If you like spending time in nature, camping, trekking forest trails, climbing, you need outdoor gear. As excited as you are to go on your next adventure, buying new equipment will probably put a damper on it because the prices can be absolutely ridiculous. If only there was a way to snag top-notch gear without spending a fortune, right?

Good news – there is. You can get affordable outdoor gear if you don’t mind shopping second-hand, or shall we say, pre-loved.

Premium backpacks, weatherproof jackets, quality tents, everything’s available at a fraction of the original price, so why not give it a go?

Where to Look for Quality Second-Hand Gear

There are many different places where you can find great second-hand stuff. If I was you, and I was looking for a great place to purchase some great second-hand finds, I’d look for a thrift store near me – any nearby one. Use your phone to find the closest one, or ask locals around, and they’ll surely point you in the right direction.

Of course, it’s not just thrift stores that have amazing offers, so let’s go over all the places where you can find your second-hand outdoor gear.

1. Local Thrift Stores

You can find jackets, backpacks, and even camping gear tucked away in thrift stores. They’re usually overlooked when it comes to outdoor gear, but they can be a goldmine.

Keep in mind, though, seasonal changes play a role here – check during the end of spring or end of autumn to get seasonal items like hiking boots and insulated equipment.

2. Consignment Shops

When it comes to consignment shops, you’ll want to check those that are specialized in outdoor equipment because their inventory is carefully curated and inspected for quality.

This means that you can find premium brands and products made for specific activities, like climbing or skiing. A lot of these shops also have staff that’s knowledgeable and can help you find the best choices. The prices are a bit higher than they are in thrift stores, so, keep that in mind..

3. Community Sales and Events

Garage sales, flea markets, and gear swaps are excellent places to look for second-hand gear, but most people don’t think to do that.

These sales are ideal for finding unique items at bargain prices, especially if you stumble upon a seller who’s an outdoor enthusiast. Try to get there as early as you can because the earlier you come, the better your chances of scoring some really amazing stuff.

4. Online Marketplaces

If you don’t feel like it, you don’t have to leave your house to shop for second-hand stuff; just hop on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.

You can browse for items in your area and set up alerts for specific things, so you can act quickly when the right listing pops up.

How to Check the Quality of Second-Hand Stuff

Buying second-hand equipment can save you a lot of money, but it can also give you a major headache if you’re not careful. Some items are just not worth it, even if they’re dirt cheap, because they’re damaged, poorly maintained, and it can cost you more to repair them than it would to buy new.

Below are some tips on how to check the equipment before you buy it to make sure you’re getting something you’ll be able to use.

1. Clothing and Apparel

Outdoor clothing needs to endure harsh conditions, so you should check for signs of wear before you buy it. See if the fabric has any tears, loose seams, or edges that have started to fray.

All of this will make it less durable, plus you probably won’t get too much use out of it. Zippers have to glide smoothly, and if you’re buying something waterproof, spray some water over it to test it.

2. Tents and Shelters

These are critical components, so take a little bit of extra time to check them thoroughly. The fabric shouldn’t have any rips and holes because that could let water and insects in.

Poles and zippers need to be intact and fully functional because both are expensive to replace. Also, make sure all stakes and ropes are included with the tent because if they’re not, then the tent is useless.

3. Camping Gear

Stoves, cookware, and lanterns are much, much cheaper if you buy them second-hand, but only if they’re functional. For stoves, test the ignition and make sure that fuel connections are secure and don’t leak.

Cookware can’t have rust or dents, and if there’s a non-stick coating, it has to be intact. Lanterns should light up without problems and batteries (or other power sources) should also function properly.

Conclusion

Going on an adventure outdoors doesn’t have to be expensive if you know where to look for equipment. But don’t get blinded by the low prices; sometimes, even those prices aren’t worth it because the equipment isn’t good quality or it’s damaged. Before you buy anything, check it and be as detailed as possible.

Once you do, all that’s left is to hit the trails and explore the wild.

John Mali Director of Media Relations

Director of Media Relations at AboutBoulder.com

john@aboutboulder.com