Amy Hagstrom - Pitstops for Kids

Three great family campsites in France

July 26, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

France is known for its romantic getaways filled with twinkling lights, iconic landmarks, and plenty of wine and cheese. But there are also plenty of family-friendly activities to be found as well. In fact, one timeless outing that is hugely popular for families in France is camping. Many European parents take their children to spend some quality time outdoors in the summer sun in France. This summer staple has become a great family bonding experience for citizens from numerous different countries and continents.

As with any type of travel, though, there are certain complications that could occur; ensure that you’ve packed the proper clothing for unexpected weather, brought emergency equipment along, and that you have your necessary documents if you’re traveling in from outside of France. This is especially important when traveling with kids. In addition to passport requirements for minors, make sure you check out if there are any visa requirements, and if you need to bring a birth certificate for your kids. If you’ve planned your trip and are running out of time to secure visas, then check out services like Favisbook appointments to see if you can get a meeting with the French consulate in your area as soon as possible.

Once you’ve decided to take your family on a one-of-a-kind camping tri, consider these 3 amazing French campsites that will provide memories your children will never forget!

Family campsites in France:

Le Village Parisien

This campsite is open to families from April to September and has so much to do that is all included in the price. The camp is located really close to Paris, allowing you to have a day trip, without paying a fortune for accommodation in the capital! That also means it’s a reasonable distance to Disneyland Paris, so you can always get an adrenaline rush there, too!

Family campsites in France have so many activities for adults and kids that you’d find it hard to get bored. There’s also a range of accommodation options, so this isn’t like camping in the wilds of the forests. Here you can find whatever type of home away from home you’re looking for, whether that’s a VIP experience, or something a bit more rustic.

You can play any number of sports on the sports grounds, and swim indoors or outdoors, have a BBQ, cook for yourself in your accommodation or grab a bite in the bar. You don’t have to hunt and forage for your meals… unless you want to!

Ty Nadan, Brittany

Brittany has so many beautiful beaches that it’s worthwhile visiting regardless of whether you decide to camp or not. However, this campsite is particularly great if you have older kids, who are looking for a bit more adventure. The campsite itself is right by the river, while the beaches are only 20 minutes away.

The campsite has stuff happening all the time, day and night, so you won’t have to worry about your kids complaining about being bored! There’s an outdoor pool with water slides, beautiful scenic walks and basketball tournaments running all the time. Of course, for older or more adventurous children, there’s archery, paintballing and kayaking.

No matter what you’re interested in, Ty Nadan campsite will probably have something for you to enjoy. Even if you just want to sit back and relax, or maybe have a few chats, then you can rest easy knowing your kids are off having the time of their lives! This is camping, but not as you know it.

Les Méditerranées Beach Garden, Languedoc

The Languedoc region of France is absolutely stunning and is always guaranteed to have great weather during the summer months as it borders with Spain. The main city of the region is called Montpellier, which is a perfect combination of historic and modern.

This campsite is perfect for a great vacation, where you can sit back and relax on the beach, or explore the town of Montpellier to sample a slice of life from the South of France. For families, the accommodation is spacious enough that siblings shouldn’t fit, and the air conditioning makes it super comfortable no matter how hot it gets in the sun.

There’s a variety of restaurants and bars in the complex, along with an onsite spa, where you can really relax and unwind with a holistic treatment or a massage. Camping is such a welcome change to poolside hotels or city breaks, making it a great compromise for everyone!

Popular state parks in Hawaii

July 25, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Many people around the world think that Hawaii is just a place where they can see a lot of beautiful beaches and water activities such as surfing and kiteboarding. This picture of Hawaii is what has always been portrayed on TV and magazines; however, there’s so much more to Hawaii than meets as it’s also a place for many natural and historical wonders. Did you know there are more than six state and national parks in Hawaii?

Popular state parks in Hawaii: Today, we will be going through six state and national parks that you have to visit.

1. Na Pali Coast State Park

Na Pali Coast State Park is known for the world’s famous footpaths – the Kalalau Trail. This trail is situated along the tropical rainforest facing the panoramic seafront.

You can reach Kalalau Valley from Ke’e Beach. The trail is a little dangerous during rainfall, so you have to equip yourself with good footwear and other safety gear.

2. Waimea Canyon State Park

Waimea Canyon State Park is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. However, unlike the Grand Canyon, Waimea Canyon State Park is mixed with lush and green areas.

The rocky portions are red, and the interior is wild and not barren. Although the road is undeveloped, you can have a short walk toward the Waimea Canyon and Pu’uokila from the paved Route 550 in order to get a perfect view.

3. Diamond Head State Park

Diamond Head State Park is located in the eastern part of Honolulu, Hawaii. It’s a circular volcano that looks like diamond crystals.

If you are in Honolulu, Diamond Head State Park is one of the most famous landmarks you will come across.

4. Makena State Park

Maui is what makes Hawaii famous for great beaches, and one of these is Makena State Park. It’s been declared a national park to preserve its beauty and wonder.

It’s not an ordinary beach as Makena State Park is surrounded with white sand and clear water. This is perfect for all beach activities like sunbathing and snorkeling.

5. Iao Valley State Monument

For hikers and mountain climbers, Lao Valley State Monument is another ideal destination. Most visitors climb this mountain not to seek adventure but to find fulfillment in reaching this sacred altar.

