Family Camping Tips

Summer 2009 promises to deliver hot sunny barbecue weather! Good weather during a British Summer is a refreshing change, especially since the last two years have been miserable and wet. And lets face it, British Summers are quintessentially defined by their abundance of downpours! However, whereas this summer we have be able to enjoy the weather, for most 'budget' is still a huge factor. With the economic crisis still in full swing, keeping the children entertained over the summer holidays is going to require some serious creativity! Luckily, it seems that family camping trips are now back in vogue! Budget friendly, and incredibly flexible, Family camping trips are the ideal way to enjoy the coming summer, and give the kids a school summer holiday with memories that they can cherish forever.

The good news is that as camping becomes more popular, camping facilities get better. As with anything in life, if here is a market for it, it will be catered too! With this in mind, some of the best family camping facilities in the UK are (according to the independent June 2006):

• Brighouse Bay - Dumfries and Galloway, which is renowned for its child and toddler facilities.
• Vale of Pickering Caravan Park - Yorkshire, which is noted for its high standard of hygiene in the wash and toilet facilities.
• Trevornick Holiday Park, Newquay, which has a crazy golf and funfair nearby.
• Fisherground Campsite - Cumbria, which is describes as a children paradise, with adventure playground zip wires, and Tarzan ropes.

However, whichever destination you choose to take your family camping trip, there are a few hints and tips which you may find useful. For example, when choosing a tent, consider one that has multi-rooms. This will enable you some privacy - essential with kids in tow! Also, heed the rule of buying a tent that has a 'two larger' capacity than you intend to use it for- i.e., buy a six people tent for four people! This allows adequate room for storage of belongings.

When it comes to camping supplies, always pack a first aid kit! Also, bring along emergency water purifying tablets or straws. Always pack a waterproof jacket, and ensure that friend or relatives are aware of where you will be staying and your estimated time of return. You can try to avoid having your tent crawling with bugs by never eating inside it - in fact, do not even store food in there if possible, use your car, and ensure food is stored at the correct temperature, i.e. in a cool box.

If backpacking, consider choosing a lightweight tent, for ease of transport. If storing your tent is not an issue that go for a more spacious model. Ensure you use a ground sheet, and that your tent is sealed and you have an adequate rain fly. The final tip - for added insulation and a good night sleep, invest in an air mattress!