5 Reasons Why Camping Should Be Your Next Vacation

5 Reasons Why Camping Should Be Your Next Vacation

Camping is a great vacation choice for families and couples. It is an activity that you can do on almost any budget regardless of where you live.

The world is full of beautiful places to explore and plenty of national parks, national forests, lakes, and more. Therefore, it’s easy to pick a camping location with a lot of scenic views. Plus, there’s always a level of tranquility when you get back to nature.

Even if your children or other family members are hesitant about camping at first, they are bound to enjoy their time outdoors with you. Listed below are five benefits you’ll enjoy if you go camping with your family or significant other.

5 Reasons Why Camping Should be Your Next Vacation

1. Affordability

Family Camping

If you’re strapped for cash due to rising costs, camping is an affordable way to take a vacation. If you already have camping gear, you won’t have to spend much money to take your family into the great outdoors. Cash for gas, food, and a few other supplies is all you need to make a long weekend into a fun trip your family will remember for years to come. Plus, once you purchase the necessary items, you’ll have all the gear needed for more fun trips.

You can find campsites that are free or for a minimal cost per night, depending on the location. There are some state parks that may charge a nightly fee per tent. A great place to find incredible camping locations by visiting campspot.com or simply searching on google “Camping Near Me”.


2. Teach Basic Life Skills

Kids Gathering firewood

Camping isn’t just fun; it can also be a great time to teach useful lessons to your kids. Your children can learn useful survival skills that they can utilize throughout their life and even pass on to their kids one day. Skills including building a fire, fishing, and other camping activities can be enjoyable ways for kids to learn and feel useful.

Have your children help you set up your camping tent, help you cook over the fire, or gather firewood. Children love to learn and enjoy helping when they feel like they’re a part of a team effort.

3. Enjoy Nature

Kids Gathering firewood

Living a life primarily indoors can be draining and can even rob you of your imagination or being able to problem solve. Getting out and enjoying the fresh air and natural views allows you to refresh and recharge.

Forget about your cramped cubicle, and stuffy home office, and head out into the great outdoors. Get in touch with nature again, breathe the fresh air, and find peace by sitting next to a calming lake or observing the wildlife with your family.

Many family vacations can be exhausting. For example, heading to an amusement park like Disney with children and fighting crowds of people is a difficult, expensive, and stressful endeavor. But if you go camping, you’ll return feeling refreshed, your kids will learn new skills, and all will have lasting memories of being in the great outdoors.

4. Exercise

Kids Gathering firewood

When you camp you won’t be spending your vacation time sedentary. Camping requires a ton of physical activity. Building tents, fires, hiking the trails, and bike riding are all intense physical activities that will keep you and your family healthy and alert.

Choosing a vacation with a lot of activity is especially important if you feel your children are spending too much time being inactive at home. Get your kids away from the television and video games and instill in them that activity and exercise can be fun. That brings us to our next reason to choose camping as your next vacation.

5. Break from Technology

Kids Gathering firewood

In the modern world, there is almost no place you can completely escape from technology. Therefore, going out into nature where there is little to no cell signal will keep your kids off their hand-held devices.

It’s important to take time away from technology to recharge and center yourself as well. Spending time away from technology will increase your focus, imagination, and attention span as well as your kids.

It’s time to allow your brain to feel refreshed in the quiet outdoors.

Final Thoughts

For your next vacation, choose to relax in nature and take a step back from the hustle and bustle of the modern world. Camping is a great getaway option to save money, get exercise, and come back home feeling refreshed.


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5 Reasons Why Camping Should be Your Next Vacation
5 Reasons Why Camping Should be Your Next Vacation
BEST Things To Do In Breckenridge, Colorado When You Are On A Budget

BEST Things To Do In Breckenridge, Colorado When You Are On A Budget

Breckenridge, Colorado is a beautiful place to visit any time of the year.

However, the winter ski and snowboard season is the most popular time for families to vacation.

Whether you choose to visit in the summer or winter, there are some great budget-friendly activities the whole family can enjoy.

February 2021, my family and I went on a 5-day Ski/Snowboarding Trip to Breckenridge and enjoyed every moment!

The mountains are breathtaking with the highest peak of 12,998 ft.

best things to do in Breckenridge Colorado

We even got to experience a snowstorm that dropped over 12 inches of snow. As native Texans, it was a glorious sight to see!

