You will surely agree that hiking and camping with young kids like infants and toddlers require a lot of thought, planning, and attention if you are to have a worry-free trip. With the right level of planning, you are assured that your tour will be memorable and enjoyable.
All you need to do is to remember that toddlers and infants view “nature” differently from older kids or adults. That is why you need to plan carefully and prepare a checklist that will save the day. Before you can go hiking or camping with your babies, you need to understand some toddler basics. Dirt will be everywhere, so expect the kids to get dirty.
This is a natural part of outdoor camping, so you do not need to worry about it. Kids under five-years-old will eat just about anything they put their hands on, even dirt. Do not freak out, it will not taste nice, and they’ll make a face and spit the dirt out.
When you are planning to relax is when the babies want the most attention. The attention span of toddlers will be minutes, and not hours, so it’s important to be prepared. It’s quite impossible to “over-pack” when camping with toddlers. When the toddlers don’t walk, you will have no option but to carry them.
Nature’s noises and nightmares will be scary to them. Always ensure you take something familiar, such as a favorite blanket, nigh tight, doll, or musical toy. With all these things in mind, you must choose wisely what you are going to take with you on your trip.
What is going to make it easier for you and the toddlers? Luckily, we came up with a review of the best products for you and your toddlers to go camping together. From sunscreen, to special tents, we tried to cover every area so that you can choose carefully and correctly.
Our Top Picks
| Product Name | Weight | Size | Specific Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Infant Pop N’ Play | 12.2 lb | 38 x 7 x 7 inches | Freestanding and portable, water resistant floor, lightweight, ultra-lightweight frame. | Check price on Amazon |
| Kilofly Original Baby Beach Tent | 0.65 lb | 0.4 x 0.4 x 0.4 inches | Quick set-up & clean-up, UV protected, ultralight and convenient, flat top design. | Check price on Amazon |
| Regalo My Chair | 3 lb | 15 x 12 x 15 inches | Portable, easy to clean, secure frame, lightweight. | Check price on Amazon |
| Coleman Instant | 2.9 lb | 84 x 120 x 84 inches | Quick setup, UV protection, heavy-duty 150D canopy, footed poles for easy securing, two large zippered doors. | Check price on Amazon |
| Baby Deedee 205 | 0.8 lb | 32 x 11.1 x 1.8 inches | Easy on/off – shoulder snaps, soft Indian cotton, high-quality zippers, breathable and warm. | Check price on Amazon |
| Bumbo B11115 | 4.2 lb | 13 x 13 x 11 inches | 3-point harness, wide leg openings, chair straps for use as a feeding seat, retractable chair straps, adjustable base height. | Check price on Amazon |
| Wonder 116 | 10 lb | 25 x 12 x 13 inches | Extra thick for greater safety, softer surface, durable foam, high density. | Check price on Amazon |
| Babyganics 01231 | 1 lb | 1.5 x 5 x 7.7 inches | UVA + UVB protection, water resistant, non-allergenic formula, broad spectrum SPF 50 protection. | Check price on Amazon |
| California Baby 940-2 | 0.2 lb | 5 x 2 x 1.7 inches | Repels mosquitoes, allergy tested, non-invasive & DEET-free. | Check price on Amazon |
| Clevr 7MVM0 | 5 lb | 10 x 30 x 16 inches | Multiple pockets, thick padded shoulder pads, aluminum frame, hip belt. | Check price on Amazon |
What to Consider Before Buying
Like with any other product, before you make the final decision, you need to find out which are the most important features and to make your decision based on how those features fit your personal needs. Therefore, when it comes to camping gear for camping with toddlers, here are the most important features you should keep an eye on.
Portable Playpen
There are times when you will want to confine the toddlers in one place. This item is ideal for taking your attention off the kids. The playpen is also suitable if the toddlers misbehave and require a time out. In addition to that, this is a familiar and reassuring space, which the toddlers can use for their naps.
If you do not own one, numerous outdoor stores sell these kinds of products at affordable rates. If you already have one at home, you may require another just for camping. If you cannot access these stores, you can easily purchase one of these items on Amazon, and they will ensure they ship it to you within the shortest time possible.
