Camping on a Budget: 10 Simple Ways to Save & Still Enjoy Your Outdoor Vacation! and more...

Looking to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank? Discover how to go camping on a budget with smart, affordable tips that make nature more accessible than ever. The following is a guest post by Todd Hebert from GlitchnDealz. Camping offers ... ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  View Online Here's what's new: Camping on a Budget: 10 Simple Ways to Save & Still Enjoy Your Outdoor Vacation! My Honest Experience With Nourish Camping on a Budget: 10 Simple Ways to Save & Still Enjoy Your Outdoor Vacation! Looking to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank? Discover how to go camping on a budget with smart, affordable tips that make nature more accessible than ever. The following is a guest post by Todd Hebert from GlitchnDealz. Camping offers an incredible opportunity to connect with nature, unwind, and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But, as relaxing as it is, the cost of gear, food, and activities can quickly add up. Luckily, with the right planning and strategies, you can enjoy a memorable summer camping trip without draining your wallet. How to Save Money While Camping This Summer Explore these actionable tips to help you save money while still enjoying all the fun the great outdoors has to offer! 1. Choose Budget-Friendly Campgrounds One of the most effective ways to save on camping is by selecting affordable or even free camping sites. Look for: National Forests and BLM Land: These areas often offer dispersed camping, which is typically free. State Parks: Many state parks provide inexpensive camping facilities with basic amenities. Apps like The Dyrt or Campendium: Use these to find low-cost or free spots and read real camper reviews. Pro Tip: Make reservations early if you’re camping in a popular area. Prices often increase closer to the date, and last-minute campers may face higher fees or limited options. 2. Borrow or Buy Used Gear Camping gear can get pricey, especially for beginners. Instead of buying everything new: Borrow from friends or family for items like tents, sleeping bags, or camp stoves. Shop second-hand at thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, or REI’s Garage Sale section for members. Check local Buy Nothing groups where people often give away outdoor items for free. Remember, you don’t need top-of-the-line gear to have a great trip — just reliable essentials that keep you safe and comfortable. 3. Pack Your Own Meals Campground stores and roadside diners are notorious for high prices. Save significantly by planning and prepping your food in advance: Create a meal plan for each day of your trip. Pre-chop veggies and marinate proteins at home to reduce prep time at camp. Bring reusable containers, foil, and basic spices to simplify cooking. Budget-friendly meal ideas: foil packet dinners, peanut butter wraps, instant oatmeal, and granola bars. Bonus tip: Pack block ice instead of cubed — it lasts longer! 4. Use Multi-Purpose Items Space is limited, so opt for items that serve more than one purpose: Cast iron skillet – perfect for cooking everything from breakfast to dinner. Buff-style headwear – functions as a headband, neck warmer, or face mask. Tarp – can be used as a groundsheet, rain cover, or makeshift shelter. This strategy saves both space and money as you head out on your trip. 5. DIY Firewood and Entertainment Many campgrounds charge a premium for firewood. To save money: Bring your own firewood if allowed (check local transport laws). Collect downed wood near your site where permitted. For entertainment, skip expensive gear and opt for stargazing, storytelling, or card games. Bring a Bluetooth speaker — but keep the volume low for courtesy. 6. Travel During Off-Peak Times Summer weekends are peak times, which means higher prices and busier sites. Plan for: Weekday trips, which will have cheaper rates and quieter environments. Early or late summer bookings to beat peak-season pricing. Avoid major holidays like Independence Day when prices and demand spike. 7. Pack Smart to Avoid Extra Costs Forgetting basics can mean overpriced purchases. Double-check your camping list for essentials like: Sunscreen and bug spray Extra batteries and chargers First aid kit Trash bags and reusable utensils Being well-prepared helps you avoid unnecessary expenses during your trip. 8. Camp Close to Home While long-distance trips sound exciting, they’re not always budget-friendly. Instead: Explore local campgrounds within a 1–2 hour drive. Use Google Maps and local hiking forums to find hidden gems. Staying closer saves on gas and increases your time enjoying nature. 