Comparison: Camping or Motelling?

The classic debate: do we camp or stay in motels? Many couples have arguments about this. Here are the pro's and con's of each.

Advantages of Camping

1. Camping is MUCH less expensive, almost trivial.. The costs difference is huge.  Campgrounds in 2026 in the U.S. typically cost $20 to $35 per night for a tent. State and national parks are even less, around $10 to $25. National forests are free!
   By contrast, even a cheap motel with 2 queen sized beds will cost over $125 in most areas. The cost of a 6 person tent (like a Coleman instant tent that takes 1 minute to put up or take down) is about 1 night's stay in a motel. See our tent guide here.
2. No bedbugs - You will never get bedbugs that can infest your home when camping. There are a shocking number of motels and even luxury hotels having bedbug infestations. See this page about it.
3. It is an amazing experience - It really is. The memories are positive and last a lifetime
4. You and your kids can learn new skills - skills that come in handy if there is a power outage at home, a flood, or other disaster. Like cooking on simple equipment, staying warm and dry, etc.
5. Camping is usually safer - Campgrounds are usually remote from cities and crime. Unless a squirrel steals your nuts.

Advantages of a motel

1. Warm and dry always - Obviously, you don't have to worry about the weather.
2. Fast in and out - Usually, you can get in and out faster than camping.