When it comes to enjoying a vacation on a limited budget, it is
difficult to beat the appeal of the good old camping trip. After
all, it costs next to nothing to pitch your tent in the back
country wilderness of your favorite state or national park. A
week long camping trip can often cost less than a day or two in
a big city or tourist hot spot, while giving the entire family
time to bond and enjoy being together.
As a matter of fact, camping is one of the most popular family
activities, and many families enjoy camping together, sharing
stories around a roaring fire, roasting marshmallows, swimming,
fishing and all the other great things that come with a camping
trip.
For many, camping brings back memories from childhood, and many
parents want to give their children a taste of what their own
childhood was like, back when things were so much simpler.
Another great thing about camping is that once the initial
expenses are paid, there is little in the way of ongoing
expenses. Unlike a traditional vacation, in which the money you
spend on that great hotel is gone for good, with camping you buy
your hotel room (also known as your tent) outright, and you own
it forever.
After you have bought all the essential items, like the tent, a
couple of good camping lanterns, a good camp stove, sleeping
bags and the like, your only expenses may be the food for the
trip and the gas it takes to get there.
And camping provides plenty for all members of the family to do.
Dad may enjoy fishing in his favorite spot, or boating around
the lake, while mom and the kids may enjoy a beautiful hike and
bird watching trip. There are even campgrounds that feature
movies, swimming pools and other amenities for those who prefer
a level of comfort to their journey.
As a matter of fact, there are many ways to camp, from rough
camping in the back country to cabins at campgrounds to even RV
camping. The level is entirely up to you, and that is one thing
that makes camping so attractive to budget travelers and
families alike.
There is nothing quite like vacationing in the great outdoors to
get back in touch with nature. From watching the wildlife to
watching the stars, there is plenty to do on the average camping
trip. Stargazing is particularly popular with city dwellers, who
may never have seen the Milky Way in all its glory before.
Getting away from the glare of city lights and see nature as it
truly is.
We know that camping is one of the least expensive of all
vacations, but lets take a quick look at the expenses associated
with this type of budget travel. The centerpiece of the camping
trip, of course, is the tent. Unless you plan to camp in an RV
or rent a cabin, which is more expensive, you will need a
sturdy, high quality tent. It is important that the tent be
waterproof and that it close easily. Be sure the tent features a
high quality zipper or other closure that is easy for every
member of the family to operate. Test the zipper several times,
and be sure you know how to set up the tent before you get to
the woods.
Most campers will also want to invest in a few high quality
sleeping bags. It is a good idea to choose a sleeping bag that
is insulated, and to pick one that will be good for several
seasons. Many sleeping bags are designed with removable liners
and insulation. These are a good choice, since they can be used
in cold weather and warm.
It is also a good idea to buy a couple of camp lanterns. These
portable lights are great for lighting your way around in the
dark. A cooler for drinks and food is a good idea as well, as is
a portable charcoal grill or camp stove. If you are camping at a
campground, however, you may be able to leave the camp stove and
grill at home, since many campgrounds provide grills for their
guests to use free of charge. It is important to find out what
amenities each campground offers before you head out.
About the author:
Tony Robinson has travelled extensively throughout this
wonderful planet with his family in tow. For great travel saving
tips, techniques and articles on visit
http://www.budget-travel-site.com
