Outdoor

The beginners guide to family camping

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December 6, 2018 by Malene Leave a Comment

The Beginners Guide to family camping

Family camping is one of the best ways to spend time together as a family if you ask us. Its quality time where everyone is outside and WiFi is scarce, making it easier for all of us screen addicts (*raises hand and admitting that this is me) to be in the present. Its the perfect way to look each other in the eyes and connect.

I have been camping since I was five weeks, and our kids have all been spending all of their naps outside during the day (everyday without fail – this is a Danish thing), and we have been camping with them before they have been 6 months.

We are both scouts and have been hiking and camping for the past 25 years. While this gives us a lot of experience with tent camping in general, there were some things we had to relearn when we became parents 9 years ago. Through trail and error, and lots of trips over the years, we have jet to face a challenge that is to great to handle when we go camping.

What is family camping

Family camping is an outdoor activity, where you make a temporary camp and a shelter outdoors. You can go camping with an RV or with a tent. There are lots of different gear that you can buy to make camping even more comfortable for you. Family camping is the same as camping, only done together as a family. Here at One Mighty Family, we always talk about family camping even when its just written as camping.

Family camping is not for everyone, and some of the things that people often note about camping is that it is dirty – dirt gets in everywhere. It can be miserable if its raining all the time. Its lots of work, and it can be smelly – think kids and adults sitting around the fire and may or may not have access to a shower.

Okay – that is all true. But here is the thing – if that bothers you to much, it is probably not for you. If you like just being together, and you believe that kids can be washed and you believe that it has value to sit together in the rain and just spend time together, you will LOVE camping.

How to get started with family camping

Now I don’t want to be smart, but I saw this picture the other day said “go outside and stay there until morning”. It can be as simple as that 🙂

Of course, its not as simple as that. You want to know where your shelter will be, and how everyone will sleep. If you have NEVER been family camping before, go easy on yourself. Stay in the backyard. Consider renting an RV and stay the night in a local campground that has toilets and showers. Keep it light and keep your ambitions low. There is no need to go with camping with all of the best equipment on the very first trip.

When you have been on your first trip and you are ready for more, you might want to consider investing in some equipment. You can find our guide to finding our family tent here, you can find a guide to different family tents here. You can find our guide on what to look for in a sleeping bag here, and what to look for in a sleep pad here. We have a full guide on where to find plus size outdoor clothes here, and a guide on what we always bring when we go camping here.

You will need to consider the season of when you go camping. You can find our full guide for winter camping here, and our guide to layers here.

You also need to consider food, bring some simple snacks, but lots of them, and have some simple meals that are easy to prepare. Maybe some activities to ensure that everyone is having a good time. Think of your favorite game to play as a family, and then bring that with you.

Tips for Success with family camping

If you want to go camping, just do it. Make it happen. While you can just wing it, I suggest that you do a little research before you head out.

Look for a campground with toilets and showers, and maybe even a playground and other activities for the kids.
Don’t plan for to long. The first time you go should not be a 2 week vacation. Go easy on yourself and test if this is a way you like to spend time together.
Prepare all meals. If you do not want one of the adults to do food all day, everyday, you should think about ways to prepare some food, or at least keep meals light.
Bring enough clothes. There will be puddles that needs a good jumping session, and dirt that will be all over the place. An extra set of clothes will come in handy.
Make sure everyone sleeps well.

All in all, if this is the first time you go family camping you might want to consider some of the same things that we suggest for camping with toddlers.

Common Questions About Family Camping

What do you need for family camping
- Family camping doesn’t require a whole lot. You can look to the things we always bring camping, but you can rent a RV and then you probably have most of the things you need at home. You might still want to look at our list of unexpected things to bring camping, as they often come in handy no mater where you sleep.
Whats the best family camping tent
- That is a very individual thing to answer for every family. We have a full post on how we found our family tent. That includes some good questions to ask yourself when you are looking for a tent. We also have a full list of great family tent options.
Can you go family camping without a car
- There are a lot of pretty campgrounds that you can access with either bikes, or going by train and bus. You need to be willing to carry the equipment, and maybe even invest in a wagon of some sort, but it is completely doable. Research where you want to go is the most important thing I would say.
How to pack for family camping
- As light as possible, but make sure you bring everything so that you are prepared. How is that for vague 🙂 Lets just say that it depends on the seasons. We have a guide on what to think about when using layers to keep you warm.
What to eat when you go family camping
- Simple meals that can be prepared ahead of time, or eaten cold. If you are adventures you can do this pulled pork in your dutch oven. Its amazing!
How to plan for a family camping trip
- To plan a family camping trip you need to go through your trip mentally. How many days will you be gone, how many meals do you eat or day, and how will you sleep. Those are just a few of the questions that will help you prepare everything for a family camping trip.

