Family camping holidays in the UK are as popular as they have ever been. If you're planning one with kids for the first time, we can tell you they're amazing adventures, if you get the basics right! Here are some tips to help make your family camping trip a success:

1. Choose A Family-friendly Campsite 

First rule of family camping holidays: pick the right campsite. Some locations are fully equipped with all the facilities you need, but others can fall short, leaving you to brave the elements alone. Check that there are toilets close by – on your relaxing, stress-free getaway, you don’t want to be traipsing kids across fields by torchlight in the middle of the night. Look for a campsite that has facilities like toilets, showers, and potable water. Some campsites may also have playgrounds or other activities that are suitable for children.

2. Choose a Family Friendly Atmosphere 

Families aren’t the only ones wanting to pitch-up and enjoy the great outdoors. Different campsites attract different campers, making some places less child-friendly than others.  Do some research and check online for user reviews. Several family festivals plan to go ahead in July and August this year and they're always good for family camping holidays because you already know that you and the kids are catered for.

3. Pick the Perfect Tent

First timers to family camping holidays shouldn't be tempted to buy a large, technical tent. Big doesn’t always mean better and the more extras a tent has, the more complicated it will be.  Opt for one that's roomy when it's up, but small enough to pack easily into the car. Convenient pop-up tents pretty much remove the fuss of fighting with tent poles and pegs: many are now as sturdy and hardwearing as traditional tents. 

4. Prep Some Food in Advance

Cooking before you leave can cut down on campsite chores, as well as provide a handy solution to any barbecue bans. There are heaps of recipes online for dishes that can be eaten cold. Try basics like pasta salad with baby tomatoes, spicy quinoa and black bean taco filling or just put together some peanut butter sandwiches. 

5. Get Creative With Your Cooking Skills

Planning to cook your meals on site – if you’re allowed – can conjure up some classic camping spirit. Nothing says camping quite like fire-roasted hot dogs and tinned baked beans, but if you want to get more creative, there are plenty of surprising food hacks to try out. Did you know that you can bake muffins in an orange peel? Or fry French toast in a sheet of tin foil? You can even make pizza in your own DIY oven.  Whether you want to keep things simple or test out new tricks, bringing seasoning will make any dish more interesting.

6. Don't Forget First Aid Kits

First aid kits are essential, especially if you’re staying in a remote area. Insect repellent, though often overlooked, will ward off any discomfort and prevent bites that could easily become infected. And be sure to prepare for the Great British weather, and bring along sun cream, after-sun, plus a dry change of clothes.

7. Invest in Airbeds

After a hard day of hiking and outdoor pursuits, you’ll want to get a peaceful night’s rest. One of the most comfortable sleeping options is an airbed, which will keep you off the cold ground and provide some extra cushion for tired backs. Special airbeds for children are built with raised sides, so that they won’t roll onto the floor when dreaming of their magical forest escapades. Bring your own pillows from home, plus a warm sleeping bag, and you can save counting sheep for the daytime.

8. Glamping is Always a Fun Place to Start 

Camping brings you back to nature, but it doesn’t have to be basic. On this type of trip, it’s you who controls the budget, and the kind of experience you’d like to have. Glamping trips are rising stars of the holiday world, and provide a happy medium for those who want both the wildness of the outdoors and their usual comforts. There are dedicated glamping sites with luxury tents to rent, all set-up and ready to go.

9. Prepare For The Weather 

Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack appropriate clothing and gear for the conditions. Bring rain gear, sunscreen, hats, and extra layers for cooler temperatures.

10. Respect Nature

Teach your children to respect nature and leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. Make sure to properly dispose of trash and follow any rules or regulations for the campsite.