How much pocket money does a child need?
There is no single number. It depends on what the camp includes, the age of your child and the length of the stay. A camp that includes meals, trips and activities leaves little to buy. The main costs are small things: a snack or a cold drink, a souvenir, a postcard or a small present for the family.
A simple way to decide:
- Ask the camp what is included and what costs extra.
- List what your child is likely to buy.
- Divide the total into weekly amounts.
- Add a small reserve for the trip home.
Our guide to the cost of a summer camp in Spain shows what is usually included in the price.
What children usually spend money on
- Snacks and drinks on trips.
- Ice cream on the beach.
- Souvenirs and gifts.
- Postcards and stamps.
- Small items in a camp shop, if there is one.
Cash, card or camp account?
| Option | Good | Not so good |
|---|---|---|
| Cash in a safe | Easy for small shops; the camp keeps it safe | Needs a clear system and a record |
| Camp account | You pay in advance; spending is tracked | Not every camp offers it |
| Prepaid card | Safe if lost, can be frozen | Some small shops do not accept cards |
| Cash in a wallet | Simple | Easy to lose or lend by mistake |
For a camp abroad, check the currency. In Spain, the euro is used, so exchange money before you travel or ask the camp how it can help.
Keep it safe
- Give the money to the camp to keep in a safe, if it offers this.
- Put the child's name and the amount in an envelope, and keep a note.
- Carry only a small amount in a pocket on trips.
- Tell your child not to lend or show money.
- Do not send more than you need.
Teach money skills
Camp is a good place to practise spending. Ask your child to plan how to use the money over the week and decide what is worth buying. Children who choose for themselves often spend more carefully. Agree one rule before camp: the money is for them, and what is left comes home.
Questions to ask the camp
- What is included in the price, and what costs extra?
- Is there a place to keep money safely?
- Can parents set a daily limit?
- Is there a camp shop, and what does it sell?
- Is the money returned at the end?
Use these questions with our full checklist for choosing a camp. For tips on prices and the euro in Spain, see Visit Valencia. When you are ready, see our camp in Valencia or read our packing guide.
Frequently asked questions
How much pocket money should a child take to summer camp?
A small amount is enough when meals and activities are included. Ask the camp what costs extra, then set a weekly amount for snacks and souvenirs.
Is it safe to give a child cash at camp?
It is safer to give the money to the camp to keep in a safe, if it offers this. Children should carry only a little on trips.
Should I give my child a card or cash?
Cash works in small shops. A prepaid card is safe if lost. Many families use a mix, with a small cash amount.
What currency do I need in Spain?
Spain uses the euro. Change money before you travel, or ask the camp how to handle it.
Do children get unspent money back?
Ask the camp. Many camps return what is left at the end of the stay.
Keep reading
- Summer camp in Spain cost: typical prices and what is included
- What to pack: a full checklist for kids and teens
- Summer camp in Valencia: dates, prices, a day at camp and how to book
Ready for a summer in Valencia?
Places for summer 2027 are limited. Tell us your child's age and we will help you pick the right session.
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