Introduction
Camping with teens can be a fun and enriching experience, providing a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Although it may seem challenging to keep teenagers engaged and entertained, with the right planning and activities, you can create a memorable and enjoyable camping trip for everyone involved. In this article, we provide 10 top tips for camping with teens to help you plan your trip and ensure a successful and enjoyable experience.
1. Enlighten them and establish expectations early on
Before you embark on your camping trip with teens, it's essential to enlighten them about the trip details and set clear expectations. This will help prevent any unwanted surprises and ensure that everyone is on the same page. Discuss the ground rules, safety measures, and what to expect during the trip.
2. Involve them in the planning
Teens often appreciate having a voice in the planning process, and involving them in the selection of the campsite and activities can make them more excited about the trip. Compromise may be necessary, but your teens will feel valued and valued, which can help strengthen the bond between you.
3. Let them use camping apps
Technology can be a powerful tool when planning a camping trip with teens. Encourage them to use camping apps to explore their surroundings and learn about local wildlife, as well as to find camping spots, nearby services, and interesting local attractions.
4. Bring them shopping for gear
Teens usually enjoy shopping for new gear, and this can be an excellent way to involve them in the preparation for the trip. Let them take charge of creating a list of what they need and then help them shop for that gear within a given budget. This can also help you save money by allowing them to make their own decisions about which gear they want to bring.
5. Start small
Teens may not be overly excited about camping at first, so starting with a short, two-night trip closer to home can help them get familiar with the camping experience. As they become more comfortable, you can gradually increase the length of their trips.
6. Let them bring their (well-behaved) friends
Teens are social creatures, and they usually enjoy spending time with their friends. If you have the space, encourage them to bring a friend along on their camping trip. Although this may require more supervision, it can also be beneficial for the morale of both your teens and their friend.
7. Consider letting them have their own space
For well-behaved and trustworthy teens, booking two campsites side by side can allow them to have a degree of autonomy and enjoy some quiet time in their own tent. Alternatively, you can carve out some space in the RV just for them to ensure they feel included.
8. Consider limiting phone use
WiFi can be addictive, and some teens may not realize the negative effects of spending too much time online. To avoid overwhelming your teens, consider restricting phone usage during the trip or making them pay for their own hotspot to encourage them to connect less.
9. Make sure you have WiFi
Some teens may rely on their smartphones for entertainment and connection, so if possible, make sure they will have access to WiFi during their camping trip. IfWiFi is a point of contention, consider setting up a family hub with controlled access to ensure everyone can stay connected.
