Can You Build a DIY Den Kit for Less Than a Pre-Made One?

Building a den is a classic way for children to let their imaginations go, and it’s no wonder that den kits have become so popular. But with pre-made den kits often costing upwards of £55, many parents wonder:

The short answer? Yes, it’s possible.

The realistic answer? It’s unlikely to be worth the hassle.

Let’s break down the costs, challenges, and why pre-made kits often end up being the better option.

A good den kit includes:

• A sturdy tarpaulin or canvas sheet
• Clips or pegs to hold things in place
• Rope or cord for tying structures
• Groundsheet or mat for comfort
• Tent poles or sticks for structure
• A handy storage bag

The kit has everything you need to get started, and it’s all designed to work together. But could you source all these items yourself for less money? Let’s find out.

If you were to build your own den kit from scratch, you would need to buy each item separately.

At first it looks like you might save a little money. But the reality is more complicated.

1. Shipping Costs: Buying from multiple sellers means paying for delivery on each order. These can quickly add up and often counter any savings you hoped for.
2. Quality Control: When buying individual items, you can’t always guarantee quality. If something isn’t right, you’ll have to return it, which means more time and more costs.
3. Time and Effort: Building a DIY den kit requires searching, comparing prices, and waiting for multiple deliveries. Pre-made kits are ready to go—saving you hours of effort.
4. Compatibility Issues: There’s no guarantee that your DIY items will work well together. Clips may not fit your chosen tarpaulin, ropes may not be strong enough, and poles may be unstable.

While pre-made den building kits might look like a bigger investment up front, they provide convenience, quality assurance, and peace of mind.

Here’s why:

• Tried and Tested: Everything in the kit has been selected and tested to work together.
• No Hidden Costs: One price covers everything, including shipping.
• Ready to Use: No need to hunt for items—you can get started right away.
• Guaranteed Quality: Trusted sellers ensure that each item is safe, durable, and fit for purpose.
• No disappointment children: Buying something that many other families have enjoyed means you can benefit without worrying.

If you already have some items at home (like a tarpaulin or rope), you might be able to put together a DIY den kit for less. But for most people, it’s going to be a challenge to source everything without spending more time and money than a pre-made kit costs.

So, in short: It's Possible, But Not Realistic

While it’s theoretically possible to build your own den kit for less, the reality is that a pre-made kit offers better value, less hassle, and peace of mind.

When shopping for a pre-made den kit, look for one that:

1. Includes only essential items – No unnecessary extras that drive up the price (think, do you really need that....)
2. Offers quality materials – Durable, safe, and weather-resistant items.
3. Provides good value – A kit that balances cost with quality and practicality.

At CAMPKIN & MOO, we offer den building kits that are thoughtfully curated to give families exactly what they need—nothing more, nothing less.

Building a den should be fun, not a logistical nightmare. So, let us take the hassle out of the process with a kit that’s ready for adventure, straight out of the bag!

Can you build a DIY den kit for less than a pre-made one? Yes, but it’s unlikely to be worth your time and effort. Pre-made kits offer convenience, quality, and value—saving you from hours of searching and unexpected costs.

Ready to get started? Check out our den kits and start building those magical memories today!