When you think
about stocking up on camping supplies, your local dollar store may not be at
the top of your list. But in reality, these stores are brimming with
bargains, so they can give you a very affordable way to get many of the items
you need. Here are some items to look for:

1. Mesh Laundry Bags – These come in
   handy for hanging up dishes, water toys and other items that need to dry out
   in addition to giving you an easy way to stash your laundry or
   towels.
2. Solar Lights – Just stake these in
   the ground around your campsite for extra nighttime
   visibility.
3. Glow Stick Bracelets and Necklaces
   – Kids love them and they make it easier for you to keep track of where they
   are at night.
4. Pool Noodles – Use the
   brightly-colored foam to highlight your tent or canopy stakes to eliminate
   tripping hazards. Just slice pieces off and wrap one around each
   stake.
5. Shower Caps – Use them to cover
   bowls of food or pitchers of iced tea to keep bugs away or to store muddy
   shoes and boots for your drive home.
6. First Aid Supplies – Make an
   economical first aid kit by stocking up on bandages, pain relievers, cotton
   balls, disposable gloves, antiseptic cream and other items.
7. Crafts for the Kids – Check out the
   supply of coloring books, crayons, markers, stickers, puzzles and other craft
   items. If you end up having a rainy day, you’ll be prepared!
8. Kitchen Towels and Oven Mitts –
   When you buy inexpensive ones at the dollar store, you won’t have to worry
   about ruining the good ones you use at home. You may even be able to find
   some inexpensive door mats to help keep your rig clean.
9. Plastic Storage Containers – Dollar
   stores have so many shapes and sizes you can use to store items like eggs,
   pancake mix, s’mores ingredients, condiments, spices and cleaning and laundry
   supplies. They’re also great for storing games and craft supplies for the
   kids. Look for travel-sized bottles for your toiletries,
   too!

These are just a few ideas, but when you walk up and down the
aisles of your local dollar store, you’re sure to spot many more. If you’re
camping around a holiday, you can even find some fun, inexpensive decorations
for your campsite. Speaking of campsites, here’s an easy way to find some
really great ones you’ll enjoy. Just go to GoCampingAmerica.com and enter
your destination in the “Find your next adventure.” box. Have fun planning
for your next camping trip!