The Last Thing You Need to Know about Family Camping

Family camping is a blessing. I love sitting by the campfire no just do nothing but listen to the kids talking about their day.

Family camping can also be a very social activity. Depending on the type of camp ground you choose, you will meet lots of people that all love the great outdoors, just like you!

Have you been camping with your family jet?? comment below with your best tips for family camping! I can’t wait to hear from you!

until next time

Malene.

The best tips for winter camping

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November 29, 2018 by Malene Leave a Comment

When winter camping with kids there are many things I always worry about. Are they warm enough, will there be enough for them to do – you know – worried mom things. But at the same time I love being outside together as a family, and as the weather turns cooler there are still experiences I want my kids to have, and I wish for you to have as well.

There are a few things that have been good to keep in mind every time we go winter camping with our kids. Here are our best tips.

You might also like: Tips for camping with toddlers

Tips for winter camping

Position your winter camp in the right spot.

Its important where you place your tent/camper on a site. Have a walk around the site before you chose where to set up. Wind can make a huge difference in how warm you feel when you go winter camping. If there is a shaded spot behind some trees or bushes, choose that over a great view over an open lake where the wind can run free.

Have enough warm clothes

One of the things we always prioritize is proper winter clothes that can withstand water and cold for longer periods of time. That is the outer layers though, and when we go camping we always bring enough dry clothes so that we can change if it gets wet. One of the things you can consider is chosing wool clothes. Wool keeps warm even when its wet, and therefore we love it for winter camping.

Always sleep warm.

This goes for any camping trip, but in winter its especially important. Consider bringing some of the clothes you would use for base layers, the layer closest to your body when you dress in layers. You can read all about layers here. I always bring warm socks for sleeping and a hat can be a good thing as well.

You will need a great sleeping bag as well. There are quite a few things to think about when you invest in a sleeping bag. You can read all of our considerations here.

You will need a great sleeping pad as well. If you are not protected from the cold of the ground it is imposible to keep warm during winter. You need to think about the size, weight, and type of sleeping pad you want to bring. You can read all of our considerations for buying a sleeping pad here.

Exercise.

Getting into bed warm is just as important as staying warm once you get there. Consider doing some light exercises before bed. I love yoga and I think this little practice from Yoga with Adrienne is perfect. Keep it light, you are going for a little heat but not to get wet from sweat.

Have a snack

Snack on something high fat/protin before you tuck in. When the body has something to burn of it works for you during the night at will help keep you warm.

Buy small heaters

These “hot hands super warmers” are genius and it almost feels like cheating. We bring these to place inside gloves or anywhere that is cold. Its a great way to heat up almost instantly.

Consider a tent stove.

If you are luck enough to have a camping tent that can use a camp oven, you could consider investing in one. We like this fronter stove from Aneway, but there are many others out there.

Have you been winter camping? If not, what is holding you back? If you have, what would be your best tip? We are always eager to learn more.

Until next time

Malene.

What to look for in a sleeping bag

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November 18, 2018 by Malene 1 Comment

Knowing what to look for in a sleeping bag, and then choosing the right sleeping bag for you, is one of the most important things to ensure a good night sleep when camping. At least it is for me, to me one of the things that will make or break a good trip is a good sleeping bag. A good sleeping bag ensures that you are rested and it makes all the difference where in the great outdoors.

I don’t want bad days when we are out camping, so we have invested quite a bit of money in the right sleeping bag for us. How do you find the right sleeping bag? Ill try and take you through the process so that you can find the best sleeping bag for you as well. Now keep in mind that these are all suggestions to help you think about what will suit you best, I will not have the complete answer to what is best for you. I am always happy to help though, and if you have any questions, list them below and I will do my best to answer them.

