Go Camping in a Recession

Cheap Vacations in a Recession

Recessions typically last a number of years. However, it is a bad idea to eliminate your entertainment and travel expenses to such a degree that it becomes unhealthy for your relationships.

it is important to get the most time and enjoyment out of your vacation dollar in a recession in order to save money and still having the opportunity to gain perspective on life and relax. This can be difficult for families, who often need large accommodations, a mini-van, multiple airline tickets, and lots of food at restaurants for the typical vacation.

Instead of going to Disney World or a beach house, try a camping trip. You will need nothing more than your normal car, money for gas and camping fees, a tent, sleeping bags, a cooler, and plenty of food and drink. Churches, youth groups, and scouting organizations all offer wonderful opportunities to get outdoors and relax with your family and friends on the cheap. Mixing in some fishing, roasting marshmallows over a fire, and telling scary stories will remind you of being young and carefree. You will quickly forget your financial problems at home or problems with your job.

Try a family hiking day trip near home. All you need to do is drive to the nearest parkland and set off. Hiking is great excercise and a load of fun for kids who can play with grasshoppers, see birds, hide behind trees, etc. You and your spouse can talk and relax without driving around or being interrupted by lots of noise. Pack a lunch and lots of water and you have a cheap vacation for the day!

How about a family biking trip?. This is easiest if you do it near home, but you can also go somewhere and rent bikes. This is excellent in beach or lake towns or where there is some sort of boardwalk area or protected trails. Make sure everybody wears a helmet and has plenty of water. Have fun racing your kids!

For the more ambitious parents, consider taking your kids to a music festival. Community music festivals featuring jazz, classical, bluegrass, and other light and fun music are great family-friendly fun. These festivals usually have lots of other entertainment as well, such as crafts, custumes and reenactments, great food, barbecue, wine, and other things to keep the whole family (you too parents!) totally engaged. The best part is the whole event is self-contained and you normally don't have to go far or spend much money. You can even camp in the parking lot.

Time away from the big city can help remind you of what really counts. And you might just get a good night’s sleep as well.