Aside from that, the place is also historical as this used to be the site where the Maui army and King Kamehameha I had their historic battle.

6. Haleakala National Park

Hawaii is known for its live volcanoes. When it comes to volcanoes, the Big Island is the place to think of.

There are several volcanic craters in the Big Island and one of them is Haleakala National Park. This attracts not only scientists, but also ordinary spectators.

Conclusion

Hawaii has many things to offer; aside from its great coastline and warm tropical weather, it possesses some hidden gems that are no longer secret to the locals and regular visitors. This is evident in the many national parks you can find in Hawaii.

You don’t have to visit them all just to appreciate Hawaii, because each of these national parks is a complete travel experience in its own. Try to visit at least one or more during your travels, and you will understand what Hawaii really is.

What to do in Boston with kids: Fun things to explore on the Rose Kennedy Greenway

July 22, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Experience the entire Greenway on foot by starting at either Chinatown Park in the south or at the North End Parks. In addition to the wide open green spaces, perfect for tossing a ball or playing tag, you can enjoy walking the paths surrounded by beautiful plantings, unique art installations, historic landmarks, attractions; Not to mention the breezes and views of Boston Harbor and the waterfront as you go!

Fun Things to Explore with Kids on the Rose Kennedy Greenway:

Wondering what to do in Boston with kids? Some of our favorite highlights for kids include:

1. Greenway Carousel

This one-of-a-kind carousel located in the heart of Boston featuring 33 New England native animals. These unique carousel creatures were inspired by the drawings of Boston schoolchildren and brought to life by a local artist. Entirely ADA accessible, and fun for all ages, take a spin on a sea turtle, a lobster, an owl, a whale and more!

Steps from Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Christopher Columbus Park, and the Boston Harbor Walk, (not to mention, the North End!) you’ll enjoy a cool ocean breeze with views of the City in every direction!

2. Harbor Fog Sculpture

This interactive installation in the Greenway’s Wharf District area, between the New England Aquarium and the Boston Harbor Hotel, is both a cooling fountain and a contemporary art piece. Consisting of three contemporary tiki-like geometric structures, surrounded by large granite blocks, the motion-activated piece releases mist and fog and emits colorful lights when people walk nearby. Kids love to frolic through it, as they cool off on a hot summer day.

3. North End Swinging Benches

These popular benches are a great place to sit and relax, just steps away from the North End. Picture a bench, that’s a swing. They face Boston’s downtown area and overlook a wide grassy area with gardens along the Greenway, as well as the lower patio of water jets that you can kids of all ages can play around in and cool off in during the summer.

You’ll often see people carrying white boxes tied with string around these parts. Those are full of cannoli and pastry from either Mike’s Pastry or Modern Pastry. This park is the perfect spot to grab a table to enjoy these delicious desserts, especially as dusk falls.

4. Rings Fountain

Located in n Wharf Districts Park, across from the New England Aquarium, is a wonderful urban spray park, where you can cool off in the hot Summer days. Rings Fountain has 64 nozzles that create circles of water, the fountain runs May through October. During the evening hours, colorful lights dance with the water spray for a truly magical summer in the city experience.

Families can come together and enjoy some water play in the rings fountain, toddlers, teens and children of all ages will enjoy getting drenched in water in the Summer. Food trucks are always on hand from May through September, and there are also many restaurants nearby as well as the food court at Quincy Market and Fanueil Hall.

5. Codzilla

Codzilla – Looking for a bit of a thrill? Get ready for Codzilla! Located in the Boston Harbor next to the Aquarium, Codzilla is Boston’s first and only high-speed thrill boat ride featuring a brightly colored hull and two turbo-charged diesel engines generating 2,800 horsepower.

The ride starts off at a slower pace until they get out of the Harbor. That’s where you get to hear the legend of Codzilla. Once you make it out to open water, the music gets loud and the boat goes fast! Lots of speed and fun splashy turns await you.

If thrill rides aren’t your thing, Boston Harbor Whale watching tours also depart from this dock, so you really have a lot of fun excursions to choose from.

6. Rotating Whimsical Art Exhibits:

Everyone looks forward to the rotating art installations that change annually on the Greenway. The exhibits often include lots of whimsical art, that is great for photo ops, inspires conversation and is just pleasing to the eye.

Dewey Square, across from South Station, features a giant mural that changes every year. It’s a mesmerizing process to watch, and once it’s done, the city gets to enjoy it for the entire year. There is always something new to see and interact with on the Greenway.

You never know what you might come across. Is this the Wicked Witch of the West’s house? Or just a yellow meeting house on it’s side? How many different Pig Sculptures can you find on this artists scavenger hunt? You can even find exhibits that have an element of augmented reality to them. Just download the app and watch as the art transforms.

7. Chinatown Parks

A lovely oasis at the southern end of the Greenway, this one-acre linear park contains design elements drawn from Asian traditions and art work. The area contains a serpentine walkway edged by bamboo within bright red sculptural elements and a unique fountain that suggests a waterfall and shallow riverbed.

Right outside the historic Chinatown Gate, you’ll find a colorful geometric play structure that is usually being enjoyed by young children, as well as the local Tai Chi club practicing meditation under nearby trees. You can often find lively board & card games being played by locals in the shaded area by the gate.

