Camping with kids can be so much fun… and chaotic 😅

After many trips of overpacking the wrong things and forgetting the essentials, I’ve finally nailed a go-to packing list that makes camping with kids smoother, calmer, and way more fun.

Here’s everything I actually pack, tried, tested, and Bear & Moo approved.

Want the quick version? Click here for the list

1. Nappy Pods (For Kids’ Clothes)

These are my secret weapon for camping.

I use Nappy Pods to organise kids’ outfits. One pod per child, or one per day depending on the trip. They’re perfect for:

• Clean clothes

• PJ sets

• Separating muddy or wet outfits

They make unpacking at the campsite so easy and stop everything turning into one big messy bag.

👉 Link to Nappy Pods

2. Sunscreen

Camping usually means long days outside, and this sunscreen never leaves our bag.

• All three sunscreens we sell are great for sensitive skin!

It's one less thing to worry about when the kids are running around.

👉 Link to Sunscreen

3. Betty Basics Comfy Dress (For Me)

Camping, but make it comfy

A Betty Basics dress is my go-to for:

• Easy morning throws-on

• Sitting around the campsite

• Casual dinners or beach walks

Comfortable, flattering, and zero effort, exactly what you want when camping with kids.

👉 Link to Betty Basics Dresses

4. Day Bag

A good Day Bag is non-negotiable.

I use ours for:

• Snacks

• Sunscreen

• Drink bottles

• Spare clothes

• Random kid treasures collected along the way

Lightweight, practical, and perfect for beach trips or campground exploring.

👉 Link to Day Bags

5. Messy Mat (For Picnics)

Picnics, snacks, and camping go hand-in-hand, and so do messes.

Our Messy Mat is perfect for:

• Picnics on the grass

• Snack breaks

• Keeping food (and kids) off the dirt

Shake it out, wipe it down, and you’re good to go.

👉 Link to Messy Mat

6. Activity Packs (For the Kids)

Downtime is when things can unravel 😅

I always pack Activity Packs for:

• Quiet time in the tent

• Wind-down time before bed

• Rainy moments

They’re compact, engaging, and don’t rely on screens! Win-win.

👉 Link to Activity Packs

7. Swimwear for Maddie

Whether it’s the beach, or campground pool, swimwear is a must.

Our Bear & Moo swimwear is:

• Comfortable for all-day wear

• Easy to move in

• Perfect for water play and drying quickly

I always pack at least two pairs.

👉 Link to Swimwear

8. Moana Road Kids Torch Games

This is a camping favourite.

Kids Torch Games are perfect for:

• Evening play once it gets dark

• Tent games

• Exploring safely with a bit of excitement

So fun and such a hit with kids.

👉 Link to Moana Road Torch Games

9. I Spy: Kiwi Road Trip

The drive matters too 🚗

I Spy Kiwi Road Trip keeps kids entertained on:

• Long car rides

• Ferry trips

• Wind-down time at the campsite

A classic, no-battery-needed lifesaver.

👉 Link to I Spy Kiwi Road Trip

10. b.box Drink Bottles

Hydration is key when kids are running around all day.

b.box drink bottles are:

• Easy for kids to use independently

• Leak-resistant

• Perfect for camping, beach days, and walks

I always pack one per child.

👉 Link to b.box Drink Bottles

Final Tip

You don’t need everything, just the right things.
This list has helped us enjoy camping without feeling overwhelmed, and I hope it does the same for you!

Happy camping,
Hannah x

List of all products:

1. Nappy Pods
2. Sunscreen
3. Betty Basics Dresses
4. Day Bags
5. Messy Mat
6. Activity Packs
7. Swimwear
8. Moana Road Torch Games
9. I Spy Kiwi Road Trip
10. b.box Drink Bottles