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Camping safety for families

Most camping problems are small and easy to prevent. Here is what to pack and what to know about first aid, bugs and fire. This is general guidance, not medical advice.

Parent and two kids hiking on a forest trail START WITH THIS Camping safety tips for families

General guidance, not medical advice. Check local fire rules before you light a fire.

Open first aid kit on a wooden table

First aid
Bug spray on a camp chair beside a lit tent at dusk

Bugs and repellent
Campfire in a metal ring with a water bucket beside it

Campfire safety

Frequently asked questions

What should be in a camping first aid kit?

Bandages, gauze, tape, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, scissors, pain relief and any medicine your family takes. Add blister pads, bite cream and emergency numbers, and check the expiry dates before each trip.

How do I keep bugs away?

Use an EPA-registered repellent and follow the label, especially for kids. Wear long sleeves at dusk, keep the tent zipped and camp away from standing water.

What are the basic campfire rules?

Check local rules and fire bans first. Use an existing fire ring, keep water or a shovel close and never leave a fire alone. Before bed, drown it, stir it and check that the ashes are cool.

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Free camping checklist

75+ items in a PDF and 3 emails with your first-trip plan.