Don’t miss your opportunity to grab some dim sum, or a bowl of noodles and dumplings for lunch in one of the many nearby restaurants.

There are so many more things to do in Boston with kids, and the Greenway provides a nearly 17-acre oasis of green space to enjoy a good number of them. They say the best things in life are free, and it’s pretty cool to know that can be especially true in Boston.

Stacey Sao is the managing editor at BostonCentral, a website that specializes in helping parents find fun and free things to do with kids in Greater Boston.

Travel gear: Smart items to pack in your personal item

July 17, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Whether it is a family trip, vacation, trekking trip, or a business trip, everyone faces the problem of packing the right stuff into our handbag, tote, backpack or other personal item. Packing for a trip needs planning that is a lot demanding than planning for the trip itself. For this reason, I have come up with a strategy about smart things that need to be in our handbag or a carry-on bag before anything else for much safer and happier travel.

Traveling smartly: smart items to pack in your personal item

This is an era of smart products, and from our laptops to mobile phones, everything is smart. These items have made our lives easier and much more comfortable. Smart, multi-tasking things are the best to keep in your handbag as they take small space, and can help us do multiple tasks with them. In the past, everyone had to carry heavy laptops in our backpacks. And setting them up to do even a simple task of booking an online ticket was near impossible at any holiday destination.

However, smart products such as mobile phone and tablets have made our lives easier and simpler. Being smarter, and evolving with smart products have brought a lot of positive changes to our lives. On my last trip to Thailand, I was able to find a handsome discount on my flight ticket. All I did was to click on flights-to-bangkok.co.uk, and all the discount deals, cheap flight ticket, accommodation, and traveling transfers were in front of me. Smart traveling always pays off.

Why a handbag?

A handbag or tote is everyone’s best friend on a traveling trip as it seems so compact, yet it offers a great deal of space. It keeps reminding everyone that they need to pack little and light, however when people exceed that limit, it still has enough room for extra essentials.

Smart items to pack in your handbag

It doesn’t matter that you are an experienced traveler, or going on your first trip, you always need to plan your packing. You need to make a check of everything that you may need where you are going. You also need to make a checklist of all the important documents that you may need to keep. Following is a list of smart things that every traveler needs to pack in their handbag. These items will make their traveling much easier and comfortable. So read on and do carry these items on your next trip.

Medicines and prescription drugs

Most people make the mistake of packing their medicines and prescription drugs in their luggage. This doesn’t seem a big mistake a person can make; however, if you come across any need in an emergency, you will have nothing to do instead of waiting out all journey. People who rely heavily on their prescribed drugs and meds, it is imperative for them to carry their stuff in a handbag instead of luggage as they may need them during their time in the air. Airlines also misplace or even lose the luggage sometimes, so it is wise to keep all the important medicines in your handbag or carry-on bag.

Collapsible water bottle

Most airlines don’t allow water bottles in your hand-carry or personal item bags. But keeping a collapsible water bottle may pass the security checks. We don’t recommend you to take what isn’t allowed on the plane. However, air compression can get you thirsty more often, and you cannot call a host that often. So it is wise to keep one collapsible water bottle in your carry-on.

All kinds of documents

Keep all your documents in your handbag. Airlines can misplace your luggage and we don’t want you to go through all that inconvenience of reissuing those documents or finding your bag.

Tablets, Laptops, and mobile phones

When you are traveling, it is important to keep all your electronic items such as a laptop, tablet and mobile phones in your handbag. These items are prone to stealing, and luggage is vulnerable as it isn’t with us all the time. Airport authorities also handle our luggage with no care at all and just toss our stuff here and there. Our valuable electronic items can easily break in the transit, which can become a great source of inconvenience.

Charging devices

When we are on an airplane, or at an airport, we tend to kill our time but we have limited options. In this scenario, our laptops or mobile phones are the best sources of entertainment we have. However, their battery can easily run out, which leaves us asking other people for their chargers. To skip the embarrassment, it is imperative to keep all your chargers in the handbag.

Universal plug/adapter

When traveling abroad, we come across charging plugs that have the weirdest opening sockets. This leaves us no choice but to wait until the end of our long journey and recharge our phones and laptops at our hotel. To avoid this inconvenience, always carry a universal plug or adapter with you, so that you can use it anywhere you want to charge your phone.

One extra pair of undergarments and socks

Keeping one extra pair of undergarments and socks in your handbag is surely a smart move. Sometimes you travel to places that are hot and you can avail a chance to take a dip in a fountain or a pool. However, you don’t because you have no extra pair of undies and socks. For this reason, keep one extra pair all the time in your handbag. When traveling in a plane, you can also need a pair of socks to keep your feet warm, as air temperature can drop with air compression.

Mouth freshener

Mouth freshener is a smart item to carry in a handbag. Sometimes traveling takes a very long time to reach your destination, and you don’t get a chance to brush your teeth after eating something or taking a nap. Nobody wants a bad odor to come out of his or her mouth. For this reason, it is wise to keep a mouth freshener sweet or gum.

