Even though summer is still months away, early registration has begun for the 2026 summer camp season. Signing up early allows families to secure a spot now, while giving them time to plan and budget for camp-related expenses.
Whether your child attends a day camp, specialty camp or overnight camp, there may be some costs in addition to the base tuition. Camp tuition typically covers daily, on-site camp programming and activities and some may provide lunch.
Paying for Camp
One of the easiest ways to save money on camp tuition is to register early. Early registration allows families to lock in their spot and receive the lowest rate.
Some camps may also offer sliding scale tuition based on household income or provide scholarships or other financial assistance. Families should apply early as funds may be limited.
“Hiram House Camp offers camperships to families who may need financial assistance,” explains Courtney Nicolai, executive director of Hiram House Camp in Moreland Hills. “We also provide camperships to youth involved in the foster care system or receiving services through other social service agencies in Northeast Ohio. Camperships are available for all summer camp programs.”
Payment plans are another option that can make camp costs more manageable, allowing families to spread out the cost of camp instead of paying all at once.
Additionally, some camps may offer a discount for tuition paid in full, if siblings are attending together or if you bundle multiple weeks of camp.
Parents should check with their employer to see if they offer a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account. This account allows parents to contribute pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified out-of-pocket dependent care expenses such as preschool, summer day camp, before and after school care and more. You can learn more at fsafeds.gov.
Don’t Forget the Extras
Families should be aware of additional expenses such as camp shirts, field trip admission, special activities, one-on-one training or lessons, before-and-after-care, cafeteria extras, and additional materials or supply fees. Also, budget some spending money if the camp has a store on-site or if your child will be going on field trips.
Typically, families are responsible for providing their campers with basic personal items for camp, which can also add up.
“For day camp, this typically includes a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, closed-toe shoes, a swimsuit and towel, lunch and weather-appropriate clothing — campers should also bring a backpack to carry their daily items,” Nicolai says. “For overnight camp, families will need to provide clothing for the duration of the session, sturdy shoes, sleepwear, toiletries, towels, a sleeping bag or bedding, and any personal comfort items. Campers may also bring a labeled flashlight and refillable water bottle.”
Before camp begins, parents should ask for a detailed packing checklist to avoid last-minute purchases or surprises.
