I am a modern day gal who does not let go of my technology crutches easily.  My TV, mobile phone and computer are all things that are hard for me to leave behind when embracing the great outdoors.  But there is one modern convenience that the Eureka N!ergy 1210 Tent allows indoor people like me to bring along with them…electricity.

The Eureka N!Ergy 1210 Tent features two rooms at a total of 120” square feet, sleeps eight and it can also be transformed into one big room. This tall tent (goes up to 6’4”) has a durable and lightweight fiberglass frame, two storage pockets and a gear loft. And it lets in those stunning views of nature and allows for ventilation and the passage of that clean and clear great outdoors air with it’s four windows, two mesh roof vents, and two really big mesh panels on the sides.

But the big plus? This high tech tent has built in power. There are three glowing 12 volt outlets that you can use for things like your mattress pump, cell phone charger, fan or extra light – like their petite reading light you can purchase for the tent. Perfect for those who have the habit of having to read before going to sleep every night. The safe, durable and easy to take on the go E! Power Pak, which is sold separately, will charge up your tent for all your outdoor adventure. You can pick one of these tents up here for $US279.90.

I’ll be testing this tent out in the ‘field’ so I’ll keep you all posted if the Eureka N!ergy Tent literally brightens our camping trip.

Your sling, Maya wrap or Baby Bjorn may a-okay for tolling around the city but when you’re set to go on an outdoor adventure you may want something sturdy.  The Sherpani Wahoo Child Carrier is an ideal way to carry that little camper. This child carrier gives your baby a full view , which is great for scenic locals and it features a five-point harness to securely support your little one while on the trek.

The pack comes with foot stirrups for added balance for your child. Plus there is a big mesh pocket and a zipper storage area for holding your sunscreen, snacks and toys. And the sunshade, which is removable, adds extra sun protection beyond the sunscreen. And if the weather is less than ideal, it has tuck away rain windows.  Although on a long hike  you may wish someone could carry you, this unit is just for children that weigh less than 23kg.  And this child carrier is on sale at REI for $US103.93 (regular price $US179.95).

Due to the woeful state of the economy, it seems camping holidays are making a comeback, although done in considerably more style that 20 years ago.

According to the SMH, “house full” signs have gone up on caravan parks, camping grounds and other low-cost accommodation up and down the NSW coast, due to a boom in local rather than international tourism.

But today’s families want more than a patch of grass for their tent or caravan. Modern ‘holiday parks’ come replete with spa cabins, in ground pools and games rooms stocked with the latest video game consoles.

The number-one rated caravan park in Australia, Treasure Island Holiday Park, boasts three resort swimming pools, waterslide, tennis court, kart hire, games room and mini golf.

For the list of the top ten holiday parks in Australia visit Holidays With Kids.

If this year’s Splendour in the Grass festival was anything to go by, expect to see a creche at a rock concert near you.

It seems today’s parents aren’t content to move to the ‘burbs and venture in to the Entertainment Centre for a reunion tour every two years. They want to party, and they want to bring their kids.

This year’s Splendour fest, in Byron Bay, featured a Kid’s Club run by a local childminding company, as well as a wonderful-sounding parents room:

“[The] room is specifically for those festival goers who bring their little ones. A lovely lounge area for breast feeding mums to relax, area to rest, feed, change and play with your baby in peace and comfort away from the major commotion.”

Cool!

If you’re thinking of taking your sprog along to a festival, read handy tips from other parents on how to survive camping and crowds with a young one in tow. Don’t forget the sunscreen.

Image: news.com.au/Nicole Coutts