Unlock More Revenue: How "Add-On" Options Can Boost Your Camp's Bottom Line

You've worked tirelessly to create an amazing summer camp experience, and registrations are rolling in. But what if there was a way to enhance that experience for campers while also significantly increasing your camp's revenue, all without raising your base tuition? The answer lies in strategically offering "add-on" options during the registration process.

Beyond the core camp fee, these optional extras provide families with greater flexibility and personalization, creating additional income streams that can fuel program enhancements, staff development, or facility upgrades for your Virginia Beach camp.

Why Add-Ons are a Win-Win:

For parents, add-ons offer convenience and the ability to tailor the camp experience to their child's specific interests or their family's needs. For camps, they represent a powerful, often untapped, revenue opportunity.

Popular and Profitable Add-On Options:

Here are some examples of add-ons that can directly contribute to your camp's financial success:

1. Extended Care (Early Drop-Off/Late Pick-Up):

   • Revenue Driver: This is a classic for day camps. Working parents often need care beyond standard camp hours. Charging a per-hour or flat daily/weekly fee for early drop-off and late pick-up directly addresses a critical need and generates significant revenue.
   • Benefit for Parents: Provides immense flexibility and peace of mind, making your camp a more viable option for busy families.
     
     

2. Camp Merchandise:

   • Revenue Driver: Sell branded t-shirts, hoodies, water bottles, hats, and other souvenirs directly through the registration platform. Parents love getting gear for their kids, and campers love showing off their camp spirit.
   • Benefit for Parents/Campers: Creates excitement, provides memorabilia, and fosters a sense of belonging.
     
     

3. Optional Activity Upgrades or Special Workshops:

   • Revenue Driver: Offer specialized activities that go beyond the standard camp curriculum for an additional fee. This could include:
     • Private sports lessons (e.g., tennis, swim, golf).
     • Advanced art workshops (e.g., pottery, digital design).
     • Specialized clinics (e.g., advanced coding, robotics).
     • Unique local experiences (e.g., a special surfing lesson or dolphin-watching tour in Virginia Beach for an extra charge).
   • Benefit for Parents/Campers: Allows campers to dive deeper into a passion or try a premium experience, enhancing their summer.
     
     

4. Transportation Services:

   • Revenue Driver: If your camp is located outside of easy commuting distance for some families, offering bus transportation from key pickup points for an additional fee can be a valuable service.
   • Benefit for Parents: Provides convenience and expands your camp's reach to families without easy access to transportation.
     
     

5. Photo/Video Packages:

   • Revenue Driver: Charge a fee for a professionally curated digital photo album or video compilation of your child's camp experience.
   • Benefit for Parents: Allows parents to capture and cherish memories of their child's time at camp.

Keys to Successful Add-On Implementation:

• Integrate with Registration Software: Modern camp management software (like Camp Network) is essential for seamlessly managing add-ons. It allows you to:
  • Present clear options during the online registration process.
  • Automatically add charges to camper accounts.
  • Track inventory for merchandise.
  • Manage payments and revenue reporting for all add-ons centrally.
• Be Transparent with Pricing: Clearly list the costs for each add-on. No hidden fees!
• Highlight the Value: Explain why each add-on enhances the camp experience or provides convenience for parents.
• Don't Overwhelm: Offer a curated selection of relevant add-ons, rather than an exhaustive list that might confuse parents.
• Promote Smartly: Mention add-ons in your marketing materials and remind parents during the registration flow.

By strategically incorporating add-on options, your Virginia Beach camp can unlock significant additional revenue, provide greater value and flexibility to families, and ultimately create an even more tailored and memorable summer experience for every camper. It's a simple yet powerful way to boost your bottom line and enhance your camp's offerings.

Are you a camp director looking to streamline and secure the registration process for your camps? Sign up with Camp Network and start accepting online camp registrations in minutes! Camp Network is a leader in providing camp registration software for thousands of events across the United States. Contact Tara Berger at tara.berger@campnetwork.com to learn more and get started today!