r/camping • u/MichaelAndolini_ • May 23 '25
Gear Question Never been camping, son wants to go camping, I know less than nothing and need help.
Hi everyone, I’m trying to learn as much as I can to get started camping for my son. I never did Boy Scouts or anything, never slept in a tent, never set up a tent. So I have a few questions maybe someone can help me with.
1) I see these long lists of things you need for camping, some you tube videos showing burners, cots, chairs etc…are people just making multiple trips to their car for all of these supplies? Is that what “car camping” is vs I guess backpacking?
2) can anyone recommend a tent for 2 people who are just getting started?
3 any and all helpful advice is appreciated
Edit: I am trying to reply to everyone, man what a great and helpful community this is. I went from having zero idea of anything to a path forward in one post!
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u/im_An_Adam May 23 '25
I'm unable to type lengthy comments but my suggestion is camp in your backyard before you camp for real. This will help you be better prepared and find items you'll need away from home. Heck try camping in your backyard with him also. I'm sure your son will enjoy the experience even if you feel you're not prepared.
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u/That_Jicama2024 May 23 '25
100% this. Do it at home first to see if both of you even LIKE camping. Also, be honest with your kid so they know you are both going into this with zero knowledge. Rather than "watching you fail" your kid will be "figuring it out" with you instead.
Basic camping could be as simple as a cheap dome tent, two sleeping bags, a few flashlights, some wood and smores for the camp fire and some easy-to-cook food.
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u/daveupgrade May 23 '25
I want to upvote this twice.
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u/DowntownSazquatch May 23 '25
I was scrolling past and upvoted on your behalf. No need to thank me.
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u/BradleyFerdBerfel May 23 '25
Great idea, but once you're at "camp" have a rule that you cannot go into the house or garage. That way you'll know what you didn't "bring".
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u/meljobin May 23 '25
Or even better is no cook food! Pick up a pizza on the way in, muffins for Breakfast, and sandwiches for lunch. Keep things simple and easy.
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u/FLguy3 May 23 '25
I was gonna suggest this as well. Or do one of those foil pack meal things where you toss it in the coals to cook. I remember doing that as a kid, making them at home before the trip, and thinking it was the coolest thing ever to throw it in the fire to cook and eating it.
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u/2-wheels May 23 '25
Definitely start here. A decent cooler can feed you like kings for a few days, and you won't have to figure out all the stove and utensils stuff..
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u/Ampallang80 May 23 '25
And if you do like it after backyard camping or if you don’t have a backyard, car camping should be your next step and what I do with my kids. You get to bring everything you could need.
I made the mistake of taking my wife with me camping for the first time years ago and she was all on board with my usual primitive camping. I ended up having to pack everything out myself. Thankfully it was only a mile since I’m just one person and it took 3 trips 😂
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u/shadowmib May 23 '25
If there's going to be a campfire that hot dogs and marshmallows on Long forks is the way to go. That is a classic camping experience
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u/Necessary-Policy9077 May 23 '25
This is solid advice. If that's not possible pick a "family campground" close to home. They will have a camp store you can to bail you out when you find you're missing something.
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u/KBoPeep May 23 '25
And just remember there’s usually a Walmart or dollar store close enough if there isn’t a camp store unless you’re super remote
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u/vetratten May 23 '25
I disagree with the “camp in your backyard” suggestion.
Granted I’m not saying go off into the wilderness but I’ve seen too many people give up on camping at 1am because the house was right there and I’m not even talking about rain.
I’d suggest find a campground with 30 mins of your house if possible.
30 mins means you’ll be forced to use a campground bathroom when you wake up at 1am but is close enough where your not enjoying it you drive home and just go back in the AM to get your stuff.
This advice is double so with kids because they’ll hear their friends or see a TV/tablet etc and it will psychologically feel like they are losing out. Setting up in a close by campground means new friends are just running around.
Backyard camping is fun….if you’re used to camping. Hell even my kid who has been camping since they were 6 months old wanted to go inside when we camped in the backyard the other year….at a campground they are upset we have to leave.
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u/Spute2008 May 23 '25
Great comments here. The next thing you can do is find a campground about an hour away from your house if possible. Do some investigation as to where you can eat in a pub or restaurant or even fast food somewhere nearby. That includes breakfast.
Go and pitch your tent. Put in your bedding. Have a campfire. Have a s'mores around the fire. (Check if wood is provided and if not but some at your local gas station). Bring two basic lawn chairs or camp chairs . And then there is no cooking required. No clean up. No kitchen stuff. All you have to worry about is a tent, two chairs and your bedding.
As for tents, trust me when I say the instant Upton with the long fly that goes almost to the ground are excellent. They go up really easily. I suggest to get the six person because you’ll want the extra room for storage of stuff. You’ll be able to stand up in it and it literally takes 2 to 3 minutes to assemble.
If you have the cash, you should also get an instant of gazebo. Then you have a shelter if it happens to be wet or too sunny. You can pull the gazebo up right around the entrance of your tent to provide shelter for when you step right out in case it’s wet.
You wanna make things easy to pack and unpack. You want to know you will sleep well otherwise you will be miserable. And let someone else take care of the meals when you’re just starting out. Have snacks and sandwiches.
Then graduate to just making your own breakfast. It’s hard to ruin eggs and bacon over a campfire or small portable stove.
Practice cooking camp meals in your backyard too.
You can probably bring most things you need from home just know that a fire pit or campground stove will be hard on the outside of your pants and pots.
Oh, and camp grounds with toilets, and ideally hot water showers.
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u/PvtJoker227 May 23 '25
This is the way. You will quickly learn what you need to pack. Items that never would have crossed your mind.
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u/huffalump1 May 23 '25
Your kid will LOVE camping out in the backyard!! Core memories here, it'll be a new fun time and you'll both learn enough to have a good time on your next trip to a campground :)
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u/Anonymoose_1106 May 23 '25
I'll add a rather funny, albeit somewhat gross story to testing out gear at home, which really underlines how important testing, familiarization, and being able to use your gear is.
Many years ago, I had a girlfriend decide she wanted to try a female urination device (like a She-Wee). Both of us were seasoned hikers, climbers, and scramblers. We both grew up in the backcountry. She had no issue squatting, but she wanted something a bit more convenient and discrete for some of the more "popular" areas, and something that significantly reduced her exposure to mosquitos and other insects.
She didn't try it before our first trip. Needless to say, she didn't get the technique quit right the first time, and ended up with a significant amount of urine all over herself. We both found it hilarious (it took her awhile to see the funny side).
Test your gear out at home or in a controlled environment where a failure just means an inconvenience, instead of ruining a trip (or worse, putting you in a position that potentially compromises your safety!).
My other suggestion, while not entirely relevant to most campers is practice, practice, and practice skills and familiarization/use of your gear. This more geared towards mountaineering and climbing, but theoretical knowledge or limited practice isn't sufficient (For most campers, knots and tarping will be sufficient).
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u/No_Cardiologistis May 23 '25
Backyard camping is such a smart idea. Low pressure, and you can bail if anything goes wrong. Plus, it’s a fun way to bond and build up confidence before the real trip!
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u/Ok_Psychology_504 May 24 '25
This is the best advice. Once you have backyard camping all itemized and practiced you can try someplace safe.
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u/niftyba May 23 '25
I was in charge of getting my family into camping, and I had no previous experience. I wasn’t outdoorsy at all. Years on, I still refer to the packing list available on REI. I don’t use everything, but it helps me realize what I need. It all depends on where you’re going, for how long, and what is your budget.
I’d have no problem getting a secondhand tent and gear- I used a Craigslist 4p tent for years before upgrading. Coleman makes solid budget tents. Have a ton of fun out there!
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u/fu_king May 23 '25 edited May 23 '25
Hey congrats on getting started!
First, don't feel like you need to drop $2,000 on buying all of the stuff that you see people lugging around. Most of that stuff is just extra.
Are you two planning to drive to a camp ground and setup near your car? Or trying to hike out and camp? You'll want somewhat different gear depending on which of those you're after.
Bare minimum, you'll want a 2 person tent, 2 sleeping bags, probably sleeping pads, and then some odds and ends: flash lights, first aid kit, bug spray, sunblock, cooking supplies/campfire related stuff, etc. Don't forget to bring water/water bottles (most camps will have potable water for refills)
If you have an outdoors or camping store near you (or even a walmart of that matter) you ought to go look at the tents that they have. I recommend not buying the very cheapest thing that you can get your hands on, but you also don't need the super pricey fancy stuff. Most 2 person tents these days are very easy to setup, and you'll be able to find a youtube video for your particular tent. Before you go camping with it, practice setting it up once or twice (also ensures you aren't missing pieces and that nothing is busted)
Give some thought to food on your camping trip. That's maybe the trickiest bit. A camp stove is great if you can afford it and want to lug it along. Campfire cooking is super fun as well. You can also skip all of those things and bring premade or prepackaged foods with you. (Of course if you're bringing perishable food, take it along in a cooler with ice to keep it from spoiling). Some peanut butter & jelly sandwiches and granola bars go a long way.
A couple of miscellaneous camping tips: be courteous to your neighbors and to nature. Don't leave trash out, don't be noisy after dark, don't mess with other people's stuff, be careful with fire and be certain to put it out completely when you're done with it.
Good luck to you!
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u/Icy_Nose_2651 May 23 '25
Just don’t buy a two person tent, I recommend a tent rated for twice as many people as will actually use it, otherwise the tent will be so cramped.
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u/Esteban-Du-Plantier May 23 '25
Assuming I'm not Backcountry, I'm bringing a 10 man tent, whether I'm with my family or alone.
I hate having to stoop over in a small tent and my big one can be set up by one person in about 3 minutes.
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u/justelectricboogie May 23 '25
Camping is one of those subjective things that you make better for you as you gain experience. Just start. I wouldn't go straight to the mountains on my first time. A place close by. What you want to make things more fun/better will come from experience. I started small, single person in a tent. Bought what I needed or wanted as I progressed or got married, kids. Warm sleeping bags, all weather warm clothes to start. Go from there.
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u/audiate May 23 '25 edited May 23 '25
Ideally, go with a friend who camps. Do what they do.
Other than that, you don’t need much. That’s the whole point. I don’t know why people essentially set up a living room and full kitchen outdoors.
What do you need? To eat, sleep, and have fun. And s’mores. You need the same hygiene as normal, but you don’t need a shower.
Sleep: A tent, sleeping bags, sleeping mats or an air mattress.
Get a cheap 4 person Walmart tent. You don’t want big.
Eat: think “simple.” One pot meals. Try things like fajitas, but super simple: throw in sliced peppers and onions, let sautee, add a can of beans and a jar of green salsa. Eat with tortillas. That kind of thing. A Coleman camp stove works great. I like cooking over the fire. Pancakes are a great breakfast. Sandwiches are a great lunch. Snacks are good, but try nuts and fruit. You will probably bring more food than you need.
