Camping can be such a fun family experience, but it can also feel a little daunting when you’re thinking about sleep. As a parent, and from working with so many families, I know that the thought of sharing a tent with your baby or toddler might feel overwhelming.
In our family, camping and the outdoors are loved by some more than others. I am more of a fair-weather camper myself, but I have found that with the right preparation, even camping with a baby or toddler can be a positive and memorable experience for everyone.
Here are my top tips to help your little ones sleep well while camping, whether you have a baby, a toddler, or both.
Choose the right tent
Having a spacious tent with separate sleeping areas can make a big difference. We upgraded our tent when our third child arrived, choosing one with separate bedrooms and a communal living space. This gave us room to set up each child’s sleeping area with as many home comforts as possible and allowed us to move around easily without waking them.
For babies, having their travel cot set up in a separate bedroom area can provide a familiar, safe sleep space. For toddlers, setting up their sleeping space as you would at home, with their usual bedding and comfort items, can help them settle more easily.
White noise for consistency
Campsites can be busy and noisy, especially in the evenings. Older children will be playing and having fun which is lovely to hear but could disturb your baby or toddler settling. If your baby or toddler is used to sleeping with white noise at home, bring it with you camping. This can help to block out the sounds of other campers and provide a consistent sleep cue in an unfamiliar setting.
Bathing when camping
If your baby or toddler prefers baths to showers, think creatively. Using a large flexible bucket, or stacker box filled with warm water can work well as a makeshift bath. This helps keep their bedtime routine familiar and allows them to wind down comfortably after a busy day outdoors.
Naps on the go
Camping days are often filled with activities and being outside, so naps can happen in the pushchair, car or travel cot. For babies, using a pushchair with a good recline and a snoozeshade can help them sleep well while you enjoy your day. For toddlers, a nap in the pushchair under a parasol at the beach can work brilliantly. Pushchairs are also perfect for transporting everything down to the beach or around the campsite!
Respecting nap times and bedtime
While camping is a great time to relax routines slightly, keeping roughly to your baby or toddler’s nap times and bedtime will help avoid overtiredness. Even without knowing the exact time, you will notice their sleepy cues and can follow their lead. Babies and toddlers who are well rested will enjoy camping much more and settle better overnight.
Keeping bedtime familiar
Bring as many familiar sleep cues from home as possible. This might include their sleeping bag, comforter, bedtime storybook, or even a nightlight if you have electric hookup. For babies, keep the bedtime routine simple but consistent to help them understand sleep time is coming, even when you’re away from home.
Final thoughts
With a little planning and flexibility, camping with your baby or toddler can be a brilliant adventure. It gives them the chance to enjoy nature and gives you the opportunity to make special family memories.
