Tips to be a Thrifty Camper this Summer

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Celebrate National Camping Month by Enjoying the Great Outdoors and Saving Money

Hey, it's me, Debbie, your thrifting go-to guide! Did you know June is National Camping Month? I love to go camping and hiking in Ohio. There's so many beautiful camp sites nearby. Best of all, I'm able to find a lot of my camping supplies at Volunteers of America thrift stores.

My Top Camping Thrift Store Finds

Backpacks: There's a wide variety of packs and bags to choose from at my local thrift store. They are great for when I'm just doing a day hike or embarking on a weekend backpacking trip.

Bottoms: Whether you prefer shorts, capris or pants, there's no shortage of bottom choices at the thrift store. I look for athletic nylon shorts that are breathable and comfortable.

T-Shirts: T-shirts are a must when camping during the summer. Polyester shirts tend to dry quickly which is nice when it's hot outside. Usually I'm looking for a specific color shirt, so I love that Volunteers of America sorts their clothes by color.

Rain Jackets: Even if the forecast doesn't call for rain, I still like to bring a trusty rain coat with me, just in case.

Shoes: Whether it's sandals for wading in the creek or boots to carry you through your journey, there's a lot of shoes to pick from at your local thrift shop.

Water Bottles: Staying hydrated is critical while hiking and camping so that's why I pack plenty of water with me. There's so many cute water bottles to choose from at my favorite Volunteers of America thrift store!

Volunteers of America thrift stores have so many water bottles to choose from

You'll Love These Creative Camping Tips:

  • Use foam floor tiles to make your tent floor a bit more comfortable.
  • For a DIY lantern, wrap your head lamp around a gallon jug of water and shine the light inside.
  • Use Tic-Tac boxes to pack spices. Or use Tic Tac boxes for a mini-tackle box if you're fishing. Tic Tac's come in handy.
  • Bring some instant coffee packets for a quick cup of Joe and to avoid caffeine withdrawal. Coffee is a must-have for me!
  • Tie a belt around a tree and attach "S" hooks to the belt for a place to hang up pots and pans. Thrift stores have a wide selection of belts for sale.
  • Carry charcoal in a cardboard egg carton.
  • Use Doritos chips as a fire –starter or kindling.
  • Add a bushel of sage to your campfire to keep pesky mosquitoes away.
  • Try a S'moreo by opening an Oreo and placing chocolate and roasted marshmallow inside. Trust me.
  • Don't forget sunscreen, bug spray and a first aid kit.

My favorite camping spots in Ohio include Mohican State Park, Hocking Hills, Delaware State Park, and Shawnee State Park.

I wish you a wonderful time on your camping adventure this weekend, and I know you'll find the perfect camping gear at your nearest Volunteers of America Thrift Store.