Where to Buy Camping Stuff: Top Stores & Online Retailers

Looking for where to buy camping stuff? You can find camping gear at various camping gear stores, outdoor equipment retailers, and even online. Many locations offer camping supplies near me, allowing you to get equipped quickly. You can also buy camping equipment online, accessing a broader selection and sometimes better deals. This guide will help you find the best places to purchase your camping necessities, whether you’re after discount camping gear, are looking for specific camping equipment shops, need affordable camping supplies, or are hoping to catch a camping gear sale. We’ll also cover options for the specialized backpacking gear store.

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Finding the Right Gear: A Guide to Stores and Retailers

Getting ready for a camping trip means having the right equipment. Where you buy that gear can impact the quality, price, and overall experience. Let’s explore the top options for buying camping supplies.

Big Box Retailers: Convenience and Value

These large stores offer a mix of camping gear alongside other general merchandise. They are often a good choice for beginners or those on a budget.

• Walmart: Known for its affordable prices, Walmart carries a selection of tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and other basic camping supplies. This is a good starting point if you want to keep costs down.
• Target: Similar to Walmart, Target offers a range of camping gear, often with a focus on family camping. You might find some stylish and functional items here.
• Costco: If you’re shopping for a group or want to buy in bulk, Costco can be a great option. They often have deals on tents, sleeping bags, and camp furniture. However, the selection can be limited.

Pros of Big Box Retailers:

• Competitive pricing
• Convenient locations
• Easy returns

Cons of Big Box Retailers:

• Limited selection of high-end gear
• Less knowledgeable staff
• Lower overall quality compared to specialized retailers

Sporting Goods Stores: A Step Up in Quality

Sporting goods stores typically offer a wider selection of camping gear than big box retailers. They also tend to carry higher-quality brands and have staff with more expertise.

• Dick’s Sporting Goods: A popular choice for outdoor equipment, Dick’s carries a variety of camping gear, including tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and clothing. They often have sales and promotions.
• Academy Sports + Outdoors: Similar to Dick’s, Academy offers a range of camping and outdoor gear at competitive prices. They have a good selection of tents, coolers, and fishing equipment.
• Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s: These stores are geared towards outdoor enthusiasts and offer a vast selection of camping, hunting, and fishing gear. They often have in-store events and workshops.

Pros of Sporting Goods Stores:

• Wider selection of brands and products
• Knowledgeable staff
• Better quality gear than big box retailers

Cons of Sporting Goods Stores:

• Higher prices than big box retailers
• Can be overwhelming due to the large selection
• Staff expertise can vary

Outdoor Specialty Stores: Expert Advice and Premium Gear

Outdoor specialty stores are the go-to choice for serious campers and backpackers. These stores offer the highest quality gear, expert advice, and specialized services like boot fitting and pack fitting.

• REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.): REI is a cooperative that offers a wide selection of high-quality camping and backpacking gear. They have knowledgeable staff, excellent customer service, and a generous return policy. REI also offers classes and workshops on outdoor skills.
• Moosejaw: Moosejaw is known for its quirky marketing and its wide selection of outdoor gear. They carry many popular brands and offer a rewards program.
• Backcountry.com: While primarily an online retailer, Backcountry.com offers a vast selection of camping and backpacking gear from top brands. They have a team of gearheads available to answer questions and provide advice.

Pros of Outdoor Specialty Stores:

• Highest quality gear
• Expert staff with in-depth knowledge
• Specialized services like boot fitting
• Excellent customer service and return policies

Cons of Outdoor Specialty Stores:

• Highest prices
• Can be intimidating for beginners

Online Retailers: Convenience and Selection

Buying camping gear online offers unparalleled convenience and selection. You can compare prices, read reviews, and shop from the comfort of your own home.

• Amazon: Amazon carries a vast selection of camping gear from a variety of brands. You can find everything from tents and sleeping bags to camp stoves and headlamps. Be sure to read reviews carefully before making a purchase.
• REI.com: REI’s online store offers the same high-quality gear and excellent customer service as its brick-and-mortar stores.
• Backcountry.com: Backcountry.com is a dedicated online retailer specializing in outdoor gear. They offer a wide selection of products and expert advice.
• Moosejaw.com: Moosejaw’s online store offers a similar selection of gear to its brick-and-mortar stores, with a focus on quirky marketing and a rewards program.

Pros of Online Retailers:

• Convenience
• Wide selection
• Price comparison
• Customer reviews

Cons of Online Retailers:

• Cannot physically inspect gear before buying
• Shipping costs and delays
• Returns can be more complicated

Local Camping Equipment Shops

Don’t overlook the value of supporting local businesses. Camping equipment shops in your area may offer personalized service and a curated selection of gear that’s perfect for the region. Search for “camping supplies near me” to discover hidden gems!

Tips for Finding Discount Camping Gear

Saving money on camping gear is always a good idea. Here are a few tips for finding discount camping gear:

• Shop during off-season sales: Retailers often offer discounts on camping gear at the end of the season.
• Check for clearance items: Look for clearance racks and online clearance sections.
• 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.
• Consider used gear: Buying used camping gear can save you money, but be sure to inspect it carefully before purchasing. Websites like GearTrade and Facebook Marketplace can be good sources.