Critters will eat your food, especially when unattended and at night. Lock it in the car. Bear country is an exception, but just don’t go to bear country for now.
Regarding fire, don’t be a moron. Controlled, modest fires in established fire rings only. If things are dry and it’s fire season, skip it if you don’t know what you’re doing. Follow all fire regulations. Don’t use lighter fluid. Learn to build a fire. Cotton balls dipped in Vaseline are a great kindling. They’re so easy it’s automatic. Store them in a sandwich bag. I like fatwood for this, but requires more skill.
The whole reason you go camping is to get out of the routine and the normal space. Don’t bring it with you. Camp games are fun. So is exploring a creek. Lie out at night and look up at the stars. Go out. Enjoy nature. Appreciate the natural world that you are a part of, but have been insulated from. It will change you. Allow this and welcome it.
Edit: car camping is when you drive to a campsite so you can bring more gear. Backpacking is carrying everything on your back. Start with car camping. Backpacking is a whole other beast that requires expensive lightweight gear and a minimalist attitude. I love backpacking, but start with just getting used to camping.
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u/moosemoose214 May 23 '25 edited May 23 '25
Car camping is a perfect way to start for sure. Not only is your car right there to drive and get what you forgot - but you are not thinking about everything you pack as being carried.
Tent - two person tent is a one person tent. Go for a cheap, four person dome tent that has the easy set up features. You don’t need high end at this point and Amazon has some fine ones for like $40-50.
Sleeping bags are nice but a few blankets and air stress does work. You can upgrade to a bag once you start liking camping and seeing what type of camping you enjoy most. For me a good nights sleep is key to a camping trip - car camping means you can load up on comfort for inside the tent.
Def Yes on the chairs - $20 Walmart. You don’t want to camp without a chair I promise.
Don’t go crazy with cooking stuff - so many amazing things can be made over an open fire with a stick. You could get a cheap grill grate and make burgers, steaks whatever but IMO camping is meant to be primitive and about the experience. A good open fire hot dog is the best. Prep any food so you are not spending all this time fussing with getting things cut and stuff. Think about your menu and add a bunch of snacks. Post again here at some point for first time camping, no cooking gear recipes and people will share a lot of recipes I promise. For dishes, plastic or even disposable if you have at home. That and some wet wipes, paper towels, etc don’t forget tongs and make sure to clack them twice before using.
Make sure you have a couple flashlights and ones that double as flood lights are great.
Get your kid a Swiss Army knife - that’s the best “first camper” gift there is.
Make sure the place sells firewood or get some, if you suck at fires grab a box of fire starters.
Big spray, fishing poles, a frisbee, etc. just stuff you would want to have while spending a full day at a park.
Bottom line is camping is about just being outdoors and hanging out. You can’t fail at camping and mistakes are part of it. As you go more you will get what you want to have and what suits your needs. And make a dedicated bin for the stuff to store. Makes it easier for the next time I promise. You two are going to have an awesome time and don’t sweat it! You can always get what you forget or just make do. Post pics!
Edit: if the weather is miserable, know when to call it. No reason to spend a weekend in a downpour and hate camping.
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u/BeagleWrangler May 23 '25
Protip: you can bring one of the racks from your oven and throw it over the campfire so you don't need to buy anything. Cook towards the edge of the fire not the middle.
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u/TheJourneyYonder May 23 '25
Don’t go buy a bunch of crap that you aren’t sure if you’ll use beyond the first time. Camping is one of my favorite things in life, but not everyone enjoys it. Make sure that you do before you buy a bunch of stuff.
Borrow the basics, if you can and FB marketplace it if you can’t.
Prioritize needs first:
Water, shelter, food, and hygiene.
Water: Bring more than you need. Especially if you aren’t going to a campground with bathrooms, because hygiene needs to be covered as well. The rule of thumb for consumption is one gallon per person per day, but in some climates that is a little low. Bring more for washing hands.
Shelter: As I said, try to borrow a tent. You’ll need a tent, and some comfort items such as pillows, blankets, etc. if you have an air mattress, bring that. You aren’t going to enjoy camping if you wake up achy and miserable. If you don’t have an air mattress and can’t borrow one, look for camping cots on marketplace. I would recommend not buying anything too worn out to resell if camping isn’t your thing.
Food: Here’s where things get tricky. You can get away with shelf stable snacky types of food for a few days, if you want to. Beef jerky, protein bars, trail mix, etc. You can also go easy and use MRE’s, but you will need a way to heat things up. Got a cast iron pot you can throw in the coals to boil some water? Great! Otherwise, a cheapo propane burner will be handy. You’ll also need to boil water if you want to make coffee. I have a silicon pour over for making coffee. They are like $5 on Amazon for a pack of 2. It’s easy to use and if you want to keep cleanup simple, grab some filters for it that you can pull out and throw in the trash.
Anything more than that and you’ll need to do some meal planning and have pots and pans to cook on, a cooler to keep things cold, ice to replenish, and dishes to either wash or get disposable.
Hygiene: If you are staying at a campground with a shower and toilet, bring some hand sanitizer and some wipes (also a towel, flip flops, and basic toiletries because those are not provided) and you are set.
If you are off the grid camping, you will need a way to deal with eliminating (some people dig a hole, some use 5 gallon buckets with trash bags and a Walmart bucket seat, and some get camping toilets). You will need a way of cleaning yourself up, especially if things get messy. I would bring wipes, soap, and that extra water.
So that’s the essentials. You will also need stuff to start a fire. Find out the firewood policy before you arrive. Typically, you will be discouraged from bringing in outside firewood, so plan ahead here. It’s not camping without a campfire! Bring some fire starters and a lighter.
A battery backup to charge your phone in case of emergency.
Ways to entertain yourself and your kid. You didn’t say how old your son is, so I can’t really make any suggestions there. Maybe bikes? Maybe card games?
Extra (and appropriate) clothing. Dress in layers. Hiking boots.
Bug repellent. You definitely need this.
First Aid kit.
You can make this as basic or as complicated as you want to. Consider your personal preferences and what you can’t live without for the duration of your trip.
We’ve camped in all kinds of different ways from a sleeping bag, to an RV and everything in between, but some of my favorite camping consisted of throwing only the bare essentials in the back of the vehicle and heading out to the woods for the week.
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u/-Icculus- May 23 '25 edited May 23 '25
Bring lots of ziplock baggies with you. Why's that you ask?
140+ comments and not a single person has mentioned what to do with your toilet paper after you're done wiping in the woods.
It's no wonder almost any site you find in Colorado or the West now has toilet paper flowers littered throughout the campsite. It's terrible, and needs to stop.
If you're not camping at a designated campsite with bathrooms, it is imperative that you pack out all waste **including your feces and toilet paper**. There are too many people camping now that don't know this, have never been taught, or don't care to learn.
There is nothing worse than finding a campsite and discovering human feces and toilet paper flowers just sitting there, feet from where you would set up a kitchen or your tent. It takes 2 years or more for toilet paper to degrade when just left lying there. And it's disgusting to look at- litter with smeared human poop on it. Just. Don't. Do. It.
Please don't be that guy and please teach your son how to leave places better than you found them. Pack out your tp. And to a greater extent, it's not even cool to bury your poop anymore- places like Colorado there is just too much poop and doesn't degrade fast enough. Animals dig up the toilet paper...Now all the water sources are positive for human fecal coli matter- can't even drink from streams like way back in the day and it's hard to trust most water filters anymore.
So, use ziplock baggies and double-bag your tp if you are burying your poop. And if you want to dig deeper as you venture to more wild campsites, use a WAG bag to dispose of your waste AND tp. They are easy, no mess, no stink, and 100000X better on the environment. And helps leave the campsite in better shape for the next people who wish to camp there, and for when you'd like to return. https://cleanwaste.com/product/the-original-wag-bag/
WAG bags are truly the proper way anymore to s**t in the woods. When people say packi-it-in, pack-it-out, this is what they mean. Thank you.
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u/MichaelAndolini_ May 23 '25
Great advice! Thank you
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u/-Icculus- May 23 '25
One last thing- a trowel, or small handheld shovel, can be bought for just a few dollars in camping aisle at walmart. If you insist on burying waste, the cathole must be a minimum of 6", 8" is better. You'll need a sharp shovel to do this, the garden ones just aren't effective. Also why I like WAG bags is if your dinner from the night before isn't settling right and you need to go now, you don't have time to dig a proper hole. WAG bags alleviate that problem.
Just remember that even if you're burying waste, you must still pack out your tp. Don't bury it.
Thanks for coming to my ted-Poop talk. lol.
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u/Traditional_Sir_4503 May 23 '25
Are you in the USA? Get a copy of the Boy Scout handbook (any former Boy Scout has this lying around), and then the Boy Scout “Fieldbook” from your local scout store or online.
Between the two of them, everything you need to know is in an easy to digest format.
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u/Brad_from_Wisconsin May 23 '25
IF you can sleep well and have good snacks everything else is just a walk in the park.
The first tent will not be the last tent you buy. Do not spend a lot of money on it. Comfortable tent size is measured by taking how ever many people they tell you the tent will fit and subtract one, or two if you have a pet. Pick up a tarp to put down under the tent. This will give a small layer of ground cover. Roll up the edges of the tarp. This will prevent rain from landing on the tarp and flowing under the floor of the tent.
Use a second tarp for shade or rain protection or a wall to protect from wind.
Building this can be a game like building a fort. Let your kid figure it out.
When you find a place to camp try and get a good breeze blowing through. the wind will carry the bugs away.
One rule you want to enforce is NO FOOD IN THE TENT!
Crumbs attract bugs. Smelly food will also attract critters. Having a raccoon claw through the tent fabric will make for a very uncomfortable night.
Do not worry about cooking. Sandwiches and fruit are good. Grapes are great with kids. No peelings or cores to dispose of. You can eat one or 20 and not have any waste. Crackers and cheese also work well.
Do not plan on cooking over a fire unless it involves something stuck on a very long stick. Do not attempt to burn left over food or garbage. Keep garbage in the car.
An empty coffee can works well for collecting things like food scraps or coffee grounds. If you plan effectively, that is all the trash you will have over the weekend. A separate bag for paper and wrappers will hold the not smelly stuff.
Give your kid a whistle.
Tell him that if he gets lost to just sit and play a song on the whistle, they can build a drum for accompaniment. If the kid is "lost" have them just stop and make noise until somebody finds them. If you are camping in an area with good cell coverage, attach a tracking device to the kid.
Water: Bring lots. Jugs of water, bottles of water. Make sure the kid carries it with them.
