With all of the camping gear on the market today, it can be a little overwhelming when shopping for family camping gear.
While the kids might want the latest and greatest, with all of the bells and whistles-you may decide on a more practical tent, or stove.
Either way, err on the side of caution when purchasing inexpensive camping gear.
Weigh out the cost of buying a little more expensive gear as an investment-trust your intuition or you will be very unhappy with yourself when the leaks spring! Family Tents The most investment in all of your camping gear and if you're housing more than two people you should truly get a larger tent.
When looking at tents, make sure to see how many they 'sleep,' take that number and divide it by 2 and that is the true capacity of the space.
You'll notice that people are all different sizes, and if you're purchasing a tent and you have small children-you might as well predict that they're going to be camping with you for the rest of their childhood so allow some room for growth.
When you have enough room to move around in the tent, you're able to have air mattresses or cots to sleep on as opposed to just a sleeping bag.
You will also notice that you'll have room to move around, hang out in a rainstorm, and even hang and indoor clothesline.
Make sure you notate the shape of the tent, you may not want an a-frame tent if you're intending on doing anything other than sleeping inside.
Dome types are very common family tents and often times have options of adding side tents to create a more private atmosphere.
Always consider the poles, as you're going to be utilizing them when setting up the tent and some types aren't easily repaired, while others come with spare poles 'just in case.
' Next, always pick a tent that is made from coated nylon-this is used to waterproof the tent, and the thicker the fabric, the better made and less tearing you could encounter.
Sleeping bags If you're not using an air mattress or a cot, you'll more than likely be using a sleeping bag.
This is the most practical when hiking to a remote location.
You'll want to make sure the sleeping bag is light enough, but has a great temperature rating to keep your family nice and cozy on those cool nights.
Depending upon each person and their style, body temperatures are going to vary while sleeping.
Make sure you notate the insulation material of the sleeping bag.
While the ability to roll the bag for transportation purposes, you're going to want to make sure your family isn't allergic to the interior of the sleeping bag and that these items are washable.
It is difficult to take a sleeping bag in to nature and bring it out looking brand new-it's just not practical.
Gear tips So you've got your tent, your sleeping bag and you're ready to go.
Everyone in your family is ready and the bags are packed.
Not so fast! Make sure you've got a few more pieces of gear that will make your life easier and your camping experience user-friendly.
While this may be a give, make sure you have plenty of batteries-you're going to need them for your flashlights, lanterns and other gear that requires batteries.
One large piece of gear that many professionals cannot leave home without is that of the rain fly.
This tarp will keep you protected and serves as a shelter from the sun and weather conditions.
While there is a ton of camping gear tips for families, you can rest assured that you won't run short on supplies if you plan and prepare before leaving your home.
Remember that your gear is an investment for years to come, if this is your first camping adventure with your family and you're not sure they will like it-purchase the minimum amount of gear possible.
Make the most out of the items you already have at home, and make it fun for everyone.
If you've decided to make this a family event on more than one occasion, spend a few extra dollars and get the gear you adore.
There is nothing like purchasing the inexpensive, being disappointed and spending even more money to get the item you wanted originally.