During our trip, we were able to go sledding, hiking, Ski/Snowboard, and more. Therefore, based on our experience, I wanted to put together a list of some great things you can do in Breckenridge, Colorado when your family is on a budget.

1. Ride the Gondola – It’s FREE

Breckenridge Gondola

Image Credit: Max Robolox – Google Images

Riding the Gondola is the BEST way to see the gorgeous town from above. Usually, you must have a ski lift in order to experience the awesome views, but not in Breck.

The Gondola is the perfect family activity to enjoy the scenic area.

There are two mid-stations that drop off passengers between Shock Hill and the base of Peak 7. It rises 391 feet in elevation and has 121 cars total.

So take the family and enjoy the sights from above!

2. Take a hike

Things to do in Breckenridge

Anywhere you hike in the rocky mountainous terrain, you are bound to see some epic scenery.

The wilderness and views you could experience are memories waiting to be made.

Plus, It is a great activity to get outside, explore, and get a little bit of exercise as well, all for FREE!

There are so many hiking trails in Breckenridge, that I suggest checking out alltrails.com to find the best one for you. They rank them from easy to difficult depending on your hiking abilities.

3. Window Shop / Walk Around Main Street

Main Street Breckenridge is the perfect little place to stroll around and enjoy a relaxed walk-through town.

There are so many cute places to shop and to pick up some delicious coffee.

If you ever get a chance to visit, no matter what time of the year, take the time to walk around and support the local shops. Even if it is a simple t-shirt or coffee purchase.

 

4. Go Sledding (Free Winter Activity)

This is one FREE activity that is super fun for all ages!

Since we were there in the winter, we got a chance to go sledding down the town’s hill.

The location of this hill is behind the elementary school and next to an activity center with tennis courts and a dog park.

There are sleds that some leave behind, or you can pick some up at the local shops.

Our whole family enjoyed the free sledding so much that we went more than once!

5. Go Mountain Biking

If you happen to go to Breckenridge during the gorgeous Rocky Mountain Summers, biking is a great way to enjoy the area.

You can bring your own or rent a bike while you are there. (Check out Groupon for deals)

This is an inexpensive way to get some exercise, explore the outdoors, and enjoy the beauty of the Breckenridge Mountains.


6. Go Skiing / Snowboarding

Okay, so we all know Skiing or Snowboarding isn’t necessarily a budget-friendly activity.

The ski lift tickets alone are pricy!

However, budgeting at least one-day, if you are going during Ski Season to the Mountains, is recommended if you enjoy the activity.

We were on a budget and decided to do one day of snowboarding while we visited the town in February.

The cost was well worth the experience for us!

If you are renting your skis and/or snowboard gear (including a helmet, pants (if needed), or jacket) check out AMR Rental Ski and Board.

They provided us with great gear, all fitted to our liking and for half the price of other rental places.

7. Visit Local Museums 

Breckenridge, Colorado is historically a gold mining/sawmill town.

There are some great museums that the whole family can visit to get a piece of the history. Including a high line railroad museum with a Train engine and themed playground specifically created for kids to enjoy.

Here is a list of some of the museums that are available to visit.

Barney Ford Museum

Edwin Carter Discovery Center

Briggle House Museum

High Line Railroad Museum

Breckenridge Sawmill Museum

You can check out more museums and tours here: Gobreck.com

Please keep in mind hours may be subject to change. Most of these museums are free to discover and donations are accepted.

8. Check out Groupon for Local Deals

One thing I love to check when I am in a new town to see what activities could be available on Groupon.

Sometimes you can find something really cool to do and for a cheaper price.

 

Final Thoughts

Visiting Breckenridge Colorado was a wonderful and memorable vacation.

If I ever get the chance to go back, I would in a heartbeat. There is so much to explore in the area, that our trip was not enough time.

So, if you love the outdoors, extreme sports, amazing coffee, and kind people then Breckenridge is a perfect vacation spot for you! Enjoy and explore the beautiful sights it has to offer!

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best things to do in Breckenridge Colorado
Best things to do in Breckenridge Colorado when you are on a budget.
16 BEST Hidden Gems to Visit in Texas | The Lone Star State

16 BEST Hidden Gems to Visit in Texas | The Lone Star State

Hidden Gems in Texas | My home state is full of gorgeous landscapes and hidden gems to experience.