What to look for in a sleeping bag

Materials

You want to think about the material you want in your sleeping bag. The most common materials for sleeping bags are down or synthetic fibers. As always there are pros and cons to both:

Down filled sleeping bags

Down sleeping bags are very lightweight. They can be very warm without getting to heavy. This makes them perfect for hiking, or for anyone that has to carry many sleeping bags. Yes, that would be us with the large families 🙂 You do have to be really careful not to get the down sleeping bag wet, as it looses its insulating qualities when wet.

Sleeping bags you might like:

Synthetic sleeping bags

Synthetic sleeping bags are better at keeping warm when wet, and they are easier to dry, if they should become wet. Synthetic sleeping bags are bigger and heavier than the down sleeping bags.

Temperature rating

You want to think about where and when you’ll be using your sleeping bag. If this is a sleeping bag is solely used for spring and fall trips you want a different sleeping bag than if it’s a sleeping bag that you’ll only be using during summer. Again, you will want a different bag if you are planing on taking winter trips with the whole family.

You also want to consider how you sleep. I am a cold sleeper my self, and pull out the winter covers in July. The rest of our family are all warm sleepers. They are warm with summer covers all year round. You probably know yourself what type of a sleeper you are.

I would find a sleeping bag that would be able to deal with temperatures a little below the coldest temperature you would expect on your trip.

Shape of your sleeping bag

Sleeping bags comes in different shapes. Mummy shaped (where you look like a mummy when you are inside it, with thin legs) and a rectangular shape. Mummy shaped bags are better at keeping you warm as they follow the shape of your body. But not everyone likes being closed in like that. The rectangular sleeping bag leaves you more room for your legs, but is not advisable in colder regions.

Size of your sleeping bag

You want to always keep the size of the sleeping bag in mind. You want to have enough room so that you can move around. You want to have some air inside your sleeping bag as it is the air that insulates you and keeps you warm. At the same time you don’t want a bag that is to big, as that takes a lot of energy from you to heat up, and that is just wasted space.

Extender to your sleeping bag

If you have trouble finding a sleeping bag that is wide enough for you to sleep in it comfortably, consider buying an extender. I have one and it has made all the difference to me. Consider contacting the brand that has made your sleeping bag to see if they provide an extender. Also consider the size of that extender, and how much wider you need your bag to be.

Things to think about for sleeping bags for kids

You want to consider all of the things above for a sleeping bag for kids. At the same time its important to consider that kids are ever growing. To us, that means that we have invested in sleeping bags that extend at the feet to fit our ever growing kiddos.

I hope this was helpful in your quest for a new sleeping bag. If you have any further questions, as always please list them in the comments.

Until next time

Malene.

what to look for in a sleeping pad

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October 28, 2018 by Malene 2 Comments

Knowing what to look for in a sleeping pad can be hard the first time you go and buy one. Sleeping pad are so important to a good night sleep. If you have been here before, you might have heard me say that a sleeping bag is key to a good night sleep. While that is true, you can have the best sleeping bag in the world but without a good sleeping mat, you will be cold! You need something to insulate you from the ground, otherwise all of your body heat will be gone.

Any insulation towards the ground will do, but while we are at it we might as well look at some of the more comfortable options as well.

You might also like: Genius camping gear for babys and toddlers

What to look for in a sleeping pad

A good sleeping pad should:

Protect you from the cold of the ground

It might

Provide some comfort
be lightweight

Foam sleeping pads

Foam sleeping pads will protect you from the cold of the ground. They are not very comfortable to sleep on, and I should know – I have spend quite a few nights on these things. These sleeping pads are perfect to bring for sitting around the campfire though, and we often bring a few for this purpose alone. They are great because they are easy to dry, and they are light.

Foam sleeping pads you might like:

Read all of our posts about the outdoors

Inflatable sleeping pads

Inflatable sleeping mattresses are great, but can be bulky and they are really easily damaged. There are a few modern options that are lightweight and really comfortable, but they are more expensive as well. This is still my favorite sleeping pad (no jokes about me getting old, thanks!) and a great investment when you want to wake up well rested with no back problems. We have ones with a small hand pump that doesnt take up to much space in our equipment.

