After taking an 8 night trip to visit some National Park Sites in and around Southern Arizona during February 2021 I thought I would write some quick notes about costs for the trip staying in Hotels, versus a hypothetical expense of a van trip (sleeping in van), as well as camping.
Hotels
We averaged $100 a night for mid-tier hotel chains and some independent smaller hotels. Every hotel we chose had free breakfast, usually some hot food components, but at a minimum serving some type of continental breakfast for a light morning meal typically consisting of pastries and baked goods, fruits, toast, and coffee. Usually served as buffet style with some having a take out bag option.
Advantages of Hotels
- Can be “free” with credit card rewards
- Highest comfort
- Typically the best sleep/rest
- Typically free hotel breakfast
- Modern conveniences/bathroom facilities
- WiFi for uploading photos and planning next steps of adventure
- If not particular and if flexible, may be able to get by without advance booking/planning
Disadvantages of Hotels
- Higher cost
- Research time to determine quality of the hotel before booking
- Research time for best rates for stay and comparison of amenities
- Less nature activities for family to do while in the hotel
- May also require advance planning for stays in popular areas
Van/RV
Advantages of traveling in a Van
- Fast setup for sleep, minimal setup to get bedding for sleep (if setup well)
- If van is stealthy, can sleep almost anywhere, easy to take naps along a route
- Most flexible travel planning arrangement if flexible to stay in alternative/less desirable sleeping locations
Disadvantages of traveling in a Van
- More exposure to the weather
- Gas costs can be more expensive driving a van/RV
Camping
Advantages of camping
- Low cost, particularly for large(r) families
- Most closely part of nature
- Can often stay closer or even at a particular nature destination if booking ahead
Disadvantages of camping
- Takes time to setup camp and take down camp
- Requires advanced planning and booking to stay in desirable spots
- Can sometimes be difficult to find a comfortable spot to camp
- Lack of full bathroom facilities sometimes
- Most direct exposure to inclement weather
- Potentially less comfortable/restful night sleep
- More gear is necessary for restful/glamping experience (e.g., bedding, pillows, warm blankets/sleeping bags)