I know that I don’t have to tell any hiker that outdoor gear is expensive! If you are willing to put in a little extra time and effort, however, it is possible to get the gear you want without blowing your budget. I have always been a bargain hunter and rarely pay full price for anything. These are some of the places I shop and a few tips to help you get a great deal on your next gear upgrade.

Ebay

Most people know that Ebay sellers offer a large selection of new and used gear but not everyone is using the site to its fullest potential. If you are looking for a specific item, your ebay search may not turn up as many results as you had hoped for. This is especially true if you are interested in gear from smaller “cottage industry” companies. The good news is that sellers are adding new items daily and Ebay has a feature to save you from having to search repeatedly.

Simply perform a search and then click “save this search”. (You will need to be logged into your Ebay account in order to use this feature.) Next, you will be able to name your search and set up your email preferences. Ebay can send you a daily email with new items that match your search, saving you from having to repeatedly check the site.

Craigslist

The quality of search results on Craigslist and other online classifieds will vary depending on where you are located but if you are flexible and possibly willing to travel a bit, chances are you will eventually find what you are looking for. For example, the selection of backpacking gear on my local Craigslist is pretty slim but by searching In nearby New Hampshire, a state with many more backpacking opportunities, I have many more options. Likewise, a search in the Boston area, yields better results due to the larger number peoplee using the site in that area. Both of these locations are within a few hours drive of my home so depending on the item and how steep the discount is I may be willing to make the trip.

Poshmark

Poshmark is a resale marketplace where users buy and sell clothing and accessories. I found Poshmark a few years ago when researching sites and apps where I could sell a few items to clean out my closet. I never imagined that it would become my go-to app for hiking gear. This isn’t the place to find trekking poles or a new sleeping bag. These items are against site policies which specify that “Poshmark is a marketplace for women’s, kids’, and men’s fashion and accessories.” Instead, think hiking pants, shoes, jackets, etc. Most items on the site have been lightly used but there is also a huge selection of brand new gear with the tags still attached.

Some of my favorite poshmark purchases include:
Lightly used Smartwool baselayer top, $8.00
The North Face Venture rain jacket, $20.00
Teva Sanborn Sandals, brand new in the box, $27.00
Sierra Designs down puffy jacket with the tags still on, $17.00
Brand new The North Face hiking shorts, $8.00

I love the features on the app that allow you to easily communicate with sellers to ask questions, negotiate prices, and bundle items for discounts and lower shipping costs. Plus, if you sign up for poshmark using code MKA628 you’ll get $5.00 off your first purchase!

Sierra Trading Post

Sierra Trading Post is the TJ Maxx of outdoor gear and clothing. As a matter of fact STP is owned and operated by TJX Companies, who also operates TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods. Like any of these stores, shopping at Sierra Trading Post is hit-or-miss but there are definitely good deals to be had if you can find what you are looking for. They have 26 locations across the country, including eight in the northeast but I prefer to shop online for convenience and a wider selection. I recommend signing up to receive Sierra Trading Post emails for coupons that can increase your savings on already discounted items.

Major Outdoor Retailers

Major outdoor retailers like REI and Backcountry.com are not known for their discount pricing but with a little legwork it is possible to get significant discounts from these stores.

Clearance Sites

REI offers REI Garage and Backcountry operates Steep and Cheap. Both offer moderate to significant discounts. Look for coupons during certain times of year for additional savings.

REI Garage Sales

Unlike the online REI Garage, garage sales are in-store events exclusively for co-op members. The gear being sold is mostly returned items. Some of it has minor flaws or has been used but other items look like new. You will have to get up early, wait in line, and fight the crowds but it’s an experience and it might be worth it in order to score some serious deals. Garage sales are not widely publicized so check the “events” section of REI.com or ask in your local store for information.

Used Gear

REI has recently begun offering used gear for sale online. The site is still in beta testing but items look similar to what you might find at an in-store garage sale event (minus the lines and crowds).

The Clymb

The Clymb is a free member-based site that offers limited time sales organized by brand or category (ex. Smartwool or Camp Kitchen). Some items are close to regular retail price but others are 50%-60% off or even more. They also offer discounted travel or “adventure packages”. As a member, I receive their emails daily with a list of current sales and check out the site if I see something that interests me.

Gear Deals From Smaller Companies

If you’re looking for cottage industry gear you won’t find it at Sierra Trading or an REI garage sale. Many smaller companies, however, do sell scratch-and-dent, cosmetic imperfections, and discontinued items at reduced prices. For example, check out Zpacks’ Bargain Bin for items that have been returned or have minor imperfections. Check retailer websites carefully for deals and don’t be afraid to call or email the company directly to ask about discounted items.

Getting deals on the gear you want is possible but certainly not quick or easy. Create a plan of action and be patient. I prefer shopping for out of season gear when it is more likely to be on sale and I am not in a rush to purchase before my next trip.

Do you have any discount gear sources or tips that I missed? Share them in the comments below!