Inflatable sleeping pads you might like:

Read all of our posts about the outdoors

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Self-inflating sleeping pads

The self-inflating sleeping mats are a combination between air and insulation, don’t ask me how they work, but they are great. They take little to no effort to get ready and they are quite comfortable.

Self-inflating sleeping pads you might like:

Read all of our posts about the outdoors

The size of your sleeping pad

The size is really a matter of taste. The minimum size of a sleeping pad should be the size of your torso. This will keep you warm, and the most vital parts of your body of the ground. I know of people that do this because they can then keep the weight down, and still be comfortable. Personally I prefer a full size mat that will support me through the night. That is up to you to know how you are more comfortable.

Is there anything else you need help with, just let me know in the comments.

Until next time

Malene.

The best large family tent of 2018

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October 15, 2018 by Malene 1 Comment

Having a large family tent should be a must for every outdoor family. Our favorite kind of holiday is one where we just load up our minivan , with supplies and a big family tent and hit the open road. No worries, just see where the road will take us, and we will be ready to make camp where ever we go.

One of the things that makes this even better is the fact that we have a great tent. We are sure that where ever we choose to stay, we will be dry and comfortable inside our family tent. Now a family tent can be many things. Large and heavy, or small lightweight. It can be cotton or polyester, one room or with small cabins. Finally you want to think about the durability of your tent, and how much money you want to spend on it.

All of that is a matter of preference, you can read all about our large family tent and our thought on buying it here. Now a tent is one of the biggest investments you will make to have a great time in the great outdoors, so you want to do your research and find the perfect one for your family.

The best large family tent

There are a few things that you want to be true for a tent, no mater what other factors you find important. You want it to be waterproof, at least on the outer layer of your tent. If you buy a tent with a permanent floor, you want that floor to be waterproof as well.

As a family you want to really think about how much space you need, especially as a mighty family. Some of the numbers of people the tents claim to sleep are quite misleading. Think about how tall and wide you are and what space YOU need to be comfortable. We have a 8-10 people tent for our family of 6 and we would not work in a smaller one.

We have looked at all of that and have found some great suggestions for a large family tent of 2018, and beyond.

You might also like: Tips for camping with toddlers

Single cabin tents

Being in a single cabin works really well for us as a family. We love to be close together while camping. Here are some great suggestions for single cabin tents.

Helsport Varanger Camp

This being the tent we have, this is our favorite large family tent. Varanger lavvu had been a best-seller for years when in 2010 we introduced the Varanger Camp to the range, the world’s first lavvu with a camp-entrance solution! With the same durable, solid details as its award-winning namesake Varanger, it is equipped for four-season adventures; named the best lavvu for winter-use by Norway’s largest outdoor magazine.

Find it here

DANCHEL Stand Bell Tent with Wind Water Protection Flying

This tent is the perfect for that glamping experience. Its 100% cotton, has a zip in/ zip out floor, making it easy for you to ventilate all the way through on those hot days. You can add a stove if its cold, and it had quality mesh screen doors to allow a breeze without worrying about the bugs.

A good quality tent if you are looking for a cotton single cabin tent for your family.

Find it here @ AMAZON

Hasika 4-Season 10 Persons Waterproof Large Family Tent

A host of modern features make these shelters much more than bare-bones slumber shacks! Constructed of heavy-duty, lightweight, waterproofed polyester to brilliantly weather wind and precipitation.
Timeless peak-style construction affords loads and loads of interior room. Covered mesh windows allow air to circulate, keeping your camp fresh.
Waterproof 190-denier polyester shell is lightweight and rugged; Weatherproofed windows; Sewn-in polyethylene floor; Center steel pole support adds durability; Factory-sealed seams for superior hold and seal.
Enjoy the benefits of sleeping under canvas, in a yurt/tipi-like vibe without the hassle. Ideal for beach camping, festivals, garden hide out for children, re-enactments, ..
Bring the Hasika Teepee Tent on your next outdoor adventure, and you’ll sleep soundly knowing you saved BIG money!

