You’ve heard all about glamping, and now you ask yourself, “What is gramping?” and why it’s a huge trend? Gramping is camping with grandparents and grandchildren, while the parents get to sit back and relax at home.
It’s when grandparents take the helm in traveling out with the kids to relax and improve relationships with their grandchildren. There’s even a Gramping Association dedicated to active grandparents finding ways to reconnect between generations.
Camping with grandparents
Is gramping all grandparents and grandkids? While parents get to relax on their own, that doesn’t mean to say they’re not invited. They tag along during campouts but often it’s the grandparents who take charge in looking out for their grandkids.
What’s more, gramping isn’t limited to outdoor camping. What we meant to say is that while camping in caravans, tents or trailers, is the norm, gramping in your backyard can even be a fun experience with the whole family. It’s also a way to introduce camping to younger kids.
Gramping might not be easy especially when grandparents and grandchildren are exposed to extreme weather and harsh environments. Even active seniors will find it tricky to maneuver these challenges. That’s why it’s ever important to plan and be ready during your trip.
How to plan for a great gramping experience
Families enjoy being in the outdoors for respite from work, stress, or electronic distractions. The experience leads them to a stronger bond within the home. It’s not always easy to camp with seniors and young children, so, here’s what you can do to avoid mishaps and burnout.
Plan ahead
Know where to go, what you need to pack, and what activities you’re going to partake while camping. If you’re driving by car or RV, have your vehicles serviced to performance auto parts by a pro mechanic before leaving.
Here are the things you need to take into account:
- Location, facilities, and amenities
- Pit stops and rest areas
- Senior services
- Vehicle and towing
- Gears and accessories to pack
- Food storage and preparation
- Activities in camp
Prepare essential and appropriate items and camping gears
Let’s face it, you’re not young anymore. Fifties or seniors who have not camped for so long will find it daunting. If you opt for tent camping, it’s better to invest in a good air mattress to relieve pain and pressure points.
Opt for quick-fix tents that are easier to put up. Arthritis and muscle pain might get in the way, so ask for help when putting up a tent.
Pack first aid kit
Anything can happen to you at camp. It’s one of the downsides of being old. So, have your medications ready and take essential first aid items such as:
- Gauze and bandages
- Pain killers
- Medications
- Scissors and thread
- Swiss Army Knife
- Cotton
Keep emergency numbers with you
If anything happens during your camping trip, you can contact authorities or medical respondents to aid you. You can even keep contact numbers of performance auto parts services if your car breaks down on the road. If you have loved ones at home, you can update them on what has happened to you and the kids.
With that being said, having a satellite phone will work best if you find yourself in the outback or hard-to-reach areas.
Plan your travel entertainment
If you’re in for a long ride, plan some sort of entertainment inside the car. It may sound old-fashioned, but singing a song or two can uplift spirits. A little break every two to three hours can have the family explore a town or scenery. Always know how to entertain the kids other than them being glued to their gadgets
Opt for glamping for ease and convenience
A gramping-glamping experience is another way to enjoy sights and nature without sacrificing comfort. Funny enough, everyone thought that the word gramping came from glamping – but, that was never the case.
Here’s why you may want to try glamping on your next adventure:
- Indoor plumbing – ‘Nuff said
- No need to set up for your sleeping quarters
- Has gourmet food selections
- Plush mattresses for those with bad backs
- Convenient facilities and amenities for families
Gramping is a trend where generations in the family get to spend time together and enjoy some relaxation they all need. It’s a wonderful way to refresh, reconnect, and make new memories for years to cherish.
