Camping is one of the best memories I have of my childhood. It's not that we were poor, but we were certainly blue collar, and did not take any trips to St. Tropez or West Palm Beach. We made plenty of trips to Orlando, where my grandparents lived, and looped in Disney and other theme park trips with our vacations. There is just something about camping's rustic charm that I loved and has always stuck with me. Far from the commercial reaches of the marketing machine in a tent in Vermont or New Hampshire, my family and I spent quality time laughing around a camp fire, swimming in the lakes, and hiking in the nearby mountains!
The great thing about camping is that you aren't engaged in a ton of consumption, other than things you typically would, other than a few additional graham crackers and marshmallows for S'mores! There are camping areas just outside of every city, numerous places to be explored for years to come. No one is saying not to take any vacations that require a plane trip, but if you can stay somewhat local and still get that vacation feeling, its a great opportunity. Also, for those of us with busy lives, a long weekend "away" can do wonders! Also, no need to get a dog sitter!
