How to Plan Cheap Camping Road Trips

Family vacation planning is a hassle when trying to stretch your budgets and maximize your vacation days. For an increasing number of families, that means taking short road trips and camping - visiting places close to home that will only time 1 or 2 tanks of gas. Driving and camping allows families to pick scenic destinations nearby, reducing fuel costs and hotel costs. A family of four can save up to 50% on a camping road trip, compared to other types of vacations, such as cruises or traveling by plane.

For those families planning to hit the road this year, here are a few common-sense planning tips for saving even more money while on a camping vacation:

Instructions

1. Cost Saving Trip Preparations for your car:
   • Cars that are well maintained reduce fuel consumption.
   • Use the cruise control to conserve fuel by driving at a steady speed.
   • Ensuring that tires are properly inflated.
   • Reducing the use of your air conditioner.

2. Cook instead of restaurants:
   • Allow the children to participate in the preparations of all meals.
   • Creative campfire cooking and recipes are fun for all.

3. Save on Pet boarding cost - Bring the Pet along:
   • Most campgrounds welcome our four-legged family members and even offer designated "dog walk" areas.
   • Remember your pet's safety - do not leave pets unattended inside hot vehicles.

4. Save on Costly Entertainment:
   • Go on day hikes -- Ask the experts to recommend day hikes in the local state parks that match your interests and fitness level.
   • Bring along your fishing gear -- Many campgrounds have stocked fishing ponds or rivers available.
   • Bring along your bikes -- there are many camp trails to explore or biking trails throughout state and national parks, including historical parks.