If you’re looking to start camping with kids, you may be wondering how to get started without breaking the bank. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to make camping with kids cost-effective without sacrificing fun or quality. Here are some tips for camping on a budget with kids.
1. Get the Right Gear: Purchasing quality equipment is important for safe and comfortable camping with kids, but you don’t need to buy the most expensive gear in order to have a good time. Look for second-hand items at camping stores, thrift stores, online, and even yard sales. Shop around for discounts and sales, too. Don’t forget to check for coupons as well.
2. Rent Before You Buy: Don’t make a large investment in camping gear until you’re sure it’s something your family will stick with. It’s often cheaper to rent gear than it is to buy, so try renting basic equipment like tents and sleeping bags before investing in long-term gear. You can usually find quality camping gear at local sporting goods stores or agencies that cover scenic areas in your area.
3. Choose Your Campsite Wisely: Where you decide to camp can also significantly affect the cost of your trip. Free campsites are few and far between these days, but if you’re willing to pay a fee, there are plenty of options available around the country. Utilize discount sites like Groupon or LivingSocial to find coupons and deals on camping sites in your area. Not only can you get steep discounts on camping sites this way, but some of the deals will include freebies like free meals or access to activities like swimming and fishing.
4. Use Public Transportation: If you’re going camping further away from home, consider taking public transportation instead of driving. Not only can this save you a lot of money on fuel costs, but sometimes taking public transportation means saving time as well! Check out bus schedules and airfares ahead of time so you can plan accordingly and save money.
5. Do it Yourself: If you’re feeling crafty and have some free time, try making some of the items you’ll need for your camping trip. From mosquito repellents to fire starters, there’s a lot that can be DIY-ed that will save you money in the long run. Save money by reusing items like plastic containers or tinfoil to make items like roasting sticks. You can also use items you already have around your house as multi-purpose tools like campstove, beverage cooler, firestarter, headlamp and more!
6. Pack Smart: When packing for your camping adventure with kids, don’t forget the little things that add up quickly! Be sure to pack a cooler with plenty of foods that require little preparation such as sandwiches and pre-cut fruits and vegetables. Additionally, forego items like paper plates, cups and other single-use products— instead opt for versatile items like mason jars that can be used for food storage as well as drinking containers. Aside from saving money, you’ll also leave less trace when packing your reusable items home!
Camping with kids doesn’t have to be expensive! With a bit of planning and a little ingenuity, you too can save money on your next camping trip adventure. Armed with these helpful tips and tricks, your family can still enjoy a cost-effective camping trip without sacrificing fun or comfort!
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