While fancy vacations might be out of the budget, that doesn’t mean your family can’t enjoy some quality time together. Camping offers an affordable way to connect with nature and each other—without breaking the bank. Ready to make your next camping trip a breeze? Let’s dive into some super inexpensive Dollar Tree Camping Hacks to get your campsite ready for fun and adventure.
Tip: Shop Early for the Best Deals!
If you’re planning a summer camping trip, it’s best to shop your Dollar Tree early in the season. Spring is the prime time to score seasonal items like luau, pool, and barbecue-themed gear. If you wait too long, you might find yourself shopping for back-to-school supplies instead of camping essentials. Keep in mind, each Dollar Tree can vary in what it carries, so get there early for the best selection!
To help you stay on track and under budget, here’s a list of 36 Dollar Tree Camping Hacks and Must-Have Items that will make your campsite a hit!
36 Dollar Tree Camping Hacks & Camping Must Haves
- Mesh Laundry Bags – Perfect for hang-drying dishes or dirty clothes. Hack: Turn a mesh laundry bag into a hanging dish rack by attaching it to your tent or a nearby tree, saving space and keeping things organized.
- Solar Stake Lights – Add some mood lighting around your tent (and help you find your way at night).
- Dustpan and Brush – Easy to clean up dirt and debris from your tent.
- Fly Swatters – Let the kids chase down pesky flies without any worries.
- Butterfly Nets – Fun for catching critters and exploring nature.
- Glow Sticks – Ideal for wrapping around tent ties, marking paths, or entertaining the kids. Hack: Use glow sticks to create a campsite map by wrapping them around tree branches or tent poles to mark the path to your campsite at night.
- Baby Powder – A quick fix for brushing off sand from feet, hands, and legs.
- Hydrocortisone Cream – Soothing relief for bug bites or poison ivy rashes.
- Pool Floaties – Double as inflatable pillows or even air mattresses. Hack: Repurpose pool floaties as comfy lounge chairs around the campfire for ultimate relaxation.
- Rain Ponchos – Stay dry during unexpected downpours.
- Flashlights – A camping must-have for navigating in the dark.
- Batteries – Keep those flashlights, lanterns, and other gadgets powered up.
- Sunscreen – Protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Bug Spray or Bug Wristbands – Keep those bugs at bay.
- Bubbles – Fun for the kids and a great way to pass time.
- Kites – Perfect for a breezy afternoon.
- Water Guns – Hours of outdoor fun for the whole family.
- Sunglasses – Protect your eyes and look cool while you do it.
- Wet Ones – For quick clean-ups when soap and water aren’t nearby.
- Band-Aids – Because little scrapes and bumps are bound to happen.
- Colored Chalk – Fun for outdoor games or marking your campsite.
- Sticky Rollers – A clever way to check for ticks and other pests.
- Unscented Deodorant – Keep fresh without overpowering scents.
- Garbage Bags – Keep your campsite clean and organized.
- Matches – For lighting your campfire and cooking up delicious meals.
- Whistles – A great way to call the kiddos back to camp (especially during hikes).
- Battery-Operated Tea Lights – Low-maintenance lighting for your tent.
- Paper Plates and Cups – Easy-to-dispose-of dinnerware for a no-fuss meal.
- S’mores Ingredients – Marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for the ultimate treat.
- Makeshift Emergency Potty – A shower curtain, rings, rope, hula hoop, 5-gallon bucket, and trash bag make a handy emergency potty for little ones. Hack: Set it up in a secluded spot with privacy, so your little ones don’t have to cross the campsite in the middle of the night.
- Hand Sanitizer – For those times when soap and water aren’t available.
- Ivory Soap – Ideal for bathing in the river or lake (it’s biodegradable!).
- A Funnel for Mom – Greater privacy during hikes (because sometimes nature calls at inconvenient moments).
- Boxed Milk – No refrigeration needed for a quick, nutritious drink.
- Baby Wipes – So essential for cleaning up during camp life.
- Welcome Mat – Help keep dirt out of your tent with a simple outdoor mat.
Make the Most of Your Family Camping Trip:
Camping is an amazing way to make lasting memories with your family while staying within your budget. With these Dollar Tree Camping Hacks and Must-Have Items, you’ll be ready to enjoy the great outdoors—without the stress of overspending. Remember, planning ahead and shopping early will help you stay on track.
So, grab your list, head to Dollar Tree, and start planning your next adventure!
