Are REI’s price tags too high for your budget? Here, we explore a few easy ways to find affordable camping gear and get outside without breaking the bank.
It’s an unfortunate truth that high-quality camping gear isn’t cheap when you buy it new from big-name retailers. Every outdoor enthusiast knows the feeling of flipping over the price tag on a magnificent piece of equipment only to walk away sad because it’s not in budget.
Well, we think that everyone should have the chance to enjoy the great outdoors with exceptional gear, and that’s why we assembled this list. Below, you’ll learn about a few easy ways to find affordable camping gear so that you can empower your adventure without breaking the bank.
Start With the Basics at Discount Retailers
Certain big box stores carry surprisingly decent camping gear at a fraction of typical outdoor retailer prices. Walmart, Target, and similar chains stock tents, sleeping bags, and basic equipment. Online retailers like Amazon can be another great choice! Don’t overlook pharmacy chains either for affordable camping gear. During the summer, CVS and Walgreens frequently carry compact camping essentials like portable chairs, coolers, and basic tools.
Now, you probably shouldn’t summit Kilimanjaro with this gear, but it will work for casual camping trips. As you shop, make sure to look for seasonal deals and clearance sales, as these can skyrocket your savings. You might even find name-brand items marked down significantly.
Explore Thrift Stores and Garage Sales
Thrift stores are potential goldmines for camping gear, especially if you live in an outdoorsy state or neighborhood. Now, there’s no guarantee about what’s available. That said, if you enjoy casual shopping and are willing to take a risk, we recommend hitting up your favorite local thrift store this weekend. You might find a solar-powered lantern in great condition or a barely used foldable camping chair. Truly, you’d be amazed at what people donate, and there’s always the possibility of finding your next favorite piece of gear.
The same goes for garage, yard, and estate sales. Camping gear frequently makes its way into piles of clutter that families want to get rid of during these events. Plus, at a garage sale, you can negotiate prices, which might save you even more cash.
Take Advantage of End-of-Season Sales
Timing your purchases strategically can save you serious money. Most outdoor retailers slash prices on camping gear at the end of summer and beginning of fall. They need to clear inventory for winter sports equipment, creating opportunities for smart shoppers.
Mark your calendar for Labor Day weekend sales, when many stores offer their deepest discounts on summer gear. You might not need a tent in September, but buying one then means you’ll be ready for next year’s adventures at a fraction of the cost.
Check Out Military Surplus Stores
Military surplus stores offer incredibly durable gear at reasonable prices. After all, it was originally made for the armed forces! And did you know that the United States is one of the countries with the best military surplus for civilians? That means you’re in a great position to buy affordable, military-grade equipment built to last in the great outdoors.
You can get sleeping bags, backpacks, cooking equipment, mess kits, and so much more from surplus stores. Many of the products feature a camo design, which might not appeal to everyone, but the functionality is usually top-notch. If it was good enough for the military, it’s definitely good enough for your trip to the Uwharrie National Forest.
Embrace Online Marketplaces
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, and similar platforms connect you directly with people selling used things of all types, including camping gear. You can often find high-quality equipment at significant savings compared to retail prices. These platforms also let you filter for product, condition, price, and so much more. So if what you’re looking for is available, you’ll find it easily.
Now, you have to develop a discerning eye on these platforms. They’re exactly like garage sales but without the advantage of being able to pick up an item and examine it from all sides. If you find something you like, look for a detailed product description, photos of any flaws, and good seller reviews. You can also usually chat with the seller and ask questions before buying to see if they’re friendly, communicative, and honest.
Consider Rental Gear for Occasional Use
Sometimes, you need a very specific piece of equipment that you’re confident you’ll use once, but you’re unsure after that. For example, maybe you want a paddleboard for a lake camping trip but don’t have the space to keep it in your home all the time. Or perhaps a friend invited you to ski, but it’s your first time, you don’t have the gear, and you don’t think it will become a regular hobby.
In these cases and similar ones, you can consider renting. Most outdoor retailers and specialized rental companies offer daily or weekly rates on everything you could want or need. Doing this relieves you of the responsibility of ownership, including equipment maintenance and storage. It also lets you try different brands and styles before committing to purchases if that’s your end goal.
Join Outdoor Communities and Forums
If you join an online camping and hiking community, you can plug into a friendly group of like-minded individuals who might also sell gear, share deals, or let you borrow something. For example, Reddit’s camping and hiking subreddits regularly feature gear sales and discount alerts.
Likewise, make sure you hit up your local hiking clubs and outdoor organizations. These groups sometimes organize gear swaps or group purchases that can result in bulk discounts. These communities can also provide valuable advice about which budget items perform well and which ones to avoid.
Everyone deserves the opportunity and means to enjoy the great outdoors, regardless of their financial situation. If you struggle to equip your adventures with quality gear, we hope this blog has helped you out. There are many easy ways to find affordable camping gear if you’re willing to invest a little time and patience into the process. By exploring multiple sources and staying flexible about brands and aesthetics, you can build an impressive camping kit without spending a fortune.
And also, remember that the best camping experiences come from good company and beautiful locations, not expensive equipment. Focus on finding functional, reliable gear that fits your budget, and start planning your next outdoor adventure today.
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