A Backpack Carrier
This may seem like an additional gear and a nice thing to have, but once the kids refuse to walk and you have no option but to carry them around, you will realize that the backpack carrier is a must-have camping gear when hiking or camping with toddlers. This piece of equipment is also ideal when you are operating in areas that dictate the movement of kids be controlled.
The carrier will make life so much easier and way more enjoyable. Just like the product above, the backpack carrier can be purchased from outdoor stores or thrift shops that sell equipment at affordable prices. However, if you can’t find one, you can always opt for an online store such as Amazon.
Mosquito Repelling And Netting
These inexpensive camping products are worth weight in gold if the campsite is filled with biting insects. When in the outdoors, you can never be confident that you will not have any nasty experiences with bugs.
A netting can be draped over the playpen to protect the toddlers from the misery of biting insects. It’s easier for adults to grumble and continue to survive in the presence of mosquitoes, but babies and toddlers will be in agony when they aren’t protected.
You may be in a position to find netting and other bug repellent products in dedicated outdoor stores or even online. Most of these products do not cost much so buying one or two should not be a problem.
Top Product Reviews
Summer Infant Pop N’ Play 
Price: $50 – $90
Weight: 12.2 lb
Dimensions: 38 x 7 x 7 inches
Specific features: Freestanding and portable, water resistant floor, lightweight, ultra-lightweight frame
Best use: Camping, outdoor parties, relaxation
Description: The Summer Infant Pop N’ Play Portable Playard Summer Infant Pop N’ Play makes it possible for you to create a safe, portable play section for your kid. This compact and ultra-lightweight fold playard, can be set up and dismantled in seconds, making it ideal for use at home, at the park, or a weekend on the beach. Its water resistant floor helps in keeping the baby dry throughout even when used on damp grass.
The open mesh side offers added visibility. This package includes a bag with shoulder strap to give you on-the-go convenience. As mentioned, this product features innovative frames that make it possible for you to set it up within seconds. For a complete setup, pop open the playard and secure it floor buckles. When the kids are done playing, simply unclip the buckles and push inward, returning it to a compact fold.
This product is also versatile enough to be used both indoors and outdoors. When using it indoors, the floor will help to protect the surface from any spills or mess. When on the outdoors, the water-resistant floor will help protect the baby from the damp grass.
PROS:
- Lead free, your babies will be safe
- Very easy to fold and carry
- Very sturdy, protects the babies from getting out
CONS:
- A bit small (the area) for kids older than 6 months
Related: The Summer Infant Pop N’ Sit Portable Booster is a good product to buy alongside the Pop N’ Play. It’ll allow you to safely seat your children while feeding them or spending a day in the outdoors.
Kilofly Original 
Price: Approx. $30
Weight: 0.65 lb
Dimensions: 0.4 x 0.4 x 0.4 inches
Specific features: Quick set-up & clean-up, UV protected, ultralight and convenient, flat top design
Best use: Camping, picnics, overnight parties
Description: Does your baby require protection from bugs or a shelter from the sun when relaxing in your backyard or at the beach? If yes, the Kilofly Original Baby Beach Tent is the right option for you. This product not only offers ample room, but, also provides a bug-free and safe area for the baby to play.
You can fold the Pop Up down to a fourteen-inch disc at approximately three hundred grams, making it possible to store it inside your backpack and carry it with you whenever you go. Take it to the beach, the park, a soccer game, or simply set it up indoors for daily use.
When looking for a baby tent, make sure you select Kilofly Pop Up Tent. Unlike other baby tents, this product is refined in detail, meeting the needs of your baby as much as possible, and making you feel safe when they are inside of it.
PROS:
- UV Protection, for your toddlers to be protected from the sun
- Big enough for 2 babies
- Very lightweight, easy to take anywhere
CONS:
- Very hard to old up
- The pegs don’t really hold much
Related: The Jolly 301 Bug Netting for Infant Carrier is a good item to buy alongside any other, when you are thinking of taking your toddlers on a camping trip or a day out Just use the Bug Netting with any infant carrier or stroller, and protect your little ones from bug bites or insects.
Regalo My Chair 
Price: $30 – $40
Weight: 3 lb
Dimensions: 15 x 12 x 15 inche
Specific features: Portable, easy to clean, secure frame, lightweight
Best use: Camping, sporting events, travel
Description: The Regalo My Chair is a sturdy, lightweight booster seat that attaches securely to adult-sized chairs. Weighing about three pounds, this portable chair is easy to carry around and can be set up within seconds. It can also fold down efficiently and compactly with a single movement.