Find it here @ AMAZON

Multi-cabin tents

Coleman 8-Person Tent for Camping | Red Canyon Car Camping Tent

Family camping tent can accommodate eight campers; measures 17 by 10 feet with a 72-inch center height
Included room dividers allow you to create three separate rooms
Coleman’s exclusive Weathertec System is guaranteed to keep you dry from unexpected wet weather on your camping trip
Tent setup is easy with its shock-corded poles and easy-to-follow assembly instructions
Cool-Air port and Variflo adjustable venting system allows you to adjust airflow and access gear

Find it here @ AMAZON

CORE 11 Person Cabin Tent with Screen Room – 17′ x 12′

Sleeps 11 people; Fits three queen air mattresses; Center Height: 86″
Features front screen room with closable window panels and full tent floor coverage
CORE H20 Block Technology and adjustable ground vents
Gear loft with lantern hook and pockets keep items organized and off the tent floor; Electrical cord access port (port is fully closable when not in use)
Includes tent, tent poles, rain fly, gear loft, tent stakes, expandable carry bag; 1 Year Limited Warranty

Find it here @ AMAZON

VERMONT 7SA

Advanced Air Tube System of interconnected air tubes with One-Go Inflation Technology for fast, uncomplicated pitching through just one valve
Royal Master Bedrooms offer more internal headroom and floor space with wide views through the all-round windows, embossed fronts and Cable Entry points for mains electricity supply
Large tinted windows block sun glare, ensure privacy and allow campers to stay in touch with the outdoors

Coleman Montana 8-Person Tent

Spacious 8-person tent has enough room for 3 queen size air beds
WeatherTec system with patented corner welds and inverted seams helps keep water out
Extended door awning keeps shoes and gear dry; hinged door offers easy access
Measures 16 x 7 feet with 6-foot 2-inch center height. E-Port makes it easy to bring electrical power inside your tent
Quick setup in 15 minutes with carry bag included for easy transportation

Find it here @ AMAZON

Ozark Trail 16×16-Feet 12-Person

16′ x 16′ instant cabin tent/ Sleeps 12
Fits 3 queen airbeds/ 3-room tent
Includes rainfly
7 fully closeable windows
Fully taped factory sealed seams provide dry-zone camping with leak protection
14.17 x 52.36 x 12.6 in

Find it here @ AMAZON

Ozark Trail Base Camp 14-Person Cabin Tent

Sleeps 16 Fits 4 queen airbeds or up to 16 sleeping bags 6 windows and mesh roof provide excellent ventilation
Taped fly seams and inside binding floor for water resistance Multiple storage options include media pocket, gear hammock, 3 bottle holder pockets and 3 large pockets
3 doors for easy entry/exit to each of the 3 rooms Contains E-port for easy access for electrical cord Average set up time with 2 adults: 20 minutes
Floor dimensions: 23.5′ x 18.5′ Center height: 83″ Carry weight: 46.7 lbs Carry bag dimensions: 28.5″ x 14″ x 14″ Square footage: 240 sq ft

Find it here @ AMAZON

Do you have a favorite family tent?? We are always looking for other gear to check out. Let us know in the comments!

Until next time

Malene.

Gift ideas for anyone who loves the outdoors

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October 15, 2018 by Malene Leave a Comment

Finding gifts for your friend that loves the outdoors can be hard. With the holidays fast approaching, it’s time to think about what gift you want to give to your outdoors loving friend. There is something in this list for everyone and for every budget! Maybe you would love to give a gift that is also good for kids, you can have a look at our list of outdoor gear for toddlers here. Here are our suggestions for that perfect outdoors gift.

Gift ideas for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Scrubba tactical wash bag – Portable washing machine with flexible inner washboard

Going away for a longer period of time with a large family, is a head scratcher. You just need SO much clothes. But with this portable washing machine it would be possible wash clothes on the go. This is a must-have!

The inflatable lounger.

How cool is this thing just feel fill it with air and it’s the perfect place to sit around and enjoy the great outdoors. I could diffenately spend a few hours here with one or more of the kids.

Foldable Silicone kettle Portable Boiled Water Kettle

Sometimes you just need a cup of coffee, but bringing a kettle can use up a lot of space in your bag. But you can choose this foldable kettle and then you will be able to fit it all in your bag anyway.

Jetboil Zip Cooking System

Speaking of a quick cup – the jetboil system will get you a cup of hot water in no time. Its not really for the whole family, but amazing if you just need a little bit of water in no time.