Best budget-friendly destinations

July 17, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Traveling is a wonderful notion, as you get to spend some time at your favorite place(s). You can refresh your mind, and eliminate all the stress that a normal lifestyle leaves on you. It is certainly a great activity to stay creative, constructive and healthy. But traveling does require a lot of money, and it is very difficult to plan and execute a trip on a budget. However, my travel advice to the esteemed reader will be to visit destinations that are budget-friendly and offer exquisite getaway. In this blog post, I am going to tell my readers which holiday destinations they can visit in a budget, and enjoy a great time. So read this article and learn about different budget-friendly holiday destinations.

Best budget-friendly destinations for holiday:

However, before I present my best budget holiday destinations, I will like to tell my readers about a great way to save their valuable money. Whenever you want to travel, you can find cheap flight tickets offers from the platform of a renowned travel agency. They will not only find cheap flights for you to your destination, but also find cheap hotel accommodations, travel transfers, and local transportations. This is the best way to travel, and when you have a budget to follow, there is no better way.Best budget friendly destinations for holiday

Laos

Located in South East Asia, Laos is truly a fun destination. Although this country is massively overlooked due to its location, it is still an amazingly beautiful place to visit with friends, family or loved one. This landlocked country is sparingly populated with mountainous terrain and a forest landscape that covers 70% of the total country’s area. With such an amazing terrain, Laos is a perfect getaway for some amazing activities such as trekking, mountain climbing, kayaking, hot air ballooning, zip-lining, and much more.

Argentina

Argentina is one of the cheapest countries to travel in the world. This fact will make it one of the most ideal places for anyone who wants to travel on the budget in 2019. As Argentinian currency is massively devaluing in comparison with any Western currency, it is becoming much easier to explore this place. You can visit the highest mountain in the world outside the Asian continent in the Andes, which is known as Aconcagua. You can also visit Patagonia for some elite trekking and mountain climbing experience. The famous cities include Cordoba, Salta, and Buenos Aires. You can also visit the infamous waterfalls of Foz do Iguacu. Enjoy every bit of this country in a budget and post all the pictures on social media.

Georgia

Georgia is a Caucasian country on the borders of Asia and Europe. This country is quite inexpensive to visit, and a truly beautiful place to visit. You can visit this place in the lowest bucks, and get amazed by all the sceneries and serene cities. This place has all the potential to become your first love for all the good reasons. The mountains of Caucasus are truly beautiful and unique, as well as never-ending grass plains, cultural cities, and villages. You can also visit the black sea that touches the shores of Georgia.

Nepal

Nepal is one of the most diverse and beautiful countries in the world. The best thing about this country is that it can be visited on a very low budget. This country has the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest, along with some other highest peaks of the Himalayas and the world. For this reason, Nepal is a tourist magnet for everyone especially mountain lovers. This country has other places to offer to such as wildlife parks, cultural cities, temples, markets, and much more. Plan a trip to Nepal and you will never regret it.

Romania

Romania is a very beautiful country in Europe, and it has great potential to exceed all the limits of expectation of any visitor. This Transylvanian country has some of the most cultural medieval towns, cities, churches, food, and an amazing Carpathian mountain range. Little is known or marketed about this country, but once you visit it, it can become your favorite destination. The legend of Dracula originated from Romania, and the Dracula castle is still a place to visit for all the tourists.

Mexico

Mexico is known all over the world for all the bad things. However, it is not exactly the case. This country is a very naturally gifted place and opens to all the tourists for exploration. The best part about this country is that it is quite inexpensive. There are a lot of high altitude plains, beaches, mountains, hill stations, historical places, resorts, cultural cities, and much more.

Turkey

Traveling to Turkey is every traveler’s dream, and with the recent economic crisis, visiting this country in a budget is quite easily possible. Turkey is a transcontinental country, and it is rich in culture. There are many Roman ruins, as well as Ottoman remains that you must visit. There are also other amazing landmarks and significant places such as Cappadocia, Anatolia, Pamukkale, and much more.

Philippines

The Philippines is one the first choice for any visitor for an amazing tropical beach holiday. This country has more than 7000 islands, and this provides an amazing chance for everyone to choose which island he or she will prefer to visit. The Philippines is also culturally very rich, so you can expect to see some unique stuff in its cities and towns. Above every other feature, this country can be visited in a limited budget.

Morocco

Located in the northern part of Africa on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco is one of the primary choices for all budget travelers. This country is rich in white and beautiful beaches, as well as cultural cities that can amaze you beyond any description. One of the best destinations in Morocco in Tangier, which is influenced a both modern, and ancient cultures. The old city is full of stalls and streets, with people selling food items, drinks, different stuff such as electronic items, computers and much more.

Iran

Located between Middle East Asia, and Central Asia, Iran is an oil-rich country. But due to Western sanctions, the economy is always struggling, which makes it one of the cheapest traveling destination in the world. With serene beaches on its coasts, as well as great access to the Caspian Sea, this place is truly magnificent for every traveler. There are also cultural cities such as Tehran, Qom, Bandar Abbas, along with historical places such as Persepolis, Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashhad, and much more for everyone to explore. You can also visit the mountainous region of this country, and be amazed at nature’s marvels.

Six family-friendly U.S. cities to visit this summer

July 15, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

We’re officially in full swing of summer, and you may be attempting to do some last-minute family vacation planning. Even if you’re not ready to pack up the kids and head to Europe, there are plenty of amazing destinations right here in the U.S.

