Camping for Families: Guide to Easy, Fun & Stress-Free Trips

Mountain, Trail, Wicklow Mountains, Co Wicklow

When do you get to teach your kids to fish, and wake up to birdsong instead of an alarm clock—all in the same trip? Swap screens for starlit skies, turn a simple meal into a fireside feast and watch your kids make lifelong memories playing in the wild.

Camping for families is the only way to get all of that and more—a chance to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the adventure together.

Whether you’re a first-time camper easing into the experience, or a seasoned adventurer looking for the best family-friendly campsites in Ireland, this guide covers everything you need to know.

✔ Getting Started – How to ease into camping with short stays, borrowed gear, and the right mindset.
✔ What to Pack – The essentials for comfort, cooking, and storage (without overpacking).
✔ How to Relax & Enjoy It – Tips for making camping fun for kids AND parents (yes, bring that bottle of wine!).
✔ Where to Go – The top five family-friendly campsites in Ireland with amazing destinations nearby.
✔ Campsite Etiquette – The dos and don’ts to keep the experience enjoyable for everyone.

Whether you’re camping by the sea, deep in the forests, or near Ireland’s most famous landmarks, this guide has everything you need to plan a stress-free, fun-filled family adventure.

Easing Into Camping for Families: Start Small & Make It Enjoyable for Everyone

Camping isn’t something you have to dive into headfirst. If you’ve never done it before—or if you’re not sure your kids will love it—take it slow.

Start with a single night – One night under the stars is a gentle introduction. If it turns out to be a disaster, at least you’ll be heading home in the morning! If it’s a success, add a second or third night next time.
Borrow or rent equipment – Before spending money on a tent, stove, or sleeping bags, see if you can borrow gear from a friend or rent from a local camping shop.
Buy second-hand when you’re ready – If you decide camping is for you, consider buying quality second-hand gear online. There’s no need to spend a fortune if you’re still figuring out what works best for your family.
Make it comfortable for yourself as well – If you love your morning coffee or a glass of wine at sunset, bring what makes you happy. Whether it’s knitting, a book, or a little luxury treat, remember: this is your holiday too!
Consider a campervan for extra comfort – Sleeping in a tent isn’t for everyone. If you’d prefer a warm bed, built-in storage, and the freedom to camp anywhere, a campervan can be the perfect base for your adventure. Avoid overpacking the car and upgrade your trip with a fully-equipped campervan! Check out Craic N Campers to find the right campervan for your family.

Pro tip: Your enthusiasm sets the tone for the trip. If kids see you enjoying yourself, they’ll be more likely to embrace the adventure. If you’re stressed and exhausted, they’ll pick up on it. So pack what makes you feel good, sit back, and enjoy the experience for yourself!

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Packing for a Family Camping Trip: What Matters & Why

Packing for a camping trip isn’t about bringing everything you might need—it’s about bringing what will make the trip enjoyable, comfortable, and memorable for everyone.

Camping gives families a rare chance to slow down and focus on each other. Instead of overpacking with toys, gadgets, and distractions, let the environment shape your experience. Let the kids find sticks to build forts, invent their own games, and embrace boredom as the start of creativity. But while we embrace adventure, a few thoughtful comforts go a long way.

Thoughtful Comfort: Sleeping Well Outdoors

A good night’s sleep means a happy family the next day. You don’t have to rough it just because you’re outdoors. Sleeping well keeps everyone rested and ready for the next day’s adventures.

Bring familiar bedding – Sleeping bags are great, but your own pillow makes a huge difference. A soft blanket can add warmth on cold nights and feel comforting for kids.
Don’t sleep on the ground – Air mattresses, sleeping mats, or camp beds add warmth and comfort (and prevent aches in the morning).
Think about night-time bathroom trips – Flip-flops or slip-on shoes are essential for late-night dashes to the loo, and a small lantern makes navigating the dark easier.

Pro tip: Consider bringing a familiar blanket and/or teddy if you have a toddler or young child. It helps them settle in a new environment.

Cooking & Eating: Keeping It Simple & Enjoyable

Cooking outdoors is part of the experience—but it doesn’t have to be a struggle. Keep meals simple and enjoyable, and plan for tired, hungry kids at the end of a long day.

