Backpacking Gear on a Budget
You want to check out backpacking and you realize you need gear. You’re not sure if this will be a lasting interest or a passing fancy, so you don’t want to spend a lot. Although some of the big name outdoor retailers may offer gear rental, there aren’t many other places to rent everything you need for a weekend, 2-night trek or something even longer. You may have friends or associates who’ll lend you some stuff to try out, which is very helpful. But most likely, you’ll have to buy your gear. Realize, however, you can do so progressively over time, not necessarily all at once.
Face it, most hobbies are expensive--Golf. Skiing. Kayaking. Backyard Chickens. So is backpacking. And the better quality or lighter weight gear can be extremely expensive. And similar to these other hobbies, what works for you is very personal to your skills, physical attributes and preferences. There is a considerable evolutionary process in which you learn what don’t like, moving you in the direction of what you do like. That said, here are some considerations as you look to acquire backpacking gear on a budget.
Ask yourself “Do I need this item?” There are two points worth think about here: 1) How often will you really engage in the activity? Are you just testing the waters with backpacking or are you “all-in”. If you’re just going to backpack a couple times a year, you don’t need to spend as much as you would if you are planning that 200-mile Section Hike in 2023. The “weekend warrior” does not need to have the same stuff the “seasoned aficionado” needs. Decide who you are going to be. 2) Is the item essential to your treks? There is certain gear that’s essential for any overnight backpacking excursion: backpack, tent, sleeping bag, pad/mattress, stove. But beyond these key items, you have a tremendous amount of discretion and in backpacking, less is more—you really do want to carry as little weight as you have to. Yes, clothing, foot ware, food, and water treatment are essential as well, but you have a lot of liberty in those items. Boots, shoes and socks are another discussion of their own (stay tuned). Also, you have lost of flexibility on which “accessories” you take with you on your trip--Bear bag/cannister? Flashlight? Personal hygiene/care? (Do I really want to bring that 16 oz container of bodywash?). So, take the extra time before buying your gear, and ask yours, “Do I really NEED the item and will I actually use it.”
Is BRAND better for your purposes? There are many very high-quality brands associated with the hiking/ backpacking world. Good companies, run by sincere, outdoor enthusiasts produce some awesome stuff that will keep you dry, warm, well fed and comfortable. These companies invest a lot in research and development for really good stuff to make your experience the best you can possibly have. And most specialty retailers offer an awe-inspiring shopping experience with phenomenal displays explain the features of these high-end products. If you are fortunate to be able to afford to buy everything you’ll need, new off the shelf, congratulations and have at it!
But what if you have limited resources? Some specialty outdoor retailers do offer “garage sales” or post season sales where you can save a lot. Be flexible in your spending choices and be honest with yourself. Conversely, you may be perfectly satisfied with a “bargain brand” purchased at the discount retailer’s sporting goods aisle for what you want to get out of your experience.
Can you find it for sale pre-owned?
For whatever reason, people need to offload stuff. They may want to upgrade their own gear, move to something else that works better, or no longer have the time or interest to pursue backpacking. Online buy/sell pages like FaceBook MarketPlace, other FB hiking/backpacking pages, Craigslist or community bargain shops such as Salvation Army or Habitat for Humanity provide great buying opportunities. Sometimes, high-end/lightly used items can be found through these venues, so be on the lookout. Know what you want, do your research, be diligent and patient in your pursuit and you likely find some amazing values out there. Many times while traveling, I’ve pulled into a Goodwill Store, stopping on a dime to go check out the outdoor stuff. For example, I recently found two brand name 20 Deg, down sleeping bags for $10. They retailed for over $250 each. That’s a score that did my bargain-hunter heart proud.
So yes, you can get good backpacking gear on a budget. Know if you need it. Consider off-brand options and bargain sales. Look for used gear online or at second-hand stores. Good luck in buying adventures and….Blaze the Trail!!