The following is a round-up of six family-friendly cities you can visit in the U.S. this summer or at any time, and some highlights of those cities to help you with planning.

Six Family-Friendly U.S. Cities to Visit This Summer

Nashville:

Nashville, Tennessee is a fabulous city to visit, no matter your age, but it’s also extremely family-friendly. During the day you can wander along Broadway and hear the music pouring out of the honky tonks. Some of them may even let people in of all ages, as long as it is daytime and not in the later evening hours.

Nashville has a lot of casual eateries, you can visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, and there’s also the Grand Ole Opry.

The Grand Ole Opry has nightly shows appropriate for all ages.

The Gaylord Opryland Hotel is a good option for families in terms of lodging because it’s huge and caters to families with things like an indoor steamboat ride.

San Diego:

San Diego has warm, temperate weather at any time of the year, and it’s beautiful. You can go to Balboa Park with is a famous zoo that also has gardens and museums.

With a Balboa Park Explorer Multi-Day Pass, it’s possible to see The San Diego Zoo and get entrance to the other museums for an entire week.

When you tire of the museums like the TheNAT San Diego Natural History Museum, head to the beaches or the tide pools at Cabrillo National Monument.

New York City:

New York City isn’t always considered a family-friendly destination, but it should be. Also, some of the most amazing aspects of the city won’t cost you anything, like walking through Times Square or Central Park. The Museum of Natural History is great for kids too.

There are some plays on Broadway that are family friendly if you can score tickets including Aladdin, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Frozen, and for older kids, Hamilton.

Washington D.C.:

Going to Washington D.C. is a learning experience, but it’s done in such a fun way that your kids probably won’t even notice the educational aspect. Washington, D.C. is also a fairly affordable city for visitors.

The Smithsonian Institute boasts 19 free museums, and of these, some of the most notable are the National Zoo, the Air & Space Museum, and the Museum of Natural History.

The moments that will leave your kids in awe include the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial.

There are many kid-friendly hotels in the area as well. One hotel located near many of the must-see attractions is the Hyatt Place Arlington/Courthouse Plaza. Your family will have easy access to the Metro, which will bring you to all major attractions, which will reduce the stress of driving through D.C.

Boston:

Another location where history can come alive for kids is Boston. If you do opt for Boston, you might want the Boston CityPass. The Boston CityPass offers discounted admission to some of the most popular attractions in the city including the New England Aquarium, the Museum of Science, the Skywalk Observatory, and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum and Library.

You can also grab food at Quincy Market, or take a picnic in the Public Garden. Walk along the Freedom Trail, or take a self-guided tour of the campus of Harvard while you’re there.

There are Friday movie nights during the summer at the Hatch Shell, and admission to the Museum of Fine Arts is free for kids under 17 on the weekends.

San Antonio:

Finally, if you want to make your way down south, consider San Antonio. San Antonio is the perfect family-friendly destination, and like many other cities on our list, it’s a place you can ensure is fairly affordable.

The San Antonio Riverwalk is beautiful, and you’ll hear live music, you can take boat rides,and there are plenty of restaurants along the way. There is the old town so you can see the architecture and enjoy boutiques, and you can take in the history at The Alamo.

For the kids, there’s SeaWorld San Antonio as well as Six Flags Fiesta Texas. San Antonio is even home to Morgan’s Wonderland, which is the only amusement park in the U.S. designed for kids with special needs. There are the DoSeum interactive children’s museum and Natural Bridge Caverns for families with kids too.

San Antonio is hot in the summer, so be prepared, but you can go year-round and enjoy fairly mild weather along with great things to do.

Camping packing lists and tips

July 15, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Family camping trips are an excellent way to spend time together in the outdoors and enjoy a vacation on a budget, provided you have some camping tips and hacks up your sleeve. Otherwise, it can take as long to prepare and pack for a camping trip as the trip itself! To ensure that you’re ready for that next weekend trip to the woods, use the following camping packing lists and tips.

The Camp Kitchen

Organizing and packing your camp kitchen is often the most complicated part of preparing for a camping trip. The workaround is having dedicated camping pots and pans, utensils, and kitchen gadgets stored apart from your home kitchen, which will save you time and effort in packing and unpacking daily supplies. Here’s what you need:

Kitchen Packing List:

Camp stove: Opt for a lightweight backpacking stove or traditional car camping stove.
Fuel: Make sure you have the correct propane fuel for your stove.
Plates, cups, and eating utensils (1 per family member): Use paper products or opt for reusable mess kits, which are available in outdoor stores.
Tablecloth: Buy a cheap one at a dollar store.
Dishwashing tub: Opt for a plastic tub or nylon, sealed, collapsible tub.
Dishwashing supplies: Paper or cloth towels or dishrags; dish soap; and sponge.
Matches
Fire starter
Ice
Cooler
Tarp
Grill (optional): Most campsites provide a grill over the fire pit.
Camp table (optional): Helpful for organization, but not necessary.
Kitchen tools/utensils: Spatula, all-purpose knife, potholders, serving ladle, butter knife, tongs, long skewers for s’mores or meat-on-a-stick, and tin foil.

Try this kitchen packing hack: Store your kitchen tools and utensils in a toiletry bag or other small bag to keep them organized and clean between uses at a dusty campground. It will be easy to hang them from a tree branch for easy use when you’re at your site.

