Solo travel gets a bad rap for being expensive or intimidating—but coastal camping? It’s the ultimate budget-friendly way to embrace solitude and nature. Last week, I embarked on my first solo coastal camping trip, armed with thrifted gear, a tight budget, and a craving for quiet. What I found was more than just an affordable getaway—it was a chance to reconnect with myself, one wave crash at a time. Here’s my story, plus the budget-friendly gear that made it all possible.
I chose a state park campground an hour from the city—$20 per night, no reservations needed, and steps from a wide, uncrowded beach. The drive alone was therapeutic: city streets gave way to coastal highways lined with salt marshes, where herons stood motionless in shallow water. Arriving mid-afternoon, I claimed a spot tucked behind a row of sea oats, far enough from other campers for privacy but close enough to hear the ocean.
Setting up camp solo felt empowering. My tent (scored for
15), and hung a string of battery-powered fairy lights for ambiance. The key to budget solo camping? Prioritize function over fancy. I skipped the expensive cooler and brought a reusable insulated bag with ice packs—perfect for keeping snacks and water cold.
The best part of solo camping? No agenda. I spent the afternoon wandering the beach, barefoot and unhurried, collecting seashells and watching surfers ride small waves. As the sun dipped low, I rolled out a yoga mat on the sand and did a gentle flow to the sound of the tide. Dinner was simple: canned chili heated over a portable stove (borrowed from a friend) and a side of fresh fruit. I ate while sitting on my chair, watching the sky turn pink and purple, and for the first time in months, I felt truly present.
Nighttime solo camping was surprisingly peaceful. I brought a book but ended up just sitting and stargazing—no phone (I kept it on airplane mode to save battery), no distractions. The ocean’s rhythm was calming, and the stars were so bright I could see the Milky Way. I curled up in my sleeping bag (thrifted, $30) and fell asleep to the sound of waves, feeling safe and content.
Morning brought a sunrise I’ll never forget. I woke up naturally at 5:30 a.m., threw on a hoodie, and walked to the beach. The sky was a gradient of orange and pink, and the water was calm, reflecting the light like a mirror. I sat on a driftwood log and sipped coffee from a reusable mug—no rush, no plans, just me and the ocean. It was a moment of pure joy, and it cost nothing.
4 Budget-Friendly Gear for Solo Coastal Camping
- Secondhand 3-Season Tent: You don’t need a brand-new tent! Look for gently used options at thrift stores or Facebook Marketplace. I loved my Coleman Sundome (thrifted for $40)—waterproof, easy to set up, and durable enough for coastal winds.
- Foldable Camping Chair: A cheap, lightweight chair is a must for solo relaxation. The Ozark Trail Basic Foldable Chair ($15 at Walmart) is compact, easy to carry, and perfect for beachside sitting or stargazing.
- Portable Propane Stove (Budget Model): Cooking over a fire is fun, but a budget stove is more reliable for solo campers. The Camp Chef Explorer 160 ($50) is affordable, easy to use, and works with small propane canisters—great for heating up canned meals or boiling water.
- Battery-Powered String Lights: Ambiance doesn’t have to be expensive. A $10 set of waterproof battery-powered fairy lights (from Amazon) adds warmth to your campsite and runs for hours on AA batteries—no electricity needed.
Solo coastal camping on a budget isn’t about sacrificing comfort—it’s about focusing on what matters: nature, solitude, and simplicity. You don’t need fancy gear or a big budget to have an amazing time. All you need is a sense of adventure, a few essential items, and a willingness to slow down. If you’ve been wanting to try solo travel but worried about cost, give coastal camping a go—you’ll be surprised at how much joy you can find with so little.
