Dh300 overnight trips, Dh500 starter kits: How UAE residents prepare for camping season

Detailed summary

From checking tents and stocking up on firewood to upgrading equipment and planning meals, camping enthusiasts begin preparations months before winter ...

As temperatures begin to drop across the UAE, residents are preparing for the winter camping season, with overnight trips costing around Dh300 per person and basic camping equipment requiring an initial budget of Dh300 to Dh500, depending on the experience and supplies needed.

From checking tents and stocking up on firewood to upgrading equipment and planning meals, camping enthusiasts say preparations can begin months before winter, while reusable equipment helps keep expenses down over time.

For Ras Al Khaimah resident Ahmed Al Mansoori, a night of camping can cost approximately Dh300 per person, covering food, drinks, refreshments and water for washing and cooking.

However, he explained that costs can be lower when camping with friends or family, as expenses are shared among participants.

A bag of charcoal typically costs between Dh30 and Dh40, while a whole chicken costs around Dh25. Depending on the meal, food expenses may reach approximately Dh50, while a small gas cylinder for cooking costs between Dh7 and Dh10.

Al Mansoori said camping arrangements vary, with some residents preferring quiet trips alone and others organising gatherings of up to 30 people, where participants bring their own supplies or share the responsibility of preparing meals.

“Camping every weekend can be difficult. Going once or twice a month is more manageable,” he said.

Brazilian UAE resident Marcos Bernardo said newcomers do not necessarily need expensive equipment to enjoy their first camping experience, with a basic setup costing approximately Dh300 to Dh400.

However, he recommends setting aside around Dh500 to ensure campers have everything they need.

Opening of the article, excerpted from Khaleej Times. To read the rest, open the article on the publisher's site.