The Camp Sleeping Quarters

Everyone wants to be warm and cozy at night! Whether you’re camping in warm or colder climates, everyone in your family will need the essentials to ensure that they’re safe at night. Store tents and sleeping pads in a second large tote, making it easy to pack up the car and head to the campsite at any time.

Sleeping Packing List:

Tent(s): Opt for one large family tent or 2–3 smaller tents. Larger tents have the advantage of space, but small tents fit in cozier campsites.
Sleeping bags: Buy sleeping bags rated at 20 degrees F, unless you know you’ll be camping in colder climates. A 20–40 degrees F bag works for most camping experiences. Down or down-alternative bags pack down smaller and are lighter and warmer than cotton or nylon/polyester bags.
Sleeping pads: Opt for thick blow-up mattresses for car camping, or save space with backpacking pads that inflate with just a few breaths of air.
Ground tarp: Don’t skip the ground tarps. They protect your tent floor and keep the dew and cold at bay.
Towels and personal hygiene items: One per family member!
Flashlights or headlamps: One per family member. Everyone should have their own light source for safety and convenience.
Lantern: One per family will do. Ideally, your lantern can transition from kitchen area to tent and back.

Try this sleeping quarters hack: Buy a ground tarp one size larger than your tent, and use the overhanging space as a place to take off shoes and wipe off feet before entering the tent.

The Campfire Area

Camping just isn’t camping without a comforting campfire, right? The campfire area is important, but there’s good news: it’s easy to pack for!

Campfire area packing list:

Firewood: Buy on-site, or save money by buying it at a local grocery store.
Matches and fire starter: You’ll already have these in your camp kitchen supplies. The type of fire starter you use is up to you; we like fire disks or fire cubes.
Axe or hatchet: Useful for breaking down firewood. Store away from children.
Camp chairs: Some campsites include a bench around the fire ring, but for most, you’ll want collapsible camp chairs. To save space in the car, opt for the smaller, lighter versions sold in backpacking stores.
S’mores: Be sure to bring the ingredients for this tasty campfire treat!
Deck of cards or board game: Everyone enjoys playing a game around the fire.
Lantern: This item is already with your sleeping supplies!

Try this campfire area hack: Never bring firewood all the way from home. It takes up lots of room in your car or truck, which could otherwise be used for other items, and it could be banned from your campground if you’re driving any distance. Campgrounds often require local wood to be burned in an effort to reduce foreign insect species from invading new areas.

Miscellaneous Items Campers Love

Think you have everything you need? Probably not! Read the list of extras below and decide what you can’t live without!

Insect repellent or wristbands
Sunscreen
Toilet paper and shovel (if you don’t have a campground restroom)
Inflatable wading pool for small children to play in
Playpen for babies to stay off the dirt (sometimes)
Clothespins and a clothesline to hang wet clothing
Extra sheet or towel to hang in the tent to create “rooms”
Hammock
Baby wipes to clean hands and faces
Camera
Water/wading shoes
Small net and bucket to use in streams
Small toys for kids to use in camp
Bikes or scooters for larger campgrounds

Source: Fix.com Blog

Dealing with camping mishaps: Camping tips for families!

July 11, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

It’s almost camping season! If you’ve been reluctant to enter the wilderness with your family because of worries or fears, read on! Our camping tips address the most common camping mishaps, and how to deal!

Those who camp regularly know it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Here’s what to expect from the unexpected and what to do when you encounter camping mishaps. Read on for camping hacks!

When The Weather Turns Against You

Bad weather is the most common mishap encountered by campers…even when car camping. Usually nothing more than an inconvenience or temporary delay of outdoor fun, weather can sometimes become dangerous. Here’s how to protect yourself from serious weather issues from mother nature.

Rain: It’s good to be prepared for rain when camping. Be sure to bring a reliable rain fly for your tent, rain jackets for everyone in the family and, if rain is predicted, an extra shelter or canvas tarp to put over eating and cooking areas. It can also help to bring an extra beach towel to use as an entry mat to your tent to wipe off dirty feet when campsites get muddy.

Wind: High winds can cause major problems for campers. If you are in a camper or RV, fold down all awnings and external structures in the case of high wind and, in tents, secure your shelter with guy lines and stakes. Beware of “widow makers” when pitching tents or parking RVs: these dead-yet-standing trees can fall over easily in high winds.

Heat: Always plan your tent site with shade in mind and look for campsites with trees, rocks, or vegetation that will provide some relief. Freeze jugs of water before departing home so you can have access to icy water along with homemade ice packs. Wet bandanas or other clothing to cool skin and camp near bodies of water for easy access.

Wildfires/lightning: A regular occurrence most summers in the western United States, wildfires can certainly ruin a camping trip. The good news: families in campgrounds will have advance warning of any needed evacuations. Check your state’s US Forest Service website for possible fires in the area of your campground and have a back-up plan in case of road closures or campground closures. To avoid lightning strikes, ensure your campsite is not the highest point in an open environment, and do not hike to vistas and peaks if lightning is possible. Cars and RVs (except canvas-topped or fiberglass), bathrooms wired with plumbing and electricity, and other wired buildings are safe places in a lightning storm. Tents are not.