Whether they are carved out naturally through years of environmental changes or artwork that has stood to the test of time.

These gems are sights to see and explore and this list is the BEST of the BEST! 

I even included one of my favorite places to go every time we visit Waco, TX. It’s a Texas Size place that you can visit with the whole family, do some shopping, and have a full day of fun!

So, if you enjoy hiking, nature, caverns, or even the famous HGTV show “Fixer Upper”, then you will find the gems in this list worth the visit!

RV BEDROOM MUST-HAVES

1. Hamilton Pool Preserve

This beautiful hidden gem called Hamilton Pool Preserve is in Dripping Springs, Texas just outside of Austin.

My husband and I visited in 2017 to celebrate our Anniversary!

The natural pool was preserved in 1990 by the Travis County Commissioner’s Court. For about 3/4ths of a mile hike through the gorgeous, lush wilderness, you will come to an open pool with a 50-foot waterfall.

At times during a drought, the waterfall could become scarce, but the pool is always filled with cool natural spring water.

Once you reach the pool, you can walk through the canyon for even more gorgeous views from inside.

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Hamilton Pool and the hiking trails are a great place to visit and spend time outdoors to enjoy a day hike, have a picnic, and cool off with a swim.

After your time at the pool, take a hike the other way towards Pedernales River for more natural beauty.

VISITING HAMILTON POOL TIP: You will need to make a reservation before visiting. There are time slots in which you can visit and a cost per vehicle and person.   Also, due to the Pandemic; Swimming and the hike to the Pedernales river is closed but you can still visit the pool and enjoy a picnic.

Check out the link here for updated information.

Address: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

2. Terlingua Ghostown

Located in South-West Texas, Terlingua Ghost Town is a great stop if you plan on visiting Big Bend National Park.

This town is an old quicksilver mining town that will take you back in time to the old western days.

It is a beautiful place with some magnificent mountainous desert landscaping views that will have you amazed.

Dome Texas Unique Place to Stay - GlampingHub

 

The town also has some cute shops, historical landmarks, and some super unique places you can stay the night.

If you have ever wanted to spend the night in a tipi or a dome and star gaze all night, then this is the place!

You can rent the HGTV famous Off-Grid Adobe home for a quiet and secluded evening. You can book that home here or click the button above.

3. Magnolia Markets: HGTV’s Fixer Upper

Magnolia Silos

Magnolia Markets is a New Hidden Gem in Texas. It’s a great place to visit for the entire family.

Whether you are just passing through or looking to spend a day in Waco, Texas, the Silos are a must-stop destination.

The Magnolia Team finished a complete rehaul of the entire silo’s space in 2020 with a church and more. It’s a gorgeous venue with coffee, cakes, and shopping that will appeal to everyone.

I’ve added this to the hidden gems of Texas because I’ve been a couple of times, and every time it just gets better and better!

You can read about our most recent visit here.

If you’d like to visit, here is the address: 601 Webster Ave. Waco, TX 76706

4. Jacobs Well

Jacob's Well

Image Credit: Tripadvisor.com

This beautiful natural Area well is a great place to hike and swim during open seasons.

Jacob’s Well is located in Wimberley, Texas, and is a 130-foot Artesian spring well that attracts many scuba diving enthusiasts.

It is a free location to visit with amazing hiking trails.

However, If you would like to swim, you will need to make a reservation and pay a small fee. (However, Swimming is currently prohibited due to COVID) Also, pets are not allowed in the park.

I suggest planning 2 to 3 hours or more for the visit! This way you can get the most out of this beautiful hidden gem in Texas.

Address: 1699 Mount Sharp Rd, Wimberley, TX 78676

Hours: 8am – 6pm

Website: https://hayscountytx.com/departments/hays-county-parks-recreation/jacobs-well-natural-area/ 

5. Cavern’s in Sonora

Image Credit: Tripadvisor Traveler

All the caverns in Texas are true hidden gems. They are glorious, beautiful, and perfect learning experiences for kids.

As an accidental discovery by the Ranching Mayfield family in the ’20s, the Caverns of Sonora go back 500 feet.