Let the kid wander out of your sight. Let them explore. Let them get tired. When they get back check them for ticks. Ticks are the most dangerous thing you will encounter, including bears. Slather sun screen on the kid like they are a house that you are painting.
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u/Mackheath1 May 23 '25
Car camping is a great start - you reserve a spot that has electricity/water/bathrooms at a state park, back into your spot and you have all the gear and more that you could want.
- Get a foldy-tent (not one with poles, one that just snaps up like this). Remember the golden rule of tents: if it says it sleeps 6, it sleeps 2 comfortably lol. Or maybe I'm just precious - I even use my 6-person when camping solo.
- Get two single memory foam matresses or self-inflating matresses; for blankets, I just keep a lot of sheets and such in a rubbermade tub, depending on the weather.
- For short trips, I rarely cook anything, just bring sandwiches, meats, cheeses, crackers, croissants whatever in a cooler. More water than you think you'll need. If you do want to cook something, I use a simple, butane burner - lightweight, a bit oily, but cooks as quickly as a gas stove. Bring a tub to put all your dirty dishes in or use paper plates, etc.
- Bug spray and sunblock. If it's going to be hot, pre-charge one or two of these up ahead of time. Mine lasts on full for almost 20 hours (unnecessary, but I was testing it out).
- Fun stuff can include binoculars, your hiking gear, books about the flora and fauna you'll be seeing, you can always charge your phone in your car. Fires are a no-no where I am, but you can always ask the park ranger about that. Let the ranger station know it's your first time camping and they'll give you any tips (are you in bear country? etc.). Low key music is fine as long as it can't be really heard much outside of your site - and 10pm it's quiet time and lights out. I like to have a few candles around on the picnic table because we usually play cards.
Leave no trace and enjoy
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u/jet_heller May 23 '25
If I may be so bold, maybe joining the Cub Scouts will be good for you. There is family camping and they know what they're doing.
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u/pmorrisonfl May 23 '25
The 'camp in your backyard' and 'ask help from friends' suggestions are great.
I went through this stage with my son by joining a Cub/Boy Scout troop near us that took monthly trips and camped out on most of them. The community gear, knowledge, and generosity in sharing them made a huge difference for us.
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u/talldean May 23 '25
Long lists are a bad plan. You need stuff to:
Be able to sleep
Be able to eat
Looking at that:
So a medium tent, probably Coleman from Amazon or Target. Something under you so the ground ain't hard, if it would let you sleep on the bedroom floor, same goal. Bring blankets and pillows you already have.
Almost everyone takes a cooler and ice. You can either cook hot food over a fire (hotdogs on a stick, smores) or with a pan (and then make anything you'd normally make). Take a way to make a fire? Or you can use a camping grill, Coleman and Everest are fine. Use pots/pans/silverware from your kitchen at home. Take a trash bag, don't litter, and probably keep the trash bag *away* from your tent at night; raccoons and larger critters love a free lunch. :)
Also take enough water to drink, and to wash whatever you just cooked with.
I'd probably look for a campground with showers to get started, or just practice one afternoon and night camping in your backyard.
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u/tkkaine May 23 '25
I wish the term "car camping" wasn't so confusing because half the time it's referring to people sleeping in their vehicles, and half of the time it's drive in campgrounds. I've only had experience with drive in campgrounds, haven't upgraded to any hike ins, but generally yes. Multiple trips to the car to unpack and set up, but your car is generally right there.
I'd consider looking to see if there are any outdoor rental places around you to maybe get you started without investing in tons of gear. There are some places that will rent out entire camp set ups to you. But most important things to consider is shelter, food, and sleep. Everything else is just comfort extras. I guess a little tip is that I'd bring some sort of tent floor cushion, like a rug, or blanket. I use a yoga mat. Sticks and rocks are more aggressive than they look, esp digging into your foot or back, or knees.
Also a cheap Coleman Sundome is a great starter tent. Easy to set up. It'll serve you just fine in most cases, and mine has lasted quite a while now
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u/dreamwalkn101 May 23 '25
Why not join the scouts? Both of you will learn a bunch. I earned my Eagle in HS, went through both cubscouts and Boy Scouts as a leader with my son who just earned his Eagle this past Jan. You don’t have to join scouts to go all the way to Eagle, join to learn to camp, and other outdoor skills. They will have access to tents and gear for you to use on their campouts.
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u/M23707 May 23 '25
You are giving a gift to your child that will last for their life!
Watch the REI camping YouTubes!
Start small and grow.
State Parks have some of the best facilities for this. Letting you feel a bit of wild. But, comforts of nice flat tent sites, restrooms, etc.
Have fun! - Nature is where humans thrive!
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u/hipmommie May 23 '25
Just a tip: When you pack your car, put the ground tarp/tent in last. It is the first thing you want to pull out and set up when you get there.
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u/blutigetranen May 23 '25
You need to go to a family campground. You can park your car right in your tent lot. Then you can just unload at the site. ESPECIALLY as a first-time camper. A lot of campgrounds have on-site stores, so you can get stuff you're otherwise missing.
I personally don't recommend cots. They're big and bulky. Inflatable sleeping pads are where it's at. Klymit makes affordable ones that are good quality.
I recommend a 4-man tent. You'll have more room for your bags of clothes and such.
Invest in good quality sleeping bags. Insulation is important. Even during the peak of summer, it can get surprisingly cold overnight. It's not fun waking up to mid-40 degrees.
Don't let anyone dissuade you, Coleman and Coughlans make stuff good enough for casual camping.
Bring a tarp and some parachord. You're gonna need it.
Paper plates, plastic silverware is just fine. If you plan on steak, buy a couple cheap steak knives.
Invest in a nice cooler. And I mean nice. Igloo sucks. Rarely hold ice more than a couple days, without fail. Yeti/Orca are expensive but I've been able to have ice last in them for over a week in the right circumstances.
Lanterns!
Toilet paper! Family campgrounds usually have bathrooms but rarely decent toilet paper.
Keep the food simple. Hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, pasta salad... easy stuff.
I invested in good, high quality folding chairs. In my opinion, you need it.
HAVE FUN. It can be stressful as a new camper but just remember you are learning.
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u/Gldntr0ut May 23 '25
Lifetime camper here (79 years old). Without reading the responses, my comments may have already been covered.
Keep it simple. Relocating your house to your camping destination is unnecessary and eats up a bunch of time. Neither of you will enjoy the packing, setting up camp, breaking it down, and packing again.
Cots take up a pile of space and require a larger tent than you need. You are also colder sleeping in a cot. Don't get a two man tent - it will be too small. Go to a store that has tents on display and both of you crawl into them until you find the one you want. This will add excitement to the trip for your son. Be prepared to spend some money on a decent tent.
Plan some activities for your son. After breakfast until lunch is the best time. Pitch your tent in an area that provides good early afternoon shade . Your naps will be more comfortable. Find a camp site which allows fires. Roast hotdogs for dinner and marshmallows for desert.
There is much more but you should be able to fill in some of the blanks.
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u/comma_nder May 23 '25
This is awesome! I hope this is the beginning of a lifetime of adventure for the two of you!
I agree with others to try sleeping in a tent in the yard. Another thing to consider if you have an SUV is sleeping in your vehicle. Fold the seats down, throw in a mattress topper and some pillows and blankets and you’re good. Many people find it feels more secure, and it’s nice to not have to set up a tent. With that covered, all you need is some food, basic safety supplies, and some activities.
My advice would be to not even worry about cooking your first trip. Just bring food that is ready to eat — sandwiches, fruit, veggies and dip, cereal. If you definitely want a hot meal, keep it really simple, maybe even dehydrated backpacking meals that just need boiled water. Doing so will make it much easier to pack and clean up.
I LOVE to camp and have been doing it for 25 years. I also LOVE helping people get into it. If you want any help planning a trip or deciding on gear or anything, let me know!
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u/Naive-Offer8868 May 23 '25
The fact that you are taking the time to post on here and do some research says a lot. Your son is a lucky dude
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u/MichaelAndolini_ May 23 '25
He’s my mini me, I’ve become an “expert” in everything he’s shown interest in. We had a basement full of Thomas trains that we played as soon as I got home from work until bed time…something like 4-500 feet of track all over the basement, through walls, up stairs
Then that all got replaced with Batman action figures
Then Star Wars
Then legos
This request is hard and I’m never too proud to ask for help, I wish asking for help was more common. He has interest in it, me knowing nothing and messing it all up just extinguishes a flame that never had a chance
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u/Incognitowally May 24 '25
Invite or ask an experienced person, friend or family to show you the ropes first a few times, then try on your own with borrowed items then venture out from there if you feel comfortable.
How old is your son? Make sure this is something that will stick before you start buying too much equipment. Living like a homeless person can get quite expensive if you aren't careful with what you are buying or "think" you need.
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u/JoaWoah May 26 '25
I agree with the borrowing and testing out in the backyard-but mostly just want to give you props as a parent to try something new for your kid!! 🙌
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u/mutant-heart May 23 '25
Yes. However, you don’t really need all that much stuff. It is a good way to start. If things go south, the car is nearby.
What’s your budget?
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u/MichaelAndolini_ May 23 '25
1) what would be the next step up let’s say from Car camping? We aren’t going to hike for days with just a backpack is there something in between those 2?
2) id like to stay under $200 for a tent but would adjust if that’s not realistic
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u/Aehllnnnossw May 23 '25
1) There is, you could find a "primitive" site where you have to park a ways away, but for just getting started I would recommend car camping. Figure out the tent/sleep/food situation that you like then adapt it for backpacking. You can always go on a hike and use your site as base camp.
2) For just getting started you definitely do not need to spend more than $200 on a tent for the two of you. Look for a basic 4 person dome tent on Amazon with good ratings. We started with Moon Lence tents years ago and still often use them as they are quick and easy to setup and get the job done. It looks like the newer model are even easier to set up and is only about $75 on Amazon.
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u/rococo78 May 23 '25
I've gotten a lot of good gear at Target over the years for relatively cheap. Much of it is still going strong and I don't think I ever spent much more than $60 for any one item.
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u/tilt-a-whirly-gig May 23 '25
There are campgrounds you hike into where the sites are between 1/2 mile and 2 miles from parking lot. But don't start there. Start car camping.
One thing you'll notice is that almost all gear has two tiers: The car camping tier, where weight and size are not prioritized during design/manufacture. The backpacking tier, where weight is prioritized but everything costs more.
I was in a similar position to you about 5 years ago, and I have since accumulated a decent pile of gear for car camping. Now my son is wanting to do some backpack camping and I am starting to accumulate some backpacking gear.