Designed with a strong base, Regalo My Chair can be used an inexpedient booster seat at sporting events, in small spaces, in restaurants, at the beach, in grandma’s house, and during travel.
The PVC-free frame of the Regalo, is made from steel, while the anchoring strap can be adjusted with ease to fit tightly around the chair of an adult. With its durable construction and smart design, this product meets all the current safety standards. For children under two and half years old – or those not in a position to get in and out of a seat without the help of an adult – a harness with a 3-point safety belt offers the needed security.
And for the comfort of your child, the high-back design of the chair offers sufficient back support. During snack time, kids will enjoy utilizing the convenient cup holder that is strategically fitted on the chair’s side to store their snack containers and sippy cups.
This product is made of heavy-duty nylon that is also waterproof. The seat liner of this portable chair is removable for easy maintenance. The chair is easy to clean with soap and damp cloth and can be dried faster in the air. As a bonus, the Regalo My Chair is backed by a limited ninety-day warranty.
PROS:
- Very comfortable for the toddlers
- Great for carrying anywhere, comes with a good carrying case
CONS:
- Very complicated to set up, needs two people
- The bottom part isn’t sturdy
Related: The Joovy Nook 2067 High Chair is the ideal chair to have at home when you want to feed your baby. It also folds up very easily into a smaller size that is easy to carry around, for day trips not far from home, where your little ones can sit comfortably and steadily.
Coleman Instant 
Price: $75 – $120
Weight: 2.9 lb
Dimensions: 84 x 120 x 84 inches
Specific features: Quick setup, UV protection, heavy-duty 150D canopy, footed poles for easy securing, two large zippered doors
Best use: BBQing, sporting events, beach
Description: Create a spacious ventilated and bug-free room anywhere, anytime with the Coleman Instant Screenhouse. Perfect for the campsite, BBQ, sporting events, beach, or wherever you want a reliable cover from the scorching sun and protection from insect, this shelter can be set up within minutes thanks to the strong telescoping-pole frame system.
Designed to offer comfort for all, the Coleman ten by ten provides a generous seven-foot center height and a hundred square feet of sheltered floor. Its No-see-U mesh walls help in keeping insects out while allowing for the flow of the breeze, and a sturdy 150D poly Oxford canopy provides SPF 50+ ultraviolet protection against the rays of the sun.
Two doors make it easier to access the screen house. When it’s time to pack it in, the Coleman 10 x 10 collapses down with ease as it erected and is easy to store and carry around inside its wheeled storage bag.
PROS:
- Extremely easy to set up
- A lot of space for the little ones
CONS:
- Not as easy to carry around
- Materials aren’t as long lasting as expected
Related: The Image HM7QRE Camping Lantern is a good accessory to get if you plan a camping trip with children. Keep them in the tent with some illumination when it starts getting dark.
Baby Deedee 205 
Price: $30 – $40
Weight: 0.8 lb
Dimensions: 32 x 11.1 x 1.8 inches
Specific features: Easy on/off – shoulder snaps, soft Indian cotton, high-quality zippers, breathable and warm
Best use: Traveling, camping, for outdoor activities
Description: The Baby Deedee 205 is a quilted duvet that babies between 0 to 36 months can wear. Made in a soothing cocoon-like shape to assist a baby feel secure and cozy, this item is an excellent transition from the swaddling or womb stage.
This is a great item to use when you take your babies on a day trip or even on a long camping trip. Not only will they feel comfortable and safe the whole time, but they will stay warm and cozy, reducing the amount of complaints and discomfort they can cause you.
The distinctive shoulder snaps make it possible to place the baby in the nest without much hassle. Small sizes are ideal for babies of zero to six months and ten to eighteen pounds. The medium, is ideal for babies from six to eighteen months, and sixteen to twenty-six pounds. The large one is suitable for babies from eighteen to thirty-six months and twenty-five to thirty-five pounds.
PROS:
- Shoulder straps allow you to use it with a standing baby
- Machine washable
- Very cozy
CONS:
- Children grow fast and this can be a bit small, buying larger sizes is recommended
Related: The winter might get too cold for the babies to only use the Baby Deedee, hence why the Yoolove Baby Sleeping Bag is a good choice for colder temperatures. It is similar, but cozier and warmer.
