Can I Start Camping on a Budget of under $150?
Updated: Aug 4
TLDR;
Item | $ | Why | Where to buy |
Tent | $13 | Quick and easy shelter | |
Self-Inflating Mattress | $24 | Much better than sleeping on the hard ground | |
Portable Gas Stove | $25 | Only need to bring your home pans and you're good to go | |
Basic Camping Chair | $6 | How else will you comfortably roast your marshmallows by the fire | |
2.L Kings Camping Kettle | $14.96 | Warm coffees in the morning, hot choc by the fire and can make some cheeky 2 min noodles | |
24L Insulated Cooler | $29.98 | Keep all your goodies cool over the weekend - don't forget ice! | |
2.0m x 2.5m Light Duty Tarp | $5.31 | Keeps your tent off the wet ground and also cleaner for your stuff to sit on | |
Camp Table | $24 | Small enough to carry in your car but enough to prep your campfire feast |
Gear Checklist for Your Camping Adventure
Two Person Dome Tent - $13
A good tent is essential for any camping experience. The two-person dome tent from Kmart is both affordable and dependable.
This tent has ample space for two people while being compact and easy to transport. It typically features a straightforward setup process, which is perfect for beginner campers.
One standout feature is its lightweight design, making it easy to carry over long distances. At just $13, this tent allows you to allocate funds to other essential gear.
Self-Inflating Mattress - $24
Next on the list is a self-inflating mattress, also from Kmart.
This mattress significantly enhances your sleep quality in the wild. It keeps you comfortable and insulated from the cold ground. Its self-inflating feature means you can set it up quickly and spend more time enjoying nature.
When you're ready to leave, it conveniently rolls up into a compact size for easy packing.
Portable Gas Stove - $25
Food is a critical aspect of any camping experience, making the portable gas stove from Kmart essential.
This stove allows you to make quick meals, boil water, and brew your morning coffee easily. It's designed for simple operation, turning cooking into a fun rather than a chore.
What's impressive is its cooking speed — you can boil water in under five minutes! Plus, its portable and compact size makes it easy to pack for your adventures.
Basic Camping Chair - $6
No camping trip is complete without a comfortable place to sit, and the basic camping chair from Bunnings is a fantastic choice.
At just $6, it’s a budget-friendly steal! Lightweight, foldable, and easy to carry, it offers the perfect seating for relaxing by the campfire or taking in beautiful views.
Having a shaded spot to sit helps you stay cool during the day. Additionally, sitting up off the ground improves comfort and allows you to enjoy your surroundings while taking breaks.
2L Kings Camping Kettle - $14.96
Boiling water for coffee, tea, or cooking can be challenging without the right equipment. The 2L enamel kettle from 4WD Supacentre is an essential addition to your camping gear.
With even heat distribution, this kettle heats water quickly, allowing you to enjoy a warm drink on a chilly night. I still have this kettle and I think it will outlive us all!
25L Insulated Cooler - $29.98
Keeping your food and drinks cold is vital while camping, and the 25L insulated cooler from Bunnings does just that.
This cooler accommodates perishable items and drinks, so you can enjoy fresh meals all trip long. Its insulation can keep contents cold for up to 12 hours.
The spacious interior makes it easy to pack a variety of foods while still fitting comfortably in your vehicle.
2.0m x 2.5m Light Duty Tarp - $5.31
A tarp may not be the first item you think of for camping, but it can be incredibly practical. At only $5.31 from Bunnings, a light-duty tarp serves numerous functions.
It can create a makeshift shelter, protect your gear from unexpected rain, or provide a dry space to sit on. Its portability makes it easy to carry, while the size works well for various uses. I always chuck a tarp under my swag and it's good to go!
Camp Table - $24
Last but not least, the camp table from Kmart, priced at $24, is a fantastic addition to your setup.
Bringing a table along makes camping even better, giving you a spot to eat and play games. This lightweight, foldable table is super easy to carry and set up, providing a stable and handy surface for cooking and dining.
Total Cost Breakdown
When you add it all up, you get:
Two-person dome tent: $13
Self-inflating mattress: $24
Portable gas stove: $25
Basic camping chair: $6
2L Kings camping kettle: $14.96
25L insulated cooler: $29.98
2.0m x 2.5m light duty tarp: $5.31
Camp table: $24
Total: $142.27
With a total cost of $142.27, you can fully gear up for a memorable weekend camping adventure without breaking the bank.
Camping is not about the most expensive gear; it's about getting out there and just exploring!
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