by Sandra Piddock

Created on: July 06, 2009

In these days of Recession, we're all looking for ways to save money. On the face of it, camping may seem to be a way of spending even more cash, but let's take a closer look. If you already have your camping equipment, great, but if you don't now is the time to invest. Everyone's cutting down, and the first thing people cut down on is leisure expenditure, so suppliers of leisure equipment are rolling out some great offers to get us spending.

All you really need for a short camping trip is a tent, sleeping bags, a cool bag or box and a gas ring. Anything else is nice, but it's a want, not a need. Take old pans, crockery and cutlery from your home kitchen if you don't have a camping set, or look in clearance stores for cheap, lightweight melamine ware. Most people have folding chairs, but if you don't, take along some large cushions for a little comfort when relaxing on the grass.

If you intend to camp regularly, it may be worth joining a camping club. It costs around 25 - 30 for a year's membership for the family. For that, you'll receive a monthly magazine with camping articles and tips, special offers on sites and camping equipment, and a rally programme. Camping clubs have geographical sub sections, and you will be automatically placed in your local one, which means you won't have far to travel to rallies. Clubs usually negotiate a much lower site fees for rallies up to half the normal price so two or three weekends away will soon recoup the membership costs.

The rally stewards organise social activities for the weekend, such as guided walks, games afternoons and quizzes, so there is plenty to do for all the family, or you can just do your own thing. In the UK, the Camping and Caravan Club covers all types of camper, whether you have a 2 man tent or the latest all-singing, all-dancing RV, so consider this option carefully.

Choose a campsite fairly close to home. Just Google 'Cheap campsites in (your area)' and you'll be presented with lots of options. Not only will you save money on petrol, you won't be using up valuable camping time in travel. Sites with facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, restaurants and clubs cost a lot more, so unless you have a large family to keep entertained, go for a site with basic facilities. All you really need is a toilet and washing up area. For one weekend, you can keep yourself clean and fresh with a packet of wet wipes.

If you have a small charcoal barbecue, take that with you, or invest in a disposable

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