Ultimate guide to camp budgeting

Written by: Stacie Gaetz

Summer camps are an integral part of many people’s childhoods. Time at camp teaches kids, tweens, and teens valuable skills, creates treasured memories, results in lasting friendships, and promotes physical health and wellness. 

However, it is no secret that camps can be a significant financial investment for families. That’s why we have put together a comprehensive guide to making camps more affordable and stress-free.

Set a realistic budget. Sit down and look at your family finances to determine how much you can allocate for camps per child. The earlier you do this, the better, as it will allow you to create a “camp savings fund” well before fees are due. Don’t forget to account for additional expenses like transportation, gear, and snacks.

Explore affordable camp options. Look into community or city-run camps, which are often more budget-friendly than privately run options. Research camps hosted by local charities, houses of worship (if applicable), libraries, community centres or schools. Some camps offer scholarships and sliding-scale fee options. Be sure to reach out to organizers to determine eligibility and deadlines for submissions.

Plan and register early. Some camps offer early registration that include discounts. Keep in mind that this may mean you need to start that “camp savings fund” even earlier. Set calendar reminders in your phone to avoid missing out on a deal. It doesn’t hurt to call the camp organizers before registering to ask if there are any other kinds of discounts such as group deals or government assistance programs.

Mix free and paid summer activities. Consider balancing premium camps with free local programs to save money throughout the summer. The City of Calgary offers Park n' Play and Stay n' Play programs in local parks that are a great way for parents and their children to make new friends and stay active. Many libraries and non-profit organizations also offer summer reading programs, storytimes, classes, craft activities, and more.

Save on gear and supplies. Another way to save a few bucks is to opt for second-hand or borrowed equipment for specialized camps. Contact camp organizers and ask if they know where you can pick up or swap some pre-loved gear. Don’t forget to ask your friends if their kids have any gear they have grown out of. Reuse items from school or previous camps, like backpacks, lunchboxes, and water bottles. Most camps have a checklist that you can download to avoid overpacking or missing necessary items.

Maximize tax credits or employer benefits. This one is often overlooked. Did you know that some summer camp expenses are eligible for tax credits or deductions? You can also ask your employer about childcare stipends or reimbursement programs that can help you keep some cash in your pocket.

Share costs with other parents. Don’t forget – you are not alone in this! There is a whole village of parents sending their kiddos off to camp this summer. Discuss carpooling or shared after-care options with your friends, family members, or parents in your neighborhood. Why go it alone when you don’t have to?

Consider shorter camp stints. If full-time summer camp is still too rich for your blood, no problem. Explore three-day or single-day programs. Shorter camps can make the experience more manageable and enjoyable for younger children or first-time campers. Shorter camps offer a gentler introduction to the camping experience, balancing fun, independence, and social development while minimizing stress for both kids and parents.

DIY home camps for cost savings. If you are still struggling to send your kid to summer camp this year, bring the camp to them! There are dozens of ways you can explore the adventure and excitement of camp in your living room or backyard. From scavenger hunts and s’mores stations to obstacle courses and painting rocks, your kids can experience everything camp has to offer. If you would like to recreate the social interaction camp would provide (and share the load of set up and clean up), consider swapping hosting duties with other families throughout the summer.

Review and reflect for next year. Once all is said and done, make sure to track your expenses and note which camps were the best value for the future. Write down any extra expenses you weren’t expecting and note the tips and tricks that helped you save.

Summer camps don’t have to break the bank to provide meaningful experiences for your kids. If you think creatively and explore all available resources, you can give your kids an experience they won’t forget without worrying about how you are going to afford it.

Start planning today for a budget-friendly, memory-filled summer! CCM