Waterproof socks

I know it seems almost too good to be true but this sucks supposed to be completely waterproof and keep your feet dry all day long the sound amazing and it’s definitely a must have for the outdoors dad.

Collapsible Bucket

Sometimes you just need a bucket, for whatever reason. Especially if you have kids, you will need to collect, bring or build- something. It would be amazing to have a collapsible bucket to bring ANYWHERE.

Heat resilient gloves

Who wouldn’t want to be the amazing super dad that reaches into the fire and grabs a log with fire in it. These gloves will help you do that.
Lightweight Hamic.
Small and compact and easy to bring along on any trip. A light week Hamic is perfect for that naptime relaxation when you’re on the go.

Multi tool knife

As a dad you want to be able to get out of any situation. This life will help you do whatever you need to have done. and at the same time you only need to carry one thing.

Glow in the dark tent stakes

Sometimes it would be nice to be able to see where the lines from the tent in fastened to the ground. These stakes makes that so easy.

Tiny picnic blanket

It would be great to be able to just sit down anywhere, and ensure that everyone is dry and comfortable – ill take two please.

A portable barbecue

Sometimes you want to camp remotely, but at the same time you want to throw kick ass barbecue, what do you do? With the portable barbecue you can throw a barbecue in the middle of nowhere. Awesome! Another must have for the outdoors dad.

Solar battery charger

Now your outdoorsy what do you want your phone to be able to check up on what’s going on in the world. The outdoors is not a great place to charge things though but with this solar battery charger you’re good to go.

That was some ideas for you. There are some really great things in this list, but remember that often a drawing is another good idea for a gift!

Until next time

Malene.

Gift ideas for dad that loves the outdoors

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October 4, 2018 by Malene Leave a Comment

Gift ideas for dad that loves the outdoors can be a head spinner. In our might family, there is always new gear that we want to try, and we somehow feel that it is very needed. With the holidays fast approaching, it’s time to think about what gift you want to give to your outdoors dad. The man that has everything, but I bet he could use some more outdoor equipment. Maybe you would love to give him a gift that is also good for the kids, you can have a look at our list of outdoor gear for toddlers here. Here are our suggestions for that perfect gift for the perfect father who loves the outdoors.

Gift ideas for dad that loves the outdoors.

The inflatable lounger.

how cool is this thing just feel fill it with air and it’s the perfect place to sit around and enjoy the great outdoors.

Solar charged lamp

It can be so dark to come back to the campsite at night. With these super cool solar powered lamps you can have lights on in your campsite without having to worry about electricity.

Waterproof socks

Heat resilient gloves

Multi tool knife

As a dad you want to be able to get out of any situation. This life will help you do whatever you need to have done. and at the same time you only need to carry one thing.

A portable barbecue

Solar battery charger

That was some ideas for you. There are some really great things in this list, but remember that often a drawing is another good idea for a gift!

What are you getting your outdoors dad this year?

Until next time

Malene.

10 things we always bring camping

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August 23, 2018 by Malene 3 Comments

Having a list of 1o things we always bring camping makes it so much easier to get out the door, and actually go on a trip. Let me explain. Everytime we need to get out the door and go ANYWHERE it takes us two hours to get ready. This includes everything for everyone. Showers, getting dressed eating breakfast – everything. If you then add to that, that we need to reinvent the wheel and think up a list of things we need to bring, two things can happen. Either we don’t go, this was the most likely option for years, or we forget something. After we made our permanant list of things we always bring camping, we are so much more likely to actually get going.

We find it easier to get out the door and away once we have established what it is we really need when we go camping. While your list might be a little different, these are some of the things that are good to think about when you go camping.

These are some of the things that we always bring camping You can also check out this list to see some of the not so common things that we like to bring if we have the extra space. You can read all about those things here.

10 things we always bring camping

A tent

Getting a tent that fits our family is one of the best investments we have done. While we camped in this Coleman tent for many years, with to rooms and lots of room, we recently bought a new tent, you can read all about that here, and we really love our family tipi. That is one of the best investments we have done into our camping trips.

