Mar 24 - Jhb South East

Outdoor child!
Looking for a way to disconnect, ditch
the screens and spend time with the
family? Fortunately we are spoiled for
options, and camping in and around
our beautiful country should be top
of your wanderlust list, especially
with the family. However, the most
important thing is to be organised
and prepared, and of course have the
right gear to make things efficient,
easy and stress-free.
We chatted to Jamie Owen, marketing
manager for Thule SA, outdoor
enthusiast and dad to three-yearold
Bryn and six-month-old Liam,
who understands the challenges of
bringing the little ones along for a
weekend outdoor adventure.
Here are Jamie’s top tips and
suggestions to keep in mind when
you’re planning your next camping
adventure with the family:
How do you transport your gear?
Any family trip requires taking a
lot of gear with you but a rooftop
cargo carrier opens up a world of
possibilities on your travels. Rooftop
cargo carriers are also a much safer
option both in terms of overall driving
as well as the way in which your
belongings are secured, all while
having a minimal effect on your
vehicles fuel consumption.
The extra space in a rooftop
cargo carrier means you can pack
everything, and the kitchen sink,
when going on holiday, including
strollers, fishing rods and all your
camping equipment. Packing items
into softer luggage such as duffel
bags is also a great way of utilising
every available litre that these rooftop
cargo carriers offer.
Where should you camp?
Find a flat and somewhat soft, level
ground to set up the tent. Preferably a
location close to water, then you can
go paddling, canoeing and swimming
(always remember to take life jackets
along for those little ones who aren’t
able to swim yet).
Camping and exploring the outdoors with children is
great fun. All you need to ensure is that you’re properly
prepared. And that there are enough snacks!
What type of tent is best for a family?
It depends on the type of adventure. If you are going to carry it with you on a
hike, weight and wind resistance are important considerations for the tent. The
tent needs to be big enough to fit the whole family. Rooftop tents are also a
great solution and are quick and easy to setup. They can also be packed away
within minutes and you don’t have to connect a bunch of poles and secure
them in the ground like a ground tent. All you have to do is unfold the tent and
you’re done. This means more time exploring and less time setting up camp!
What to do when camping
with kids?
We love to paddle on our SUP boards.
The feeling of being just above the
surface of the water is amazing! It’s
easy, peaceful and safe but still full of
adventure for the kids. It’s possible
to paddle wherever there is water,
whether on a river, a small lake or in
the ocean. Make sure the kids are well
hydrated and well fed with proper
meals and snacks. Let them take part
and have something to do rather
than just tagging along. The kids can
paddle themselves and be a part of
the activity!
If you prefer hiking invest in a child
carrier backpack. We don’t go
anywhere without our Thule Sapling
that gives our little one a great view
and a comfortable, secure ride.
Much like Thule’s hiking backpacks,
these carrier backpacks are all about
comfort and smart features. The plush,
height adjustable, ergonomic seat
distributes the child’s weight, while
the back panel and hip belt are quick
and easy to adjust and effortlessly
transitions between parents – a
lifesaver on longer hikes!
Mountain biking is great fun for the
whole family with trails, speed and
nature! You can go longer distances
than hiking and it is also easy to bring
smaller kids in a bike trailer or bike
seat. Bike riding together as a family
is a great way to bond outdoors and
makes exercise fun for all.
32 Get It Joburg South • Alberton • Bedfordview • Greenstone • Modderfontein March 2024
GIS0308_032_754272851.indd 32 2024/02/15 09:59:21