Camping: That Won’t Break the Bank
Going on an outdoor adventure doesn't have to cost a lot. Let's discuss some low-cost camping strategies on a shoestring budget.
The first thing you will need for your camping trip is a shelter. When money was tight for our family, we needed to purchase a new tent. Going out and buying our dream tent was not a possibility. I saved all my grocery receipts and scanned them into Ibotta. Ibotta is a phone app that gives cashback on grocery purchases. Through this app, I earned a thirty-five-dollar gift card and bought a small tent on sale at Walmart. The tent didn't cost any out-of-pocket money and it worked great.
Secondly, camping close to home can save you money. Choosing a campground in the state or town where you live will save a considerable amount of money on gas and travel expenses. Choose a National or State Park close to home. Another option is to ask a friend or family member permission to camp on their property for a weekend. This will give you an affordable way to get out and enjoy nature while connecting with friends and family.
Additionally, if an expensive food cooler is not within your budget, no problem! You can pick up a cheap styrofoam cooler at most grocery stores. Freeze water in a container that will fit into the styrofoam cooler. Freezing the ice in your home freezer will save you money by not buying ice. Some styrofoam coolers are fragile so be sure to pack it in a safe place for travel. Consider skipping the cooler altogether by taking food that doesn't need to be cooled. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are always a hit with kids. Bananas and apples make a great snack or take a long canned chili or canned soup for a hearty hot meal.
Another often overlooked inexpensive get-a-way is campground day use. Many campgrounds offer day use for a small fee. Day-use is a designated area for visitors to enjoy a day out at a campground or state park. For a small fee, you can have a cookout and use the picnic area. Some places offer a beach area or a place to swim. Other day-use campgrounds allow fishing and playground use for children. Amenities vary and day-use rules are specific to each park. Check with the park you plan to visit for a full list of park regulations and things they have to offer.
In conclusion, enjoying a low-cost camping trip is definitely achievable with some resourcefulness and planning. By utilizing cashback apps, camping close to home, finding affordable alternatives for equipment, and taking advantage of campground day-use, you can have a memorable outdoor adventure without breaking the bank. As the saying goes, "The best things in life are free, and nature is one of them." So, go ahead and plan your budget-friendly camping trip to connect with the great outdoors.