hate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where should a first family camping trip be?

For a first family camping trip, choose a family-friendly campsite not far from home and stay for one or two nights. If something is forgotten or the weather turns, you are never far from help.

What facilities should I look for on a first family camping trip?

Look for clean toilets and showers, a play area, a shop and level pitches close to the facilities. These make camping with children much easier.

How big a tent do I need for a family camping trip?

Choose a tent for space and practicality, not just the number of beds. A common rule of thumb is a tent rated for one or two more people than will actually sleep in it, ideally with a porch to keep muddy boots out of the bedroom.

Should I practise pitching my tent before the first trip?

Yes. Pitch the tent once in the garden or a park before you go, so you can find missing pegs and learn the order of the poles while it is still easy.

How far apart should tents be on a campsite?

Pitch at least 6 metres from the next tent or caravan. This is the standard spacing used to stop fire spreading between units.

How do I pack up a tent after a family camping trip?

Pack the tent as dry as you can. If it goes home damp, put it up in the garden or hang it in a garage to dry fully before storing it, or it will mould.

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