We bought a travel trailer 2 years ago to have quality yet economical family time for ourselves and our four daughters. We borrowed $20,000 to purchase the 2006 Jayco 10-person, 31-foot trailer. I call it "princess camping" because it has a bathroom with shower, tub, sink, toilet, storage and medicine cabinet all behind a door that locks. The back portion has two bunk beds that sleep four with a wardrobe and a removable table between. The center section is equipped with surround sound, place for T.V. (which we do not have), kitchen with sink, microwave, oven, stove, and cabinets, booth style table and chairs and a couch. Both the booth/table and couch turn into beds that can sleep another four people. In the front is our cozy bedroom fit with a queen bed, end tables and storage. The trailer has air conditioning and heat, as well as a water pump.

Before we take a trip, I have to pack up the troops, plan the meals and make sure that we have everything we need in the trailer. My husband takes care of the trailer supplies. I make lists for the kids to pack on their own. Even our four year old is learning how to follow the list and pack what she needs and wants to bring.

We can keep nonperishable staples in the trailer but I bring fresh staples and all the perishables on every trip. I usually begin with a list of the meals that we will eat in the R.V. I list exactly what I will serve at each meal and then break it down into ingredients. Breakfasts usually consist of pancakes and bacon or sausage. On the last day, I never cook and simply provide bowls of cereal and fruit so there is less to clean up.

The kids love to have hot dogs or sandwiches for lunch. For our dinners, I usually BBQ fish or steak or chicken with potatoes and veggies. And after every dinner, the kids MUST make s'mores.

When we camp, the rules and schedule are loose. They eat more junk food and dessert items than they normally get at home. Meal time can vary and I am always open to not cooking at all and getting a meal out at least once per trip.

Many people feel that camping is too much work. I find that if I make lists, break the task into manageable bites, and enlist the help of my family I can pack, hitch and take off in very little time. Also, getting the kids involved in the meal planning for our trips helps me to make sure that everyone will be happy with the meals that are chosen and that they learn the process of planning for our family vacations.

And you too can enjoy camping with your family.