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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.

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

Campfire safety
Campfire burning in a metal ring at a campsite

Firewood for camping

Frequently asked questions

What should be in a camping first aid kit?

Bandages, gauze, tape, antiseptic wipes, tweezers and any medicine your family takes. Check the expiry dates before each trip.

How do I keep bugs away?

Use an EPA-registered repellent and follow the label. For kids, put it on your own hands first, then on the child, and keep it off their hands. The CDC says not to use products with oil of lemon eucalyptus or PMD on children under 3. Wear long sleeves at dusk and keep the tent zipped.

What are the basic campfire rules?

Check local rules and fire bans first. Use an existing fire ring, keep water and a shovel close and never leave a fire alone. Before bed, drown it, stir it, drown it again and feel that it is cool.

Sources: MedlinePlus: first aid kit · EPA: using repellents safely · CDC: preventing mosquito bites · Smokey Bear: campfire safety · National Park Service: campfires

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Free camping checklist

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