SO YOU DON’T WANT TO CAMP… WHAT’S NEXT?

A summer vacation guide

Supplied

Summer is here and so is camping! I love camping so I was shocked that, while planning a weekend trip to Falcon Lake with some friends, only my boyfriend and I wanted to camp. Everyone else wanted to stay in a motel.

Why do some people prefer hotels and motels over camping? I asked people around school and work, and I found a variety of reasons. Some people said they love camping because they love nature, exploring the outdoors, and campfires. Other people preferred staying in hotels because of modern conveniences such as televisions, Internet access and electricity, and luxuries such as indoor pools, restaurants, bathrooms and beds.

Camping is a lot cheaper than staying in a hotel or motel. It costs around $10-30 a night on average, instead of the average $140 dollars for a hotel or motel. While cheaper, the downside to camping is that you need the equipment, such as a tent, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, etc. These supplies can be a small investment if you do not already own them or know someone who owns these camping supplies. When you stay in a hotel, all you need to bring is yourself.

Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to summer vacations, whether it be staying at a hotel, motel, or camping. Here are some other options worth considering while planning your summer getaway.

Yurt Camping:

Yurts are part cabin-part tent structures that are found all over Manitoba and are rentable all year long. The Government of Manitoba manages several locations such as Asessippi and Clearwater Lake. This getaway option costs only $56.50 a night with a minimum of 2 nights. Yurts come with electricity and lighting, creating an affordable way to enjoy nature while having luxuries such as power outlets and sturdy roofs. While there is furniture - usually beds and chairs - included in the yurt, you will have to bring all of the usual camping supplies, such as sleeping bags, cooking utensils and a portable barbeque.

Cabin Rentals:

Cabins are a great option if you want the hotel comfort but still want to be close to nature. Cabins come in a wide range of sizes and prices starting around $100-300 a night with a minimum of 2-7 nights. Renting a cabin is more expensive than camping, but the cost can be whittled down if shared with friends or family. The pros to cabin rentals are having a kitchen to prepare food, electricity, and plumbing. You will most likely need to bring your own bed sheets and towels, so keep that in mind.

Trailers/RVs:

Trailers are another fun way to enjoy nature while bringing some comforts of home with you. While buying a trailer or RV can be very expensive, renting a trailer is an affordable option. Places like CamperDude RV Rentals in Winnipeg rent trailers for an average of $500 a weekend, but don’t forget to add the campground fees on top of that while planning your getaway. The pros of renting a trailer are the ability to tow beds, a washroom and a kitchen wherever you want to go. The downside to trailers is that you need a truck to take your trailer rental with you.

Whether you choose to camp, go RVing, stay in a cabin, yurt, or hotel, your summer accommodation preference is up to you. Pick whichever one fits you and your vacation best, and enjoy your summer getaway!

Part of the series: The 7th Annual Summer Festival Guide

Published in Volume 69, Number 27 of The Uniter (June 3, 2015)

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