Beds

Now while a trip in a tent is not the same as a good comfortable bed, we have invested in gear that make our camp beds come quite close to our beds at home. I really dont like it when everyone is grumpy because of bad sleep, and I love that we now have better equipment for everyone. For the adults we have older versions of this, Exped SynMat XP 7 – Large wide. It doesn’t get much better than that – and complete luxury with the extra length and width. For the kids we have self-inflating term-a-rest sleep pads. They work just fine for the kids, if they want bigger mats at a later date we will have to look into that. You can read our guide about what to look for in a sleep pad here.

Sleeping bags.

I might as well tell it like it is, I hate being cold! – and Im one of those cold sleepers making me wanting a winter sleeping bag even in summer. Jens and the kids are warm sleepers so they dont need as warm sleeping bags during the summer. This is something you have to think about when you get a sleeping bag for yourself. Another thing I hate the feeling of being to tight inside my sleeping bag. This can be solved by an elastic sleeping bag or an added bag expander.

Kitchen equipment

We always bring something to cook on and things to prepare food. While you can rely on making a fire and cooking that way (if its allowed at the campsite of your choice, always check with local authorities), we like a smaller gas powered stove. We always bring our trangia. That is a quick and easy way to heat something. If we are away for a longer time, and we are not hiking there, we like to bring our dutch oven as well.

Ax and knife

We love a good campfire (Again – always check the local requirements for fire!) and that is just so much easier with a small ax and a good knife. Now we bring an ax and knives to a campsite, with kids, and to us it is just as important that the kids learn to be around knives, just like we have shown them how to build a fire from scratch. You want to be mindful about bringing these tools, and teaching your kids to be around them if you do.

Light

We always bring plenty of light. We want our kids to enjoy the vastness and the darkness only found in the great outdoors. But at the same time, in winter in Denmark we have very short days, and not bringing light would make everything unnecessary hard. We do like to have enough light.

Clothes for everyone

We like to keep the clothes in big bags, inside a backpack. I always try to pack clothes for each day in a zip-lock bag, so that the kids just have to find a bag and change the clothes that is in there.

Matches, lighter or fire starter

However you want to start your fire, you need something to help you get that first fire going. Our cooking equipment requires a flame of some sort, and its no fun to leave home without it.

Table and chairs

We only bring table and chairs when we drive all the way to the campsite. There are some lightweight options that you can hike with, but with a family of 6 its just to much. If we are going on a longer hiking trip we just bring a blanket that will fit all of us.

Activities/games

We never go on a trip without at least a deck of cards. You can bet on that being bitter experience and having to spend a weekend trapped inside a tent in the rain, without anything to entertain. Luckily this was when we were young scouts and not with kids, but still, I’m betting that would be worse! Anyway, some games or activities are great when you are out on a trip and just have family time.

That is 10 things that we always bring – what do you have on your list? What would you always bring? Let us know!

Until next time

Malene.

Where to find outdoor plus-size clothes

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August 11, 2018 by Malene Leave a Comment

You want perfect plus/size outdoor clothes, but if you are larger than average and you love the outdoors, I bet you have been in an outdoor store (or many stores) to try and find some clothes that would fit you. While going to many different stores, I have found plenty of clothes to like, but barely any to bring home. Finding outdoor plus size clothes is not easy.

where do you find plus-size clothes - we have tried to look through that and here are some suggestions.

The need is there, and thankfully with the internet it has become easier to find outdoor clothes that will fit everyone. Now below I have listed the ones that I have found so far, and this will be an ever growing list, so please if you have a tip about a store that i am missing be sure to contact me. I would love to add other places to find clothes.

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Outdoor plus-size brands

There are more and more brands that have started working on plus size outdoor clothes. Here are some of the brands that we look for when we shop.

Helly Hansen – is a very old and trusted outdoor brand. Few of their things can be found in as large as 4XL.

Columbia – founded back in 1938, this is another old and trusted company. They know how the body works in the elements and they have created quite a few things for the larger than average body.

L.L. bean – founded in 1912,

White Sierra – has many new and interesting developments like insect repellent technology and UV shields.

REI.com has a great selection of different clothes in plus-size.

Amazon.com have the option for you to search for plus-size clothes as well.

Where have you found some great outdoor gear in sizes that would fit you? – we would love to keep this list growing!

