Thinking of trading in traditional tents for a luxury cabin in the woods or a safari-style tent without sacrificing the family bonding experience? Welcome to the world of glamping!
With the comforts of home and the adventure of the outdoors, glamping provides the perfect recipe for an unforgettable family getaway.
But to make the most of it, packing the right gear is absolutely essential—especially when little ones are involved.
Understanding the Glamping Experience
Unlike traditional camping, glamping offers a more luxurious and comfortable way to experience nature. There’s no roughing it involved—you’ll often find real beds, electricity, private bathrooms, and maybe even Wi-Fi. That said, it’s still an outdoor-centric experience that requires thoughtful preparation, especially for families with children.
There are several types of glamping accommodations to choose from: yurts nestled in forests, chic cabins perched on mountaintops, spacious safari tents with hardwood floors, and even tiny homes in the middle of meadows. Each comes with its own amenities, so your packing list will depend significantly on your lodging situation.
Because glamping blurs the line between indoor comfort and outdoor adventure, your packing approach must adapt. You won’t need tents or sleeping bags (unless specifically noted), but you will need to plan for meals, entertainment, and stuff to keep the kids cozy and content.
Essentials for the Entire Family
Clothing and Outerwear
Always pack with the weather in mind. Glamping means you might step outside into chilly mornings and warm afternoons. Think layers: lightweight shirts, cozy hoodies, and waterproof jackets. Bring plenty of changes for the kids—between dirt, food spills, and impromptu puddle jumping, they’ll go through outfits fast.
For footwear, a good mix of options is best: hiking boots or sneakers for exploring, and slip-ons or flip-flops for lounging. Don’t forget socks—extra pairs can make a big difference in unpredictable conditions.
Personal Hygiene Supplies
Even if your site offers bathrooms, pack your own eco-friendly toiletries. Look for biodegradable soaps, shampoo bars, and kid-safe products. Bring enough towels and washcloths for everyone, plus extras for unexpected messes or beach/lake days.
Families with babies and toddlers should not forget diapers, baby wipes, and changing pads. Kid-sized toothbrushes, baby wash, and lotion crafted for sensitive skin are also key to keeping your small adventurers fresh and happy.
First Aid and Health Items
Always travel with a basic first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, and gauze. Additionally, carry child-safe medications for allergies, fevers, or tummy troubles. Bug spray and kid-formulated sunscreen will safeguard your little ones from nature’s surprises.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends, “When exploring the outdoors with children, be proactive about insect protection and sunburn prevention to reduce health risks and ensure a fun, worry-free outing.” Heed the advice—it matters.
Kitchen and Dining Essentials
Cooking Equipment and Utensils
While many glamping accommodations provide basic kitchen setups, it’s smart to verify what’s included. If you need to bring your own, pack a portable stove, pots and pans, spatulas, and meal prep tools. Think convenient and compact—space is often limited.
Food Storage and Easy Meals
Pack family-friendly meals that are simple to prepare. Tinfoil dinners, freeze-dried meals, or pre-cooked pasta can save time and sanity. Bring a cooler or insulated tote to store perishables, and don’t skip essentials like condiments, seasonings, and zip-lock bags for leftovers.
Reusable Dishware and Cleaning Supplies
Opt for reusable plates, bowls, and cups to minimize waste. Include dish soap, a scrub brush, and a tub or bin for cleaning up. Paper towels, biodegradable trash bags, and wet wipes are also useful for messes, which let’s face it—kids are great at creating.
Snacks and Drinks for Kids
Always overpack snacks—it’s a glamping golden rule. Crackers, fruit bars, string cheese, and juice boxes can prevent meltdowns and keep energy up during adventures. Don’t forget a few special treats to make campfire time even more magical.
Sleeping Comforts
If your glamping provider doesn’t offer linens, bring your own. Pack fitted sheets, cozy blankets, and pillows for the whole family. Sleeping bags are optional but can be comforting for kids who love the camping feel.
Familiar bedtime items—like stuffed animals, cherished blankets, or bedtime books—help kids settle into a new environment. Nightlights and white noise machines can also make all the difference if sleeping away from home disrupts their usual routine.
Entertainment and Activities
Bring gear for outdoor fun: soccer balls, kites, frisbees, and items for scavenger hunts are great ideas. These items keep kids physically active and engaged with their surroundings. Bonus: less screen time!
For downtime or rainy days, pack board games, books, or coloring supplies. Card games like Uno or Go Fish are compact, fun, and perfect for family bonding.
Tech can have its place—load up a tablet with kids’ movies or audiobooks. Remember to pack chargers and possibly a battery pack if outlets are limited at your site.
Extras That Make Glamping Easier with Kids
Small comforts go a long way. Portable high chairs or booster seats make mealtimes easier. A lightweight stroller or child carrier is essential for long days of exploring. Don’t forget a baby monitor if your accommodation allows kids to nap while adults relax nearby.
Packing collapsible storage bins can help keep clothes, toys, and food items organized. Label each bin for clothing, toys, and food—it simplifies everything, especially clean-up.
Be sure to pack weather-specific extras: rain jackets, sun hats, and even extra blankets if your destination gets chilly at night.
Tips for Packing Efficiently
Start with a family glamping checklist. This keeps you organized and helps avoid overpacking or forgetting must-haves. Break down the checklist into categories: clothing, hygiene, kitchen, sleeping, and entertainment.
Packing by category can help you load the car more efficiently and make things easier to grab when you reach camp. Pro tip: clear totes work wonders for seeing contents at a glance.
Get the kids involved! Let them pick a few toys, games, or books. This not only builds anticipation for the trip but ensures they feel a sense of independence in the adventure.
Printable Family Glamping Packing List
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry—download our customizable, printable Family Glamping Packing List. It’s broken down by family member, category, and even includes a spot for those extra-special items your child can’t sleep without.
Get the checklist for free right from our site and make your prep completely stress-free. Share it with friends or use it as your new go-to for every future glamping trip!
Final Thoughts
Glamping with kids is an amazing way to connect as a family while enjoying the beauty of nature without losing the comforts we crave. From clothing to cookware, toys to toiletries, planning ahead is the backbone of a successful glamping experience.
So give yourself the best chance at a smooth, fun-filled getaway by preparing thoroughly. Your kids (and your sanity) will thank you.
Do you have a must-pack item that always saves the day? Let us know in the comments—and don’t forget to download your free family glamping checklist!
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