Expensive vs. Cheap Camping Equipment

1. Expensive vs. Cheap Camping Equipment Camping offers families a wonderful opportunity to bond while teaching kids how to love the outdoors and respect natural environments. When planning an overnight trip into the wilderness, one of the first things people notice is that there is a huge price difference among different types and brands of camping equipment. While it may be tempting to go for the priciest tent, it is not always necessary or practical financially. As you build up your camping equipment, use these tips to know when to splurge and when to be frugal. Consider the Purpose of Camping Equipment Buying the most expensive equipment can backfire when it has a limited purpose. For example, camping bags for kids often have height and weight requirements that render them useless once your child has outgrown it. Alternatively, a huge tent will not be necessary for a family of three. Spend some time thinking about how long you need each piece of equipment to last, and avoid spending too much on items that your family won’t be able to use next season. Know the Weather Conditions It is always good to be prepared for anything when you venture outdoors. However, camping in mild climates offers more freedom for choosing your equipment. For example, a lightweight tent and warm weather sleeping bags might be all you need to get through the night. However, cold climates with winter precipitation will make you happy you splurged on the expensive tent and sleep gear. Check for Quality Purchasing the highest priced equipment does not always mean that you are getting the best. This is because pricier gadgets sometimes sacrifice quality to fit in with the current trends. To avoid falling into this trap, read reviews, inspect store models and research

2. brands before making your purchasing decision. Choosing equipment with multiple purposes is also an effective way to get more use out of your investment. Buying multi- tools and convertible camping cookware allow you to save space and money while still choosing quality gear. When it comes to protecting your family’s safety or comfort, it is worth it to buy the best equipment you can afford at that time. However, camping is one outdoor activity that offers plenty of flexibility for fitting any budget. By assessing your family’s needs and buying only what is required, you can venture out into the wild with confidence that your camping gear checklist is complete and budget-friendly.