It wasn’t until the ’50s though, when a caver from Oklahoma saw the human impact and developed a plan to preserve the caverns for the future.

Now, you can purchase tickets and explore the caves with the whole family.

Address: 1711 Pvt Rd 4468, Sonora, TX 76950  

Website: http://www.cavernsofsonora.com/ 

6. Inner Space Caverns

Inner Space Caverns

Image Credit: Google Images

One of my favorite places to stop on road trips with my family. We have so many great memories in these caverns.

Discovered in 1963 by the Texas Highway Department when they were drilling nearby. With over 7,000 feet of cave dwelling, the Inner Space Caverns opened to the public to explore in 1966.

If you visit, there are three tours to choose from: Adventure Tour, Hidden Passages Tour, and Wild Cave tour. You can also do a Virtual Adventure Tour Here.

Another fun activity for the kids that is available is Gemstone Panning. You can teach the young ones a little about the history and how gems and gold are discovered.

The tickets to visit and explore the caves are all reasonably priced starting at $14.95 for kids and $21.95 for adults depending on the tour purchased.

If you would like to visit and make this place your next family vacation stop, here is the address and more information.

Address: 4200 S. I-35 Frontage Rd. Georgetown, TX 78626

Website: https://innerspacecavern.com/

7. Cadillac Ranch

Photo by Matthew T Rader on Unsplash

Image Credit: Matthew T Rader on Unsplash

The infamous Cadillac Ranch is located in Amarillo, Texas. It is 10 Cadillacs buried nose/front end at the same angle in the ground. It has been visited by thousands of people since 1974.

The area is free and is a great place to stop, stretch your legs, and enjoy a historical site.

If you would like to leave your “mark” you can bring your own spray paint or there are usually some left by others.

Address: 13651 I-40 Frontage Rd. Amarillo, TX 79124

8. Enchanted Rock, Fredericksburg

Enchanted Rock Texas Hidden Gem

Image Credit: tpwd.texas.gov

Looking for a great place to hike with the family? The enchanted rock in Fredericksburg is a natural pink granite rock that brings thousands of hikers every year.

The hike is short and moderate for beginner to advanced hikers.

Once you reach the summit you experience gorgeous views of the Texas Hill Country.

It is a great place to camp, hike, and bring your family and pets to enjoy a day in the beautiful Texas wilderness.

Address: 16710 Ranch Rd. 965 Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Entrance Fee: $8 a day for Adults, Children under 12 is Free

Open Daily: 6:30am – 10:00pm

9. Palo Duro Canyon

Palo Duro Canyon - Texas Hidden Gem

Image Credit: Thomas S. on Unsplash

Palo Duro Canyons also called the Grand Canyon of Texas. It is the second-largest canyon in the United States.

These canyons are perfect for an adventure of hiking, camping, biking, and more. The rugged scenery is just breathtaking!

If you have your own horse, you are more than welcome to bring them along for a nice horseback ride!

Don’t have horses, well you can still go horseback riding with a guided horseback tour with “Old West Stables”. Perfect family or date activity!

There are also RV parks you could plug in to and stay awhile to enjoy the beautiful Texas scenery and sunsets.

Address: 11450 Park Road 5 Canyon, TX 79015

Price: $8 Daily Fee, Children under 12 is Free.

10. Cascade Caverns

Texas Hidden Gem Cascade Caverns

Image Credit: Kenneth Leblanc – Google Images

Another area of beautiful caverns to explore is located just north of San Antonio. The Cascade Caverns is Texas’s oldest living cave attraction. The caves always stay around 59 – 63 degrees year-round so they are nice places to go to escape the Texas summer heat and view the beauty of nature.

You can choose from 3 different tours: Downunder Tour, Flashlight Tour, and Adventure Tour. Prices start at $12.95 for kids and $19.95 for adults.

If you enjoy camping, either in an RV or a tent, you can plan your stay and camp out at the Caverns campsite.

Address: 226 Cascade Caverns Rd. Boerne, TX 78015

Website: cascadecaverns.com

11. Monahans Sandhills State Park

Monahans Sandhills

Image Credit: Brain More – Google Images

Texas is home to multiple types of climates including the desert.

Have you ever dreamed of going sledding down a sandhill like they do in Egypt?

