Family Camping: Will Gas Prices Make this Option Unaffordable?

This Summer promises to be an expensive one with regard to high gas prices.  Does this take the option of family camping trips made via car travel unaffordable?  We think not.

Camping is one of the least expensive options when it comes to family vacations.  There simply is no way we know of for the family to find lodging and get meals for anywhere close to a comparable price.  This still holds true as gas prices in our area have increased from $2.60 or so per gallon to $3.80.  This increase seems like a lot, but that of course depends in part on the fuel efficiency of the vehicle you drive.

Let's say you are in the lower end of that spectrum and get 15 mpg.  Taking a 300 mile trip is going to use 20 gallons of fuel.  The $1.20 increase per gallon equates to a $24 increase in fuel costs.  This increase in price, while not inconsequential, still has camping a great and economical way to travel.

We have not even discussed all of the great family benefits that are available from spending time in the great outdoors.  Next time we will spend some time discussing destinations to consider for the Summer.