By ActivityHero Staff
Tip 1: Look for summer camp discounts
Smart shoppers on ActivityHero save over 30% by combining early bird, multi-session and sibling discounts. The most popular way to get instant savings is the early bird discount.
But in 2021, there may not be as many discounts available because in-person camps are generally going to be smaller group sizes and the camps have to spend money on more equipment, PPE, hand sanitizer, nightly cleanings, etc. So if you see a discount, grab it!
After April, you may not find as many early registration discounts, but sibling and multiple week camp discounts are often still available. The average family saves 12% with multiple week discounts and 6% with sibling discounts.
Tip 2: Balance specialty camps and recreational camps
If you’ve been shopping for camps, you have probably seen a wide price range. Some specialty camps, such as programming or horseback riding, are priced higher because the equipment or instructors are more costly. A week of rock climbing or paddle boarding camp at Avid4 Adventure is over $650.
While you may want to splurge on a few specialty camps, recreational sports and day camps can cost a lot less. Camps held at the local park or school soccer field don’t have as much expenses to cover. For example, a week of soccer camp at Challenger Soccer Camp starts around $127.
Your child might be interested in many types of activities, so mixing in a few different camps can keep your average cost lower.
Tip 3: Consider one day sessions
Sending kids to camp for a day or two at a time can be a great way to break up the monotony of summer, or to supplement your other child care arrangements. Kids still get to experience all the fun of camp, but you’re only paying for the days you need. CD’s Kids Art Studio and Growfit Sports Camps are examples of camps that offers this type of flexibility. (And if it’s a very popular camp, we recommend registering as early as you can to make sure you secure your spot.)
Tip 4: Find “value priced” camps
Some camps, like Wizbots, a robotics camp in the San Francisco Bay Area, believe in “providing a quality program at the best value price,” and don’t offer any additional camp discounts. These programs might have every day lower prices, or they may offer longer hours or extended care at no extra charge.
What’s considered to be a low price varies by region. In the SF Bay Area, a full day camp that is $350 or less per week catches parents’ attention.
Tip 5: Apply for scholarships and financial aid
Your family may also be able to get assistance from camp scholarships or financial aid. ActivityHero’s scholarship program makes it easy for families to apply once and be eligible for several camp scholarships. You can also contact camps directly to ask if they offer financial assistance.
Bonus: Tell a friend
Many camps offer a referral bonus when you invite a friend to camp. On ActivityHero, you can earn $15 for each friend referred, and your friends save money too!