Look no further than Monahan’s Sandhills State Park in Texas. This place is described as an ocean of sand! It’s a Texas-sized sandbox for kids and adults of all ages.

There are many activities you can do including exploring the sand dunes, ride your horse (if you have one), Camp, have a picnic, sled, and more!

Address: Park Rd. 41 Monahans, Tx 79756

Open daily – Adults $4 entry fee and children under 12 are free. (The busy season is March through August)

12. Austin’s Congress Avenue Bat Bridge

Auston's Bat Bridge

Image Credit: Pablo Pratt – Google Images

I have been here a few times and it truly is a cool sight to see when the Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from the bridge at sunset. The show usually goes lasts from 7:30 pm to 9:45 pm.

This attraction has brought millions of people to Austin to view the nightly. It is not all year round though. The bats migrate from Mexico each spring to call the Bridge cave their home.

Starting in March when the weather begins to warm up and continues into early fall is when you will see them. There are estimated to be 1.5 million bats!

If you plan on going to experience this ‘urban meets nature’ event, go early and get a parking spot. It can get packed with people quickly, so you also want to bring a blanket, chairs, and maybe even a snack to enjoy the show.

You can also bike, hike, and even get on the river with a kayak or canoe to see the phenomenon as well. There are also “Bat Tours” as well if that is something you enjoy.

Address: 305 S. Congress Ave. Austin, TX

             

13. Balmorhea State Park

Balmohea State Park

Image Credit: tpwd.texas.gov 

Balmorhea State Park is home to the Worlds Largest spring-fed swimming pool. It’s a perfect place to cool off when the Summer Texas heat become too much to bare. 

Bring the family and make it a full day with swimming, snorkeling, picnic, and more! If you like to geocache there are great places in this state park for that as well.

There is a one-time park entry, but the swimming is included. Anyone under 15 must be accompanied by an adult to swim as there is no lifeguard on duty.

Address: 9207 TX-17 Toyahvale, TX 79786

Entrance Fees: Adults is $7 Daily and Children under 12 is Free

14. Hueco Tanks State Park

Hueco Tanks State Park

Image Credit: Google Images

A beautiful and historical site that is worth the visit to explore the history. There are old petrographs through the park from ancient Indian tribes.

The park has an interpretive center that will provide you with all the information and history to make the trip a great learning experience.

There are guided tours and self-guided tours available. If you want to camp, you must create a reservation and do not show up late. 

Address: 6900 Hueco Tanks Road No. 1 El Paso, TX 79938

Entrance Fee: $7 Daily for Adults, Children under 12 are free

15. West Cave Preserve

West Cavern State Park

Image Credit: Karen Q – Google Images

The Westcave preserve is a gorgeous place to go and take the entire family! It is perfect for kids to explore and learn.

There is the popular “Grotto” which is a beautiful walk through the limestone and down a 100-foot canyon into lush plant life. At the head of the canyon, you will reach a 40-foot waterfall that is just breathtaking!

You can explore this wonderful area and setting your reservations at the WESTCAVE Outdoor Discovery Center.

Address: 24814 Hamilton Pool Rd. Round Mountain, TX 78663

Website: westcave.org

16. Longhorn Cavern State Park

Longhorn State park - Texas Hidden Gem

Image Credit: Google Images

This hidden gem in Burnet County is one to visit and explore. The Longhorn Cavern State Park is a unique treasure that is full of natural beauty.

You can choose to take a guided tour or hike the trail on your own while admiring the natural water-carved stone.

The Park provides two different tours. One is a general and easy walking tour for the whole family. However, if you are the adventurous type and like to be challenged, there is a “Wild Cave Tour” that can take you through and make you must wiggle, climb, and crawl through spaces.

You can check out prices and times at the Visitlonghorncavern.com

Address: 6211 Park Road 4 South. Burnet, TX 78611

Whatever tour you desire, you are guaranteed to have a great time and enjoy the beauty of the Texas Hidden Gem.

Final Thoughts

These beautiful hidden gems in Texas are so unique.

If you live in Texas or happen to be visiting and driving through take some time to make a stop or more. 

Even if it’s only for an hour or so to enjoy the Texas beauty, you will remember the moment and time forever! 

