Insect Repellent & Bite Must-Haves

Bugs are part of the wild. But they don’t have to take over your trip.

These are our tried-and-true picks to keep your crew bite-free and comfortable, from sunrise hikes to campfire stories. Each one is family-safe, easy to pack, and something we actually use.

1. Sawyer Picaridin Spray (20%)
This is our go-to spray for everyday adventures. It’s DEET-free, kid-safe after 6 months old, and gives up to 12 hours of protection. Covers both mosquitoes and ticks.

2.Sawyer Picaridin Lotion (20%)
Same active ingredient, but in a lotion form that lasts even longer. Up to 14 hours of protection and gentle on sensitive skin. Great for all-day hikes or travel days.

3. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Spray
Plant-based and DEET-free with a fresh citrus scent. Safe for kids over 3 and protects for up to 6 hours. This one’s a fan favorite for more natural-minded families.

4. Tick Removal Kit
If you're camping anywhere wooded or grassy, this belongs in your bag. These fine-tipped tools make it easy to remove ticks quickly and safely, without guessing.

5. OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent (7% DEET)
A lighter DEET option that still does the job. This one is safe for toddlers and gives about 2 hours of solid protection. Handy for evening walks or quick outings.

6. The Bug Bite Thing
This little suction tool pulls out irritants and helps calm bites or stings fast. It’s especially helpful for kids who react strongly to bug bites. Toss one in your first aid kit.

Let your kids roam, your food stay bug-free, and your nights stay itch-free. Being prepared helps everyone enjoy the wild a little more.

🩺 Paloma Pines Medical Picks Reminder:
The products shared here are recommendations based on general pediatric guidelines and personal experience as a family nurse practitioner. Always check with your child’s pediatrician for specific advice based on your child’s age, health history, and travel destination.

Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase—at no extra cost to you. I only share what I genuinely use and love for our family’s outdoor life. Thank you for supporting Paloma Pines.

5 Essentials for a Chill Day at the Water

Ready for a day by the water that’s actually relaxing? Whether you’re headed to the lake, the pool, or just setting up camp near a creek, these 5 items make all the difference. We’ve tested them, we’ve toted them… and they’ve earned their spot on this list.

The Picks:

1. Wide-Brim Sun Hat
   A favorite for a reason. It packs well, shades your face, and works for hiking, reading, or chasing kids. A staple in our summer gear.

2. Neoprene Beach Tote (Like Dallas Hill)
   Water-resistant and roomy with structure that holds up. It fits snacks, towels, sunscreen, and your peace of mind.

3. Brush-On Sunscreen Powder
   For quick touch-ups and sensitive skin. It goes right over makeup and keeps littles protected without the mess.

4. Wearable Neck Fan
   Game changer. Hands-free, rechargeable, and clutch for beating the Texas heat while staying mobile.

5. Dock & Bay Quick-Dry Travel Towel
   Dries fast, folds small, and actually works. We love this one for camping, beach days, and road trips with wet gear.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you click through and make a purchase. Every item shared here is personally vetted and loved — thank you for supporting Paloma Pines.

5 Portable Grills and Griddles for Camp Cooking

Camp meals hit different when the setup is right. Whether you're flipping pancakes by the lake or grilling burgers at the campsite, a good portable grill or griddle makes all the difference.

Here are five solid picks for every kind of camper:

1. Blackstone Tailgater
This one’s our top pick. It’s big enough to cook for a crowd and comes with both grill and griddle surfaces. If you’ve got the space, it’s hard to beat.

2. Eureka SPRK+
Super compact, easy to clean, and light enough to pack for quick overnights or minimal setups. The bright color doesn’t hurt either.

3. Coleman RoadTrip 285
Folds down to store in your trunk but opens up into a full cooking station. Great for tailgating, RV travel, or cabin weekends.

4. Weber Q1200
A trusted name for a reason. It’s small, solid, and gets the job done. Works well if you want a traditional grill feel with fewer bells and whistles.

5. Pit Boss Sportsman
A sleek griddle for those who love flat-top cooking. This one’s built tough and looks good doing it.

This post contains affiliate links. That means if you purchase through one of the links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Every product shared here is something we’d actually use and recommend. Thanks for supporting Paloma Pines.

5 Must-Haves for Camping Nights Under the Stars

Some nights at camp are just different. The air is still. The sky feels close.

And suddenly your kids are asking, “What constellation is that?”

For evenings like these, a few simple additions can turn your campsite into something memorable. Whether you’re curled up for stargazing or making snack trays by lantern light, these five finds are our go-tos for a magical night outside.

1. Camp Lantern with Red Light Feature
This little lantern is clutch. The red light helps preserve night vision (and keeps your eyes from getting blasted when you check on the kids). Small, sturdy, and easy to hang.

2. Wildflower Watch Blanket
Soft, warm, and way prettier than most camping blankets. This one has vintage vibes with bold color, and it doubles as a ground cover or wrap for the firepit.

3. Night Sky Navigator (App or Star Map)
You can go analog with a glow-in-the-dark map or use a stargazing app on your phone. Either way, this adds a layer of wonder that kids and grownups both love.

4. Cloud Napper Lounger
This inflatable lounger feels ridiculous at first... until you’re in it. Then it’s game over. Lightweight, comfy, and the perfect spot to sprawl under the stars.

5. Campfire Charcuterie Box
It’s not fancy. It’s just a snack bin with compartments, but you’ll feel like a hero when you pop the lid off and reveal popcorn, gummies, and camp treats. The bamboo top even doubles as a mini board.

Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means Paloma Pines may earn a small commission if you click through and purchase. It won’t cost you anything extra, and it helps support this little corner of the camping world. Thanks for being here.

RV Camping Just Got a Major Upgrade

Whether you're a weekend warrior or a full-time road tripper, a few thoughtful upgrades can completely change how your RV feels and functions. These aren’t giant renovations or high-end luxury splurges… just smart swaps that make camp life easier and more enjoyable.

Here are 5 of our favorite Paloma Picks for leveling up your RV experience:

1. Soft-Glowing Keypad Door Lock
Ditch the keys. This backlit keypad lock not only makes it easier to get in and out after dark, it also adds an extra layer of security. We love that it comes with remotes and installs easily.

2. RV Stove Top Cover Board
This smart board gives you back countertop space when you're not cooking, and it looks beautiful too. Bonus: it doubles as a cutting board and adds a homey touch to the RV kitchen.

3. RV Mattress Topper
RV mattresses are famously terrible. This topper changes everything. It adds plush comfort without breaking the bank… and you’ll actually sleep through the night.

4. 5-Mode Shower Head Upgrade
A good shower is underrated until you’re stuck with the stock one. This easy-swap head gives you better pressure, five settings, and a way more pleasant rinse after a long hike.

5. Motion-Activated Glow Step Lights
These little lights make your RV steps safer and more welcoming at night. No more stubbed toes or flashlight fumbling. Plus, the soft glow looks really nice after dark.

None of these are over-the-top upgrades. But together, they create a safer, softer, and more enjoyable experience in your home on wheels. Whether you're renovating your RV or just making smart tweaks… these five are worth the click.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. I only share products I personally use or genuinely love. Thanks for supporting Paloma Pines!

5 Hiking Must-Haves

There’s nothing better than a good trail, clear skies, and gear that works hard so you don’t have to.

These five finds are practical, packable, and pretty enough to earn a spot in your photos. Whether you're heading out for a quick family hike or a full day of adventure, these are some of my favorite trail companions.

1. Vintage Floral Bandana
Not just cute — it’s surprisingly useful. Wear it as a headband, neck guard, sweat cloth, or even tie it to your backpack for trail flair. Lightweight, washable, and full of charm.

2. EYOS Hiking Daypack
This pack checks all the boxes. It’s lightweight, durable, and neutral enough to blend with any outdoor outfit. Bonus points for having side pockets that actually fit a water bottle.

3. Wide-Brim Hiking Hat
A shady staple. This hat keeps the sun off your face, looks pulled together, and stays put on breezy hikes. It’s a must for long days and hot weather.

4. Leakproof Hydration Bottle
Kids or adults — nobody likes a leaky bag. This bottle is slim, cute, and locks tight. It’s one of my go-to hiking essentials for short treks and big days alike.

5. Compact Trail Blanket
Folds into a pouch, weighs almost nothing, and comes in handy at snack stops, lookouts, or impromptu devotion moments. We keep one clipped to the outside of our bag.

Whether you're hiking with toddlers, teens, or just your own thoughts, little things make a big difference.

Affiliate links are used in this post. As always, I only share what I’ve actually used and loved — gear that earns its place on the trail.

5 Must-Haves for a Cozy Campsite

You don’t have to sacrifice comfort to enjoy camp.
These are five things that make our site feel cozy, pulled together, and a little more peaceful... especially after a long day on the trail or wrangling kids.

We’ve tested them, packed them, repacked them.
We’d bring them every time.

1. Collapsible Camp Tote
Doubles as a side table. Folds flat when not in use.
We toss in snacks, blankets, or use it as a coffee station.

2. Muslin Throw Blanket
Soft, breathable, and layered in cozy.
We keep two on hand. One always ends up in someone’s lap by the fire.

3. Retractable Camp Lights
Switches between warm glow and color mode. Packs small, glows big.
We string these across the awning or toss them inside the tent for bedtime magic.

4. S’more Stick box + Roasting Sticks
Color-coded roasting sticks in a clear utility box. No more gooey bags.
Kid-friendly, dishwasher-safe, and easier to pack.

5. Enamel Dish Set
Durable, cute, and better than disposable.
We use ours for everything... from chili to cinnamon rolls.

Save this post for your next packing session.
Follow @palomapines for real gear picks and campsite inspiration that actually work.

This post includes affiliate links. If you purchase through one of them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share what we use, love, and pack in our own bins.

5 Campsite Dining Must-Haves

You don’t need a five-star kitchen to enjoy a beautiful meal outdoors.
These are the five campsite dining picks we bring on every trip to make meals feel simple, calm, and actually enjoyable.

From late-night chili to early morning pancakes... these little upgrades make a big difference.

We’ve tested them, packed them, repacked them.
They’ve earned a spot at the table.

1. Speckled Melamine Dinnerware
Lightweight, sturdy, and prettier than paper. We love that these are reusable, easy to clean, and won’t break if the kids drop them.

2. Waterproof Outdoor Tablecloth
Covers rough campsite tables, wipes clean with one swipe, and makes meals feel a little more special.

3. Solar Power Tabletop Lanterns
These charge during the day and cast a soft glow at night. Perfect for dinner, games, or a quiet moment by the fire.

4. Nesting Serving Bowl Set with Bamboo Lids
We use these for chips, fruit, pasta salad... whatever’s on the menu. The lids keep things covered and stack easily in the bin.

5. Woven Table Caddy
Forks, napkins, bug spray, salt — this holds it all. Load it at home, carry it out, and keep the table clear.

Meals at camp don’t have to be chaotic.
A few small tools can change the entire rhythm of your day.

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Paloma Pines.