If you’re dreaming about your next camping adventure but want to keep travel costs down, this week’s Travel Tuesday episode is packed with practical tips to help you save money while still exploring more. From discounted campsites to smart travel apps, membership perks, and seasonal deals, these strategies make it easier than ever to plan affordable camping trips.

Below is a quick summary of the top ways to find the best camping and travel deals so you can make the most of every adventure.

1. Book at the Right Time

One of the easiest ways to save money on camping is knowing when to book. Campsites and RV rentals are almost always cheaper during the shoulder season, mid-week, and outside major holidays. Many state and national parks reduce fees after Labor Day, and mid-week pricing (Tuesday–Thursday) often brings the best rates.

2. Use Deal-Finding Apps and Tools

Travel apps can help you track price drops, find cancellations, and compare campsite availability.
Top pick tools from Travel Tuesday include:

• The Dyrt PRO – perfect for last-minute campsite openings
• Recreation.gov notifications
• Google Flights, Hopper, and Skyscanner for travel price alerts
• Rakuten, Honey, and RetailMeNot for outdoor gear savings

These tools do the hunting for you so you can book at the right moment.

3. Choose Memberships That Pay for Themselves

Certain memberships offer huge value for frequent travelers and campers. Programs like Good Sam, Passport America, Harvest Hosts, and state park annual passes can save you money with just a few trips.

Girl Camper members also get exclusive Travel Tuesday discounts on bucket-list TrovaTrips, including Yellowstone, Peru, and Costa Rica—making big adventures more affordable.

4. Save Money on RV Rentals and Cabins

If you’re renting an RV, campervan, or cabin, try booking mid-week or during non-peak months for dramatically lower prices. Some rental companies even offer relocation deals for $1 per day—a great way to plan a one-way road trip on a budget.

5. Cut Costs on Meals, Fuel, and Activities

Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. Plan simple meals, shop in local grocery stores instead of tourist towns, and pack easy camping staples. Fuel savings apps like GasBuddy and Upside help cut driving costs.

Look for free activities such as ranger-led hikes, scenic drives, farmers markets, and brewery or winery tastings (a win for Harvest Hosts members!).

6. Know When to Buy Camping Gear

Gear deals are best in the fall and winter, when retailers clear out their seasonal stock. REI Used Gear, outdoor swap meets, Marketplace groups, and Girl Camper community sales are all great places to find tents, chairs, cookware, and clothing at a fraction of the price.

7. RV-Specific Money-Saving Strategies

If you camp in an RV, look for:

• Cancellation openings 48–72 hours before arrival
• Seasonal or long-term stay pricing
• Workamping or volunteer opportunities for free stays
• Campground Facebook pages posting last-minute deals

These small strategies create big savings over a season.

Final Thoughts

Finding great travel and camping deals doesn’t require complicated tricks—just timing, tools, and a little insider knowledge. With these Travel Tuesday tips, you can take more trips, explore farther, and save more while doing it.

Because there’s truly no wrong way to camp like a girl, especially when you’re getting a great deal along the way.

Thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode! Need an insurance quote? Check Progressive out!

Looking for more tips on how to save money for your camping budget? Check out our article Tips To Make Camping Affordable.

https://youtu.be/njVsg3NboUQ