Unusual Ideas For Your Next Vacation

Go camping, recommends Daniel Soh, 39, a financial advisor. The father of three boys aged five, six and nine says it gives you complete freedom on a low budget. Top camping regions in Europe, as well as USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand offer the beauty of picturesque surroundings with nature activities such as fishing and swimming.

Campsites are often located within state and national parks or designated recreational areas, with prices ranging from about US$5 (S$7.17) to US$10 a night to pitch your tent in the US, for instance. Depending on the type of campsite you choose, most offer basic facilities like toilets, showers and drinking water.

You’ll need to plan well before the trip, from choosing the ideal location to buying tents and sleeping bags, and preparing activities for the young ones. For first-timer campers, it also helps to read up on tips for a comfortable trip: bringing the right food and gear, and arriving well before dark to pitch your tent, are just some of the pointers.

But when you’re out there lying under the stars with your family and toasting marshmallows on a stick over a campfire, you’d be glad for this trip of fun and adventure that didn’t break the bank.

Check out our travel special in the September 2009 issue of Young Parents for more off-the-beaten-track picks.