9. Take Advantage of Free Activities Camping doesn’t require expensive activities. Many sites offer: Hiking trails and nature walks Fishing or swimming Free ranger-led programs Bring binoculars for birdwatching or take stunning nature photos with your phone — free, fun, and memorable! 10. Join a Camping Rewards Program or Get a Pass If you camp frequently, consider investing in: America the Beautiful Pass: $80/year for access to 2,000+ federal sites. KOA Value Kard Rewards: Discounts and reward points at KOA campgrounds. Also, check your local parks department for annual passes and resident discounts. Camping doesn’t have to mean overspending. With thoughtful planning, resourcefulness, and a DIY spirit, you can enjoy an unforgettable summer getaway on a shoestring budget. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time camper, these tips can help you explore the wild — without going wild on your finances. FAQs: Saving Money While Camping What is the cheapest way to start camping as a beginner? Borrow gear, camp locally, and stick to free or low-cost campgrounds. Focus on the basics before investing in expensive equipment. Are free campsites safe? Yes, many are! Use reputable apps and read reviews. Always trust your instincts and follow common safety practices. Is camping more affordable than hotels? Absolutely. Even paid campsites usually cost less than a hotel stay, especially when combined with low-cost meals and activities. Todd Hebert is a part-time blogger for Glitchndealz and spends the rest of his time fishing the beautiful waters on the coasts of Florida. Related Links: How We Prepared for Our Very First Family Camping Trip 5 Important Lessons We Learned On Our First Camping Trip What to Pack For Camping + My Camping Necessities 50+ Frugal Screen-Free Activities for Kids How to Travel for Cheap — 25+ Budget Travel Tips What are your top tips for camping on a budget? Share them in the comments below. FREE Summer Bucket List!! 100 Creative Ideas for Frugal Fun with Kids!       My Honest Experience With Nourish Are you wanting to make healthy changes in your diet but don’t know where to start? Struggling to hit your health goals or feeling overwhelmed by trying to stay on track? This One Small Step Is Quietly Transforming My Health (and It’s Covered by Insurance!) Two months ago, I made a decision that I honestly didn’t expect to have such a big impact. I signed up to meet with a Nourish dietitian. Not because I had a big health goal or some drastic change in mind, but because I was feeling a little stuck. I had been working out more, trying to be mindful of what I was eating, and wanting to better support my body through this full season of life. I figured it couldn’t hurt to get a little expert insight, especially since Nourish is fully covered by insurance under our plan. Honestly, I expected to get a few helpful tips on calories and macros. I didn’t expect it to shift so much of how I view my body, my energy, my relationship with food, and even how I approach rest and recovery. But it has. And I’m so grateful. Let me tell you more about my honest experience with Nourish… What Is Nourish? Nourish is a virtual platform that connects you with a registered dietitian — someone trained to help you with everything from emotional eating to hormone health to energy levels and gut issues — all from the comfort of your own home. Instead of handing you a one-size-fits-all meal plan or strict list of foods to avoid, your Nourish online dietitian walks with you step-by-step. They listen to your goals. They help you build habits. They offer insight on how nutrition, sleep, stress, and movement work together. And they empower you to nourish your body well, without shame, restriction, or overwhelm. Why I Signed Up (and What Happened Next) To be honest, I was hesitant at first. I wasn’t sure I needed a nutritionist online. I wondered if my health goals were “big enough” or if it would be worth the time. But I also knew I wanted to take better care of myself. I felt a little foggy some days. I wanted accountability and clarity, and deep down, I wondered if I was giving my body what it needed to thrive. That first call with my Nourish dietitian? It blew me away. She helped me understand how the stress and depletion of the last few years — pregnancies, nursing, fostering, adopting a child with disabilities, caregiving, running a business, and raising six kids — had left me running on fumes. She walked me through how under-eating and under-sleeping were actually slowing down my metabolism and affecting my mood and hormones. She didn’t guilt me. She didn’t overwhelm me. She encouraged me and gave me clear, simple steps I could take that very week. What I’m Learning Every session has been eye-opening. Not because of some radical overhaul… but because of how freeing and healing it’s been to undo old beliefs. My dietitian has helped me: Identify and challenge long-held beliefs about food and weight. Realize how often I’ve equated