Family camping essentials
Summer is prime time to get the family outside and make memories under the open sky. In the UK this often means planning for long, warm days but unpredictable evenings — and choosing kit that keeps everyone comfortable, safe and happy. This short guide introduces the must-have family camping items you’ll want to consider when packing for summer trips across UK campsites, national parks and coastal camps.
AI-generated image. Tool: OpenAI GPT Image
As part of our "Camping Gear for Summer in the UK" series, this page focuses on products that make camping with children easier: quick-to-pitch shelters, comfortable sleep systems, travel cots, mealtime helpers and water-safety equipment. Below you’ll find what to look for in each product and how it fits into real family camping life.
Family air tents
Family air tents use inflatable beams instead of poles, so setup is much faster — a big win when you’ve got small kids waiting to explore. Look for a model with separate sleeping compartments, a decent porch for muddy boots, good ventilation and a waterproof rating suitable for wet UK summer nights. Also check repair options and spare parts (pumps and valve repairs can save a holiday).
Benefits: fast pitching, spacious living area, easy pack-down. Consider weight and packed size if you’re carrying kit to a pitch.
Kids sleeping bag
Kids’ sleeping bags should be cosy, machine-washable and sized to fit growing bodies without swamping them. For UK summers, choose a bag with an appropriate temperature rating (often summer bags rated around 5–10°C are fine) and breathable fabrics to avoid overheating in warm tents. Designs with zip guards, two-way zips and bright patterns can make bedtime more appealing to little ones.
Tip: a liner adds warmth or hygiene and is quick to wash between trips.
Camping travel cot
A travel cot is essential for babies and toddlers when routine and safety matter. Choose a compact, lightweight model that folds easily and comes with a comfortable mattress or pad. Breathable mesh sides improve airflow on warm nights, and a low weight/age limit will help you pick a cot that lasts through multiple seasons. Quick setup and a protective carry bag are practical bonuses for family travel.
Look for easy-clean materials and compatibility with travel bed sheets.
Travel kids high chair
Meal times are smoother with a travel high chair that clamps to a table or folds into a freestanding unit. Safety harnesses, washable trays and sturdy frames are the priorities — plus compact packing and low weight for the family car. A high chair makes campsite dining more hygienic and gives little ones a familiar spot at mealtimes, whether you’re cooking on a camp stove or enjoying a picnic.
Consider whether your chosen chair suits picnic tables and campsite tables height.
Child life jacket
If your family plans include boating, paddling, or trips to beaches and lakes, a properly fitted child life jacket is non-negotiable. Choose a CE- or ISO-certified jacket with the correct buoyancy rating for your child’s weight, an adjustable crotch strap to stop slipping, and a comfortable fit so your youngster will keep it on. Bright colours and grab handles help with visibility and quick rescues.
Always check the condition, fit, and certification before use and never substitute a jacket for supervision.
Family camping checklist
- Tent (or family air tent) + footprint/groundsheet
- Kids’ sleeping bags + liners and pillows
- Camping travel cot (with mattress) for babies/toddlers
- Travel kids high chair or booster seat
- Child life jackets (if near water)
- Camping stove, fuel and basic cookware
- Food, snacks and secure food storage (cooler or box)
- Sun protection: SPF sunscreen, hats and sunglasses
- Lightweight waterproofs and warm layers for evenings
- Headtorches/torches + spare batteries
- First-aid kit and child-safe medications
- Insect repellent and bite relief
- Wet wipes, hand sanitiser and quick-dry towels
- Bin bags, multi-tool, repair kit and duct tape
- Entertainment: outdoor toys, books and card games
If you’d like, we can expand any of these sections into a full buyer’s guide — for example comparing top family air tents, the best kids’ sleeping bags for summer, or the safest child life jackets for coastal trips. Just tell us which product you want next.
Note: This text was created with the help of AI.
Related topics
How well did the information meet your expectations and assist you further?
Not at all
Neutral
Very much