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Even though it’s still spring, it’s not too early to start thinking about summer camps. If you need childcare this summer or are just looking for a stimulating opportunity for your kids, summer camp is often a great option. And yet for some it might seem out of reach of your budget, especially if you have multiple kids. Even so, there are ways to save on summer camp for kids that you might not have realized. Think outside the box and see if this is something your family can do this summer!
How to Save on Summer Camp for Kids
Always Ask for a Discount or Scholarship
This is a great example of “it never hurts to ask.” When you apply for camp or start to research your options, also ask if they have any discounts they offer. Many offer a discount for other siblings, reserving multiple weeks, and booking early. For some programs. there is scholarship funding available, often on a first-come / first-served basis.
Pay Early And Save Big
Start saving now and pay off summer camp in one early payment to save a huge chunk. Many camps offer a significant discount for early one-time payments. Just be fully aware of your summer schedule as they can also have a no-refund policy for missed weeks.
Earn Rewards
Many of us dust off our checkbook for summer camp payment, but skip writing a check and pay with a rewards credit card. Whether you have a cash back card or you’re earning hotel and travel miles, you are getting a little bit extra back from something you had to pay. Just remember to pay it off at the end of the month!
Get a Possible Tax Credit for Day Camps
You may be able to qualify for a tax credit on any summer day camps your kids (age 13 or younger) and attend so you and your husband can both work, attend school, or look for a job. Depending on your income, you can get back up to 35% of the cost of camp up to $3,000 for one kid or $6,000 for multiple kids.
Look Into Free & City Sponsored Camps
There are a few big names that offer free local and online camps, like Apple and Google! Plus, check with local city and county parks, churches, YMCA, 4H, and others for public summer camps that are super affordable. Going with a public day camp can be cheaper than daycare!
Consider Helping for a Discount
If you have the ability many camps will offer significant discounts or even free camp for parents that are able to help work the camp. I have volunteered as a camp nurse the past two summers that got all my girls into camp for free. I worked the same week they attended and we all enjoyed a week away! This isn’t just for nurses, ask if they have any need for volunteer staff. Consider skills you may have that you could help teach, lifeguarding, even helping to clean.
Plan With Neighbors & Friends
One of the largest costs of camp can be transportation. Plan ahead and pick a day camp or sleep away camp that friends nearby are also using and you can carpool. There are also extra savings at many camps if you refer a friend, so split that bonus and register together.
Buy Personalized Labels
Whether you are doing day or sleep-away camps, it’s worth it to spend $20 and order a pack of personalized labels. These are designed to iron onto clothing and never wash out! That means no matter how hard your kids try, they can’t lose things at camp. Label them head to toe; plus, label their water bottles, bags, and anything else they need to take. Not having to replace things throughout the summer will save way more than the cost of the labels! (Check out my favorite labels.)
Check out the top summer camps in the Southeast!
