Embracing the great outdoors on a road trip is perhaps one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel. Think about it. No flight costs or luggage fees. Campgrounds can be enjoyed for the fraction of the price of a traditional hotel room.
That said, what if you’re really strapped for cash? What if you still don’t know whether or not you can afford your next family trip because the numbers just don’t seem to be adding up?
Fear not. If you’re looking to save money on your next camping trip, you simply need to know where you can cut corners and smart ways to keep your budget in check. With the following five tips in mind, you can ensure that you’re not overspending on your next camping adventure.
Set Up the Ultimate Campsite
When you have your campsite set up so that it’s cozy and comfortable, you won’t want to leave it or spend much time away from your campground. This rings true for your RV as well: from Outdoorsy’s clever do-it-yourself RV site hacks to bringing along some comforts of home, you can truly enjoy the outdoors without inconveniencing yourself whatsoever.
Stay Closer to Your Own Backyard
Despite popular belief, you don’t have to travel halfway across the country to enjoy a camping trip. Sure, it’s nice to hit the open road or take an RV to the “full experience,” but there’s also a good chance that there are campsites and national parks you haven’t explored that are only a stone’s throw away.
You should obviously read reviews and do your homework before setting out, but don’t feel compelled to go way out of your way to camp if there’s a campsite in your own backyard.
Bring Your Own Food
Keeping your family fed is obviously a top priority, and bringing your own food will ultimately keep more money in your pocket. Consider also that cooking is a huge activity in and of itself, especially for your kids. Classic campfire fare such as smores and hot dogs are surefire crowd-pleasures that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Borrow Your Gear
If you only camp occasionally, bear in mind that you don’t have to blow out your budget on a bunch of new camping gear if you know someone you can either borrow or rent it from. Chances are there’s a local exchange or Facebook group where such transactions can be made which ultimately allow you to get the necessary gear for a fraction of the price.
While it may make sense to invest in your own equipment down the line, it may not make sense financially for those who only camp occasionally.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Simply put, you never know when bad weather could indeed put a literal damper on your plans. Rather than throw in the towel and head home earlier, simply go with the expectation that you’re going to stick around for the long-haul. As such, portable electronics, books and an emergency camping kit are all must-haves in case you’re stuck at camp or your crew grows bored.
Camping is a cost-effective means of vacationing, but only if you know what to bring along and expect. These tips can ensure that your camping trip stays within your budget and your family has a good time, too.
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