Put Gear Swaps on Your Calendar
Gear swaps, both online and in retail stores, are an excellent way to get rid of old equipment and find discount camping gear, all in one place. There are a number of places you can find gear swaps.
Retailers: Stores like REI do gear swaps, or what they call a "Garage Sale," once or twice a year. This is a great opportunity to get high-quality equipment without the high price tag.
Local events: Often local schools and businesses sponsor and host gear swaps a few times of year, usually at the beginning of the camping season.
Online: Websites like GearTrade.com make it easy to find affordable camping gear. Check for the current retail price versus the discounted price, as well as equipment condition and reviews for that particular seller.
More: Camping Supplies Checklist for Summer
Browse Through Online Discount Retailers
The Internet is one of your best tools for finding discount camping gear. Even camping retailers offer deep discounts on their website. Here are some notable sites to start searching for discount gear:
SteepandCheap.com: This website offers a daily deal and a variety of other ongoing deals. Use this site to buy outdoors clothing, backpacking gear, hiking boots and more.
Sierra Trading Post: This retailer sells camping gear up to 70 percent off. Get an even better deal in their clearance section, where you'll find even more discounts.
Active.com GearUp: From cookware to shelter, GearUp provides a selection of camping gear at up to 70 percent off. Sign up for even more wallet-relieving deals.
Discount camping gear isn't hard to find if you know where to look for it. Whether you ask friends and family, or find a few garage sales every week, don't settle for full price when you don't have to.
More: How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag
Find a Campground at ReserveAmerica.com.
