One of our favorite things to do as a family is to go outdoor camping. My dad always took us as kids and my husband and I have continued the tradition with our own children who seem to love it as much as we do.

This past spring, my husband told me our outdoor camping equipment needed to be replaced as it was getting old and he is concerned about safety issues. He went to his favorite store downtown and to a couple of his favorite online shopping sites to compare prices. After he figured up how much all the outdoor camping equipment would be, he ordered it and the kids excitedly waited (as did he) for the equipment to arrive.

The following weekend he surprised me with a date night for just the two of us. It seems he was able to save enough money ordering our outdoor camping equipment online that he had enough money set aside for dinner and a movie and a babysitter for the kids.

We have enjoyed our new outdoor camping equipment this summer and have one more big trip planned for the Labor Day weekend holiday. If anyone wonders about what would make a great family trip, trust me, camping and getting away from every day life is a wonderful bonding adventure that makes memories for years to come.