The inflation caused by pandemic-era supply-chain disruptions is rapidly easing. Travel costs are down about 2% from last summer, according to NerdWallet, but leisure is likely competing with necessities for a share of your family’s disposable income.
For those who want to get away from it all while keeping #costs in check, there’s a time-tested alternative: camping. If you enjoy nature and are willing to “rough it” just a little bit, it offers plenty of bang for your #summer #vacation buck.
“Camping is the best way we can think of to make possible that family vacation when budgets are stretched so tight,” says Family Outdoors. “The cost of almost any campground will be significantly less than the cost of even a basic hotel room.”
Every state in the union has local, state and national parks that permit camping, so you can drive to your chosen spot and pitch a tent. You can search for the ideal campground by location and amenities at ReserveAmerica.com.
You could soon be paddling a canoe or kayak on a scenic waterway, hiking into a primeval geological formation, seeing unusual flora and fauna, or simply splashing around and cooking out with the kids. You can even camp near a major attraction such as an amusement park and visit it while saving on hotels.
The definition of “roughing it” differs from person to person, of course. Seasoned backpackers prefer the backwoods, carrying only what they need. Others are good with car camping — loading up equipment and parking at the site — or hike-in sites. If you’re anything like us, minimum requirements will include a shower, toilet and a source of clean water.
For more money, you can rent an RV or go “glamping” in an established yurt, cabin or lodge. But #thriftier options abound for when you have a reasonable amount of time and don’t want to spend a lot of #money. Whatever you choose, it’s the memories tat will be priceless.
Grab a tent, pack up the family and take off on an adventure! There’s only so much time left to enjoy the summer.