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)