Cut the Cost of Summer Camp

If your tween wants to attend camp this summer, but you're worried about the cost, fear not. There are ways to reduce the cost of a summer camp program.

1. Register Early
Many camps offer a discount to families who are willing to commit early and register by a certain date. Committing to a camp program in January or February might be hard to do, you may not even know your family's vacation schedule yet. But the effort could pay off by reducing the cost of the program by 10 to 20 percent per child.

2. Ask About Camperships
If your family is in financial distress due to a job loss, a death in the family, or some other situation, be sure to ask if the camp offers tuition assistance for families in need. Many camps do, but don't always make their policies known, so be sure to ask.

3. Consider Volunteering
If you're able to work at the camp part-time, or volunteer for a day or two, the camp might be willing to reduce your child's registration fee, or waive it altogether. You might consider sharing a hobby with the campers, or teach them about your job, or other interests. Ask what the camp's needs are, and see if you can help meet them.

4. Ask about Sibling Discounts
Many camps offer discounts to families sending more than one child to camp. Discounts range widely, but can make a big difference in the bottom line. Be sure you also ask if the camp offers discounts to returning campers, as a reward for their loyalty.

5. Know the Camp's Policies
Sending a child to camp can be expensive, but it can't get any worse than paying for the experience only to cancel without refund. Be sure you understand the camp's policies regarding refunds due to cancellation. Will the camp refund for an emergency, such as a death in the family?

6. Refer a Friend
If your child attended a camp and loved it, you may qualify for a discount if he refers a friend to the program. Refer more than one friend, and your child could attend for free.

7. Shop Around
There are so many camps available and prices range widely. Be sure you take the time to research programs in your area to see which camps fit your child's interests and your family budget. Girl Scout and Boy Scout camps are often reasonably priced, and can offer many of the same opportunities available at camps with twice the price. Ask friends for recommendations. If you can, attend a camp fair in order to compare programs and educate yourself about the costs.