by Alexandra Vrugt

Summer is the perfect time to head out on a family camping trip. But, many families are trying to figure out how to squeeze in a good camping trip without doing major damage to their budgets and bank accounts during this economy crisis. There are definitely ways that families that are concerned about saving, cost-cutting, and getting more for less can enjoy a camping trip that they will remember for a lifetime. Here's how:

Canvas garage sales, thrift stores, and the military surplus stores for supplies that you can rent or buy for cheap. While it is important to do your due diligence to ensure that the equipment that you get is as safe and sturdy as possible, it doesn't have to be the price tag that dictates what you get. Look the opportunities for deals on everything from tents to sleeping bags to netting.

List everything out so that you won't waste money on "non-necessities". It's a pretty basic concept that many people overlook. If you know what you need, then you can always add to it. But, in this economy crisis, with a tight budget, not knowing upfront could actually cost your family money.

Plan your "gas-ups" wisely. Before you set out on your camping trip, research and find out where you can buy for cheap the gas that you need for the trip. Some gas stations are notorious for low-priced gas and some are known for their high end pricing. Your family could save a considerable amount of money by just planning your route with gas pricing in mind.

Make food and snack buying a priority...well in advance. Don't miss out on opportunities to save or buy for cheap at your local stores. Pull out the coupons and use them, along with double coupon specials and in-store deals like "buy one, get one free" to get an arsenals of snack and non-perishable items for your trip.

You should buy for cheap all of your snacks and foods for the trip using coupons, in-store discounts, and "bogo" or "buy one, get one deals". Kids love to snack and being out in the woods is prime time for gnashing. So, stock up and get the best deals possible by buying your snacks well in advance of your camping trip. Non-perishable treats that can fit into backpacks are best. Plus, you should always check the clearance section of your supermarket for deals on "scratch and dent" products that are still good, but are marked down because of their not so great appearance.

Use items that you can recycle for a real saving. Costs for bottled water and other drinks can run a family's budget into the whole. So, instead of buying these items over and over, buy them once and try to buy for cheap when you do. Then, reuse the bottles and refill them. Not only will you have a financial saving, but you will also be teaching your children techniques that could save our planet from getting swallowed in garbage.

A fun, budget-friendly family camping trip can be a reality for your family this summer regardless of this economy crisis that seems to be going on. Plan, use coupons, buy for cheap, research, and skip those convenience store purchases to make it happen. You and your family will love the respite from the daily grind and your savings will still be there when you return!

Alexandra Vrugt, a renowned connoisseur on saving money in daily life, has written many articles on how to manage on less. You can get a free version of her Ebook '15 Top Ways To Save Money' by visiting her website MakeEndsMeetOnlne.com.

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