How much does it cost to go camping? Camping can be an incredibly affordable vacation. Campgrounds are inexpensive, and camping gear doesn’t have to cost much either. You can buy a tent for less than $20, or rent one at the campsite you’re visiting.
Sleeping bags are also cheap – many of them retail for under $50. There’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars on fancy outdoor gear if all you want is a quick getaway from your busy life.
This blog post will cover how much it costs to go camping in detail: what items you’ll need, how much they cost, and some helpful tips that make going out into nature more accessible.
What Are the Benefits of Camping?
Going camping is a cheap and easy way to get away from your daily routine. It’s an opportunity for you to relax, disconnect from technology, and spend some time outdoors in the fresh air.
Camping can be therapeutic – it forces you to take a break so that you don’t burn out. Spending time outside also has health benefits: being in nature is linked to decreased stress levels, lower blood pressure, and overall improved happiness.
What Do You Need for Camping?
Camping can be a very affordable way of spending time outdoors if you stick with the basics: a tent, sleeping bag/mat, flashlight/headlamp (with extra batteries), cooking supplies (utensils, pots, and pans), a cooler filled with food/drinks, a first aid kit, bug spray (and other camping essentials that keep you safe in the wilderness).
Bug Spray is Essential for Camping: A good insect repellent will help protect you from ticks and mosquitoes. Lyme disease is on the rise due to increased exposure to ticks, so it’s important to take precautions.
DEET is the most effective ingredient in bug spray – look for a product that has at least 30% DEET.
Also Read: How to Insulate a Tent for Winter Camping
How Much Does It Cost To Go Camping?
Camping can be an incredibly affordable way to get away from your daily routine, as mentioned earlier. Tents, sleeping bags, and other camping gear can be bought inexpensively if you’re willing to do a little research.
Campgrounds themselves are also a very affordable option – many of them charge less than $20 per night.
If you want to splurge on some high-end camping gear, that’s okay too. There are plenty of great products on the market that can make your camping experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
But you don’t have to go all out if you’re just looking for a low-cost way to disconnect from technology, spend time with friends/family in nature, and get some exercise.
Tips For Keeping Camping Affordable: If you want an inexpensive vacation but still want to sleep comfortably, consider renting some camping equipment at the campsite you’re visiting.
Many of them provide sleeping bags and tents that can be rented for a small fee. Alternatively, if you’re looking to up your luxury level while still staying on budget – check out these great high-end camping products.
Camping can also be a great way to save money on food. Instead of eating out every day, pack your cooler with sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, and other snacks.
You’ll be surprised at how much money you can save by cooking simple meals while camping.
How to make your own gear and supplies:
– Sleeping bags can be made for around $50
– Tents can cost as little as $20
– Buy a camping stove or make your own for under $25
– Sleeping bags can be made for around $50
– Make your own First Aid kit for less than $15.00
– A cooler filled with food and drinks can be purchased for under $20.00 or make your own with a little creativity.
– Bug spray is essential for camping and can be purchased for less than $15.00
– Earplugs are a must-have item to protect from loud noises in the wilderness. You can purchase earplugs at Amazon or make your own with cotton balls, duct tape, and petroleum jelly (for waterproofing) – making them yourself should only cost you about $0.75.
Recommended: 3 Season vs 4 Season Tent
What Are The Typical Costs Of A Campsite?
Most campsites are very affordable, although they vary from one location to another. Many public campgrounds in the United States charge around $20 per night for a tent site that can accommodate up to eight people – but some of them offer discounts if you stay more than a week or so.
If you’re looking at camping outside the US, expect to pay more – but it’s still an affordable option for a vacation. For example, in Australia and New Zealand, you can expect to spend $20-$50 per night on camping depending on the region.
The Cost of a Campsite Is Determined by a Variety of Factors:
The cost of a campsite can vary for several reasons: the location, the amenities offered, the type of site (tent camping vs RV camping), and the time of year.
For example, campgrounds located near popular tourist destinations or by bodies of water often charge more than those in less desirable areas.
Campsites with full hookups for RVs can be much more expensive than those without, and camping during peak tourist season (summer) will usually be more expensive than camping during the off-season.
Camping can be a very affordable option for vacation – but it does require some planning and research to find the best deal. By doing a little bit of homework, you can find a campsite that fits your budget and offers the amenities you’re looking for.
Average Cost of RV Resort:
According to our data from 12 RV resorts across the United States, a campsite during the low season costs $40-$50 and $60-$100 during peak season. Even if it’s a luxury resort or located in an expensive region, prices can reach up to mid $200s.