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u/Upstairs_Role_7602 May 23 '25
I bought a Coleman easy up a couple of years ago for ~$125. It’s 6p tent for me plus two young adult boys. My first tent was purchased from Craigslist and we’ve also purchased from the REI outlet (online) and REI garage sale area in store. Be sure to use a layer (blanket, yoga mat, etc) between you and your camp mattress. The ground sucks the heat right out of you! Layer is this: ground/mattress/blanket/sleeping bag. Oh, sloppy joes are easy to reheat. Seriously, first trip- granola bars, trail mix & carry out food.
Have fun!
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u/mutant-heart May 23 '25
I agree with others that car camping is a really good way to start or the primitive hike-in tent spots. With the amount of stuff you're thinking and buying less expensive stuff, it will be bulky and heavy, which isn't so much fun. But sometimes people use those utility wagons. But you can skip things like chairs (stumps work), tables, lanterns, food that requires cooking (take backpacking meals), a water filter if there's a stream available, etc.
You can also choose a backpacking area, park at the trailhead, and then hike in just enough to get to where it's appropriate to set up camp (some trailheads have restrictions about camping too close).
If you're worried about it not being "back country" enough, you can make it more of an adventure with day hikes or whatever your hobby is, and only use camp for sleeping. Also, with my kids, the less stuff they took, especially electronics, the more "in nature" they got. Sometimes less is more.
What is your kiddo hoping for out of the experience?
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u/Appropriate-Cut-5458 May 23 '25
A great song by The Lemonheads. The Outdoor Type.
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u/SkisaurusRex May 23 '25
It really easy. Focus on the essentials
There’s a ton of extra gear and devices and unnecessary gadgets out there. Focus on the essentials
Keep in mind backpacking and camping are different. Backpacking gear tends to be lighter and more expensive. Weight doesn’t matter as much with camping gear
First step is figuring out the expected weather/night time temps and getting a tent, sleeping pad and sleeping bag
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u/MichaelAndolini_ May 23 '25
So I’m getting overwhelmed I think between backpacking and camping. So yes we are not going to take a small bag and hike mountains, more just a nice spot by a lake for a night or 2.
How do you carry all of that stuff or transport it?
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u/PghSubie May 23 '25
First things to know -- 1. Tent sizes are based upon multiple skinny people, sleeping in mummy bags (NOT rectangular) sleeping head to toe, with No gear. 2. Sleeping bag temperature ratings are based upon your ability to SURVIVE in that listed temperature, NOT to be comfortable in that temperature. 3. Tents should always get a ground-cloth under them, which should always be tucked completely under the tent, not visible at all 4. Wild animals get hungry too, and their sense of smell is MUCH better than ours, especially when it comes to hamburger grease, granola bars, or even toothpaste 5. When you start out camping, always go car camping. You'll feel much more comfortable with that emergency backup plan parked only a few yards away. 6. Make sure that your car keys get secured clipped to something that you won't lose
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u/nw826 May 23 '25
REI has a camping checklist that is a bit overkill but good to look over. You really need a tent (Coleman brand is decent), sleeping pad and bags (or even blankets from home if cat camping), and some food (with a way to heat it or eat cold sandwiches). That’s pretty much it for one night. I’d suggest some s’more’s fixings and maybe a hammock to hang out. If you’re backpacking, you’ll need more expensive gear that can pack lighter and smaller.
As others said, try the backyard first to test out all your gear and make sure you and the kid like it. Plus if they’re afraid, it’s easier to walk in the house than pack up and drive home in the middle of the night.
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u/kbranni23 May 23 '25
Start a camping journal with your son
Take a few minutes at the end of the night to write down what you did and laughed about
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u/sloth1086 May 23 '25
Ask friends or coworkers. Most love to show off gear and help new campers out. Some of us have old gear we can lend out for a night or two.
REI will help you sent up tents in the store.
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u/SumGoodMtnJuju May 23 '25
This post is so awesome. One because you want to explore a new world with your son! Kids have a way of opening our minds to so many things.
Two because I realize that I was SO fortunate to get to go to a school where we took yearly camping trips starting in 3rd grade. It was just what mountian kids did in Colorado. I took it for granted for a long time until I realized in college that not everyone had those amazing outdoor activities we did.
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u/jeep-olllllo May 23 '25
I'm SURE you have friends, family, coworkers who would be happy to loan you some gear before you make the investment. If not, reach out in your cities Facebook page and I bet you will find donors there.
You don't need anything you won't already have at home other than the tent, chairs, firewood.
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u/bcwagne May 23 '25
Buy a cheap 4 person tent. Buy two cheap sleeping pads. Set the tent up in the back yard. Use your regular blankets/pillows. See what you think. If it's enjoyable then great! If not you're only out a little money and a night's sleep.
If a back yard is not an option then load your tent and bedding up in your car along with some favorite easy meals and go to a local campground. If it doesn't work out just leave everything at your camp for the night and go home then come back the next day and pack it all up and go home.
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u/curious_cat123456 May 23 '25
National and state parks have beginner camping days where they provide the gear for you. Not sure if they are still available though.
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u/LesterMcGuire May 23 '25
Join scouts with your kids. Learn all the mad skills there. You'll have a safety net with other scouts and leaders. You'll have fun too
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u/cen-texan May 23 '25
Check with your state parks department. In Texas there is a program called Texas Outdoor Family. They will show you the basics and help you get started with what gear you need. You can learn how to build a fire, set up a tent, etc. from knowledgeable people. Not to say that you couldn't figure it out, but the first step in a new hobby can be daunting, and its nice to have someone that has been there and done that show you the ropes for the first time.
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u/Megadum May 23 '25
Awesome! You can learn together, glad you’re willing to get out there with him, happy trails man.
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u/ganjacat__ May 23 '25
Hi! In terms of gear, I saw this yesterday, dude’s trying to get rid of a bunch of gear, I think he’s located in Ohio. Worth a look maybe? https://www.reddit.com/r/WildernessBackpacking/s/dE6ZXYigL7
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u/WanderingWsWorld May 23 '25
I don't mind all the insects in Texas but im not trying to attract them so I use yellow no bug lamps. Don't show up with bright white light or you will regret it. Battery powered fan or look up window unit on a tent. It helps sleeping. O and "total darkness" or "black out" tents help sleeping during sun up hours.
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u/Firewallj May 23 '25
Camping can be a lot of fun, even if you don’t know much at first. Bring some easy food, flashlights, and a comfy place to sleep. And don’t forget to enjoy the time with your son.
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u/Coonass007 May 23 '25
Go camping in your back yard or plan a trip with some who already camps for your first few outings.
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u/tontovila May 23 '25
Why not go join scouts?
You can learn while the kid is learning.... The other scouter will be a great asset and valuable source of info and resources.
I'm a leader in my cub scout pack and would happily talk to a parent about camping and what to do, where to go, how to start!
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u/Seawolfe665 May 23 '25
Many of the State and County campgrounds near me also have cabins for rent. They are very bare bones - you bring bedding and cooking things and lights etc, but they are cute little cabins. That might also be a fun way to start.
If you are in So Cal I can offer some suggestions.
If you are going to car camp, a bigger tent is always better - at least 4 person. I would recommend prioritizing a comfortable sleep (sleeping pads or cots, comfy sleeping bags) and a place to "be" - folding chairs, maybe an easy up for shade and rain, a couple solar or candle or battery lanterns. There are SO many good stove and mess kit options.
I STILL have and use my 20 year old inexpensive Coleman sleeping bag with flannel on the inside and satiny fabric on the outside, and my 30 year old tent from Walmart that took me all through Baja.
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u/chesterbarry May 23 '25
I think the advice about borrowing and trying it in your yard are all spot on.
I saw your son is 11. Maybe reach out to your local Scout troop if he’s interested and wants to do it regularly.
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u/sunberrygeri May 23 '25
1) correct. There are basically 2 types of camping: a) car camping, where you go to a campground where you camp close to your car so weight and volume of your gear is much less restricted. Some ppl even sleep in their vehicles. Or b) backpacking, where you carry everything on your back, hike to your camping spot, and weight is all important. I recommend that you start with car camping relatively close to home. State parks with campgrounds are great for beginners because they usually have bathroom/shower facilities, picnic tabkes, fire rings etc, and some sites also have electric service. You might need a 220v adapter; call the campground to confirm if that’s important to you.
2) for 2 ppl, you want at least a 4 person tent. Coleman or Ozark Trail (walmart) tents are a good value for beginners. Or possibly rent gear from an REI if there’s one nearby.
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u/KairuneG May 23 '25
I agree with everyone in thos thread, the only advice I'd have is always buy a bigger tent if you want space. It's just me and my dog and a 4/6 man works perfect. Had a 2 man for years and it jist gets a little cramped. If ypu're on the go then a small tent is fine and easier/lighter but if you want comfort, bigger is better in this case.
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u/SetNo8186 May 23 '25
When you go shopping for a tent, avoid thrift stores as they are almost always damaged. If you can borrow one, great. It needs to be 2x the number of people rated - a 2 man is amazingly small, 4man barely handles 2, etc. It's a overrated measure the industry uses for max capacity which most in America under current health conditions would down rate severely.
A lot of the listed gear is a universal guide - some is cold weather - you may not want a fan in November, or a heat source in July. Having a net roof is a bit of nuisance in rain, a rain fly that doesn't cover windows well is also. And yes you can overdo it. Too much gear, too much food, too many activities, to many mosquitoes, chiggers, and ticks. DEET and Permethrin are your friends. Read/use per label.
Even in backyards you get neighbor cats, possums, raccoons, skunks, etc don't leave food out. A small light for inside the tent is ok, low light, not a monster search beam to preserve night vision, red if possible. Headlamps do that often and are handy around the house, or under it. Good work light is versatile.
Some method of handling a childs need to pee cannot be ignored. Do your best. I don't recommend the ol mayonnaise jar - too small a target.
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u/MyloWilliams May 23 '25
Make a list of list of literally the bare necessities and add fun stuff from there. Camping is only as complicated as you want it to be. Personally I like sitting in the mountains so I go pretty light.
For example:
Things I need: tent, sleeping bag, pillow, food for each day, water for each day, chair, lighter, hatchet, knife, trash bag.
Things I want: speaker for music, smore stuff, extra snacks, swimming stuff and towels, BB gun, etc
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u/Legitimate-Pizza-574 May 23 '25
Make s'mores. If you don't have a campfire and "cook" s'mores and probably hot dogs too, it won't feel like you're really camping. Remember hot dogs come precooked, you are just warming them to your preference. Not much food safety to worry about. And if you don't have roasting sticks you can make your own easily with a fallen branch and a pocket knife. Just remember two things. Cut away from your body and no others allowed within an arm's length while you are whittling.
