When it comes to cheap vacation ideas for the summer, camping has to be the most popular. Just about all of us have a memory of camping with our families when we were young, enjoying the outdoors and living among the wildlife. Maybe this summer is the time to share that experience with your own kids?
Planning Your Camping Trip
First things first, you’re going to have to start planning the trip. Although camping is already one of the most cheap vacation ideas, you can make it even cheaper if you plan it in advance and think carefully about what you’re going to do.
For example, start by planning whether you’re going to stay in a tent, a camper van or any other kind of accommodation. Then look for campsites that suit those plans.
If you’ve never been camping before then you might choose a park that has extra facilities such as bathrooms, running water and showers. It’ll help ease you in to the camping way of life!
If you can, getting the kids involved in the planning at this stage is a good way of helping them feel a part of the trip and getting them more excited about it.
What to Bring With You
You’re going to need your tent if you’re staying in one, and it’s a good idea to practice setting this up with the kids ahead of time. You’ll also need some flashlights for when it gets dark, and plenty of supplies for cooking and eating. Make sure everyone has a sleeping pad or some blankets to lay their sleeping bag down on – it’ll make for a better night’s sleep.
Doing all your own cooking while you’re camping is part of the fun, and will also help to keep costs down. However, don’t go overboard on what you bring! Simple equipment and simple food is always best. Good camping foods include anything in a tin, sandwiches and soups.
And, remember to take plenty of “snack” foods along with you to ward off any cravings while you’re away.
Other things to bring include a first aid kit, garbage bags, paper towels, wipes and sunscreen for when you’re out in the sun.
Teach Your Kids Something New
One of the best things about this kind of vacation is that your kids are going to learn so much! You can teach them about different plants that grow in the wild, or how to make sure they respect nature by never leaving garbage lying around.
You can also get them active, playing sports and other games in the great outdoors. You can even get them to help out with any of your chores – somehow they’ll be more fun when living in a tent!
As cheap vacation ideas go, camping can be full of surprises! Sure, you may have to rough it for a while, but it’s the perfect time to create unforgettable memories.
