Where to Buy Camping Supplies: Your Ultimate Gear Guide

Looking for where to buy camping supplies? This guide will help you find the best camping gear stores, outdoor equipment retailers, and camping supply shops, both online and near you, so you can secure all the camping necessities purchase needs for your next adventure. Whether you’re seeking discount camping supplies, backpacking gear outlets, or browsing camping supply websites, we’ll cover all your options, including sporting goods stores camping.

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Choosing Your Camping Supply Store

The right place to buy your camping gear can make a big difference in your experience. It affects the quality of gear, the price you pay, and the kind of advice you get. Let’s look at the main types of stores where you can find camping equipment near me or online.

Local Camping Gear Stores: Pros and Cons

Camping gear stores in your area can be a great choice, but consider these points:

Pros:

• Expert Advice: Staff often have first-hand camping experience and can give personalized advice.
• Hands-On Experience: You can touch, feel, and try out equipment before you buy.
• Immediate Gratification: No waiting for shipping; you can start using your gear right away.
• Supporting Local Business: Shopping local helps your community.

Cons:

• Higher Prices: Local stores may have higher prices than online retailers due to overhead costs.
• Limited Selection: The selection might be smaller than what you find online.
• Convenience: You have to drive to the store.

Big Box Sporting Goods Stores

Sporting goods stores camping are widely available and offer a broad range of products.

Pros:

• Competitive Pricing: They often have sales and discounts.
• Variety: Besides camping gear, they carry other sporting goods.
• Accessibility: Usually easy to find in most cities and towns.
• One-Stop Shop: You can buy everything from tents to hiking boots in one place.

Cons:

• Less Expertise: Staff may not be as knowledgeable about camping-specific gear.
• Lower Quality: Some items might be lower quality compared to specialty stores.
• Less Personalized Service: It can be hard to get individual help.

Online Camping Stores: A World of Options

Online camping stores provide a vast selection and convenience.

Pros:

• Huge Selection: Camping supply websites offer a wider variety of products than physical stores.
• Competitive Prices: Online retailers often have lower prices.
• Convenience: Shop from home, anytime.
• Customer Reviews: You can read reviews from other campers.

Cons:

• No Hands-On Experience: You can’t physically inspect the gear before buying.
• Shipping Costs and Delays: Shipping can add to the cost, and delivery can take time.
• Returns: Returning items can be more complex than at a physical store.
• Harder to get advice: No access to in-person expert advice.

Discount Camping Supplies: Finding the Best Deals

Finding discount camping supplies can save you a lot of money. Here’s how:

• Outlet Stores: Backpacking gear outlets often sell overstock or slightly damaged items at reduced prices.
• Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Amazon can have good deals on used or new gear.
• Clearance Sales: Check for clearance sales at both online and physical stores.
• Membership Programs: Some retailers offer discounts to members.
• Coupons: Look for coupons and promo codes online.

Top Retailers for Camping Supplies

Here’s a list of popular places to buy camping gear, covering different types of stores:

Major Online Retailers

• Amazon: Enormous selection, competitive prices, and fast shipping for prime members.
• REI: High-quality gear, expert advice, and a great return policy.
• Backcountry.com: Wide range of outdoor gear, including camping equipment and clothing.
• Moosejaw: Known for its quirky marketing and solid selection of gear.
• Cabela’s: Large selection of camping, hunting, and fishing gear.

Popular Brick-and-Mortar Stores

• REI: (also an online retailer) Knowledgeable staff and a focus on quality.
• Cabela’s: (also an online retailer) Large stores with a wide variety of outdoor gear.
• Bass Pro Shops: Similar to Cabela’s, with a focus on fishing, hunting, and camping.
• Dick’s Sporting Goods: Offers a mix of well known and budget-friendly camping brands.
• Walmart: Good for basic, budget-friendly camping gear.

Specialty Camping Stores

• Local Outdoor Shops: Often offer unique gear and personalized service.
• REI: Carries many name brands and offers camping equipment rentals.
• Moosejaw: Focuses on unique brands and a personalized shopping experience.

