There’s no reason to avoid Sedona if your budget is tight; there are plenty of places where you can rent a small cabin or pitch a tent and enjoy the great views of the region. Instead of eating out for every meal, you can cook eggs in the forest or pack a picnic to enjoy in the middle of your hike.
Go Camping
If you have some camping skills and gear, you can actually find free camping spots to pitch a tent or park an RV. Carefully review all rules about
- fires for cooking or warmth
- garbage management
- food storage
There are occasionally bears sighted in Arizona. If you see bear boxes to store your food, use them. If you see dumpsters for packing out your trash, take a hike to the dumpster part of your hiking plan every couple of days.
Rent a Cabin
If you’re not keen on hotels, crowds or resorts, consider renting a private cabin off the beaten path. There are many places to stay in Sedona AZ that will grant you privacy and solitude.
Decide what you most want to do. If you’re going in June, you probably will want to be close to the water so you can cool off. Imagine loading up your car with your personal necessaries, such as
- books
- coffee
- snacks
- foods that are quick to prepare
Get the directions to your private cabin and settle in with just what you need to relax and enjoy yourself. Such a trip could be kind to your budget and good for your spirit. Could there be a better vacation?
Pack a Picnic
Instead of trying to corral children in a restaurant, invest in a quality soft pack or a picnic backpack and load it with sandwiches, salads, chips and drinks. Take your little ones on an easy hike along Oak Creek to Grasshopper Point for a cooling swim and a fun family picnic.
Skip the stress of dealing with too many choices and too much stimulation. Treat your little ones to a meal in the fresh air and protect your nerves and your budget!
Carry Water
Even if it’s cool on your hike or as you head out to your picnic spot, make sure you have plenty of water. The desert is inherently dry and this can lead to dehydration even if you’re not at risk of overheating. Paying for water each time you go out will add up quickly, so make sure everyone in your group has a reusable water bottle before you head out for the day.
Being dehydrated can lead to
- skin discomfort
- sore eyes
- a dry mouth
- gut problems
- poor concentration
Carry enough water to allow 1 liter per hour in the outdoors for an adult. Children may need to be encouraged to drink more throughout the day. Avoid too many caffeinated beverages; caffeine can dry out your tissues.
Take a Starry Night Hike
The leaders of Sedona work hard to prevent light pollution. The best times for stargazing in Sedona is from September to June; July and August can be monsoon season and the clouds will limit your stargazing.
No matter the time of year you’re there, the desert night can be cold. Make sure you carry a fleece jacket that you can use to trap heat close to your skin. On top of the jacket, you’ll want a windbreaker or a rain jacket. A hoodie is also a great starter layer; pair it with a ballcap so you can have a full range of vision.
Take a drive to the Jordan Trailhead Observing Area and set up your outside chairs. Bring sleeping bags for little ones to snuggle into as the desert cools down. Anytime you plan to go stargazing, consider carrying a red flashlight so you can light the path without losing your night vision.
You don’t need a great deal of money to have a wonderful time in Sedona. Bring or borrow camping gear. Cook out on a camping stove or make at least one meal a day a cold picnic. If you have a friend who loves to camp, ask them for an essentials list or invite them so they can teach you the best way to plan for budget travel in the future.