 

 

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RV BEDROOM MUST-HAVES RV BEDROOM MUST-HAVES
RV BEDROOM MUST-HAVES
Best Outdoor Subscription Boxes For Campers, RVers, and More

Best Outdoor Subscription Boxes For Campers, RVers, and More

Outdoor Subscription Boxes are the perfect gift for your adventure seekers.

Whether they love to camp, hike, fish, or just enjoy the great outdoors, gifting a subscription box is the way to go.

Each box is unique and comes with a variety of goodies that will benefit their individual outdoor activity.

But, with so many options out there which ones are the best and worth the price? 

Well, we had the same question, so here is a break down to get you started in picking the best outdoor subscription box.

Outdoor Subscription Boxes (1)

Subscription Boxes for Outdoor Gear

Nomadik

Epic Outdoor Gear right to your doorstep. Each box is at least a $50 value with high-quality brands.

Every monthly box has it’s own theme so you will be surprised every time.

All monthly boxes are also tailored to your liking after a brief questioner once you subscribe. Plus, there is also monthly outdoor challenges to get you outside and exploring.

CAIRN

One of the best outdoor subscription boxes for campers and adventure enthusiasts. 

You can sign up for a monthly or quarterly subscription and receive the best in class branded gear for your adventures. 

If you choose the monthly, you will receive $50 worth of gear every month. For the quarterly subscriptions, you will receive up to $350 worth of gear. 

Plus, when you review their products you will also be eligible to earn reward points that can be cashed in for free box, apparel, or gifts for friends. 

Steel to Reel Club

This outdoor subscription box is for those who are looking to embark on the skill of lone survivor.

Each box contains premium products for camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing hand-picked by professional survivalists. 

This box subscription can get started on learning the necessary skills for outdoor life with the right gear. 

Subscription Boxes for Campers

The Happy Glamper

Hello, Glamping Divas! Camping doesn’t have to be always roughing it.

You can enjoy the great outdoors and still have comfort.

The Happy Glamper Subscription box is the perfect box for Camping RVing woman. They come with jewelry, home decor, and more. 

CampLife Crate

The best subscription box for campers and RVers of all kinds. 

You can choose monthly or quarterly box options. Each box has its own theme and curated with 5 – 7 items from branded companies like Camco.

Get started on your adventure with the CampLife Crate.

50 States of Mine

As an RV’er, visiting every state you can is usually a huge goal. What if you could get a head start in experiencing the fun and local items before you visit? 

Well, the 50 States of Mine Subscription box offers just that! Every month you will get items from a brand new state.

You can choose from a standard box or a premium box and receive 6 to 8 items every month. Plus, shipping is included! 

Subscription Boxes for Hikers

The HikeWize

Looking to start a new outdoor hobby and don’t know where to start on your hiking gear? This outdoor subscription box is perfect for new and even experienced hikers. 

This box is sent on a quarterly basis and you will receive 5 to 7 full-size items worth $150-$200. 

They also include tips on hiking as well as information on National Parks that you might want to visit. 

Hiker Crate

Another perfect box for those who enjoy hiking and the great outdoors.

This box comes with more edible healthy treats along with a couple of gear items. It’s the perfect box to keep you fueled while on an adventure. 

The Hiker Crate is a monthly subscription that renews automatically but can be canceled anytime. 

Subscription Boxes for Fishing

Freestone Fly Fishing Company

If the outdoor activity you or a friend enjoys is fishing, then the Freestone Fly Fishing box is a great option. 

Every box comes with a vinyl sticker, 12 -24 flys, and 4-5 angler items all worth a minimum of an $80 value. 

Ships from Canada on the 5th of every month. 

True Fly Supply

Looking for a monthly box that gives you more than fly fishing gear?

This box offers up gear for trout fishing, saltwater fishing, and warm water fishing. You choose which style of fishing box you desire more. 

Plus, you’ll get a surprise item every month and free USA shipping. 

Subscription Boxes for Hunters

Mountain Hunter

Are you a hunter or have an avid hunter you’d like to gift a box too. The Mountain Hunter Subscription box is a great option.

Curated with quality and light-weight hunting products handpicked by professional hunters.

Each box will contain 3 to 5 items that are perfect for hunting adventures. 

Barrell & Blade

A great box for those who enjoy the outdoors of curated interests like camping, survival gear, tactical gear, and more. 

There are two box options; Option 1 offers items valued at $85+ and option 2 offers items valued at $175+. 

