Where to Buy Camping Gear: Top Stores & Online Retailers

Are you wondering where to buy camping gear? You can find camping gear at a variety of stores, including big box retailers, specialty outdoor shops, and online marketplaces. This guide will help you find the best places to buy camping supplies online or in person, covering everything from big camping gear brands to discount camping gear. We’ll also point you towards the best camping shops and how to find an outdoor gear store or camping gear outlet near me and how to find affordable camping equipment and camping gear for sale.

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Finding the Right Retailer for Your Needs

Choosing where to buy your camping gear is just as important as choosing the right gear itself. Different retailers cater to different needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown:

Big Box Retailers: Convenience and Affordability

Stores like Walmart and Target offer a convenient way to pick up basic camping supplies alongside your groceries.

• Pros: Generally lower prices, easy accessibility, one-stop shopping.
• Cons: Limited selection, lower quality equipment compared to specialty stores, less knowledgeable staff.
• Best For: Beginners, car campers, those on a tight budget needing affordable camping equipment.

Specialty Outdoor Retailers: Expert Advice and Premium Gear

REI, Cabela’s, and Bass Pro Shops are examples of specialty stores that focus on outdoor equipment.

• Pros: Wide selection of high-quality camping gear brands, knowledgeable staff, classes and workshops.
• Cons: Higher prices, can be overwhelming for beginners.
• Best For: Experienced campers, those looking for specific features or top-of-the-line gear, anyone who values expert advice.

Online Marketplaces: Variety and Competitive Pricing

Amazon, eBay, and specialized online retailers offer a vast selection of camping gear for sale.

• Pros: Huge selection, competitive prices, easy price comparison, customer reviews.
• Cons: Can be difficult to assess quality online, potential for counterfeit products, returns can be a hassle.
• Best For: Researching gear, comparing prices, finding specific items not available locally, experienced buyers who know what they want.

Local Camping Stores: Personalized Service and Community

These smaller, independent stores often offer personalized service and cater to the local camping scene. To find camping equipment near me, a quick online search for local outdoor or sporting goods stores is the best place to start.

• Pros: Knowledgeable staff familiar with local trails and conditions, personalized service, support for local businesses, often offer gear rentals and repairs.
• Cons: Limited selection, can be pricier than big box stores.
• Best For: Getting local advice, supporting your community, finding unique gear.

Top Camping Gear Retailers: A Detailed Look

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular places to buy camping supplies online and in-store.

REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.)

REI is a co-op that offers a wide range of high-quality camping gear brands. They are known for their knowledgeable staff, excellent customer service, and commitment to sustainability.

• Key Features:

  • Membership program with dividends and exclusive benefits.
  • Gear rentals and repairs.
  • Classes and workshops on outdoor skills.
  • Strong focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing.

• Gear Categories: Tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, camping stoves, cookware, clothing, footwear.

• Price Range: Mid-range to high-end.

• Why Choose REI? Excellent customer service, quality gear, and a commitment to the outdoors.

Cabela’s

Cabela’s is a large retailer specializing in hunting, fishing, and camping gear.

• Key Features:

  • Vast selection of gear for all outdoor activities.
  • In-store experiences like aquariums and shooting ranges.
  • Loyalty program with rewards and discounts.

• Gear Categories: Tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, camping stoves, cookware, hunting and fishing equipment, clothing, footwear.

• Price Range: Mid-range to high-end.

• Why Choose Cabela’s? Wide selection, competitive prices, and a focus on the outdoor lifestyle.

Bass Pro Shops

Bass Pro Shops, often found in the same locations as Cabela’s (they merged in 2017), offers a similar selection of outdoor gear with a focus on fishing and boating.

• Key Features:

  • Similar to Cabela’s, with a focus on fishing and boating.
  • Often includes restaurants and other entertainment.

• Gear Categories: Tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, camping stoves, cookware, fishing and boating equipment, clothing, footwear.

• Price Range: Mid-range to high-end.

• Why Choose Bass Pro Shops? Similar to Cabela’s, with a slightly stronger emphasis on fishing and boating.

Amazon

Amazon offers a massive selection of camping gear for sale from various brands and sellers.

• Key Features:

  • Competitive prices.
  • Wide range of brands and products.
  • Customer reviews.
  • Prime shipping for members.

• Gear Categories: Everything from tents and sleeping bags to camping gadgets and accessories.

• Price Range: Varies widely, from budget-friendly to high-end.

• Why Choose Amazon? Convenience, selection, and competitive prices. Be sure to read reviews carefully before buying.

Walmart

Walmart offers a limited selection of basic camping equipment at very affordable prices.

• Key Features:

  • Low prices.
  • Convenient for one-stop shopping.
  • Widely accessible.

• Gear Categories: Tents, sleeping bags, camping chairs, coolers, basic cooking equipment.

• Price Range: Budget-friendly.

• Why Choose Walmart? For those on a very tight budget or needing basic gear quickly.

Target

Target offers a similar selection to Walmart, with a slightly more curated selection and a focus on style.

• Key Features:

  • Low prices.
  • Stylish designs.
  • Convenient for one-stop shopping.

• Gear Categories: Tents, sleeping bags, camping chairs, coolers, basic cooking equipment.

