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 barbecue. Take along sausages, burgers and quick cook items like thin steaks or kofta kebabs for barbecue night. Forget about fancy salads and side dishes camping food should be quick and easy. Prepare a one pot meal at home that you can heat up on the gas ring, and you have the two main meals for your camping weekend sorted. Breakfast can be cereal or bacon sandwiches, and take a selection of healthy snack foods and home made pies and quiches. This way, you'll probably save enough money on food to cover the cost of the petrol to get you to the campsite.
There are plenty of free activities when you're camping. Go for walks in the countryside, or spend the day on the beach. Take along bats and balls for cricket, tennis or football, and a pack of cards or board games and puzzle books for the evenings. Involve the children in chores such as erecting the tent, disposing of rubbish and fetching water, and draw up a list of things for them to collect. I guarantee they will not be bored, and the fresh air will ensure they sleep well.
Camping does not have to be more expensive than staying at home, and the bonus of spending quality time with your family in a healthy, stress-free environment is priceless. What are you waiting for? Go and pack that car!