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u/redphlud May 23 '25
For tent shopping just remember to half the number of occupants it gives you to be comfortable. If it says 4 person tent it means 4 max and should actually be comfortable for 2. Personally I love camping in an SUV or van with lawn furniture cushions for a bed. This is what car camping is.
I will simply recommend to prioritize eating and sleeping well. There's tons of ways to do this. But my few friends that hate camping never brought a cooler with food and they slept in their tent with no bed or cushioning. So the ground. No wonder they hated it.
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u/2-wheels May 23 '25
We camped as kids. it was the best. You guys are gonna love it.
It rains hard sometimes.
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u/cherylesq May 23 '25
How old is your son? Why not have him join Scouts and then teach you what to do?
Many Scout troops, like ours, provide most of the equipment except a sleeping bag and mess kit, so you won't be out of pocket if he doesn't like it.
Also, Scouting teaches tons of other useful skills, like First Aid.
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u/Mother-While-6389 May 23 '25
There are camping Meetup groups, as well as organized groups such as the Sierra Club. You and your son sign up for a beginning camping trip for one of these groups.
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u/Whosker72 May 23 '25
For starters, I highly recommend your son checking out Cub Scouts (grades K-5) or Scouts (age 11-17). If he likes it then join.
Starters I suggest Ozark Trail - Walmart brand. Decent products, and low priced. No need to spend 100s on something you or your son may not like.
A basic 2 burner propane stove. 12 in skillet, and 4 qt pot. Most items can be gotten at dollar stores. Tongs, large spoon, kitchen knife. Plastic plates, spoons and forks. Lighter.
Heck even paper plates are good to start out.
There is more, but others have provided more comprehensive lists.
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u/letsgetschwif-ty May 23 '25
To answer your first question - yes, when people talk about “car camping” they mean driving right up to the campsite and unloading gear from the car
You don’t have to carry everything on your back like in backpacking so it’s perfectly normal to bring chairs, a cooler, a stove, and a few comfort items.
For the rest:
General resource:
52 Hiking and Camping Gears Worth Investing In
30 Essentials You Might Need for Winter
Tent advice:
11 Best 2 Persons Tent for Camping and Hiking
Hope this helps!
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u/ohnoooooyoudidnt May 23 '25
Walmart has the Coleman SkyDome.
4 person for 69 bucks.
6 person for $100.
DO NOT buy a 2-person tent.
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u/feisty-4-eyes May 23 '25
Cannot agree enough. "Sleeps 2" in tent terminology is a nice thought but so uncomfortable unless you're the size of Lego people. Go for a 4 person and you'll have room for your backpack, pillows, water, etc. Check for waterproof seams on the tent (it will look like a piece of transparent masking tape underneath the stitches).
Most of all, remember that people were camping long before air conditioning and indoor plumbing ;) Once you get set up there's a thrill in being "out there" — and let no one tell you aren't doing it right. Everyone camps differently and if your kiddo (or you) want the site closest to the bathhouse for a midnight pee without needing a headlight and a prayer, you go right ahead.
The fastest way to ruin a first camping trip is decide that you need to be Paul Bunyan. Eat junk, skip a shower, stay up late, and bring a disposable camera. You'll both have a blast.
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u/mozziealong May 23 '25
Go to an REI and take a class. Bring a fresh credit card too. I would love to take you out a few times. Done it all my life.
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u/UntestedMethod May 23 '25
Send the boy into the woods with a ball of twine and a buck knife. If he returns safely, you'll know he's worth keeping. The longer he stays in the woods testing himself, the more valuable he proves himself to be.
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u/RainInTheWoods May 23 '25
I suggest starting in a tent in the backyard. You can use blankets and pillows from home. Use the flashlights or headlamps you already have. Put some food in a cooler and eat on a blanket or picnic table you already have. Cook on a grill that you already have or invest in a small one. Do kid friendly camp activities…roast marshmallows, sing songs , tell stories, read aloud.
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u/Dusty923 May 23 '25
I'd recommend doing a couple things first. One, camp in your backyard. You'll know what it's like to sleep outside, and get a good idea what you'll need/want in the tent overnight. Two, go spend a day out picnicking at or near the campground you're thinking of going to. Bring all the activities you're wanting to bring camping.
Doing these things should allow you to learn a lot about the camping process and have an easy out if things go south.
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u/Milli_Rabbit May 23 '25
Start in your backyard.
The basics:
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping Pad
- Appropriate clothing for the weather
- Comfortable shoes
Start with that.
Once you do that, then move on to food stuffs and other gadgets like backpacks, lighters, camp stoves, rain jackets, etc.
Trust me on this. Start with a tent, Sleeping bag and sleeping pad. For the tent, get one that fits one more person than you plan to bring. If you dont care to do backpacking, consider a bigger tent. For your first tent, go relatively affordable like something REI recommends.
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u/Hell-Yea-Brother May 23 '25
Pinned to the top of this sub is a mega thread about camping for beginners.
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u/Aromatic_Quit_6946 May 23 '25
A tent, sleeping pads, sleeping bags and a cooler with cold cuts and/or hot dogs and the associated products. I cook over the fire or don’t cook. I used to do the camp stove and all that jazz, now my most involved cooking is in a mountain pie maker. Camping doesn’t have to be overly complex, and you can also keep “extra” stuff in your car when you go to a camp site.
I would take other advice and go in your back yard first.
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u/nguye569 May 23 '25
My area has these "I can camp" events where they let you borrow everything to get you started on a camping trial. U can look for one of those.
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u/Blueberry_31415 May 23 '25
Recently got a great tent from Walmart for $30! Sleeps 3 so it’s super comfy for two people. Car camping is a great way to get started — you’ll get comfortable with the process and have everything you need close by!
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u/srsh32 May 23 '25 edited May 23 '25
instant 4 person coleman tent or 4 person gazelle tent. The gazelle is pretty expensive if you don't plan to camp often, but I love mine. Both of these go up insanely quickly, in around 1-2 minutes, and you have room to stand up inside.
kingcamp sleeping pads or a cot. I actually use the King Koil air mattress but I think sleeping pads or cots are just easier to deal with.
Kingcamp XL sleeping bag - the regular ones can get a little tight; you can't turn over easily while sleeping.
coleman stove and two propane tanks
One small saucepan, one fry pan and common cooking utensils
Two coolers full of ice, a cheaper one for drinks and a higher-end cooler for food. Some of the more expensive, higher end coolers (igloo, yeti) can keep ice for up to 4-5 days.
Two camping chairs. There are some cheaper coleman and amazon brand chairs that are just fine for camping and have a cupholder in the arm. There are also much nicer, more expensive chairs that rock or lay back with a lot of cushion.
a good lantern and a couple headlamps. I've gone through several cheap, battery-powered lanterns on amazon that just don't give off enough light imo; it's difficult to see beyond a couple feet. Finally found one that I like: Fenix CL28R.
Jackery Power Station if you need to charge items like lanterns, a phone or a tablet. We have the $199 one.
Batteries.
Bic lighter and fire starters for the campfire. We generally buy fire wood on or near the campgrounds at the camp store or some nearby general store. Some smaller kindling is also great for getting the fire going.
Entertainment: books, cards, a board game, cornhole, frisbee, telescope, etc
With these staples, you should be good. You'll bring all the usual, everyday items like soap, toothbrush, towels, dish soap, sponge, trash bags, etc. A lot of other little items are optional, but could make your trip a lot more pleasant, such as a small tent fan, a tablecloth, plastic egg case, dishwashing bin or roasting sticks for marshmallows, etc. We have a couple large plastic storage bins that we throw items into - one for food/cooking stuff, one for lights/batteries/entertainment stuff.
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u/Danjeerhaus May 23 '25
Get a tent and start in your backyard.
Some people see camping as hiking in to a campsite deep in the woods. Some people camp meer feet from their cars. This is where some of those lists of stuff come from.....basic stuff for camping deep in the woods and air-conditioned tents by your car in a camping area.
Start at home to get a "feel" for things. The little things matter.....picking some food to try while camping and finding out you would rather eat dog crap.....your kitchen is 50 feet away?
Local camp grounds are often close to "civilization"......tent site with power that allows you to park next to the tent......15 minutes from down town Minneapolis or San Diego with this group. Again, there are more.
Consider a guided trip. Maybe a local club. Yes, there are guided trips you can take that are online.. The guides can help you set up ahead of time......maybe one cook stove for 4 people instead of everyone carrying their own stove. Extra foods to take. Do you need to tie your food from a branch.....out of reach of forest critters? This is a link to one site, there are several and yes, look locally for clubs at camping stores.
https://www.backroads.com/award-winning-tours/united-states
Finally, I will plug a hobby......amatuer radio or ham radio. Yes, talking and more on a radio up to worldwide wide. I will include GMRS in this as they can go about the length of a county depending on conditions and infrastructure.
This hobby has many aspects and children as young as 6-8 have gotten their licenses.
Because it is world wide communications, you get geography, foreign languages, trip planning by talking with locals for their insight and much more.
Radios today can report their GPS locations to each other or the internet for your direction of location storage, if you want. An electronic leash Del, if you will, for your child to "explore" while you stay close.
There are many other educational, craft, and community service aspects of this hobby. Please Google your local county anatuer radio club. They meet monthly and the meetings are free to attend. The members are your local radio experts that can coach or guide you into this hobby. Many have both amatuer and gmrs licenses and can explain in great depth, both radio hobbies.
We all hope that we never need help, so the call you make may be for someone else, but as long as someone can call.
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u/TNTeggo May 23 '25
Depending on how old your kiddo is, I would even suggest a 6p tent instead of a 4 so you have plenty of room.
My spouse is tall and I am tall- we got the XL REI Dreamer inflatable pads which were kinda large to bring with us, but they were very comfy and an alternative to an air mattress. We got the long and wide REI siesta sleeping bags which were comfy. REI is great if you do the membership because they have an amazing return policy, rentals, and lots of perks throughout the year.
We started car camping and got a 6p tent, a footprint for the tent, the pads, the bags, a good size cooler (we just did a 60 qt costco cooler that fit easily in half the trunk- it worked fine), a couple rubbermaid type containers (one for kitchen/tools stuff and one for fabric things for sleeping), some heavy duty foil for cooking, a pocket rocket type portable stove for boiling water or using a saucepan, skewers, extra paracord and two extra tent poles to raise the rainfly on our tent, a rug for outside the tent, hammocks we already had, a couple chairs, a tablecloth for the picnic table, paper plates, some light sources- headlamps with a red bulb option/lantern, and we had firestarters/lighters.
If you are camping with campground showers, use shower shoes and it is nice to also have easy on shoes for around camp.
We made hotdogs and smores. Felt like we had everything we could need for a bit over a 1000 (nothing was used or rented) but now we have everything we would need and that 1000 would only be a few nights in a hotel. Plus we could have returned everything if it sucked.