Websites of well-known Camping Brands

• Coleman: Known for affordable camping equipment.
• NEMO Equipment: High-quality tents, sleeping bags, and other camping gear.
• MSR (Mountain Safety Research): Specializes in high-performance backpacking and camping gear.
• The North Face: Offers a wide range of outdoor apparel and equipment.
• Patagonia: Known for its sustainable and durable outdoor gear.

Comparing Retailers: A Table

Here’s a quick comparison table to help you decide:

Retailer	Type	Pros	Cons	Best For
Amazon	Online	Huge selection, competitive prices, fast shipping	Can be overwhelming, quality varies	Budget-conscious shoppers, wide selection
REI	Online & Brick-and-Mortar	High-quality gear, expert advice, great return policy	Higher prices, membership required for some benefits	Experienced campers, quality gear
Backcountry.com	Online	Wide range of outdoor gear	No physical store, returns can be complex	Diverse product selection
Moosejaw	Online & Brick-and-Mortar	Unique marketing, solid selection of gear	Smaller selection than some larger retailers	Unique brands, personalized shopping experience
Cabela’s / Bass Pro Shops	Online & Brick-and-Mortar	Large selection, good for fishing and hunting gear too	Can be overwhelming, staff expertise varies	One-stop shopping, outdoor enthusiasts
Dick’s Sporting Goods	Brick-and-Mortar	Competitive prices, accessible locations	Less expertise, lower quality on some items	Beginners, budget-friendly options
Walmart	Brick-and-Mortar	Very affordable, convenient locations	Lowest quality, less durable	Basic camping needs on a tight budget
Local Outdoor Shops	Brick-and-Mortar	Personalized service, unique gear, supporting local business	Higher prices, limited selection	Personalized advice, unique gear

Essential Camping Gear: A Checklist

Before you head to the store, make a list of what you need. Here are some essentials:

• Tent: Choose the right size and type for your needs.
• Sleeping Bag: Consider the temperature rating.
• Sleeping Pad: Adds comfort and insulation.
• Camp Stove: For cooking meals.
• Cookware and Utensils: Pots, pans, plates, and cutlery.
• Lighting: Headlamps or lanterns.
• Water Filter or Purification Tablets: Stay hydrated safely.
• First-Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries.
• Navigation Tools: Map and compass (or GPS).
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
• Insect Repellent: Protect yourself from bugs.
• Appropriate Clothing: Layers for changing weather.
• Backpack: Carry your gear comfortably.
• Camp Chairs: Relax around the campfire.
• Toiletries: Keep clean and comfortable.
• Trash Bags: Pack out everything you pack in.

Picking the Right Gear: A Detailed Look

It’s not just about buying camping necessities purchase; it’s about choosing the right gear for your specific needs.

Tents: Size, Seasonality, and Features

• Size: Choose a tent that comfortably fits the number of people who will be sleeping in it.
• Seasonality:
  • 3-Season Tents: Good for spring, summer, and fall.
  • 4-Season Tents: Designed for winter camping and harsh weather.
• Features: Look for features like rainfly, ventilation, and easy setup.

Sleeping Bags: Temperature Ratings and Types

• Temperature Rating: Choose a bag rated for the lowest temperature you expect to encounter.
• Types:
  • Down: Lightweight and compressible, but expensive and loses insulation when wet.
  • Synthetic: More affordable and retains insulation when wet, but heavier and bulkier.
• Shape:
  • Mummy: Efficient and warm.
  • Rectangular: More spacious but less efficient.

Sleeping Pads: Comfort and Insulation

• Types:
  • Closed-Cell Foam: Affordable and durable, but less comfortable.
  • Self-Inflating: More comfortable and provides good insulation.
  • Air Pads: Lightweight and compressible, but can be punctured.
• R-Value: Measures insulation. Higher R-value means more insulation.