Bumbo B11115 
Price: $40 – $60
Weight: 4.2 lb
Dimensions: 13 x 13 x 11 inches
Specific features: 3-point harness, wide leg openings, chair straps for use as a feeding seat, retractable chair straps, adjustable base height.
Best use: Sporting events, traveling
Description: The Ultimate 3 Stage Seat Bumbo has introduced the new Bumbo B11115 , your child’s next step in seating. This product is suitable for babies who have mastered the Bumbo Floor Seat. It’s a flexible seat that sees your kid through to the toddler phase with a seat, which grows with your baby.
Which the attachment straps that can convert with ease from a floor to a booster seat, the Bumbo makes it possible for you to enjoy the key developmental stages from feeding to playtime at the point when your child can sit unassisted.
The foam pad on the seat, cushions the baby and is removable to create an additional room as the kid grows. The removable tray easily attaches to the seat’s back for storage and transport. It has a 3-in-1 function, very practical for many scenarios. It has a floor mode, a booster mode, and a feeding mode, which is higher and more comfortable to use when feeding the young ones.
PROS:
- 3-in-1 function, for different needs
- Keeps the children in an upright position
CONS:
- Very hard to clean properly
Related: The Munchkin Soft Tip Infant Spoons are great to have on any occasion. If you buy them alongside this seat, you’ll be prepared to feed your little ones anywhere, while they seat comfortable.
Wonder 116 
Price: $60 – $80
Weight: 10 lb
Dimensions: 25 x 12 x 13 inches
Specific features: Extra thick for greater safety, softer surface, durable foam, high density
Best use: Outdoor relaxation, camping
Description: The Wonder 116 rainbow foam creates a suitable and safe environment that supports the development and play of your child. As parents, it’s imperative to understand the significance of health and safety as the main priority when it comes to our children.
The foam mats are created from non-toxic and non-recycled materials that offer bold, vibrant, and consistent colors. These mats are extra soft and thick to minimize impact and offer comfort as the children learn to play, walk, and run. The Wonder Mats are high-density feature products that make it impossible for children to bite off or swallow pieces of the mat.
However, it’s biggest positive point has to be that you can set it pretty much anywhere and have the infants play around safely and comfortably. They can even fall asleep on top of the cushy foam. It’s lightweight, easy to carry and to fold or just store anywhere, and the foam makes it resistant to many of the outdoor environments.
PROS:
- Mix and match parts for the little ones entertainment
- Comfortable
- Easy to set-up
- Take anywhere
CONS:
- A bit expensive
- This package doesn’t include the edges
Related: Buying the Wonder CT-2627PKG Mat Edging Package Set might be a good idea if you want to complete this mat fully.
Bayganics 01231 
Price: $13 – $16
Weight: 1 lb
Dimensions: 1.5 x 5 x 7.7 inches
Specific features: UVA + UVB protection, water resistant, non-allergenic formula, broad spectrum SPF 50 protection
Best use: For outdoor activities
Description: The world of your baby just got better with the Babyganics 01231 sunscreen spray. It’s practically impossible for babies to explore the outdoor world due to the harm environmental conditions, including the scorching heat of the sun. The mineral-based SPF 50 offers a broad spectrum UVB/UVA protection and easily glides on skin for an effortless application. This is a key product to take with you anywhere for the safety of your little one.
Since this product is tear free and non-allergic, it is possible to apply on whatever part of the baby. Additional, the Babyganics Sunscreen is a natural insect repellent that gets rid of bugs from your baby’s skin. It’s a natural DEET-free product that can eliminate and repulse pesky mosquitoes, flies, and gnats.
The power of essential aromatic oils derived naturally (Peppermint, Citronella, Lemongrass, Rosemary & Geranium) keeps your babies free and safe. The blend of essential oils is powerful to insects, smells perfect, and is safe for the entire family.
PROS:
- Protects your babies really well from the sun
- Comes with a bug repellent included
CONS:
- May cause eye and skin irritation on minor cases, but be aware
- Too greasy, takes time to dry out
Related: The i.Baby GSBPG4Y Sun Hat is ideal for any trip, any day and any baby. Besides the sunscreen a hat should be a must, and this is a great model as it also covers your baby’s neck.
