How to Use a Camping Budget: Simple Tips and Tricks

If you’re planning a camping trip, creating a budget is essential. A camping budget can help you stay on track financially, avoid overspending, and ensure that you have enough money for all the essentials you need. Let’s go over some tips on how to make a camping budget that works for you, so you can go enjoy Florida’s great outdoors!

Just so you know, this post includes affiliate links, and I earn a portion from qualifying purchases. this does not cost you anything, and we will always only add links for products that we truly love.

First, consider the cost of camping gear, food, campsite fees, and transportation. Researching campsites in advance can help you find the most affordable options. Additionally, planning your meals ahead of time can help you save money on food costs. By creating a camping budget that includes all of these expenses, you can ensure that you have enough money for a fun and enjoyable camping trip without breaking the bank.

Planning Your Camping Budget

Planning your camping budget is essential before embarking on a camping trip. It helps you to avoid overspending and to ensure that you have enough funds to cover all your expenses. Here are some tips to help you plan your camping budget.

Assessing Expenses

The first step to planning your camping budget is to assess your expenses. You need to determine how much you will spend on food, gas, campsite fees, and other expenses. You can use a camping checklist to help you identify all the items you will need for your trip. Once you have identified all your expenses, you can categorize them into fixed and variable expenses. I also like to categorize them into when the expense will occur (before, during, or after the trip) to help keep my head straight. 

Fixed expenses are expenses that are set up by other facilities and you can not change. Examples of fixed expenses include campsite fees, equipment rentals, and insurance. 

Variable expenses, on the other hand, are expenses that vary depending on the duration of your stay. Examples of variable expenses include food, gas, and entertainment.

If you want to see what your budget looks like on paper, add your information below, and I’ll send a free printable budget planner straight to your inbox.

Setting a Budget Goal

Once you have assessed your expenses, you need to set a budget goal. Your budget goal should be realistic and should take into account all your possible camping expenses. 

To set a budget goal, you need to allocate a specific amount of money to each expense category. You should also include a contingency fund to cover unexpected expenses such as vehicle repairs or medical emergencies that may arise. Your budget goal should be flexible, and you should be prepared to adjust it if necessary. Camping in Florida nearly always requires a plan B, and often a plan C, just in case. 

By assessing your expenses and setting a budget goal, you can plan your camping budget effectively. This will help you to avoid overspending and to ensure that you have enough funds to cover all your expenses.

Camping Gear and Supplies

When planning a camping trip, one of the biggest expenses can be camping gear and supplies. Here are some tips to help you stay within your budget:

Buying vs. Borrowing

Before you start buying gear, consider borrowing from friends or family. This can be a great way to save money, especially if you only plan on camping once or twice a year. If you do decide to buy gear, consider buying used or second-hand. 

Budget-Friendly Gear Sources if You Want to Buy It

If you’re looking for new gear, there are several budget-friendly options to make sure there are no excuses for you to have a great trip.

Discount Stores 

Walmart and Target often have camping gear at affordable prices. One of the things I buy over and over again is this Ozark Trail flashlight for less than two dollars. They are affordable enough that you won’t worry about letting the kids play flashlight tag with them, but they are sturdy enough that you won’t need to worry about it either. These types of stores are also my favorite place to get a cheap tent or new air mattresses. 

Local Thrift Stores, Consignment Stores, Garage Sales, and Facebook Marketplace 

Buying things second hand can also be a good source for affordable gear. At my favorite local thrift store, I found a Coleman kids’ cold weather sleeping bag like this one for a third of the price, but it is so cute, cozy, and affordable, I would happily pay full price. 

Additionally, many outdoor gear companies have outlet stores or clearance sections on their websites where you can find discounted gear.

Renting Equipment

Another option is to rent camping equipment. This can be a good choice if you’re not sure if camping is for you, if you don’t have space to store gear, or you simply can’t afford that shiny new kayak and all the gear for it (I’m saving my pennies, too). 

Many sporting goods stores offer rental equipment, and some national parks and campgrounds also have gear rental programs. There are places where you can rent RVs, canoes, cabins, and anything else you need to get outside. 

