Hey Adventuring Mamas,

We just got back from our first fall camping trip in Algonquin Provincial Park (Ontario, Canada). Technically it's still summer here, but the weather is very much fall. This was only our second camping trip with our son, Cohen (10 months), so there was still a lot of learning how to make our lives easier while camping. 

I though I would give you some tips on what we did this camping trip to make not only our camping trip easier and more enjoyable, but our son's as well! 

1. Bring a highchair! 

I know, this sounds like it's going to take up a lot of room in your car, but I promise it's worth it. 

Not only were we able to use it for every meal while camping, but when my husband and I were setting up the tent and rest of the campsite, our son was able to enjoy a snack - while staying happy and out of the way! I know not all high chairs are easy to bring, but we have one of the IKEA Antilop Highchairs and it is so easy to dis-assemble and re-assemble. We even used it at our lunch stop outside a McDonalds. Trust me when I say that this will solve a lot of headaches, and crying fits when all you want to do is have a relaxing trip. 

2. Double Duty for the Play pen!

Bringing a play pen to act as a crib on the go is expected, but don't miss out on using it as a play area for your little too. Using the play pen as an outdoor play area can keep your little entertained - and out of trouble! Simply bring the play pen out of the tent while you're on the campsite throughout the day. Add a few toys and you have a spot where your little can go while you make dinner, pack for your hike, or simply read a book! 

3. Snacking on the go. 

Snacks are life. Or so most toddlers say at least. Don't forget to bring snacks everywhere on your camping trip! We went to Algonquin Provincial Park (Ontario, Canada) and in order to get to the hiking trails, you have to drive from your campsite to them. We made sure to pack snacks for our little for every hike we went on. Providing a simple rice cracker, applesauce pouch or even a bottle halfway through your hike can help keep your little happy! We all know fresh air gives you an appetite, and there are many times where I wish I had brought myself a granola bar on a hike - you will be happy you brought something for your little!

4. Carrier covers are the best!

There was rain on and off throughout the weekend when we went camping, and we did a lot of hiking. This made me nervous for how we were going to keep our little happy throughout it all. I brought his rain jacket, rain pants, and even little rain boots - but the carrier cover was the best! We were able to snap it on the carrier to keep our boy dry and warm even as the clouds came. I found it hard to find these, but one of our local shops makes them! Ours is from Little Lovey in Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada. (@little.lovey on instagram) Check out your local shops for something like this if you plan to hike often! 

5. Your little one is going to get dirty - don't stress about it. 

The first day of our camping trip, I was so worried about our little one getting ridiculously dirty. He wanted to literally roll... in the dirt. I would do everything I could to not put him down on the sand or dirt because I knew he would instantly roll around in it. But you know what? He could be washed. And it wasn't hurting anyone! Once I let go and realized he would likely have dirt on him for the weekend - he loved it. He was able to really explore. As long as your little isn't eating anything they shouldn't, letting them get a bit dirty is so much fun! 

Now, I'm not going to lie to you... although these tips make camping with a little easier, it is still EXHAUSTING. But the best kind. The memories we made this weekend are so worth it! 

Have any questions about taking your little camping? Or want to see more camping content? Let me know! 

I'm going to go have a nap now.