Some believe that camping out is best done when you have an RV. However, RVs don’t come cheap, and renting could set you back $150 a night or more depending on the type of vehicle you’re using and the duration of your travel. If you’re looking for a cheaper way to enjoy camping, you might as well go on a road trip without an RV.
While an RV offers greater comfort and convenience, you can still make the most of the experience using just a basic vehicle and essential items. If you want to go on an adventure without spending on an RV, consider these tips:
1. Check out parks for non-RV visitors
Many camping destinations require guests to bring their own RVs, but some also accept non-RV visitors. These parks and resorts offer cabin accommodations for families and even for solo travelers.
Plus, they also have amenities like bathrooms, communal kitchens, and charging stations. You can even rent camping gear, which is ideal if you don’t plan to spend on tents and other equipment for frequent road trips.
2. Get a rooftop tent
You can convert any vehicle into a durable shelter in the middle of the wilderness. There are several rooftop tent kits you can check out. Easy to install and long-lasting, these tents offer a great alternative to RVs and campers.
Whether you are driving a pick-up truck or a sedan, you can turn your vehicle into a makeshift tent within minutes. Just be sure to buy from suppliers like iKamper which sells rooftop tents providing maximum protection against wind, rain, and even insects.
3. Bring along portable kitchen equipment
The best advantage of using an RV is that it provides a ready-to-use kitchen where you can prepare meals with ease. You don’t need one all the time, especially if you want the camping experience to be more challenging.
For that, consider ordering an all-in-one kitchen system that features a stove and enough storage space for ingredients, frozen meats, as well as fruits and vegetables. If you are aiming for a more immersive cooking experience outdoors, consider using a collapsible fire pit for your cooking and bonfire needs.
4. Be ready to camp without full hookups
In case you are going dry camping where you will have no access to clean water and electricity, you will need to be equipped with the right tools and items. An RV without full hookups is challenging in itself, but imagine camping without one. This is also known as dry camping where you only need to use whatever you have on hand.
Expect to use only a limited amount of water for drinking and washing. You also need to learn how to conserve fuel for your vehicle and the generator. It doesn’t sound comfortable, but the experience lets you test your resourcefulness and prepare yourself for rougher adventures.
You don’t have to own or rent an RV to make camping enjoyable. So long as you follow these tips, you can make do with what you have when you venture outdoors.