Choosing the Right Gear for Your Needs

Before you start shopping, think about what kind of camping you’ll be doing. Will you be car camping, backpacking, or a combination of both? Consider the following factors:

• Type of Camping: Car camping requires different gear than backpacking. Car campers can bring heavier, more comfortable items, while backpackers need lightweight, packable gear.
• Weather Conditions: Consider the climate and weather conditions you’ll be camping in. You’ll need different gear for warm weather camping than you would for cold weather camping.
• Budget: Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it. There’s no need to break the bank to enjoy camping.

A Closer Look at Specific Gear Categories

Let’s dive deeper into specific types of camping gear and where to buy them:

Tents

• Big Box Retailers: Good for basic family tents at affordable prices.
• Sporting Goods Stores: Offer a wider selection of tents, including backpacking tents and family tents.
• Outdoor Specialty Stores: Carry high-quality tents from reputable brands like Big Agnes, Marmot, and MSR.

Sleeping Bags

• Big Box Retailers: Good for basic sleeping bags for warm weather camping.
• Sporting Goods Stores: Offer a wider selection of sleeping bags with different temperature ratings and fill types.
• Outdoor Specialty Stores: Carry high-quality sleeping bags from brands like Western Mountaineering and Feathered Friends, known for their warmth and compressibility.

Backpacks

• Sporting Goods Stores: Offer a selection of backpacks for hiking and camping.
• Outdoor Specialty Stores: Carry a wide range of backpacks for backpacking, hiking, and travel. Staff can help you find the right fit and capacity.

Cooking Equipment

• Big Box Retailers: Good for basic camp stoves and cookware.
• Sporting Goods Stores: Offer a wider selection of camp stoves, cookware, and utensils.
• Outdoor Specialty Stores: Carry high-performance camp stoves and lightweight cookware from brands like MSR and Jetboil.

Clothing and Footwear

• Sporting Goods Stores: Offer a selection of outdoor clothing and footwear.
• Outdoor Specialty Stores: Carry high-quality outdoor clothing and footwear from brands like Patagonia, Arc’teryx, and Salomon. Staff can help you find the right fit and features for your needs.

Table: Comparing Retailer Types

Retailer Type	Price	Selection	Expertise	Quality	Best For
Big Box Retailers	Low	Limited	Limited	Basic	Beginners, Budget Shoppers
Sporting Goods Stores	Medium	Moderate	Moderate	Moderate	Intermediate Campers, General Use
Outdoor Specialty Stores	High	Wide	High	High	Experienced Campers, Specialized Needs
Online Retailers	Varies	Wide	Limited	Varies	Convenience, Price Comparison

Evaluating Best Camping Gear Websites

When browsing best camping gear websites, consider the following:

• Product Information: Does the website provide detailed specifications, images, and reviews?
• Customer Support: Is there a readily available customer service team to answer questions?
• Shipping and Returns: What are the shipping costs and return policies?
• Security: Is the website secure for online transactions?

Finding Affordable Camping Supplies

To locate affordable camping supplies, consider:

• Sales and Clearance Sections: Always check for discounted items.
• Used Gear Markets: Websites and local groups selling used camping equipment can offer substantial savings.
• Generic Brands: Opting for less-known brands can significantly reduce costs without sacrificing too much quality for basic equipment.

Navigating a Camping Gear Sale

During a camping gear sale:

• Plan Ahead: Know what you need before the sale starts to avoid impulse buys.
• Compare Prices: Ensure the “sale” price is actually a good deal.
• Read Reviews: Double-check product reviews before making a final decision.

Backpacking Gear Store Specifics

When choosing a backpacking gear store, prioritize:

• Lightweight Options: Focus on gear designed to minimize weight.
• Durability: Ensure the gear can withstand the rigors of backpacking.
• Expert Fitting Services: Professional help is crucial for backpacks and footwear.

Conclusion

Finding the right camping gear stores and outdoor equipment retailers depends on your budget, experience, and specific needs. Whether you choose a big box retailer, a sporting goods store, an outdoor specialty store, or an online retailer, take the time to research your options and choose gear that will help you enjoy your next camping adventure. Remember to look for camping supplies near me for local options, and take advantage of any camping gear sale opportunities to save money. By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect affordable camping supplies for your next outdoor excursion. And for those embarking on more intense adventures, a dedicated backpacking gear store is your best bet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the best place to buy camping gear for beginners?

  • Big box retailers like Walmart or Target are good starting points for beginners due to their affordable prices and basic selection.

• Can I find good camping gear on Amazon?

  • Yes, Amazon offers a vast selection of camping gear from various brands. Be sure to read reviews carefully before making a purchase.

• Who is REI best for?

  • REI is best for experienced campers and backpackers who are looking for high-quality gear and expert advice.

• Are online camping gear retailers reliable?

  • Most reputable online retailers are reliable. However, it’s important to read reviews, check return policies, and ensure the website is secure before making a purchase.

• What should I consider when buying a tent?

  • Consider the size, season rating, weight, and ease of setup when buying a tent. Also, think about the type of camping you’ll be doing and the weather conditions you’ll be facing.

• How can I save money on camping gear?

  • Shop during off-season sales, check for clearance items, use coupons and promo codes, join loyalty programs, and consider buying used gear.