Grand Teton is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. This place has everything: hiking, rock climbing, camping, canoeing, wildlife, history, photography… Grand Teton should be on every outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list.

However, as one of the most popular national parks in the US., it can get pricey if you’re not careful. Keep reading for five tips to save money for what you really want to do on your trip!

1.) Buy an Annual Pass

If you’re going to visit Grand Teton (or Yellowstone) for at least two days, it is worth it to buy an annual pass.

As of June 2018, it costs $35 per vehicle per day to enter Grand Teton National Park. For $70 you can get an annual pass to Grand Teton National Park. For $80 you can get the America the Beautiful pass, which grants access for one year to all 117 national parks with entrance fees (the other 300 national parks are already free to visit). These passes are valid for you and anyone in your vehicle.

2.) Camp outside of the park

Camping is the way to go if you’re trying to save money. Even so, camping in the park will be at least $30/night, which adds up quickly for a long trip. During peak season it will be a challenge to find a campsite without booking in advance, and you might have to settle for a campground that’s not close to anything you want to do.

My husband and I rented an SUV so we could sleep in the back of our car, which opened up a lot more options for us. We asked around in town and found a totally legal, free, beautiful place to park just outside of Jackson. Keep in mind that this is rustic camping, so no water, bathrooms, or electricity. Space was limited, so I won’t share the exact location, but ask the locals and you are sure to find your way there…

3.) Buy groceries outside of the park

Dornan’s is essentially the only place in the park to stock up on groceries and other supplies, so it’s going to cost you. Plan ahead and go to one of the grocery stores in Jackson for better selection and lower prices.

4.) Borrow supplies

If you are going for a hike in the backcountry, it is recommended that you bring bear spray. It is unlikely that you will actually use it, and you won’t be able to bring it on a plane – and it’s expensive! Stop at the ranger station before your hike and ask if they have any bear spray for you to borrow.

If you are camping in the backcountry, you will need a bear canister for your food. These cost $70-$90 to purchase, but you can borrow them for free from the ranger station.

Check the park’s website for more information about backcountry trips.

5.) Fly into Salt Lake City

If you have a little time to spare, you will save a lot of money by flying into SLC instead of Jackson. It is about a 4.5 hour drive to Jackson, Wyoming from the Salt Lake City airport.

If you rent a car, pay attention to where your rental agency is located. We tried to save money by using an agency that was a shuttle ride away from the airport. When we arrived, we found out that they had overbooked and didn’t even have a car available for us because we had chosen pay on arrival rather than paying ahead of time. I’d recommend spending a little extra for the convenience of getting your car right away when you arrive.

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What are you planning to do in Grand Teton? Let me know in the comments!

Safe travels!