Buying Inexpensive Outdoor Gear
How to Find Deals on Outdoor Equipment Online and at Stores
Nov 8, 2008
In today’s economic climate, finding a good deal is important for stretching a hard-earned dollar, especially as the holiday season approaches. For those who are trying to buy outdoor gear at a cheap rate, the following ideas may help.
Steep and Cheap
Steepandcheep.com is a website that sells outdoor gear, one item at a time. The idea is that they post one product on their site at a time and sell it at a discounted price until the item is sold out. The site advertises that they sell between 50 and 80 percent off. Their only requirements are that there are only three items sold per household, and that the items cannot be resold. The company also has a store in Salt Lake City, UT.
Sierra Trading Post
Sierra Trading Post is another online dealer with deep discounts, advertising 35 to 70 percent off daily. This site has more of a selection, including men’s and women’s clothing, footwear, and stuff for kids. There is also a “Bargain Barn” section, with items marked down 60%. Sierra Trading Post also has four outlet stores in the following locations:
- Boise, ID
- Cheyenne, WY
- Cody, WY
- Reno, NV
Local Gear Stores
The local outdoor shop is another place to find gear deals. Stores often have seasonal sales or clearance sales at the end of the season to move merchandise in order to get ready for the next season. For example, stores may sell off winter gear at deep discount in the spring in order to get ready for the summer season’s merchandise.
Military Surplus Stores
Military surplus stores, otherwise known as Army/Navy surplus stores, may have hidden opportunities for cheap gear. This is a good option if one will be using clothing that will see a lot of wear and tear, such as getting ember holes from campfires in their jackets, as opposed to more expensive clothing. Examples of items that one can find at these stores include:
- Base layers, such as polypropylene tops and bottoms.
- Rain jackets and pants.
- Boots
- Insulating layers, such as sweaters and jackets.
- Gloves
Military surplus stores often sell camping gear, backpacks, and other items that
campers and hikers might find useful.
Ebay and Craigslist
Both of these online clearance houses have bargains for gear, sold by individuals. Usually the gear is used, so one should be cautious about quality, as it is not guaranteed by a company. When searching, look advertisements that have pictures, so that it is possible to view the item. Also, follow the website’s policies for avoiding fraud.
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