Christian Ringer on June 3, 2016

The first nights spent together in a tent are something very special for children and can become memories for life. To make it an equally enjoyable experience for parents, good gear is a plus. With the following five things, mom and dad will also have fond memories of their camping adventure!

ONE FOR EVERYTHING

The New Zealand company Mons Royale has made a name for itself in recent years as a manufacturer of high-quality merino sportswear. The "Monsie" is just as suitable for camping in the summer as it is for ski underwear or hut clothing in the winter. Not only does it feature a front opening for a small bowel movement, but with the practical two-way bottom zipper, it's also ready for larger bowel movements.

The outstanding properties of merino wool are also very welcome for camping. This fine wool is exceptionally temperature-regulating, breathable, quick-drying, and odor-inhibiting, and it keeps you warm even when wet. The fact that merino wool is also super soft makes it our first choice, and the "Monsie" is the perfect camping overall!

MONSTERLY GOOD

A sleeping bag is a nest, a den, a cozy blanket, and a plaything for children all in one. The "Kids Monster Grow" from Grüezi Bag impresses with its great looks alone. Beyond that, it's also a really good sleeping bag: The two-layer construction makes it nice and warm, and the materials used are breathable. It has an expandable footwell and fits children from 100 to 155 cm tall. The cozy fleece in the foot area, the pockets on the inside, and the small compass on the zipper are testament to the thoughtful and loving construction. 

AS YOU MAKE YOUR BED, SO YOU LIE

Their kids might be able to curl up on a completely unpadded surface and fall asleep peacefully without any problems. For many parents, however, the mere thought of the wafer-thin sleeping mats from their youth causes all their shoulder and neck muscles to tense in desperate self-defense. The "Therm-a-Rest Mondo King 3D" is the solution for all those long-suffering camping enthusiasts: The 10-centimeter-thick sleeping mat is wonderfully soft, warm—and in our case, even passed the mother-in-law test. And with the "Universal Couple Kit," the mats can be connected so that nothing slips and no annoying gaps develop between them. 

LIGHTHOUSE TO GO

A light source is a must when camping: Whether it's a smartphone LED, a headlamp, a traditional flashlight, or a lantern—there are many options. The benefits of a good lamp may only become apparent when you use it. One lamp with an "aha" effect is the "Lighthouse Mini" from GoalZero. Its wonderfully sophisticated design makes this small lamp truly enjoyable to use. Whether in its various hanging versions (magnetic, hooked, or threaded) or standing, the lamp fulfills its purpose brilliantly, providing a bright enough light for reading or, when dimmed, a soft enough light for sleeping.

In addition, the lamp can be set to shine in one direction only. A USB charging cable is permanently integrated, and the replaceable battery can also be used as a power source to charge cell phones or other devices if needed. The successful combination of a solid camping light and a technical gadget means the "Lighthouse Mini" has the potential to become a camping favorite.

BRAVE PROTECTOR

A loyal companion is a must for any exciting camping adventure. The Mammoth stuffed animal from the manufacturer of the same name is just the thing: strong and armed with tusks, yet soft and cuddly. It can also be used to keep watch outside the tent in case of spooky noises! 5 things for camping with children. Photo: Christian Ringer. Loyal companion and brave protector: The stuffed animal from Mammut.