Tip: For all weather-related issues, know the campground’s evacuation procedures before your arrival. You can find this information at a ranger station or check-in booth.

When Someone Becomes Injured or Sick

Minor illnesses and injuries are common while camping, and most can be addressed with a simple bandage or extra s’more for dessert. Prevent blisters before they start by wearing well-worn shoes and sandals while camping. If you’re prone to blisters, use moleskin or bandages specifically for blisters before you hike.

Because you’re in the outdoors with less access to sterile environments, cuts and scrapes should be treated immediately to prevent infection. Always carry a standard first aid kit with antibiotic ointment packets and antiseptic wipes in addition to various-sized bandages.

If your campsite does not offer running water, such as a hike-in or backcountry site, beware of Giardiasis. Also known as Beaver Fever, Giardiasis is an intestinal illness caused by microscopic parasites. It’s caused by drinking untreated water and can result in diarrhea and dehydration. Campers at a campsite with running water (in developed countries) will not need to worry, but those camping where water is sourced from lakes or streams (or in undeveloped countries) will need to treat water before drinking. Be sure your camping gear includes a filter or pump system for your water bottle.

Finally, deal with those annoying buzzing creatures in the outdoors with topical anti-itch cream or hydrocortisone for minor bites and stings. Always carry Benadryl (oral) in case of swelling or discomfort, even if you don’t think you’re allergic to any type of insect.

Tip: For all health-related issues, know where the closest hospital is located and have local emergency numbers on hand.

Addressing Common Camping Nuisances

There are always a few things we’d rather not deal with while camping but that are hard to avoid. Here’s what to do about the worst offenders.

Difficult neighbors: When car camping at popular campgrounds, you’ll often have neighbors. Usually these camping buddies are outdoor lovers like you and will be quiet and courteous. But if they turn out to be disruptive neighbors, they can ruin your trip. Here’s what to do when faced with loud, arguing, or partying campers:

Speak with them directly, in a friendly manner.
Talk to a campground host. Each campground will have one or more of these citizen enforcers; their campsites will be marked as host campsites. The host should speak with the offending campers.
Ask to move campsites (if hosts cannot control the situation).
Call the local authorities if the situation makes you feel unsafe.
Follow up after your trip with the campground owners or government agency (if it’s a national or state park). They can’t take action that will help to prevent this issue in the future if complaints aren’t lodged.

Mosquitoes: Always a pest, and now a danger in some regions for those susceptible to the Zika virus, mosquitoes need to be controlled (as much as possible) within your campsite. Have a secure shelter to use when necessary (such as a tent or screen room), wear insect-repelling clothing, and use natural repelling remedies around camp. At night, make a campfire and let the wood smoke repel mosquitos for you!

Some mishaps are bound to arise while camping, and they can even make for great stories! Anticipating them and following our camping tips and tricks means you will be prepared and won’t allow them to define your whole trip.

Subscribe to our Pit Stops for Kids seasonal newsletter, and get an exclusive travel ‘cheat sheet’, free! Click here!

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Source: Fix.com Blog

Roe Outfitters review: Sunset cruise on Klamath Lake

July 8, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

While visiting the Klamath Basin with your family, absolutely make time for an outdoor adventure trip with Roe Outfitters. Darren Roe and his team are professionals, have been in the business for almost 30 years, and are long-time partners with the Running Y Ranch. Families can book tours directly at the resort (just look for the desk in the lobby) or call Roe Outfitters directly to book a tour.

Roe offers whitewater rafting on the Klamath and Rogue rivers, fly fishing and birding trips, guided hunting trips, and family excursions that can include kayaking, hiking, rafting, birding, or, in our case, jet boating on Klamath Lake.

The Klamath Lake Cruise offered by Roe is described as a ‘sunset cruise’. Sounds stately and relaxing, right? My kids were worried about this…until we got underway and they became engrossed in the thrill of fast jet boating and high-action thrills. When I suggested to owner Darren Roe that he should rename the cruise the ‘adventure cruise’, he gave the answer that, in my opinion, is the signature of a great tour leader: he adapts this cruise to his guests, and knew our kids wanted something high-energy and high-excitement.

He was right: my kids (ages 8-14), were all smiles, their attention on Darren, from the moment they stepped onto the boat and were allowed help drive it. They took turns riding on the bow, getting splashed by spray, and hanging on as the jet boat took crazy-fun turns. In-between the excitement, Darren engaged them with contests for who could spot the first bald eagle (we all lost to our guide), taught us all about the unique properties of the lake (we didn’t know it was the largest west of the Mississippi yet very shallow, or that it produces harvestable algae), and pointed out numerous wildlife.

Upon departing the boat, my kids declared Roe ‘one of the good ones’, and while that doesn’t sound like an over the top endorsement, I assure you it is. My kids take a lot of outdoor trips and tours, and they’re stingy with their compliments. The operators who get their approval offer hands-on learning and active engagement: from the start, Darren Roe asked for the kids’ help, gave them ‘jobs’ on the boat, and knew just how to act with kids…and won them over instantly.

While on vacation, we understand that families sometimes must choose between several tour opportunities, experiencing perhaps only one. If this is the case, save your one for Roe: you’ll get a high return for your money with these guys. We can’t wait to be back to experience their river rafting!