California Baby 940-2 
Price: $9 – $20
Weight: 0.2 lb
Dimensions: 5 x 2 x 1.7 inches
Specific features: Repels mosquitoes, allergy tested, non-invasive & DEET-free
Best use: Every time when your kids need to be protected from insects
Description: The California Baby 940-2 repellent spray is a baby-safe and natural alternative to the toxic DEET. This product features lemongrass, citronella, and cedar pure essential oils. These oils naturally repel insects such as mosquitoes, fleas, biting flies, and ticks without producing noxious scent like other bug sprays do.
This spray also soothes existing bites with ingredients that care for your baby’s skin. The California Baby Spray is made from ingredients derived from plants and is safe for use on any part of the body except the eyes. This eco-friendly product features a pump action sprayer, which is lockable by twisting it to one side, and is suitable for camping and travel.
The California Baby Spray received an Eco-Excellence Award for being the “Best Skin Care for Baby” in 2013. It’s gluten-free, oat-free, Soy-free, Dairy-free, nut-free, and allergy tested. All products by California Baby are blended, manufactured, and packaged in an FDA registered facility.
For ease of use, you can reapply the product generously and often. The product can be utilized throughout to repel different bugs. Do not consume or spray into your eyes. When using the product on the face, spray on your fingertips then apply.
PROS:
- Works very well, protecting you and your little ones from most insects, if not all
CONS:
- Very strong smell
- Not very cheap for the size of the bottle
Related: The Nozone Fiji Baby Swimsuit might seem too much, but it’s ideal to avoid children getting sunburn or bitten, and it’s comfortable. It’s never too much protection. Dress them up and avoid them getting bitten.
Clevr 7MVM0 
Price: $150 – $180
Weight: 5 lb
Dimensions: 10 x 30 x 16 inches
Specific features: Multiple pockets, thick padded shoulder pads, aluminum frame, hip belt
Best use: Camping, sporting events, outdoor activities, traveling
Description: The Clevr 7MVM0 baby backpack is made of a 600d Oxford cloth and a lightweight metal that enable it to withstand all aspects and daily applications. Featuring thick padded shoulder pads, multiple pockets, padded waist strap, and side water bottle holders on two sides.
The product also features an extra-large back pocket that can be used to store diapers and other essentials. Its rain and sun canopy can be removed anytime you want. The Cross Country Carrier also features an adjustable system that offers a comfortable fit for the baby. The metal stands make it possible for you to set the carrier on a flat surface.
Its versatile nature allows you to quickly fold it whenever you are on the go as the Cross Country folds flat for storage and portability. This product is suitable for children from six months to four years.
Its attributes can be summarized as follows: weighs 5 pounds, multiple pockets that include water bottle pockets, foldable metal frames, removable canopy, easily stands on a table with kickstand, accommodate maximum child weight of forty pounds.
PROS:
- It is very lightweight
- Comes with multiple pockets to store many things
- Comfortable for the small ones
CONS:
- Defective sunshade
Related: The Lillebaby ASC-RM-01 Retractable Mirror is perfect with this bag, just attach it on one of the shoulder straps and use it whenever you want to check on your baby, without turning your head or having to stop.
Wrapping Up
To sum up we have covered some of the best products for camping with toddlers. With the information we gave you, you should be able to choose the right gear to take your baby or babies on a nice camping adventure without struggling or worrying much.
If you’re a fan of the outdoors, but have small children, this, you should be able to find a solution in this article. Camping with toddlers is not a walk in the park, and we know very well how worried you are for their safety. That’s why we picked products, such as the sunscreen, that will make the experience safer for them, less stressful for you.
The idea is for the whole family to enjoy it. We hope you found this review helpful. Do you have any suggestions to add to the list? Please let us know by posting your comments below. Pins and shares will be appreciated.
As a mother myself, I really appreciate this article. I liked the play pens, especially the summer playpen pop and play. I was going to buy one, but where would I put it? It will get dirty if I put it on the ground when camping.
You can buy a tarp or some type of tent flooring and set that on the ground before you put up the playpen! That way, the playpen will stay clean and you can simply clean off the tarp and use it again!
This is really nice. While I am going through articles I found this as a one of the important topics. Do you have any idea about the durability of COLEMAN INSTANT?
Very durable!