Just had my first weekend away camping on my own with dc's- success!!

[doublechocchip]

Decided last week, had a few days off in a row and dh was working all week so borrowed a small 3 man dome tent from parents and off we went to Anglesey with the dc's (6 and 4). Weather was amazing apart from second night but even then it only rained at night. Can't wait to go again! Stayed at Bagnol campsite near Trearrdur Bay within walking distance, lovely site although quite noisy till late but children slept through it all!

Good things I discovered, the M&S tinned curries were lovely.

I took an IKEA lack side table as our camp table which was great as you just unscrew legs so it lies totally flat in the car, easy to clean and good height for kids to eat/colour at and for me to cook on.

Much preferred taking my duvet to a sleeping bag.

Just took one hand towel between us for after showers seeing as we all showered together and it saved loads of room.

Battery powered fairy lights I grabbed at the last min but they looked really nice in the tent and let a good amount of light for us to read at night (prob because we were in a small tent).

Bought a 12 pack of cheap water bottles from aldi, froze them all individually then used them as ice packs in our cool bag and drank them as they slowly defrosted, milk was kept pretty cool for breakfast even on the second day.

Things I need to change for next time, definitely need an airbed to have a good night sleep tried a SIM and it wasn't enough for me.
Need to buy a car charger for my phone although the reception at this site would charge it for free.

Got the camping bug now can't wait to go again!

Very brave! considering it myself but a bit worried about putting the tent up by myself. Looks like lovely views - was it far to drive too?

90 mins from where we live didldidi but its right along the a55 on the coastal road so it goes really quickly as its such a scenic route.

You should definitely do it, have a go of putting the tent up in your garden maybe just by yourself and if all else fails someone should help when you get there. Views were gorgeous, can't wait to go back.

Congratulations! I know how daunting it can be to go alone. Now you've done it, there'll be no stopping you! I think the Lack table's a good idea, I thought of buying one for camping, cheaper and sturdier than the proper camping ones.

Didldidi, just have a practice beforehand and you'll be fine. I went alone last week and put up our big outwell tent alone and it's given me a huge confidence boost. I'd definitely go again now without DH. It's so liberating once you know you can do it. You can go anywhere!

Thanks Anna yep liberating is exactly how I'd describe it, glad I decided fairly last min or I think I'd have talked myself out of it! The Lack was brill and very light too!

Well done :-)

Ok you've convinced me! Now just decide where to go...

Yay!...great advice about bringing the Ikea Lack side table..I would have never thought of bringing flat pack furniture..genius!
And brill idea about freezing the water bottles. I'm learning some great tricks :)

You should be so proud that you have got of your arse and given the kids a fantastic experience and shown people it can be done easily on a budget.
We find the kids don't remember what they got last Christmas but they remember every holiday.
Glad weather was kind to you

Well done you! I did this for the first time last year and we've not looked back. Been 4 times my own with the boys since then and its great.