I hear you completely and it absolutely makes sense - Since i am just starting out , i dont want to do what i did with my gym ( Paid for full year, got gym clothes , etc etc - went only for two days) - But i think once i get it in my system and think this is something i will do long term then it makes sense to invest.
Also i am not sure how my car will behave in the sand - i have LandRover LR2 2012 model - this is another reason for me now take the plunge - till now this was my only car - in a week it will be my second car. The car is in good condition and works like a charm on road. but from what i have read here , it different in the desert.