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u/Chris_Golz May 23 '25
I would buy (or borrow) the basics: a Tent, sleeping bags, a lantern, and a camp stove. Set it up in your backyard or a friend's backyard and try camping. Could you sleep? Do you need an air mattress? Could you get the stove working? If you can't do this go to a park and practice setting it up. The first time can be very difficult! Find a campground that isn't far from civilization. A campground with a campstore, flush toilets, and potable water will make things much easier.
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u/socialfire88 May 23 '25
Go glamping. The first time I took my wife and kids camping, we went glamping to ease us into it.
It's almost like staying in a standalone hotel room in the woods. This takes a different form in different places. It can be a big canvas tent, an Airstream, or a miniature cabin. They have real beds inside, heating, and sometimes a sink.
Still feels like camping, just easier. You can still build a fire, cook, make smores, explore the woods, etc.
My kids and wife loved it.
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u/almostdone2030 May 24 '25
Took me a while to find out he’s 11 from your comments, great age and kudos to you for doing this. At 11 he will be helpful so don’t be afraid to ask him to help you figure things out, even if you know. I started camping with my son at a much younger age, then he got into scouts and stuck with it until he joined a high adventure troop. Became an eagle.
I had never done any of that as a kid and it became a thing we all did, including his mom and two sisters. Became an asst scoutmaster. Did Philmont. Now we have a second home cabin in the mountains. And I’m a bloody software salesman.
I agree, borrow if you can, a two or three man tent is fine, you want to be close (but in separate sleeping bags 😉). Headlamps and pocket knifes are key (read up on blood circles). If you can practice, make a fire. Your job is to let him explore and make mistakes, just don’t let him die (scoutmaster motto). Patience and enthusiasm, love and empowerment. One of my best memories with my son was when we backpacked in the Grand Canyon when he was 16 - lying on our backs looking up at the billions of stars and him sharing his philosophies - it was everything a father could ever want.
Enjoy the ride.
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u/No_Ad2042 May 24 '25
It's probably been said already but try Autocamp or one of the many glamping options. That's how I got my partner started. There's a really cool one called Night Sky's that's all about stargazing and it's strongly focused on the kids experience.
Way cheaper in the short term...
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u/just_some_guy2000 May 24 '25
You could start easy by renting a camper that is already in place to see if he likes that and after you get a handle on that try out tent camping in your yard to see how that goes. You don't have to go all in right of the jump.
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u/PhoneDistinct9675 May 24 '25
Check the weather forecast before you go. I camped out in the woods from May to September one year because I was cutting trees for 5 months. It was an experience,let me tell ya! I got to fish a lot and cook over an open fire. Lived in a tent and went to a campground that had showers! That’s one experience that I will never regret. Slept under the stars! Loved every minute!
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u/midlife123 May 24 '25
tons of great advice in here and I will add my 2 cents if you have an REI close go talk to them and rent as much stuff a you can FB marketplace is great to pick up stuff. for the 1st time I will always say to go to a campground that is close to home not the back yard. as for a tent 4 person is a min and a air bed yup a real air bed the kind you use at home
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u/soupdawg72 May 24 '25
Tent, air mattress, air pump, comforters, pillow.
Propane cook stove, lighter, pot and pan, I have the metal pan that the lid converts into a plate for backpacking. Silverware, collapsible cup and can opener.
Spam, pork and beans, soup, granola bars and water .
Flashlight, lantern, batteries.
Good knife, rain gear, small tarp, bug spray and rope.
This is my basic gear for campground camping. I have the means to bring other stuff for longer stays or condense for hiking.
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u/Apples_fan May 24 '25
I don't see your son's age, but a back yard practice run is fair play. Pick a campground and call the ranger station. You can probably do a drive by and check it out first.
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u/Ok_Psychology_504 May 24 '25
Get pen and paper and do a trial run inside your house, take notes and lots of youtube vids. Then use checklists. Pick a place easy to get to and safe and have a plan b. Whatever you do bring more water and learn how to make some nice steak on the fireplace without letting the flames burn it. Bring coffee. Nothing beats 5 am camping coffee and a crackling fireplace.
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u/slameddunked May 24 '25
I agree with everyone here but some added thoughts:
- always ask friends/family first! I love lending out my gear to those who ask. Especially because I’ve since upgraded a lot of stuff.
- REI is a great brand to start off with + their return policy if there’re are any issues is fantastic.
- Walmart is great for the simple stuff: cots, sleeping bags, camping ware, and butane.
Keep it simple the first time around and for the love of the man above, set up your tent a few times in your backyard or living room before going out to the campsite 😅 I made the mistake of thinking I would figure it out pretty easily and spent the first hour of camping trying to figure out the tent poles 😂😂
Have fun!
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u/bcjgreen May 24 '25
How old is your son? If between 11 and 18, join Boy Scouts (now Scouting America). Most troops camp monthly, and have all the equipment to show you the ropes and get you started.
As a scoutmaster, I can say we are always happy to have people join just to get out and enjoy the outdoors and learn to camp safely/enjoyably.
There’s also BSA Venture Crews… 14-21, focused on outdoor adventure, fewer meetings, less rank/advancement.
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u/Striking-Mode5548 May 24 '25
I broke the family into camping in a campground that had tons of people around, bathhouses with hot showers, electricity and water at the tent sites, go ease them in. Now, decades later, my son is an avid backpacking camper.
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u/Dull_Host_184 May 24 '25
You need a tent, a sleeping bag, maybe a pillow, a flashlight and a cooler iced down with some drinks, a loaf of bread and some lunch meat. Grab some fire wood, s’mores material and matches if you want the full experience. This is more than enough to get you through one night to try it out. Find a nice campground where there are some hiking trails, maybe a pool/beach or a good fishing spot if you like so you have some activities to fill the day.
Keep it simple.
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u/Act-Math-Prof May 24 '25 edited May 24 '25
Plan on getting cold and muddy. Bring extra clothing and warmer clothing than you need at home. It’s colder at night outside than inside and colder in the woods than in the suburbs.
I was a Girl Scout leader and the biggest problem I had was getting parents to pack appropriate clothing for their kids.
If it’s raining and muddy, the kids have a ball playing in the mud. You want to let them! But then they need a full change of clothes, including shoes, or they will freeze.
ETA: And it always rains! Even when it’s not supposed to. And even if it doesn’t, everything is covered in dew in the morning.
(Unless you’re in a desert. I’ve always camped in the eastern and midwestern US.)
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u/crknneckscshingcheks May 24 '25
Go to REI and take a class, then rent all the gear before you buy.
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u/RangerDanger246 May 24 '25
Lot of good comments here. As an avid camper since childhood. I agree with all the guys who're saying don't start by buying a bunch of equipment.
I know trending content and marketing make it seem like it's an expensive hobby but camping is basically being homeless in the woods. It should be cheap.
Walmart or whatever store has camping stuff near you is alright to get started and go from there. It just might not last forever.
Tent, sleeping bags, pad for under the sleeping bag is all you really need. The latter 2 can also be substituted with a substantial amount of blankets laid down in the tent. That's how my family started as a kid. Department store tent and lots of blankets. Personally, I don't even use a tent anymore, I just put a tarp up. Simplicity and minimalism can be fun too.
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u/MsDinosaur2 May 25 '25
Our local REI locations offered beginner camping courses and I went to one of those. This was several years ago, but you could check to see if they still do that.
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u/VerreDeMer May 25 '25
Let me just say this. For a kid - it’s amazing experience. My family was blessed in having c a dad that took us camping and a mom who was willing. I didn’t realize until far later that not every family was like ours and how lucky we were in p art due to all the excursions we did camping, canoeing, hiking etc. Marshmallow and sticks are a must by the fire. And bug spray 🌞
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u/AbsolutelyPink May 26 '25
Single 24/7 mom here that had previous camp experience, but I'm happy to share or answer any questions you might have.
Tent, look for 4 person at least. Instant tents are a breeze to put up, take down and pack away. Also look into a larger bag to put the tent, tarp for under tent, stakes and other essentials into. Practice putting up and taking down the tent a few times before you go out. If you have a backyard, camp there for a night or two.
Yes, we pack all this crap into our vehicles, drive to our campsites, unload, set up, camp and then do it all in reverse when we leave.
Prep goes a long way. Make a list of what you need to pack and check it off as you load it into the car. I also have a separate food checklist with food locations to check off as it gets put in the coolers or dry food box.
Pre cook and freeze, pre-chop, prepare as much food as possible. Ziplock bags and into the fridge, freezer to prechill then to the cooler. I wouldn't attempt fire cooking to start. Get a 2 burner propane stove. 1lb propane bottles and you're good to go. You can even bring your home cookware.
Plan on cooking familiar and easy foods to start. Kids can be picky, keep it simple. Hot dogs can be boiled, fried, or cooked over a fire. Mac n cheese with or without hot dogs in it. Sandwiches or wraps. You can get pre-cooked bacon that heats up in a flash or even pre-cook sausage at home. Less prep, less cook time, less clean up. Eggs, I crack into a plastic bottle and scramble on site. Potatoes, I get the plastic package hashed browns or even dehydrated. Pancakes are easy too with add water mix.
Check out the camping supply lists available online and in stores. You need, shelter, bed/bedding, food, drink, food storage, cooking supplies, clothes, toiletries (suncreen and bug spray are top of my list along with baby wipes for clean up).
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u/JurneeMaddock May 23 '25
Good thing is, it's warm enough you can just get cheap Ozark Trail tent from Walmart and not freeze. Really all you need is a tent, water container, firewood, and food.
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u/Masseyrati80 May 23 '25
Writing from a combined hiking and camping background, my two cents for 1 and 3: A lot depends on what you personally prefer. The crucials are weather compatible* shelter (the tent in this case) and temperature compatible sleeping setup, water and food. Some destinations have a water source you can use after filtering or boiling the water, others require hauling in every drop you need. In some areas bear or other wildlife safety is also in the crucials.
Reputable brands have their sleeping bags and pads lab tested.
Bag tests yield three temp ratings: comfort (the one you should pay attention to), limit (useful to a degree) and exterme (a temp in which you'll live but will be entering hypothermia). Make sure you know which of the three the retailer or manufacturer is talking about, when referring to temperatures.
Pad tests yield an "R value". The bigger, the warmer the pad. Even the loftiest of sleeping bags will be squished to nothing in the spots your weight is on, so a pad is crucial for both comfort and warmth. R values from 1 to 2 are summer use, 2.5 to 4 is three season compatible, and going to 5 or above pretty much allows you to sleep on snow. While a sleeping bag can be too warm, an insulated pad doesn't really bother.