Each box is curated with high quality and tested items from trained outdoor survivalist. So stock up on your gear with the Barrell & Blade Subscription box. 

Subscription Boxes for Kids

Wild Child Box

A great option for your kid that loves to learn and adventure outside. 

Keep your kid busy with the Wild Child Box.

All items are focused on children ages 3 to 10 and valued at $65 per box. 

Think Outside

An outdoor kids subscription box curated by parents. This box is perfect to ensure your kiddos get outside and let their imagination run wild. 

Think Outside was awarded the 2019 Parent’s Choice Award for its outstanding gear for kids.

Equipped with the perfect learning material to teach young ones about the outdoors. You will also receive a color of your choice day backpack so your kids can carry all the gear with them with your first box. 

Subscription Boxes for Her

Wild Woman Box

This box is for the outdoor-loving women out there.

Curated and designed specifically with gear, healthy snacks, and body products for ladies. 

If you love the outdoors and have a busy active lifestyle, this is the box for you. 

Stay wild women! 

Glamperous

Glamping is like camping but with all the modern luxury items and amenities.

This box is designed for the women who love to camp, hang out by the fire, and enjoy the outdoors. 

This is a quarterly subscription box with each one containing 5 – 6 items valued at $120. Items you could expect are great for camping, home decor, candles, and outerwear. 

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ve enjoyed these great outdoor subscription boxes available for Campers, RVer’s, Hunters, Kids, Women, and more. 

These boxes are great for yourself or given as gifts during the holidays or birthdays. 

Also, if you do choose to purchase a subscription, I am an affiliate with Cratejoy, Nomadik, and Cairn and will earn a percentage at no extra cost to you. 

Thank you for stopping by and check out our related posts below! 

 

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Outdoor Subscription Boxes (1)
Outdoor Subscription Boxes (1)
How to Plan an Amazing Family Road Trip | With FREE Road Trip Planner

How to Plan an Amazing Family Road Trip | With FREE Road Trip Planner

Planning an amazing family road trip? Well, you’re in the right place!

If you’re taking a family road trip to a specific destination or doing a roundabout trip, memories are bound to be made.

As a kid, the youngest of 6, we would road trip anywhere we were going because flying was too expensive.

My family road-tripped to Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. We even rented an RV in Alaska and drove around for a couple of weeks. That was a long and eventful road trip I will never forget.

Now, we live in the Dallas Texas area and pretty much road-tripped around the whole state too. After all, Texas is the second-largest state and there’s so much to do and see. Driving to Port Aransas, Texas from Dallas is a 7 to 8-hour drive depending on how many stops and how fast you drive.

I remember as a kid getting so excited about family road trips. My parents would always find cool places to stop along the way. Some of these places included a cool car museum on the way to Tennessee and the Inner Space Caverns to name a couple. Plus, all the games, music, movies, and family time were what I looked forward too.

Now, family road trips always tested our relationships. But in the end, they made us stronger and more connected.

So, when you’re planning consider these ideas to help you prepare for a family road trip. They will get you started in making it one of the most memorable vacations ever! Including the best road trip planner app to use.

So, let’s get started!

Types of Road Trips

First, let’s discuss the three types of road trips you can take.

1. A Destination Road Trip. This is the main type of road trip my family would take. We always had a single destination that we headed too. For example, Dallas, Texas to Phoenix, Arizona where my grandmother lived. We took this trip many times growing up.

2. A Round-About Road Trip. This is the kind of trip where your ending destination brings you back home. These are fun because the whole idea of the road trip is to stop at interesting places. For example, there are some great National Park Roundabout Itineraries. You can check this awesome week-long Round-About Itinerary through the National Parks in Utah created by Nextdestinationunknown.com.

3. A One-way Road trip. We never took this type of trip because we always came back home. But, if you’re moving to a new city or state, this a single destination road trip.

Now that you know what type of road trip you will be making, consider who is coming and plan the route!

Consider who’s coming along

This is an important step because everyone has different tastes and ideas of fun.

Some people may hate the idea of taking a road trip to their vacation destination and others love it. When you understand who’s coming along, you’ll be able to plan better.

Plan the Route

Planning your route ahead of time helps you understand time, mileage, gas, and where you will need or want to stop.

