How To Go Camping With Seniors

Camping is an activity that the whole family can enjoy together. Maybe you want to recreate the memories you had as a child with your own family, or maybe you’re bringing your parents or grandparents along for the adventure for the first time.

Whatever the case, camping can be enjoyed by people of all ages – with the proper planning!

When planning a trip with campers of different ages, you’ll want to take their needs into consideration. This is especially true for seniors. To plan a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable trip for you and your senior loved ones, keep these tips in mind.

Pick the right campsite

A successful camping trip begins by choosing the right campsite. If tent camping isn’t ideal, choose a campsite with other accommodation options. If you’re camping with a group, you might look for campsites with a variety of accommodations so people can choose the arrangements that best suit them.

Broken Head Holiday Park offers Deluxe Beach Cabins equipped with air conditioning, a full kitchen, private bathroom, and room for up to six guests. There are even interconnecting cabins, perfect for family get-togethers where you can be close to one another while still enjoying your privacy.  

The variety of accommodation options at Broken Head Holiday Park near Byron Bay is perfect for camping trips with seniors – if you want to sleep under the stars but your parent or grandparent prefers some more amenities, you can all have what you want at the same site. 

It’s also a good idea to choose a campsite that is not too remote; you want to relax in nature, while still having certain amenities and emergency resources nearby. And, of course, it’s a good idea to choose a campsite with even terrain to avoid falls. 

Plan camping activities all ages can enjoy

Remember, you want all of the campers in your group to be able to enjoy the trip. A rigorous hike or rock climbing adventure might be fun for you, but not for your mother and father. 

Whether it’s a walk along the beach, fishing, bird watching, or BBQ cooking, be sure your campsite allows for activities that all can participate in. Whatever activities you have planned, don’t forget to pack any necessary equipment like binoculars, fishing equipment, or walking sticks. 

Good seating

Remember that while you might not mind sitting in a folding chair or on a blanket on the ground, older people might need better seating to avoid back pain or injury. Pack sturdy camp chairs with plenty of stability that are not too low to the ground. 

Choose the right bedding

If you’re bringing your own bedding instead of relying on a cabin setup, opt for a sturdy cot with a self-inflating air bed and warm sleeping bag.

If you do plan to erect a tent for sleeping, choose a taller, roomier tent so seniors won’t have to bend down to get in and out, and there will be plenty of room to move around without tripping over your belongings. A trip-and-fall can be hazardous for anyone, but especially dangerous for the elderly. 

Don’t forget the essentials

On any camping trip, it’s important to pack lots of water, sun protection, insect repellant, and any necessary prescription medications – especially when traveling with senior campers. Before departing for your camping trip, make a list of all medications and the prescriptions for them.

Bring any toiletries and extra layers of clothing and socks to help keep everyone comfortable. In case of an emergency, pack phone chargers, a first aid kit, a map of your surroundings, and a flashlight and/or lantern. 

Check the weather. Pack plenty of sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn. Have a contingency plan in case of rain or a sudden drop in temperature. 

Plan your next family camping trip at Broken Head Holiday Park

Broken Head Holiday Park is an all-ages getaway location perfect for families of all sizes. Get started planning your next adventure today. Contact us to enquire about availability and amenities to make your next escape one you’ll remember for years to come. Or jump online and book your accommodation today!