*in some regions you need the tent to be able to resist high winds, and if there's any chance of rain, it should also be rainproof.
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u/Libido_Max May 23 '25 edited May 23 '25
I brought everything on temu and it works. 4 person automatic tent, manual pump air mattress, portable butane stove, portable chair and table, rechargeable fan, power bank, rechargeable lights and night light that you can hang inside the tent, portable potty, telescope for stars, pillow and blanket from home, bear horn, firewood from local store. The most important I learned is a heater like mr buddy heater.
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u/zebocrab May 23 '25
Best thing to do would be to go camping with a friend they can show you the ropes. You can borrow a lot or buy used (have them set up the tent if buying used). Get your kid involved have them do some research on what to bring. Get a bigger tent than you think With enough room for a couple air mattress and your bags. Tent sizes are wacky a 2 man tent is tiny. Bring a tarp for your tent to go on. Bring some good snacks and water. If you want to cook you can get a camp stove with pots and pans. Dish soap and sponges for cleaning. Some kind of plates and cups and mugs. Coffee grounds and a drip coffee maker. A cooler with some ice packs and food.Wipes for hands for raw food. Bing a hammock and deck of cards/ games. Let your kid pick out some comic books. If forecast looks iffy bring a tarp and rope or a 10x10 for over the picnic table. We like camp chairs so you can sit around and talk by the fire. If you forget anything you can buy it at the campground.
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u/Not-pumpkin-spice May 23 '25
Where are you camping first off?? When also?? Is it drive up? Hike in? This question is like asking how much is a red car.. with no type, age, mileage, no other information. Are you rock climbing? What you “NEED” and or should get for various types of camping changes with the when where how factor. Ie you can get a super easy to set up tent you can walk around in and put 2 blow up king size mattresses in for less than 150$.. but very unlikely you and your son will be toting all that gear hiking the Appalachians. Camping is as complex as the areas where you camp. Will you have electric? Do you need a generator or some power source? Could you use a beach buggy wagon to haul gear from the car to the camp? Is there seasonal or any types of fire bans? Is there drinking water or will you need your own? You need to add a LOT more information to get even a half assed decent answer.
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u/perfectdrug659 May 23 '25
Try to find someone that's into camping and ask to borrow some stuff before you spend a bunch of money.
I know it all seems like a lot of stuff, but really, after the big items (tent, cooler, stove, chairs) a lot of the other stuff is small and a lot of people will just throw it all into a tote bin. Having one tote for the small stuff makes a huge difference, just restock as necessary.
Everyone forgets something, even the most experienced campers! You learn as you go. We forgot BBQ tongs once... Only once.
I recommend some meal planning and break down each meal by ingredient so you only bring what you need. Hot dogs are super easy to cook on a fire!
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u/spinonesarethebest May 23 '25
First camping trip should be in your yard. Set up your tent and sleeping bags in the daylight to make sure everything is there. Gear: you want sleeping bags rated for temps colder than you’ll encounter. You can always unzip, but if you’re too cold to sleep it makes for a looong night. DAMHIK. You also want a good ground pad, NOT an air mattress- they suck the heat out of you. A good pad is insulation from the cold ground. Since this is a test run, you can use some blankets from home U-Haul moving blankets work too. Tent: a two-person tent will barely hold two people. Get a four-man. Take a couple of folding chairs so you’re not sitting on the ground. Cooler of food and snacks. Disposable barbecue for burgers/dogs/smores. Reading material. You didn’t say how old your son is, but bring what you need to keep him busy and happy.
Check yard sales and CL for gear. If you buy used bags, wash them before you use them. Laundromats have big washers and dryers that are good for this.
First trip out of the yard should be to a nearby park with camping sites. They’ll have a flat place for the tent, a picnic table, water faucet, and bathrooms.
Your gear list will evolve. My “camp kitchen” box is a plastic tote with everything I need to cook and eat. My two-burner stove sits on top. I got it at a yard sale 30 years ago.
You can get pretty well outfitted at Walmart for a couple hundred bucks, if you want to buy a whole new stuff.
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u/MichaelAndolini_ May 23 '25
This is a lot of information thank you. I never knew they had disposable barbecues.
Need to review and take notes from what you said, huge help thank you !
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u/Utterlybored May 23 '25
REI.com has list of camping gear you need (and a lot of stuff you don’t, unless you’re a serious back country backpacker). Start off in your own back yard and see how he likes it before sinking a lot of money into gadgetry.
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u/SkisaurusRex May 23 '25
Tents are categorized as “two person” or “3 person” or 4P or 6P tents ect….
Two person tents have room for literally two people like sardines and almost nothing else
Get at least a 4 person tent for you and your son
Good tents have metal poles and full rain flys. Fiber glass poles are weak.
Sleeping pads are not just for comfort, they are also for insulating you from the ground
Read a bunch of stuff on basic camping fir beginners
It’s not hard
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u/Neat-Beautiful-5505 May 23 '25
I wrote a blog post on the 10 Essentials for Safe Hiking; much of it applies to camping and could be helpful. https://www.thecamplife.com/blogs/camp-life-journal/the-10-essentials-for-safe-hiking
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u/MajesticFee1765 May 23 '25
A 4 person tent is best to start with, as it will have room for 2 sleeping bags and some stuff. A 2 person tent will just hold the sleeping bags, period. You want a little extra room inside the tent. Best idea is to do a “dry run “ in your back yard if possible- set up everything and spend the night, see what works for you. Bring a deck of cards, a baseball to throw around, maybe a star chart to ID constellations. My daughter loved identifying plants, insects, birds, etc so we always had Pederson or Audubon field guides - and you can find them at thrift stores for cheap sometimes. Ask around and borrow gear at first if you can, then buy what works best for you. Above all, enjoy your trip ! 😎🤓
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u/sonofaresiii May 23 '25
I don't know how much you use AI, but I'm in a similar position and spent like a full day with chatgpt asking these kinds of questions and doing research for camping gear and it was absolutely invaluable. Be aware that sometimes AI hallucinates but for the most part it's really good for exactly these types of questions.
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u/CraftFamiliar5243 May 23 '25
Do you have an REI near you? If yes you can rent equipment and get advice there. They used to have classes as well. On a 2 or 3 day trip you can usually make do without whatever you forgot. Making do is part of the fun and often the most memorable part of the trip!
My advice is always to start small and close to home. Pick a campground not too far from home and near a Walmart so you can get what you forgot. Look for a second hand sporting good store, they usually have great, gently used or even brand new equipment. Keep special equipment minimal. If it's summer you can usually skip the sleeping bag and use blankets you already have. Buy cooking pots at thrift stores or use the ones in your cabinet. Take the grill off your Weber and used it to cook over the campfire, propping it up with rocks or logs. A camp stove is a must as campfire wood has become very expensive, one burner is enough and I recommend propane or butane, some work on either.
As I said, start small and learn as you go. Don't invest thousands into equipment until you know what you like and that you want to do this regularly. My husband, at that time a very experienced camper once took the kids on a summer camping trip and forgot the sleeping bags! They went to Walmart and bought cheap blankets and fortunately the weather was very warm. It's part of family lore now.
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u/CuriousCleaver May 23 '25
Think super easy things for food. Oatmeal packets for breakfast, sandwiches and chips for lunch, etc. I like to cook a stew/soup prior to leaving, then all you have to do is reheat it there.
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u/cserskine May 23 '25
LL Bean has camping “starter packs” you can rent. It includes a tent, sleeping pads, bags, etc so you can try it before you buy all of it. I don’t know if that’s close to you geographically but REI or Bass Pro Shops might offer something similar.
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u/KBoPeep May 23 '25
My advice is use totes to pack things in. Food, possibly clothes, supplies. We do this for everything from fishing trips in a cabin, vacations at a hotel and camping. We have designated camping totes we don’t need to pack or unpack much from bc it all just stays in there in the basement or garage.
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u/QueenSketti May 23 '25
REAL tent camping requires a lot of stuff and YES, it’s not just setup a tent and make a fire.
I would recommend a cabin, and putting a tent up outside to get that experience while having a safety net.
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u/Th3Gr33nVulp1n3 May 23 '25
Ignore the youtube crowd and their weird obsession with "gear". Like others have mentioned, camping in your backyard is a great place to start. But if you want to get a little more adventurous, start with a State Park; they (usually) have showers, bathrooms, pic-nic tables, a fire ring... all sorts of stuff.
As for gear, just pick up a decent tent to start (I really like the REI brand tents). If you are car camping in a State Park you can bring bedding and pillows from home and use those (they might get damp, but they dry). If you find you enjoy car camping like this you can expand your gear over time. After your tent I recommend a good sleeping pad; if car camping, don't worry about the ultra light stuff.
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u/DetroitsGoingToWin May 23 '25
If you want a tent for two buy a tent for four.
Back yards or a nearby campground is where you want to begin.
Start with good weather, if the weather is going to be bad, reschedule while you are still learning, don’t be a hero.
Me and my grandpa’s joke for our first couple of outings was “we need a pencil and paper next time so we can write down the things we need for time after that.” And he was a former camp counselor and Eagle Scout. This early 90’s was before iPhone notes.
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u/Queef-on-Command May 23 '25
Facebook market place can be a great place to find cheap gear. Maybe people sell a bundle of camping supplies for cheap. You’ve already got some great advice from other comments. Have fun and bring some bug spray!
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u/bionicpirate42 May 23 '25
Best camping trips I ever went on were spontaneous. Car or pickup camping. If you got a small charcoal grill (can be skipped if you're down for PBJ), cooler, basic food utensils, blankets and a tarp & string your good enough for as long as you ice and charcoal hold out.
Tarp can be thrown over pickup bed or tied to car and tree as a tent.
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u/outside-is-better May 23 '25
I lead 20-cubscouts and parents camping muliple times a year, but we also simply camp in the back yard a couple times a year as well.
Buy a tent, make a blanket pallet as a cheap bed, maybe go to walmart and buy a cheap mat(or just take the twin beds from the house outside), take your pillow, and blankets out back. Keep it simple the first few times. Maybe an eye mask or a soft shirt to lay over your closed eyes in case the moon is bright.
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u/CK1277 May 23 '25
I agree with borrowing gear until you know what you like.
I try not to overpack, so I mentally go through my camp out and think through every piece of gear I’ll need for that trip. You need to know what your site does/does not include, what sort of weather you’re going to be dealing with, what food you’re going to make, and what activities you’ll want to do.
I think about gear packing by mentally going through a house. As I identify all the gear I’ll want, I make a pile in my kitchen and then I figure out how to pack it efficiently.
What’s my camping house? (Tent, tent pad, cabin, car?)
Then the bedroom.
What’s my bed? (Cot, pad, air mattress, air pump?)
