Why is summer camp so expensive? Plus, 6 ways to pay for it

As summer approaches, those summer camp registration reminders start to roll in. A standard summer day camp can cost as much as $500 a week – or more. Extra fees for multiple kids, transportation, and the pizza lunch (have to have that!) add up quickly. And what if your kids have their hearts set on a specialty camp, like sports, STEM, adventure, or gaming camp? Summer camp can become overwhelmingly expensive.

For working parents, summer camp is more than a fun perk. It’s essential childcare. So when prices go up, many families are left scrambling. Let’s look at why summer camp is so expensive and what you can do to plan for the costs.

The cost of summer camp (financial + pressure!)

Camps are a big part of childhood for a lot of families. It's a rite of passage for many kids, from learning to swim, improving skills and independence, and just getting outside while school’s out. But lately, the price tag has gone way up.

According to the American Camp Association, inflation, rising staffing costs, and stricter safety standards are driving costs up. Some day camps now run $300 to $700 a week. Sleepaway camps can hit $2,000 or more for a single session.

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There’s also the emotional side. Of course, we want our kids to have a magical summer. To unplug, make friends, try new things, and build memories that don’t involve screens. But that dream can come with pressure, especially when everyone else’s kid seems to be booked solid with enriching (and expensive) plans. It’s hard not to feel like you’re falling behind if camp isn’t in the cards financially.

If you’ve ever found yourself justifying a steep camp price because “they really need this after the school year they’ve had,” you’re not alone. We all want the best for our kids. But we also need to balance that with financial stability, especially with back-to-school costs right around the corner.

6 ways to pay for summer camp without the stress

The good news is you don’t have to go all-in on an expensive sleepaway summer camp to give your kids a great summer. Here are a few tips to help.

1. Start the planning process early

The earlier, the better, really. Definitely by fall! Some families start thinking about next year’s summer camp experience before the current summer even ends. Camp deposits often open as early as fall or winter, and early registration discounts can save you a lot of money. Setting a reminder to research and register early can make a big difference.

2. Get a summer camp fund up and running

Even small contributions can add up over time. Try setting aside $50 a month starting in September. That gives you $450 by June, which might be enough to cover at least one week of camp. Having a separate savings account just for camp can help you plan ahead without touching your emergency fund when summer rolls around.

3. Prioritize what’s most important (with your child!)

Does your child want a specialty robotics camp, or are they just happy running around outside? Asking kids what they really care about can help you choose camps that are meaningful (and not necessarily the most expensive). One parent we spoke with told us how she paid for two weeks of sleepaway sports camp for her daughter, only to have her beg to come home on the second day because she “just wasn’t feeling it.” That can definitely hurt the wallet and the spirit!

4. Mix and match summer camps and opportunities

Many families do a combination of camps, vacations, grandparent weeks, and “at-home” summer activities and themed weeks to balance costs. Not every week has to be filled; even just 2-3 weeks of camp can offer a lot of fun and a little structure without maxing out your summer budget.

5. Don’t be shy about asking for discounts

Many camps offer scholarships or payment assistance. They just don’t always shout it from the rooftops. It’s worth reaching out to ask. Places like community centers, YMCAs, and nonprofit-run programs are often more flexible with pricing. And if you’re signing up siblings, definitely ask if they offer a discount for multiple kids.

6. Use a dependent care FSA or tax credit

If you can access a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account through work, summer day camp might qualify. It’s worth checking with your HR department to see what counts. You may also be eligible for a tax credit to offset childcare costs, including some camps.

Yes, summer camp can be pricey. But it doesn’t have to wipe out your budget or your sanity. A little planning and some small moves throughout the year can go a long way in making space for an awesome summer without losing sight of your bigger money goals.

And if your child uses Greenlight, it’s a great chance to involve them in the planning. Let them create a “Camp Fund” savings goal, contribute a portion of birthday money, or brainstorm ways to help, from dog-walking to lemonade stands. Yes, summer should be fun, but it’s also a great time to teach some real-life money lessons!

Want to budget as a family? Teach your kids essential budgeting skills with Greenlight’s award-winning educational money app. Try Greenlight, one month, risk-free.† 

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