worth with a number on the scale. Shift from restriction to nourishment. Take baby steps toward what she calls “food freedom” — where food supports your life, not controls it. It’s emotional work, too. But so, so worth it. Making the Most of Your Nourish Sessions If you decide to sign up (which I highly recommend if you’re curious!), here are a few tips to make the most of your online nutritionist consultation: Track your eating, movement, and sleep for a few days ahead of your first call (I used MyFitnessPal and my Oura ring). Bring questions or struggles you want help with — even small things like “I snack all day and feel tired after lunch.” Share your health history (I even brought my bloodwork to our second session!). Be honest and open — this isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress. How Much Does a Nourish Session Cost? If you’re wondering what a Nourish session might cost, here’s the exciting news: 94% of users pay $0 out of pocket when they use insurance! I have been sharing about Nourish for the past 6 weeks or so, as I have been using it and benefiting from it, and I would say that number they give is quite accurate as the majority of my audience is also finding that Nourish is covered by their insurance, too. That said, every insurance plan is a little different — some may have a small copay or coinsurance — but Nourish does everything they can to keep your costs low and offers a simple insurance coverage calculator to help you know what to expect ahead of time. Here’s what you need to know: Most people pay nothing. Yes, really! The majority of users don’t pay anything out of pocket because Nourish is in-network with hundreds of insurance plans across all 50 states. You can check your coverage easily. Nourish makes it super simple to verify your insurance and see if there may be any copays or fees. No surprise bills. What your insurance says is what you’ll pay — no hidden costs or unexpected fees. All appointments are backed by the Nourish Guarantee to provide a no-surprise billing experience! Note: One of my followers was told that her insurance would cover Nourish and then that ended up not being the case. Nourish zeroed out her balance and didn’t charge her anything for the two sessions she had because of their Nourish Guarantee. Paying out of pocket? If your insurance doesn’t cover sessions, the self-pay rate is $145 per session — and you’ll know that up front. Why I Recommend It If you’re: Feeling stuck with your health goals Battling low energy or brain fog Walking through a tough postpartum season Wanting to build a better relationship with food Or simply needing some gentle accountability… I highly recommend checking out Nourish. This is one of the most grace-filled, personalized things I’ve done for myself in a long time. Ready to try Nourish? Head here to check if your insurance covers it: Nourish Dietitian Program If it does, you’ll get access to a caring, credentialed online dietitian covered by insurance who will walk with you, encourage you, and help you create a life that feels vibrant, nourished, and whole. One Last Personal Word… I had to share this text I sent to my accountability group a month ago. I still cannot believe that our insurance is paying for me to hire a dietitian — and I cannot believe how much it is changing my life and challenging me in such good ways. Whether you’re dealing with postpartum changes, low energy, hormone shifts, or stress eating — Nourish takes a whole-person approach. Your dietitian helps you connect the dots between nutrition, sleep, mood, and overall wellness. Go here to sign up and see if Nourish is covered by your insurance. FREE Goal Setting Worksheets!  Let me help you set, track, and actually accomplish your goals this year!       Latest finds on Pinterest This Easy Bread Machine Cinnamon Roll Recipe is amazingly delicious and practically fail-proof! It's SO easy!! #breadmachine #cinnamonrolls #easycinnamonrollrecipe #easybreakfast #mothersdaybrunch Looking for an easy way to make homemade yogurt? Here’s how you can whip up thick, creamy yogurt overnight using just milk, a yogurt starter, and a slow cooker. This budget-friendly method skips additives and preservatives, and lets you customize your yogurt with fruit, jam, or granola. Plus, you’ll find simple storage tips. Need some easy recipes or cheap meals for large groups? Here’s how we fed 27 people on our recently family vacation including the meals we made + how we divvied up the responsibilities! #menuplanning #menuplan #mealplan #easydinnerideas #dinner #dinnerideas #budget #grocerybudget #vacation #mealplanforgroup #mealplanforcrowd Safely Unsubscribe • Archives • Preferences • Contact • Subscribe • Privacy Email subscriptions powered by FeedBlitz® • 650 E. Palisade Avenue Ste 2, PO Box 173 • Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632