What to consider:

The first-night meal should be easy – Unpacking and setting up is tiring, so bring a pre-cooked meal from home (like pasta or soup).
One-pot meals are your best friend – A simple gas hob or BBQ lets you cook pancakes, grilled cheese, or a big pot of stew with minimal fuss.
Snacks are non-negotiable – Kids burn through energy fast when playing outside. Bring their favourite treats so they can refuel without complaints.
Water matters more than you think – Campsites don’t always have the best-tasting water. Bring your own refillable bottles and a water carrier for convenience.
Eating out (if you can afford it) adds variety – Trying local cafés, pubs, or restaurants is a great way to experience the area’s food scene and give yourself a break from cooking. If possible, consider eating one meal per day out.

Pro tip: Eating together is a key part of family bonding. Instead of grabbing quick meals, take the time to cook and eat as a group—even if it’s just toast and hot chocolate around the fire.

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Clothing & Footwear: Packing for Adventure

The key to dressing for camping? Layers, layers, layers.

Comfort first – Don’t bring clothes you think might be useful. Bring what you actually want to wear when sitting around a fire or going for a walk.
Waterproof gear is a must – Even in summer, Irish weather is unpredictable. A light rain jacket and waterproof trousers make all the difference.
Shoes matter – Wellies for muddy fields, flip-flops for showers and nighttime bathroom trips, and sturdy shoes for walking and hiking.
Extras for the kids – They will get wet, they will get dirty. Pack extra socks and warm layers, even in summer.

Pro tip: Each child gets their own small bag for their clothes and essentials. That way, they can take responsibility for their own stuff (even if you still end up helping them find everything).

Storage & Organisation: Making Life Easier

When everything has a place, it’s easier to enjoy your trip instead of constantly searching for stuff.

A small camping cupboard – Keeps food and cooking gear tidy and dry.
A car boot organiser – One side for shoes, one for toys—so the kids know exactly where to find what they need.
Collapsible storage crates – Great for keeping clothes and gear neatly packed, especially in a tent.

Pro tip: Give kids a small area in the tent or campervan where they can keep their treasures and toys. It makes them feel at home.

Keeping Everyone Entertained (Without Overpacking Distractions)

Camping isn’t about bringing entertainment from home—it’s about creating moments as a family.

Let the environment be the playground – Kids don’t need tablets and colouring books when they have trees to climb, sticks to collect, and space to run.
Simple games go a long way – A football or frisbee encourages interaction with other kids.
Slow evenings together – Bring one or two card games (Uno Flip, Anomia), a deck of playing cards, and a book or two to read together before bed.

Pro tip: Don’t overplan. Leave space for wandering, exploring, and spontaneous games. Some of the best camping moments happen when you’re not following an itinerary.

Expect the Unexpected: Your Plan B Essentials

Camping for families is especially challenging and things will go wrong. But that’s part of the adventure. Be prepared, but don’t panic.

What if your tent leaks?
➡ Bring extra pegs, a mallet, and a tarp to reinforce your setup.

What if the kids refuse to sleep?
➡ Keep a warm blanket and a bedtime story ready—it helps them wind down.

What if it rains all weekend?
➡ Have a plan for indoor activities nearby—a museum, a café, or even just a drive to explore a new area.

Pro tip: Teaching kids how to handle minor setbacks (like a wet sleeping bag or a lost torch) builds resilience—and makes the trip feel like an adventure rather than a disaster.

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Where to Camp: Ireland’s Best Family-Friendly Campsites & Destinations

Now that you’re prepped and packed, where should you go? Ireland is full of stunning family-friendly campsites, each offering something unique—whether it’s adventure-packed facilities, peaceful beachside escapes, or easy access to incredible outdoor experiences.

The best campsites aren’t just places to sleep—they’re launchpads for adventure. Think hiking through Connemara, kayaking in Clew Bay, or exploring ancient monastic sites in Wicklow.

To help you plan, we’ve selected five of the best campsites in Ireland, each with fantastic family-friendly activities and must-visit nearby attractions.