Renting from a friend (or invite them along and share) is another way to camp without having to buy everything all at once. 

When it comes to camping gear and supplies, there are many ways to save money without sacrificing quality. By borrowing, renting, or buying used gear, and shopping at discount stores or outlet sections, you can stay within your budget and still have a great camping experience.

Do you have all the gear you need, and you just want to make things look pretty without spending a fortune? Check out 6 Tips for Decorating Your RV on a Budget from Lemon Fresh RV.

Food and Meal Planning

When it comes to camping on a budget, food and meal planning is an area where you can really save some money. By taking the time to plan out your meals and shop strategically, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying meals without breaking the bank. Make sure you have your list ready before you hit the grocery store, too, to avoid extra spending or forgetting an essential item.

Cost-Effective Meal Ideas

One of the easiest ways to save money on camping food is to focus on cost-effective meal ideas. When making your budget, check how much of your own real food you can bring from home and cook it on a camp stove or camping stove, so you don’t have to buy anything extra.

These food options non-perishable items like canned beans, rice, and pasta, as well as spices and condiments to add flavor to your meals. You can even make your own trail mix by combining nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Making sure you know how much food to bring is important because overpacking food can lead to both food and money waste. 

You may also want to bring along a cooler to keep perishable items like meat and dairy products fresh. This allows you to skip the expensive pre-packaged camping meals and enjoy fresh, healthy food instead. Foods that go in the cooler, like hot dogs and eggs, are also classic camping foods that are both affordable and easy to prepare, or even some good options like grilled chicken or fish, and roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider making a pot of chili or soup that can be reheated throughout your trip.

To keep food safe in the cooler, you can save money by freezing jugs or bottles of potable water from home (since you need drinking water anyways), and it will keep your food cold, too. That way, you have free ice and free water!

Camping Food Essentials

To make meal planning easier, it’s important to bring along some camping food essentials. 

When it comes to cooking, having a well-stocked camp kitchen can make all the difference. Some essential items to bring along include a camp stove (I have an older version of this one that has worked great for years}, pots and pans, utensils, and a cutting board. You may also want to bring along a portable grill or Dutch oven for more advanced cooking.

Check to see if your campsite has a grill or grill plate over the campfire, and plan your options around what is already available to you, so you can enjoy delicious and satisfying meals while camping without breaking the bank or bringing a whole kitchen with you (but if you do want to bring the kitchen, check out our 12 essentials for your camping kitchen post). 

Choosing a Campsite

When planning a camping trip, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing a campsite. There are several factors to consider, including whether to camp at a campground or in a dispersed camping area, and what amenities and costs are associated with each option.

Campground vs. Dispersed Camping vs. Private Campgrounds

Campgrounds are often located in national parks, state parks, or other designated camping areas. They typically offer basic facilities such as restrooms, showers, and fire pits, and may also provide additional amenities like picnic tables, grills, and electrical hookups. Campgrounds usually charge a fee for camping, which can vary depending on the location and time of year.

Dispersed camping (or primitive camping), on the other hand, is camping outside of designated campgrounds. This is often free camping, but it also means that there are no facilities or amenities provided. Dispersed camping is usually allowed in national forests and state forests, but it is important to check with local authorities to ensure that you are camping in a legal and safe area. Sometimes, it is hunting season, or you need a special permit to go tent camping on any public lands, and in both of those situations getting caught off guard will definitely throw you off your budget, and its not worth a free campsite for the night. 

​Some campgrounds are private campgrounds, so people or business can rent out their private property. These sites can often have great deals, especially during peak season, when many of the free campsites, or state and national parks are fully booked. for private campgrounds, check with them directly to find out what amenities they offer. 

Campsite Amenities and Costs

When choosing a campsite, it is important to consider what amenities and costs are associated with each option. Campgrounds may offer more amenities, but they also come with a higher price tag. Dispersed camping is often free, but you will need to bring your own supplies and equipment.