Until next time

Malene.

where to find plus-size outdoor clothes, to be ready to go camping with your family, in the best gear possible.

11 things to bring camping that you didn’t think off

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July 13, 2018 by Malene 3 Comments

Trying to figure out what things to bring camping? Somethings are nice to have when you go camping and somethings you need. Camping with kids, especially many kids, there are even more things that you need that you didn’t need, when it was just you and the open road.

Now you need your personal items, clothes, sleepingbag, sleeping mat, tent and all that. If you have a toddler there are somethings that are amazing. But then there are things that you need to bring that you might not have thought of.

11 things to bring camping that you didn’t think off

Duck tape

Duck tape is a fix all, hold all type of thing that you absolutely need to bring. It can make a quick repair to most things while you are away. We always bring duck tape!

Zip ties

Zip ties have saved us more than once. A zipper that broke, something that you need to hang somewhere, something you need to hold together.. Zip ties are so versatile.

First aid kit

Accidents happen, but its so much more manageable when you are prepared for them. A good first aid kit is needed when you are camping

String – for a clothes line

Lets face it. Sometimes kids have the best ideas, and sometimes those ideas create work for the parents. Often during a camping trip we find ourselves in need of more clothes line, to try of clothes. Or in need of rope for something else – its just good to bring.

Baby wipes

Even if you no longer have a baby that need baby wipes, these are awesome. Please think about what kind you bring into nature though, some are better for the invironment than others. These from Jackson Reese are 100% biodegradeble – score when you are out and about!

In camp shoes – like crocks

With 6 people in the tent when we go camping we insist that the tent is a shoe free area. That is easier to keep for everyone if we have easy to wear in camp shoes. That can be something like these crocs or

Aloe vera spray

Sometimes you burn yourself a little, or you run into something that stings or something 3rd and equally anoying. Its just good to bring a shoothing spray like the aloe vera spray

Bug spray

You want to be able to repell the bugs. Weather that be with bugspray or those clip-on bug-repellant things, that it up to you, but bring something to keep bugs at bay.

Wash-basin

You will need to have a washing station. We have a fold-able wash basin, but it doesn’t need to be fold-able. Just a place where you can wash up when needed.

Ax

We love a good campfire and would not go on a trip without a small axe like this one.

Small shovel

We never go camping without a small fold-able shovel. Remember to check the restrictions on the campsite to see if digging is allowed.

What do you bring on a camping trip that others should know about?

Until next time

XO Malene.

Outdoor

The Beginners Guide to family camping

What is family camping

How to get started with family camping

Tips for Success with family camping

Common Questions About Family Camping

What do you need for family camping

Whats the best family camping tent

Can you go family camping without a car

How to pack for family camping

What to eat when you go family camping

How to plan for a family camping trip

The Last Thing You Need to Know about Family Camping

Tips for winter camping

Position your winter camp in the right spot.

Have enough warm clothes

Always sleep warm.

Exercise.

Have a snack

Buy small heaters

Consider a tent stove.

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What to look for in a sleeping bag

Materials

Down filled sleeping bags

Sleeping bags you might like:

Synthetic sleeping bags

Temperature rating

Shape of your sleeping bag

Size of your sleeping bag

Extender to your sleeping bag

Things to think about for sleeping bags for kids

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What to look for in a sleeping pad

Foam sleeping pads

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Foam sleeping pads you might like:

Inflatable sleeping pads

Inflatable sleeping pads you might like:

Self-inflating sleeping pads

Self-inflating sleeping pads you might like:

The size of your sleeping pad

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The best large family tent

Single cabin tents

Multi-cabin tents

Coleman 8-Person Tent for Camping | Red Canyon Car Camping Tent

CORE 11 Person Cabin Tent with Screen Room – 17′ x 12′

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Gift ideas for anyone who loves the outdoors.

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10 things we always bring camping

A tent

Beds

Sleeping bags.

Kitchen equipment

Ax and knife

Light

Clothes for everyone

Matches, lighter or fire starter

Table and chairs

Activities/games

You might also like:

Outdoor plus-size brands

11 things to bring camping that you didn’t think off

Duck tape

Zip ties

First aid kit

String – for a clothes line

Baby wipes

In camp shoes – like crocks