What’s my linens? (Sleeping bag, blanket, pillow?)
Then the bathroom
What’s my medicine cabinet? (1st aid kit, sunscreen, bug spray)
What’s my toilet? (Does the site have toilets? TP?)
Then the kitchen:
What’s my stove? (Camp stove, fire pit, fuel, charcoal, matches)
What’s my refrigerator and pantry? (Ice chest, animal safe food storage)
What’s my sink? (Do you need to bring in water or is there potable water on site?, water storage, hot water source, basin for dish washing, dish soap, dish scrubber, strainer to catch food bits when you dump your water)
What are my cooking utensils? This will change with your menu, but think: pot, pan, spatula, oven mit?
Dining room
What are my dishes? (Plates, bowls, cups, silverware, napkins)
What is my dining table? (Does your site come with a picnic table? Picnic blanket?)
Living room:
What are we sitting on? Sometimes I bring chairs. Often I just use the picnic table that comes with the site.
Fireplace? (Does the site come with a ring?, firewood, fire starters, kindling, tinder, matches, water bucket, spade)
Garage:
What tools do I need? (Mallet, pocket knife, multi tool, spade, etc
What lighting do I need? (Flashlights, lantern, headlamps, glow sticks)
What electricity do I need? (Phone battery, cords, solar)
What cleaning supplies do I need? (Trash bags, hand sanitizer, paper towels, cleaning wipes, cleaning spray, hand broom)
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u/Other-Departure8510 May 23 '25
Camping is a great way to bond with kids. Here’s what you need and you can get it pretty cheap at places like Walmart, thrift stores, yard sale; A place to sleep-tent A way to cook-stove or fire A way to keep food cold like meat-cooler To sleep comfortably-a blow up mattresses Put a fitted sheet over each of mattresses If it’s hot cover up WTH top sheet or cooing blanket & pillows. Camping head lamps Flashlights Water Way to wash cooking utensils or paper plates plastic silverware or you can buy some camping dinnerware at Walmart. Buy firewood from the same area you will be camping in and sometimes you buy it from the campground. Take a deck of cards or if your by a river or lake go fishing. Coleman makes great beginner camping equipment. If you want to order a camping cookbook on Amazon. Watch videos on YouTube. Don’t forget OFF and stuff to make s’mores. I’ve been camping since I was 4 now I’m 60. I would not go to REI until you find out if you like it until you do several trips. They are quite expensive. And Walmart will be 75% cheaper. Get a shady spot.
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u/Deep-Fig-9100 May 23 '25
After you do your backyard test run and aside from gear, supplies & meals, which I think you’ve gotten a lot of great advice on, I’d recommend location/activities as your next point of consideration. Camping can be a great way to disconnect with our normal day to day, but depending on your kid, it can also feel “boring”.
A lot of family campgrounds may have some resort style amenities which is key for my kiddos and reduces the amount of stuff we may need to bring. We’ve been to more resort style campgrounds that have things like a pool, convenience store, ice cream counter, play structures, craft sessions, bike & water sports rentals. I don’t have to have those things but it does make it easier with my kiddos, especially if we are going longer than a weekend.
Also, I won’t camp if we aren’t near a body of water with a serviced bathroom. But I know that because I tried the other ways and was not a fan. I’m no glamper but I definitely learned I still want my vacation to be a vacation and digging a latrine is not it! 😅
Hope you guys have a great time! 🏕️💚
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u/wirelessmikey May 23 '25
YouTube will be your new best friend. Hundreds of how to videos to get you on your quest. Good luck!!
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u/LazyGreek28 May 23 '25
From my experience, large and heavy is cheap/not expensive. Compact & light is the pricier items
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u/ReggaeJunkyJew4u May 23 '25
Car camping is the way. They usually give you a spot to park your car on the same lot you are camping on which eliminates the need to constantly hike back and forth to your vehicle.
Usually Walmart has decent tents, but I recommend a 4 person for 2 people. Tents are designed so that your are literally sleeping next to each other. I find 4 person tents are perfect for 2 people although honestly I prefer hammock camping. Easier set up, easier take down, just hang tarps over your hammocks incase of rain. If going the tent route, I like to use an air mattress, can load it up with pillows and blankets like a bed, and you will be just as comfortable.
As far as essentials- Usually you are provided a fire ring at most car camping spots however usually need to supply your own wood. Be careful because some places are super particular about what wood you burn. Usually has to be local wood due to invasive species and such.
Other things that are good to have would be camping chairs, foldable table (I find some campsites have tables, but not all, so I always bring one in case.) Canopy/EZ ups are useful incase of rain, and TARPS, lots of tarps. I like to cook on a coleman stove, usually just runs off propane which also can be purchased in little cannisters at Walmart next to the camping equipment.
I am a person who likes to do as much as I can at home prior to showing up to the site. I like to make camping more fun than work, and if it is not prepared well camping will feel like a lot of work.
I will pre-marinade and meats I am bringing in ziplock backs. I will usually make ahead some salads (Pasta salad, potato salad, ect..) Hot dogs, Hamburgers and Corn are also very easy to whip up on a grill. That way when I am ready to eat what ever I have brought just goes on grill and dinner is served. Little to no clean up with this method.
Lastly, I like the Frozen water bottle tech for my cooler. Basically I take a bunch of water bottles and freeze them over night. Line my cooler with them in the morning, I will also mix some unfrozen water in there as well so I have drinking water ready to go if needed, but the cold ice in the bottles will not only keep your cooler cool, but will make excellent drinking water later on. Also this eliminates the water at the bottom of the cooler.
I think I put a lot of information into this, but happy to answer other questions if you have them. I have been camping for many years and have found hacks to make it very easy.
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u/AmayaHa May 23 '25
Pop up tent is the best choice, but it's too expensive. Reach out to friends to borrow a tent, double sleeping pad, and then camp in your backyard for a night.
If they are still interested, you can buy some basic outdoor gears.
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u/GoobMcGee May 23 '25
Car camping is taking your car where you would park directly at your site. You can use it for storage or even your shelter if you want (don't recommend shelter part for what your son is after). Yes, you can bring more luxuries on these trips since your car can store far more than what you carry in a single load. Backpacking would be camping where you hike to your location. This can be short or long distances but as a result, you can bring far fewer supplies.
I'd rent a simple (Coleman brand would be great for this) 4-person tent. Typically a 2-person tent fits 1 comfortably. 4-person fits 2 comfortably, and so on.
https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/family-camping-checklist.html is a great resource to see what you might need and for what purposes. Borrow what you can.
I recommend starting in the backyard for a practice run once you think your ready. This will help you realize what you may be forgetting each time you have to "run in the house real quick".
I recommend planning your menu ahead of time and you can then limit what you need to bring for cooking around the simplicity of what you're going to make.
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u/LoneLantern2 May 23 '25
Depending on what state you're in, one of your local parks systems or state parks systems might run intro to camping programs.
In Minnesota it's called "I Can Camp!" (the exclamation point is required, I didn't name it) - they do one and two night sessions for a very reasonable fee and provide almost all the gear you need plus instruction on how to use it. Great programs if you can find one.
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u/signguy989 May 23 '25
Just get a tent and cooler and an electric griddle, go yo a koa or private campground that have bathrooms and showers, a rec room, games laundry and store. Tell EVERYONE you meet there it’s your first time and you’re looking for suggestions. Keep it short, one night then build up to two and gather stuff as you go. Buy cheap at first because you’ll decide on something different after a trip or two.
Camping is great for kids, I would argue the best activity they can do with parents.
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u/M23707 May 23 '25
You are giving a gift to your child that will last for their life!
Watch the REI camping YouTubes!
Start small and grow.
State Parks have some of the best facilities for this. Letting you feel a bit of wild. But, comforts of nice flat tent sites, restrooms, etc.
Have fun! - Nature is where humans thrive!
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u/MichaelAndolini_ May 23 '25
Kids really do!
I was dating a woman in med school who was from Greece and one day just out of nowhere asked me to start a fire in the backyard….well the only fire I know how to make involves a stove and when she saw I couldn’t just start a fire like “kids in Greece can do” she saw me differently
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u/NPHighview May 23 '25
Don't believe it when a tent is advertised as "2 Man". Take the advertised number and divide by 2.
Heartily second the recommendation to practice getting the camp set up in your backyard before you try to do it in the middle of the woods after dark :-)
Before going on a camping trip to Death Valley (in February, when it's nice), we camped out in a local campground. My wife decided she'd rather go to a restaurant nearby instead of having me re-hydrate some camp food, so we did that during the practice run. She was just fine on the DV trip.
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u/Ampallang80 May 23 '25
And think about joining the scouts next year. My daughter joined the Boy Scouts in kindergarten and they have a couple group camping trips which really got her into it more. Only thing I remember from cub scouts was how to make a flame thrower with aquanet and a lighter. The 80s were wild and it was a mom that taught us.
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u/DjKennedy92 May 23 '25
When looking at tents, keep in mind that the sizing is literal. A two person tent only fits two people and nothing more. Personally, I would go for a 4 person tent if it were two people, 6 person if 3 people, ect.
For camping itself, look into state parks around you , they are cheap, have decent amenities, often electricity, and usually potable water too. Makes camping easier and more beginner friendly.
For food: Learn how to build a decent fire, that’s usually the main attraction of camping, and highly recommend getting a pie iron, they are perfect for making campfire dinners/desserts, plenty of easy Recipes online. A couple roasting sticks for hotdogs/ marshmallows are easy too.
For light: I recommend a couple string lights that you can hang around the site for ambiant lighting around the campsite , solar powered is the most versatile.
A couple lanterns and a headlamp or two can do the trick too. I just like having the ambient lighting
For bugs: If mosquitos are an issue, a thermacell works wonders
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u/hikerjer May 23 '25
Lots of YouTubes and books out there. Sometimes you just got to do it to learn it. Just make sure your first outing is close to home in case you have to bail.
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u/rhcedar May 23 '25
Just a thought, for your first trip you could rent a cabin at a KOA or a Jellystone campground. You wouldn't have to worry about staying dry if the weather turns ugly with a tent. Staying dry is important, especially for first timers.
Otherwise, a lot of great advice has been given about tents.
Maybe this has been posted already, but do you have a friend or relative who camps? If so, you could invite them along. Great way to learn.
Hope you guys have fun and will want to do it again.
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u/MichaelAndolini_ May 23 '25
I know no one who camps, we are kind of very “to ourself” kind of people so not many friends and both very small families :(
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u/CyberRedhead27 May 23 '25
Don't buy anything for a camping trial. Reach out to friends/family to borrow a tent, sleeping bags, mattresses, and then camp in your backyard for a night. See how that goes first.
If they are still interested, THEN start looking at purchases.