Camping fees at state parks range from $35 to $40 per night for back-in sites, and from $50 to $65 per night for pull-through sites. The typical camping cost with concrete pads is around $50-$65 per night.
The cost of camping can vary greatly depending on the location and type of campsite you choose. However, by doing some research you can find an affordable option that fits your needs.
Average Cost of Private Campgrounds:
Private campgrounds can be a great option for camping, as they often offer more amenities than public campgrounds.
Prices at private campgrounds also vary greatly, but you can expect to pay around $30-$50 per night on average. Some luxury resorts can cost well over $100 per night, while others are much more affordable.
Camping in Florida, for example, may cost $90-$130 per night during the summer or winter due to its excellent location and peak seasons. The price is still around $60-$90 throughout other seasons.
On average, it costs around $50 in low seasons and $60 during peak season for other campgrounds.
It’s critical to conduct research before booking a private campground., as the cost can vary significantly depending on the location and amenities offered.
Average Cost of State Park Campgrounds:
The average cost of camping in state park campgrounds is around $35-$40 per night. State park campgrounds offer a more rustic experience, with limited or no amenities available.
However, most state parks are located in beautiful areas and offer great hiking and outdoor activities. Camping at a state park can be a very affordable option for a family vacation.
Inexpensive RV camping may cost as little as $30-$45 per night, depending on whether there are partial or full hookups. In more pricey regions, such as Delaware on the East Coast, the rate range is between $40 and $59 during peak season.
Per seat, the rate is $2 to $5 per person over 6 (usually). For every extra person above six, you’ll have to pay $2-$5. It costs between $4 and $6 for each additional vehicle on average.
The price is usually greater on weekends and holidays. Reservation fees for state park campsites cost $6-$9 and cancellation fees cost $8.50-$10.
Average Cost of National Park Campgrounds
The average cost of camping at a National Park campground is around $20-$30 per night. If you’re looking for an affordable option, it’s best to visit during off-peak seasons as prices can be much higher otherwise.
In peak season, the rate ranges from $25 and up depending on the location and amenities offered. You can save money by camping in more remote areas of the park.
National Park campgrounds offer a great opportunity to experience America’s beautiful National Parks, and they are often much less expensive than private or state park campgrounds.
Additional Camping Expenses
There are a few other costs that you may encounter while camping, such as:
– Firewood: If you plan on having a campfire, be sure to bring your own firewood or purchase it from the campground.
– Ice: Most campgrounds have ice for sale at a reasonable price, but it’s always good to bring your own supply if you’re traveling far away from the campground or in an area with limited access to ice.
– Food: Many campsites have a small store for last-minute supplies, but it’s best to bring all necessary foods and drinks with you before arriving at your destination.
– Swimming Pool Passes: Some camping resorts have onsite swimming pools, and some even offer day passes or discounted rates for campers.
– Beach Chairs: If you plan on visiting a beach while camping, be sure to bring your own chairs as they’re not always available at the site.
Some Ideas for Keeping Your Camping Trip Cost-Effective
So how can you make your camping trip cost less? Here are some simple guidelines to get you started:
– Look for affordable options such as state and national parks.
– Do your research before choosing a campground to find an option that fits within your budget. Also, check the amenities offered at each location so you know what to expect before arriving onsite.
– Bring all supplies with you or purchase them in advance from big-box stores or online retailers to avoid paying for shipping.
– Visit during off-peak seasons when prices are typically lower.
– Avoid reserving a site unless necessary, as most campgrounds will have availability if you’re flexible with your dates and times. Campsites that require reservations in high season often become available last minute due to early departures or no-shows.
– Cook your own food instead of eating out, which can be expensive and often not as healthy.
– Make use of free activities in the area to keep costs down. For example, many state and national parks have hiking trails, swimming areas, and fishing spots that don’t cost anything to enjoy.
– Bring along friends or family members to split costs.
For two days, this is a low-cost camping trip for four people:
If you plan on going on a weekend camping trip that includes all expenses on the cheap, expect to spend around $665:
- Gas and camping fees – $64
- Food and water – $80
- Necessary camping equipment – $450
- Optional camping equipment – $70
Conclusion
To assist you to plan your next camping trip without the worry of hefty expenditures, keep these ideas in mind.
Ave to pay $50+ per night for a private campground or cabin, and around $15-$25 per night at state park campsites. Reservation fees cost additional money so be sure to check before booking.
If you’re traveling during peak seasons and plan on staying for a longer period of time, it may be worth the extra cost to book an off-peak reservation as prices will likely increase if no availability is available without one.
Camping doesn’t have to break your budget; in fact, it can actually save you money compared to hotel stays in some situations. Be sure to follow our tips above to help you plan your next camping trip without breaking the bank.