Just to say - i bloody love camping ;)

[watchoutforthatsnail]

because, i do.

Only started last year, but have been away twice this year already, once for a full week. Off again after lunch today. cant wait, love it, even the packing of the car.

:)

I too love the packing of the car and also the pitching up but perhaps I am just strange I don't think there is anything I dislike about the whole experience (apart from coming home of course)
Not managed to get away in the tent this year but hopefully in the next couple of weeks :)

I love it too

I love:
No housework,
Waking up listening to the birds singing,
No TV,
Kids playing outside,
Sitting round a campfire,
Being outdoors,
Freedom.

I could go on

Oh I miss camping. We are not going this year.
AIBU to ask if I could join u!

Hate to hijack but I am going camping for a week soon for the first time with a 5 and 2 year old. do you have any tips to make our trip idyllic as you describe cos I was imagining no sleep, screaming kids, mud everywhere, cold etc etc

Lol@ you, take some toys for inside and outside the tent.

Dont get cold, put layers on as soon as you go chilly. Dont shower at bedtime unless you have a hair dryer. Get the kids into PJ's + jumper and put your Pj's in sleeping bag with hot water bottle. Luverly.

Dont get wet, put waterproofs on before you go out of the tent. It is tricky to dry clothes in the tent but they will dry in the car if necessary.

Use plenty of sweets, crisps and treats to stop the kids screaming
Dont let them stay up too late because they will be up early.

Wear wellies then the mud doesnt matter, try to pitch your tent at the top of a slope or at least sloping away from the door.

Try to relax, dont worry about the children being mucky, no one cares.

And dont be afraid to pack up and go home if it is really tough, your LO's are quite little and wont hold it against you.

Good luck

Thanks for the advice Ineeda I will see if this trip converts me from a B&Ber into a camper