There’s nothing quite like camping with kids... the crackle of the fire, the smell of toasted marshmallows, and the joy of watching little ones discover nature up close. But as any parent knows, camping with kids requires a little extra preparation. The right gear can make the difference between a weekend of meltdowns and mozzie bites… or a family adventure you’ll want to repeat again and again.
Here’s our guide to must-have kids camping gear that keeps everyone safe, comfortable, and smiling.
1. Sun-Safe Clothing (Your #1 Camping Essential 🌞🐟)
Before you think about tents or sleeping bags, think about protection from the elements. The Australian sun and those pesky mozzies don’t take weekends off.
That’s why we created the Little Fisho UV Defender Onesie, a full-length baby and toddler fishing onesie designed with breathable fabric, long sleeves, long legs, and a matching hat. It keeps kids covered from head to toe so they can explore the outdoors without constant sunscreen battles. Plus, the fabric is lightweight and comfy, so they can run, climb, and crawl all day long.
👉 Parents tell us it’s a lifesaver for camping trips: no more wrestling toddlers into hats or reapplying sunscreen every hour. Just zip them up and let them play.
2. A Sturdy Tent (Your Home Away From Home 🏕️)
Choose a tent that’s easy to set up, big enough to fit the whole crew, and sturdy enough to handle unexpected wind or rain. For families, a tent with separate “rooms” gives kids their own space and helps everyone get a better night’s sleep.
3. Sleeping Bags & Mats (Sweet Dreams, Even Outdoors 😴)
Cold nights can turn happy campers into cranky ones. Look for sleeping bags rated for the right temperature and add sleeping mats for extra comfort. A cosy kid = a peaceful night for parents too.
4. Mosquito Repellent & Citronella (Because Mozzies Love Camping Too 🦟)
Nothing ruins a campsite faster than itchy bites. Pack plenty of kid-safe repellent, citronella candles, and mesh for prams or playpens. Combined with long sleeves and your Little Fisho UV Defender Onesie, mozzies won’t stand a chance.
5. Kid-Friendly Lighting (Torches, Headlamps & Lanterns 🔦)
Kids LOVE having their own torch or headlamp. It makes nighttime toilet trips less scary and adds a sense of adventure. Lanterns that hang inside the tent are also perfect for bedtime stories.
6. Camping Chairs & Tables (So They’re Not Eating Off the Ground 🍴)
A child-sized camping chair can make meals and marshmallow roasting easier (and less messy). It also gives kids a little “base camp” of their own.
7. Entertainment & Activities (For When the Excitement Wears Off 🎨)
Bring along a few quiet-time activities like colouring books, card games, or nature scavenger hunts. The best part? Most of the entertainment is free... sticks, leaves, and rocks become toys in no time.
Final Tip: Keep It Simple & Sun-Safe
Camping with kids isn’t about perfection, it’s about making memories. If you’ve got the essentials covered (sun protection, shelter, food, and mozzie defense), the rest is just fun.
And when it comes to kids’ camping gear you’ll actually use every single time, the Little Fisho UV Defender Onesie is at the top of the list. It’s not just camping gear, it’s peace of mind knowing your little explorer can enjoy the outdoors while staying protected.