Camping with kids can be really magical… and really messy. Between the muddy shoes, snack-time chaos, and the never-ending questions, it can feel like you’re herding squirrels. But what if we told you magnets could be your new best friend to make everything just a little bit easier in the great outdoors?
Those tiny, mighty things can totally transform your camping setup into a smoother, more organised, and even more entertaining experience for the whole family.
Check out these 8 magnetic hacks that will help you camp smarter, not harder – especially when you’ve got little campers in tow:
1. 🧲 Magnetic Hooks: Hang It All Up
What they do: Give you instant spots to hang towels, lanterns, jackets, backpacks – or even your hiking boots!
How to use: Clip magnetic hooks to the side of your car or camper, the frame of your canopy, or perhaps a metal cooler. Strong neodymium magnets are your friend here and we’ve got an incredible range of magnetic hooks to choose from.
Why it helps with kids: Keeps things off the ground and within reach for small hands. Plus, kids love having their “hook” for their own gear!
2. 🥤 Magnetic Cup Holders: Goodbye Spills
What they do: Keep drinks upright and easy to find.
How to use: Use metal cups or stick magnets on plastic ones, then attach to a metal tray or cooler lid. Easily magnetise your mugs with these self-adhesive neodymium magnets.
Why it helps with kids: Prevents knocked-over juice and “Who took my cup?” drama.
3. 🚪 Magnetic Tent Closures: No More Zipper Struggles
What they do: Turn tent flaps or bug screens into easy-in, easy-out entrances — no zipping required.
How to use: Attach stitch-in magnets to the inside edges of tent doors or use our ready-to-go magnetic fly screen to keep the bugs out!
Why it helps with kids: Zippers are frustrating (and sometimes loud). Magnetic flaps mean fewer bugs inside and less yelling, “Close the tent!!”
4. 🍿 Magnetic Snack Station: Easy Access, Less Mess
What it is: Small magnetic tins filled with grab-and-go snacks, stuck to a cooler or car door. If you don’t have magnetic pots, you could create your own with self-adhesive magnets.
Best for: Trail mix, dried fruit, breakfast bars, or crackers.
Why it helps with kids: Encourages independence and cuts down on the “I’m hungry!” chorus every 20 minutes.
5. 💡 Magnetic Lights: Kid-Friendly Illumination
What they do: Let you stick a light anywhere, and move it when needed.
How to use: Magnetic LED lights can attach to tent poles, the side of a car, or inside a canopy – and we’ve got a full range to choose from!
Why it helps with kids: Give them control of their own reading light or nightlight – no cords or fumbling in the dark.
6. ✅ Magnetic Chore Board: Make Camp Setup a Game
What it is: A chore tracker made with magnets and a small whiteboard or metal tray. (Or check out our magnetic reward chart for an easy ready-made version!)
Examples: “Collect kindling,” “Fill water bottles,” “Clean up snack zone.”
Why it helps with kids: Turns responsibilities into a game. You can even award points or prizes!
7. 🩹 Magnetic First Aid Station: Quick & Organised
What it is: A small magnetic shelf with space for for plasters, wipes, suncream, and bug bite cream.
Where to put it: Stick it inside your car boot, side of your camper-van or to the side of a metal camping table.
Why it helps with kids: Because accidents happen — and you want to find that plaster right now, not dig through five different bags.
8. 🎨 Magnetic Toy Tray: Portable Play Station
What it is: A metal cookie sheet + magnetic toys = hours of distraction.
Ideas: Magnetic letters, building blocks, magnetic putty or puzzles. Bonus points if you use it as a lap tray during car rides.
Why it helps with kids: Gives them their own little play zone — perfect for quiet time, rainy days, or morning coffee moments.
A Little Magnet Magic Goes a Long Way
Magnets might not seem like a camping essential — until you try them. With a few strategic hacks, you’ll cut down on clutter, spills, and stress… and give your kids a more fun and independent camping experience, too.
Happy camping! May your tent stay dry, your snacks stay safe, and your magnets hold strong. For all you need to make the most of your camping trip this summer, shop here!