Date last visited:

June 2013

Rates:

$65/adults, $60 for kids 3-10.

Book through:

http://roeoutfitters.com

Directions:

Roe is located at 9349 Highway 97 in Klamath Falls, though if you’re staying at The Running Y Resort, they’ll often be pick you up.

Disclaimer: we experienced the sunset cruise as guests of Roe Outfitters, for the purpose of review. This hospitality came with no expectation of a positive review.

Tips for celebrating the 4th of July in Washington DC

July 4, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Will you be in our nation’s capital for Independence Day? We were there last year, and it was one of the memorable holidays we’ve celebrated while traveling! The number of activities, programs, and performances, as well as the sheer number of people, can be intimidating, so we’ve compiled our top tips for celebrating the 4th of July in Washington DC:

1. Book a hotel within walking distance of the National Mall:

No matter what you decide to do on the 4th, it will probably happen on or around the Mall. And trust me, you don’t want to have to park a car anywhere in the vicinity on July 4th. Taking a cab is tricky too, since so many road closures are in effect (your fare could be high as cabbies take detours). When we visited, we took the Metro to the Mall on the 4th of July to save our feet from extra mileage, but walked back when the festivities were over. When we passed the first two Metro stations en route, the line to simply access the escalators spanned almost a block! Be in walking distance and you’ll be happier for it!

2. Take an afternoon siesta:

If you start your Independence Day watching the parade down Constitution Avenue and end it with the firework display and Capitol 4th concert, you’re looking at a 14-16 hour day. Opt to focus on the morning activities or evening activities, or, if you must do both, take an afternoon break. We spent 3 pm to 6 pm at our hotel, resting, watching TV, and snacking. If you can’t make it back to your accommodations, rest on a blanket in the shade or take an extended break in a museum cafe, enjoying the A/C.

3. ‘Preview’ the parade:

Don’t want to stake your claim curbside on Constitution Avenue by 7 am to watch the parade? Neither did we. Instead, we arrived on the Mall around 10 am, and headed to the Smithsonian museums (they’re all open on the 4th). During our walk along the Mall from the Smithsonian Metro stop, we viewed a good number of the inflatables, floats, and bands queuing up for their position in the parade. We were happy with this sneak peek and even heard bands warming up. The museums were quiet and uncrowded until the parade wrapped up around 1 pm. If you’re not a ‘parade person’, this is the way to go!

4. Watch the Capitol 4th dress rehearsal:

Likewise, if the idea of crowding onto the Capitol lawn with 200,000 close friends on the 4th doesn’t suit you, go to the dress rehearsal of this top tier outdoor concert on July 3rd. It starts at 8 pm, and is free and open to the public. Unlike for the real deal, there’s no need to get there earlier than 7 pm. Bring a picnic or grab hot dogs from street side vendors, and enjoy a patriotic evening…a day early.

5. Plan your fireworks location with views and kids in mind:

We were told there’s no reason to go snag a spot to watch the fireworks until approximately 6:30 pm (fireworks start at 9:10 pm). We doubted this advice, and got to a spot just under the Washington Monument by 5:30 pm. We should have listened…the lawn didn’t fill up until about 7 pm. Before arriving, we could have eaten a relaxed meal at our hotel or spent more time in the museums. Here’s a rundown of the best fireworks viewing locations in DC (and their pros and cons):

Washington Monument: This is where we ended up, and we loved this location. It’s in one of the security-controlled areas, which means you go through security at one of (I believe) four entrances along this part of the Mall. There’s no alcohol allowed, and of course no firearms or other weapons. We felt very safe. Security didn’t take long to go through (people stagger their arrival), and by setting up our spot on the hillside just under the monument, we had unobstructed views of the Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool (where the fireworks are set off). Limited food vendors are located inside the secure area (overpriced hot dogs, funnel cakes, and sandwiches).

Lincoln Memorial: We heard this is a fun place to be, but also more crowded, and less comfortable (you’re sitting on the steps if you get there early enough, and sitting on the sides if not).

On the Mall in front of the Smithsonian museums: This is another secure area (as is Lincoln) and offers lots of entertainment while you wait. Your views of the fireworks will be against the backdrop of the Washington Monument (you won’t see the Lincoln Memorial or Reflecting Pool). During the day, we enjoyed playing pick-up soccer games on the grass, and checking out the Smithsonian Folk Festival. As evening descends, these entertaining options give way to blankets and lawn chairs. You’re closer to more food options here. Tip: to get healthier food, we went into the National Museum of Natural History’s cafe, and got sandwiches, salads, and trail mix to go. It was still expensive, but much higher quality than the food vendors onsite. From our Washington Monument location, it was a hike to get this food, but worth it.

On the White House lawn: I was tempted by this secure location simply for the novelty of it (you can sit in the Ellipse area), but in the end, it was a smaller space with more trees, and we didn’t like the view as much.

At the Capitol: This is ground zero for the concert, and where you’ll want to be if you didn’t see the dress rehearsal and wanted to stay late to listen. The concert starts at 8 pm. It’s also one of the most crowded locations.

Throughout the day on the 4th, impromptu concerts, bands, festivals, and games pop up all over the Mall, so try to stay as spontaneous as possible. Enjoy your Independence Day in the nation’s capitol!