The price for a barrel of oil has just topped $139. In the Atlanta area, regular gas is a little under four dollars a gallon and diesel is right at $4.70 per gallon. The economy seems to be experiencing a downturn and in general there is a sense of economic uncertainty.

Thoughts like these give pause to both boaters and RV’ers. Sailing, boating and RV’ing are all optional. For some these rising prices will simply bring all entertainment activities to a complete halt. I have lately been pondering my plans for the near future as well as retirement. I too am tempted to become discouraged with my small boating and travel opportunities when I consider the possibility of $5.00 per gallon gasoline.

I think it is time to be realistic about small boat trailering and travel in general. If you think about it, both small boat trailoring and traveling in an RV tend to rack up a rather small milage total in a years time. It is true that travel patterns will and must change with the changing economics of fuel supplies as well as ones own general economic well being. 

But again, as a fraction of annual expenses, occasional trailer towing, or for that matter, RV'ing takes up less money than one’s paranoia would first lead one to believe.  With this in mind, I would like to suggest some guidelines that will help keep small boating and travel coasts in line in these troubled economic times.

As for trailerable boats, smaller is better.  Small boats, small cars and trucks and smaller camping vehicles are the way to go. Sailboats cost less in terms of wind power and even when motoring. Also, I recommend finding destinations that are closer, that give the sailor/boater time at camp as well as on the water. A small boat is so much cheaper to maintain and to tow. With a small boat you can tow with a much smaller and more fuel efficient vehicle. As a bonus, you will find that smaller boats are easier to launch and therefore more likely to be frequently enjoyed.

 One of my favorite vacations is to spend two weeks at Saint Andrews camp ground in Panama City Florida. It’s not a bad drive from Atlanta in terms of time or fuel. The camping fees are very reasonable and the camp ground has beautiful biking roads, a fishing jetty, and economical restaurants just outside the park. The bays are laid out so you can sail on a long beam reach out and back no matter what direction the wind is blowing from. If you figure the cost of fuel and the cheap camping expenses you have yourself a rather inexpensive vacation free from stress. Another point worth noting, if you have the option, take longer and less frequent vacations.

Since I have mentioned RV'ing and by implication longer trips, I recommend staying longer in one place and including several forms of entertainment at your stops. Think of the price in terms of the total package divided by days spent and you will find many ways to lower the cost despite the fixed cost of fuel. 

These are some ideas I believe will help the frugal boater/camper in continuing the quest for outdoor fun. In summery, think smaller and savor the time spent in each place. Look for multiple outlets for your recreation, thus enriching your stay while keeping the dollar cost down. And, sailing beats motoring every time. Live simple and enjoy life.