Getting into hiking or planning your next adventure? Gear costs can add up fast, but over the years, we’ve learned how to build our outdoor wardrobe without breaking the bank. Because we believe you should save money for what really matters like epic trips with lasting memories. Here’s our guide to scoring outdoor gear deals:
1. Buy Used Outdoor Gear
Buying used not only saves money but also reduces your ecological footprint. We find used outdoor gear at REI Re/Supply, Patagonia Worn Wear, or Arc’teryx Used Gear Programs. REI Outlet has the best assortment of brand-name closeouts, overstocks with discounts of 20% to 70%. There’s also Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp where we have purchased up to 90% off retail items from diving gear like fins and wetsuits to photograph great cameras and lenses.
Pro Tip: Set up a filter to alter your finds on facebook marketplace and offer up.
2. Time Your Purchases
Outdoor retailers have seasonal clearance sales. Be sure to keep any eye out for holiday or end-of-season clearance sales! Backcountry has great online promo codes several times throughout the year. There are also REI Re/Supply Garage Sales, which feature returned or lightly used items sold at steep discounts for co-op members.
Pro Tip: Shop winter gear in spring and summer gear in fall.
3. Know Store Policies
Markdowns on damaged or returned items may not always be combined with other coupons, and some may be considered final sale. For example, when shopping at REI, discounted or garage sale items are final, but the good news is you still earn dividends if you’re a co-op member – every bit adds up for future gear.
Pro Tip: Always check return policies before purchasing sale or used items.
4. Embrace Outdoor Gear Imperfections
Minor flaws in gear mean major savings and a chance to extend the life of quality pieces. Small snags often don’t affect performance. For example, we have found Vuori performance pants marked down to 70% off at REI because of a small hole on the hem, which was an easy fix with a small stitch to repair.
Pro Tip: Check clearance for “damaged” or “imperfect” items at REI, Backcountry, Patagonia, or Vuori shops.
Summary
Finding great deals on outdoor gear isn’t just about saving money – it’s about mindful consumption, sustainability, and choosing experiences over things. Remember that used gear is eco-smart and imperfections are opportunities to extend an item’s life. Knowing store policies can also help you shop with confidence and avoid surprises. Your adventures don’t need to cost the Earth.
What’s the best gear deal you’ve found? Share your tips below so we can celebrate with you and keep this community thriving.
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