4 Tips for Adventurous Parents Going Camping With Their Six-Month-Old Baby

Things change a lot after you become parents. You’re no longer that carefree soul who could pick up and go on a whim—you’ve now become the center of a tiny human’s world. 

You can’t just do anything you want. Every move you make is with their well-being in mind. But does that mean adventure is off the table? Can you not go on any camping trips since you’re a parent? Not at all. 

American TV personality Joy-Anna Duggar took her five-month-old on a camping trip last year. If Duggar can go camping with her five-month-old, why not you? 

Instead of the spontaneous trips and late-night campfire gatherings you might have enjoyed before, you’ll need to plan and prepare a bit more with a kid in tow. 

Here, we’ll share a few tips that will allow you to enjoy the outdoors while making sure your little one stays comfy, safe, and happy. 

#1 Camp Close to Home

You can’t just decide to camp anywhere when you have a six-month-old in tow. Things don’t always go according to plan. For your peace of mind, camp at a site that isn’t too far from your home. 

Opt for a campsite that is an hour or two away from your place. That will give you a safety net in case things don’t go as planned.  Maybe your baby has a rough night, or you realize you forgot something important—like the diapers (yikes!) If that happens, you can always pack up and head home without a long, stressful drive.

Camping at a nearby site also means you’re familiar with the area. You know what the weather might be like, where the nearest stores are, and the general vibe of the campsite. It’s also a good opportunity to test the waters of camping without committing to a long trip.

#2 Get an XL Tent

Even if it’s just three of you, get a tent large enough to fit all your baby essentials.  An XL-size tent would be the perfect choice for camping with your six-month-old munchkin. It will offer plenty of room to spread out, so you can relax and move around without feeling cramped. Those middle-of-the-night diaper changes or feedings will also be a breeze with a bigger tent. You can do all of that without having to hunch over or knock into things.  

Don’t choose a tent whose floor features a heavy layer, however. Go for tents with two lightweight layers. According to Bob Howe, a tent designer, two lightweight layers are often stronger than a single heavy layer. 

#3 Pack Smart 

The toughest part of camping with a baby? Packing. You would want to be prepared for anything—wouldn’t you? Don’t be a chronic overpacker, however. 

Must-have items include diapers, wipes, a portable changing pad, bug repellent, and baby-friendly sunscreen.  

Stuff lots and lots of clothes in your backpack. Babies drool, spit up, and have diaper blowouts at the worst possible times. And you won’t have a washing machine nearby. 

And if you plan to formula feed your little one, pack feeding supplies as well. Bring more than one bottle and teat, so you don’t have to go through the hassles of washing them after every feed. Pack pre-measured formulas in portable containers. 

When it comes to baby formulas, refrain from choosing Similac or Enfamil. Marie Smith, a Minnesota mom, has filed an NEC lawsuit in which she claims that baby formulas of Similac and Enfamil cause necrotizing enterocolitis. NEC, or necrotizing enterocolitis, is a life-threatening gastrointestinal disease that inflames intestinal tissue, resulting in its death. 

Her daughter, Amirea, who was born prematurely, was diagnosed with NEC after being fed cow milk-based formula. Unfortunately, she passed away less than a month after her birth.

Marie’s, as well as other NEC lawsuits, target Mead Johnson & Company and Abbott Laboratories, the manufacturers of Enfamil and Similac infant formulas. "Some Similac and Enfamil baby formulas named in the litigation include Similac Alimentum, Similac Special Care, Enfamil NeuroPro Enfacare, and Enfamil Premature", says TorHoerman Law. 

As far as baby formula is concerned, ask your pediatrician for recommendations. 

#4 Get Used to Wearing a Baby Carrier

A baby carrier will be your best friend on this camping adventure. It’s perfect for exploring trails where strollers just won’t cut it. You can easily navigate rocky paths or uneven ground without the hassle of trying to push a stroller over roots and dirt. You can also set up the tent, cook, gather firewood, and do other campsite tasks while keeping your baby snug and close. 

Go for a breathable carrier. Parents recommend choosing lightweight materials like airy linen or cotton, as they can keep you cooler.  Your first camping trip with your six-month-old munchkin will no less than be a wild adventure. But with a little bit of preparation, it can be an amazing experience. 

Don’t forget why you’re doing this—to have fun! Take in the beauty around you, soak in the moments, and introduce your baby to the wonders of nature. Your little bundle of joy might not remember the trip, but you will, and it’ll be one of those stories you’ll tell them when they’re older.

By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Pexels & Adobestock