Solo camping doesn’t have to be expensive. With smart planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Here are three ways to keep your solo camping adventure budget-friendly.

1. Choose Free or Low-Cost Campsites

One of the biggest expenses in camping is the campsite fee, but there are plenty of ways to camp for free or at a low cost.

• Look for dispersed camping areas – Many national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands offer free camping spots.
• Use budget-friendly campgrounds – State parks and public lands often have lower fees than private campsites.
• Join camping networks – Websites like FreeCampsites.net and iOverlander help you find free or cheap places to camp.

I’ve saved hundreds of dollars by choosing free campsites instead of staying in expensive campgrounds. It takes a little research, but it’s worth it!

2. Use Affordable & Multi-Purpose Gear

Camping gear can be expensive, but you don’t need top-of-the-line equipment to enjoy the outdoors.

• Buy second-hand gear – Check thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, or REI’s used gear section for affordable finds.
• Borrow or rent – If you’re new to camping, ask friends or look for gear rental programs.
• Invest in multi-use items – A bandana can be a towel, a pot lid can be a plate, and a poncho can double as a shelter.

I once borrowed a sleeping bag for my first solo trip instead of buying one, and it saved me a lot of money while I figured out what gear I actually needed.

3. Pack Cheap, Simple Meals

You don’t need fancy freeze-dried meals or expensive backpacking food to eat well while camping.

• Bring homemade meals – Prepare sandwiches, rice, or pasta dishes in advance.
• Stick to basic ingredients – Oatmeal, instant noodles, peanut butter, and canned beans are cheap and filling.
• Use a simple cooking setup – A small backpacking stove or even a homemade alcohol stove can save money.

One of my go-to meals is instant ramen with added tuna and dried veggies—super cheap, lightweight, and delicious!