There are plenty of sites and apps that can help you out with this including Google Maps.

But, there is one website/app I enjoy and recommend called Roadtrippers.com. Here is a link and if you want to get the Pro Version, use this code for $5 off. (BTR5QTP)

It’s perfect for anyone planning a trip and used by a lot of full-time traveling RVers.

Plan Cool and interesting places to stop

By using the Roadtrippers app you’ll be able to see the different places that you can stop along the way. The map highlights interesting places like Museums, Outdoor and recreation areas, and more.

When my family road tripped through Austin, we would always stop for an hour or so at the Inner Space Caverns. Stopping and exploring the caverns is a memory I will never forget!

Take your time

I know how tempting it is to see the time on the google maps directions and try to beat it. Also, I know there are some who only like to stop when someone must use the bathroom or get gas.

Depending on the type of road trip you are taking, I suggest you take your time. Enjoy the drive, the scenery, and if you do stop don’t be afraid to linger around and explore.

Like I said before, we use to stop at some cool places like the inner space caverns. We would spend an hour or so exploring.

Create a playlist

This is a must! I remember as a kid, way back in 1999 or 2000 my best friend and I would listen to the radio all day with blank cassette tapes. As soon as a song we liked came on the radio we would hit record. That is how we use to make road trip playlists.

Then came CD players, MP3 players, iPods, and now there is Apple Music and Pandora on our Phones.

Creating Playlists is super easy today! Also, the availability of music is world-wide, so get creative and have fun.

Pack healthy Snacks

Packing healthy snacks for your road trip is a great idea! It will prevent spending too much on gas station junk food.

Another plus to packing healthy snacks is no one gets a tummy ache from eating too many chips or candy.

Tip: Make Sandwiches ahead of time and pack easy options like apples, pears, grapes, and more. There are also some great applesauce pouches for kids you can purchase as well. These are great ideas to keep everyone happy, healthy, and full!

Bring a case of water

Seriously, this is the best advice because a case of water is like $4 or less. But if buy water at rest stops, you’re looking at 4 bottles of water for $1 or more each.

That’s a waste of money for water.

You can even pack some soda or juice boxes. Whatever the family or those joining on the road trip choice of beverage.

Don’t forget the Cooler

You will definitely want to bring along a cooler to keep your drinks cold. It doesn’t have to be anything large, just something that can fit a few drinks.

There are so many options to choose from including coolers that can plug into your 12v in the car. This eliminates the need for ice!

You can also choose a cooler bag that attaches to the back of the seat. There are now so many options to keep organized and keep your family road trip drinks cold.


Check the Weather

Depending on what time of year you will be traveling and also your desired destination, it will determine the weather. Winter brings a lot of snow and icy conditions, while spring can bring flooding.

Therefore it’s important to check the weather before you head out so you’re not surprised if you hit a storm.

Play Road Trip Games

We all know the classic games like iSpy or Slug Bug. These were my favorite road trip games to play. They kept us busy and having fun along the way.

If we weren’t playing those types of games, we had our handheld game systems like Nintendos.

Today almost everyone has a phone with downloadable app games. However, there are still some really cool handheld devices like the Nintendo Switch for kids who don’t have phones.

Tip: I suggest downloading some games on your phone while you have WiFi before you leave.


Watch some Movies

Some vehicles have DVD players already installed. However, you can always purchase one like this that you can take anywhere with you. These are great for all ages.

A movie is on average an hour in a half to two hours long. The time length is a great way to make a couple of hours go by, especially if anyone begins to get moody or tired.


Enjoy the opportunity to be together

This is one of my favorite reasons why I love taking road trips. It brings everyone closer together! Yes, there may be some arguments along the way but that’s a part of the experience.

I reflect back on all the Road Trips we took as a family growing up and they are some of my favorite memories. Family Road Trips are vacations that your kids will remember forever.

Get started in planning your family road trip with the downloaded and editable road trip planner below! 

Final Thoughts

Like I’ve said plenty of times, I LOVE taking Road Trips! They are fun and they get everyone out of the house and exploring. After all it’s great to explore new sights.

I hope you feel inspired and ready to plan your next road trip. Stay safe out there, take your time, and enjoy exploring!

What are some of your favorite road trip memories? Share below, I love good road trip stories!

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