• Price Range: Budget-friendly.

• Why Choose Target? For those on a budget who also want stylish and functional gear.

Backcountry.com

Backcountry.com is a specialized online retailer that focuses on high-end outdoor gear.

• Key Features:

  • Wide selection of premium brands.
  • Expert gearheads available for advice.
  • Fast shipping.

• Gear Categories: Tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, climbing gear, skiing and snowboarding equipment, clothing, footwear.

• Price Range: Mid-range to high-end.

• Why Choose Backcountry.com? For serious outdoor enthusiasts looking for top-of-the-line gear and expert advice.

Moosejaw

Moosejaw is known for its quirky marketing and wide selection of outdoor gear.

• Key Features:

  • Rewards program with points and discounts.
  • Free shipping on orders over a certain amount.
  • Fun and engaging website.

• Gear Categories: Tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, clothing, footwear, camping accessories.

• Price Range: Mid-range.

• Why Choose Moosejaw? For a fun shopping experience and a good selection of quality gear.

Finding Discount Camping Gear

Saving money on camping gear allows you to spend more on experiences. Here are some tips for finding discount camping gear:

• Shop during off-season sales: Look for deals in the fall and winter when demand is lower.
• Check camping gear outlet stores: Many brands have camping gear outlet stores that offer discounted prices on discontinued or slightly imperfect items.
• Look for used gear: Check online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for used camping gear in good condition.
• Use coupons and promo codes: Search online for coupons and promo codes before making a purchase.
• Join loyalty programs: Many retailers offer loyalty programs that provide discounts and rewards.
• Rent gear: For occasional campers, renting gear can be more cost-effective than buying.

How to Choose the Right Camping Gear

Choosing the right camping gear can seem overwhelming, but here are some key factors to consider:

• Type of Camping: Car camping requires different gear than backpacking.
• Weather Conditions: Consider the climate and potential weather conditions you’ll be camping in.
• Budget: Set a budget and stick to it.
• Weight and Packability: Important for backpacking.
• Durability: Choose gear that will withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
• Features: Consider the features that are important to you, such as waterproofing, ventilation, and storage.

Popular Camping Gear Brands

Knowing reputable camping gear brands can help you make informed purchasing decisions. Here are a few of the most trusted brands:

Brand	Specialization	Price Range
Marmot	Tents, sleeping bags, clothing	Mid-High
The North Face	Tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, clothing, footwear	Mid-High
Columbia	Clothing, footwear	Mid-Range
Coleman	Tents, sleeping bags, camping stoves, cookware	Budget-Mid
Kelty	Tents, sleeping bags, backpacks	Mid-Range
Nemo	Tents, sleeping bags	High
MSR (Mountain Safety Research)	Camping stoves, cookware, tents	Mid-High
Patagonia	Clothing	High
Black Diamond	Headlamps, climbing gear	Mid-High

Table: Comparing Top Camping Gear Retailers

Retailer	Selection	Price	Customer Service	Best For
REI	Wide	Mid-High	Excellent	Experienced campers, quality gear
Cabela’s	Wide	Mid-High	Good	Outdoor enthusiasts, wide variety
Bass Pro Shops	Wide	Mid-High	Good	Fishing and boating enthusiasts
Amazon	Massive	Varies	Varies	Convenience, price comparison
Walmart	Limited	Budget	Fair	Budget-conscious shoppers, basic gear
Target	Limited	Budget	Fair	Budget-conscious shoppers, stylish gear
Backcountry.com	Wide	High	Excellent	Serious outdoor enthusiasts
Moosejaw	Wide	Mid-Range	Good	Fun shopping experience

Fathoming Online vs. In-Store Shopping

Both online and in-store shopping have their advantages and disadvantages.

Online Shopping:

• Pros: Convenience, wider selection, price comparison.
• Cons: Cannot physically inspect gear, potential for counterfeit products, returns can be a hassle.

In-Store Shopping:

• Pros: Can physically inspect gear, get expert advice, immediate gratification.
• Cons: Limited selection, higher prices, less convenient.

Considerations Before Buying

Before you buy camping supplies online or in a store, consider the following:

• Research: Read reviews and compare different models.
• Warranty: Check the warranty on the gear.
• Return Policy: Understand the retailer’s return policy.
• Shipping Costs: Factor in shipping costs when buying online.
• Your Specific Needs: Choose gear that meets your specific needs and camping style.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best place to buy cheap camping gear?

A: Big box retailers like Walmart and Target are good options for affordable camping equipment. You can also find discount camping gear by shopping during off-season sales or checking camping gear outlet stores.

Q: Where can I find camping gear near me?

A: Search online for “outdoor gear store near me” or “camping equipment near me” to find local retailers.

Q: Can I rent camping gear?

A: Yes, many outdoor retailers like REI offer gear rentals. This can be a cost-effective option for occasional campers.

Q: What camping gear do I need for beginners?

A: Essential gear includes a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, camping stove, cookware, headlamp, and basic first-aid kit.

Q: Who are the top camping gear retailers?

A: Some of the top camping gear retailers include REI, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, Amazon, Backcountry.com, and Moosejaw.

By carefully considering your needs, budget, and the retailer’s offerings, you can find the perfect place to buy camping gear and enjoy your next outdoor adventure.