Some campgrounds offer different types of campsites, such as tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. Tent sites are typically the most affordable option, while RV sites and cabins can be more expensive. It is important to consider your camping needs and budget when choosing a campsite.

In short, choosing a campsite involves weighing the pros and cons of camping at a campground versus dispersed camping, and considering the amenities and costs associated with each option. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a campsite that meets your needs and budget for a memorable camping experience.

Additional Camping Costs

When creating a camping budget, it’s important to consider all of the expenses that come with your trip. Here are some additional camping costs to keep in mind:

Travel and Gas Expenses

One of the biggest expenses when camping is the cost of gas for your vehicle. Before your trip, calculate the distance you’ll be traveling and the average gas mileage of your vehicle. This will give you an estimate of how much you’ll need to budget for gas.

Consider carpooling with friends or family to split the gas costs. You can also look for ways to reduce your gas consumption, such as driving at a steady pace and avoiding idling.

Activity Fees

Many camping trips involve activities such as fishing, swimming, or hiking. Keep in mind that some of these activities may come with additional fees. For example, you may need to purchase a fishing license or pay an entrance fee to a state park. If it is your first time doing one of these activities, you’ll have to find a cheap way to buy all the things if you want to have your own equipment. 

Research the activities you plan to do ahead of time to determine if there are any additional fees. You can also look for free activities, such as hiking on public trails or swimming in natural bodies of water. Florida has lots of little treasure troves of free outdoor activity sites that we try to encourage sharing in our Facebook group, so join us and share yours!

By considering these additional camping costs, you can create a more accurate budget for your trip. Keep in mind that unexpected expenses may arise, so it’s always a good idea to have a little extra money set aside just in case.

Tips for Reducing Camping Costs

Camping is a great way to explore the outdoors and connect with nature. However, it can also be an expensive activity if you’re not careful. Here are some tips to help you reduce your camping costs:

Shared Resources and Group Camping

One of the easiest ways to reduce your camping costs is to share resources with other campers. For example, you can share a campsite with another family or group of friends. This will reduce the cost of the campsite and also allow you to split the cost of other expenses such as firewood, food, and supplies.

Another option is to join a camping club or group (like our Facebook group). Some other groups often have access to discounts on campsites and other camping-related expenses (like KOA’s membership). Either way, camping with a group can be a fun and social experience.

Some Quick Answers for You

What are the essential items needed for camping on a budget?

When camping on a budget, it’s important to pack only the essential items to avoid overspending on unnecessary gear. Check out our tent camping checklist freebie by adding your information here:

What are some tips for planning a budget-friendly camping food menu?

When planning a budget-friendly camping food menu, consider these tips:

• Bring non-perishable food items such as canned goods, granola bars, and trail mix
• Plan your meals ahead of time and pack only what you need
• Bring a camp stove and cookware to prepare your own meals
• Use reusable containers and utensils to avoid buying disposable items
• Consider bringing a cooler with ice to keep perishable items fresh

Want help planning your camping menu? Here is our printable meal planning and sample meal plan freebie:

How can I create a camping budget worksheet to track my expenses?

Easy! We already made one for you! Add your email here, and we’ll send it straight to your mailbox!

What strategies can I use for minimalist camping to save money?

To save money while minimalist camping, consider these strategies:

• Pack only the essential gear
• Choose a free or low-cost campsite
• Bring non-perishable food items and a camp stove to prepare your own meals
• Use a reusable water bottle and a water filter or purification tablets
• Use public restrooms or dig a cat hole instead of renting a portable toilet
• Bring a map and compass instead of a GPS device
• Use a headlamp or flashlight instead of a lantern

What are the most affordable camping options available for travelers?

The most affordable camping options for travelers include free or low-cost campsites such as national forests and state parks. You can also consider camping in a tent instead of renting an RV or cabin to save money. Additionally, some campgrounds offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, and other groups. Make sure you check out your options!

Final Thoughts

In the end, it is important to go on a camping trip that fits in your budget. Big or small, avoiding additional stress (both while planning your next trip or afterwards when you still have bills to pay) will always leave you wanting more of Florida’s great outdoors.