Camp Stoves: Fuel Types and Features

• Fuel Types:
  • Canister Stoves: Easy to use and lightweight.
  • Liquid Fuel Stoves: Work well in cold weather and at high altitudes.
  • Wood-Burning Stoves: Eco-friendly, but require collecting firewood.
• Features:
  • Boil Time: How quickly the stove boils water.
  • Simmer Control: Ability to adjust the flame for cooking.
  • Stability: How stable the stove is on uneven surfaces.

Lighting: Headlamps vs. Lanterns

• Headlamps: Hands-free lighting, good for hiking and tasks around camp.
• Lanterns: Provide ambient light for a larger area.
• Types:
  • LED: Energy-efficient and long-lasting.
  • Fuel-Based: Brighter, but require fuel.

Water Filtration and Purification

• Filters: Remove bacteria and protozoa.
• Purification Tablets: Kill viruses and bacteria.
• Considerations:
  • Capacity: How much water can be treated.
  • Flow Rate: How quickly water can be filtered.
  • Weight: Important for backpacking.

First-Aid Kits: Essentials and Customization

• Essentials: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister treatment, and any personal medications.
• Customization: Add items specific to your needs and the environment.
• Training: Take a wilderness first-aid course.

Navigating the World of Camping Brands

Choosing the right brands can be tough. Here are some top brands in different categories:

Tents

• MSR: Known for high-performance backpacking tents.
• Big Agnes: Offers comfortable and innovative tents.
• REI Co-op: Good quality and value.
• NEMO Equipment: Lightweight and innovative designs.

Sleeping Bags

• Therm-a-Rest: High-quality sleeping bags and pads.
• Western Mountaineering: Premium down sleeping bags.
• REI Co-op: Reliable and affordable options.
• Sea to Summit: Innovative and lightweight designs.

Camp Stoves

• MSR: Reliable and efficient stoves for backpacking.
• Jetboil: Fast and convenient boiling systems.
• Camp Chef: Sturdy and powerful stoves for car camping.
• Coleman: Affordable and reliable options.

Backpacks

• Osprey: Comfortable and durable backpacks.
• Deuter: Well-designed and durable packs.
• Gregory: Comfortable and feature-rich backpacks.
• REI Co-op: Good value and quality.

Budgeting for Your Camping Trip

Camping can be as affordable or as expensive as you make it. Here’s how to budget:

• Prioritize: Focus on essential gear first.
• Buy Used: Consider buying used gear to save money.
• Rent Gear: Rent expensive items like tents or backpacks if you only camp occasionally.
• Look for Sales: Take advantage of sales and discounts.
• DIY: Make some of your own gear, like a camp kitchen or first-aid kit.

Tips for Buying Camping Gear

• Read Reviews: See what other campers have to say about the gear.
• Compare Prices: Check prices at multiple retailers.
• Consider Your Needs: Choose gear that fits your specific camping style and environment.
• Test Gear: If possible, test the gear before you buy it.
• Ask for Advice: Talk to experienced campers or store staff.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the most important camping gear to buy first?

The most important items are a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. These provide shelter and warmth, essential for a comfortable and safe camping experience.

Can I buy camping gear at a sporting goods store?

Yes, sporting goods stores camping are one option. They often carry a range of camping equipment, but the selection and expertise may be limited compared to specialty camping gear stores.

Who is best to ask for advice on camping supplies?

Experienced campers, staff at local camping supply shops, or online communities dedicated to camping and outdoor activities are excellent sources of advice.

Where can I find cheap camping gear?

You can find discount camping supplies at outlet stores, online marketplaces like eBay, clearance sales, and by using coupons or membership programs.

What are the best camping supply websites for online shopping?

Popular and reliable websites include Amazon, REI, Backcountry.com, and the official websites of major camping brands like Coleman and MSR.

Where can I find camping equipment near me?

Use online search engines like Google Maps to find local camping gear stores, outdoor equipment retailers, or sporting goods stores camping in your area.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect camping supplies for your next adventure, no matter your budget or experience level. Happy camping!