What Kind of Used Camping Gear Can Be Bought Online?

If you're in the market for camping gear, but don't want to pay top dollar to get new gear, you have probably thought about buying used camping gear. Online there is a lot of used camping gear available, and this guide can walk you through what is available – used – online.

Buying A Tent Online

When it comes to used camping gear online, think about buying a tent. If you are buying a used tent online, there are special things to be aware of. Sure, you'll want to know the age of the tent, and whether there are any rips or tears (try to get a tent without any, of course), as well as that the zippers work well. But you also need to get all the tent pegs that are needed with that particular tent. Though you may think replacement tent pegs are easy to get (and they can be), but if you think you'll have them before your maiden voyage with the tent then forget to get the replacement pegs, it will be a rough camping trip.

If that tent model also comes with a rain fly, or extra piece of tent material that hooks in over the tent to keep the tent nice and dry, despite the rain or condensation, be sure you get that, too.

Also, with many tents there are support poles. You need to get them, too, and they need to not be broken or splintering.

Staying Warm At Night

You will want to be warm at night while you're camping, so you will want a sleeping bag. You can buy a sleeping bag online, with other used camping gear. You'll want to know what condition the sleeping bag is in – no rips or tears here, either. And how heavy it is. A very heavy sleeping bag will be a nuisance, especially if you will be doing any backpacking with your camping gear. A lightweight sleeping bag can be just as warm – or warmer than – a heavier bag, and is designed to be machine washable. Be sure the zipper works well – you don't want to get stuck inside or outside!

Warming Your Food

If you're camping, you're going to want to have hot food sometimes. You might be cooking the fish you just caught, or making some soup or hot chocolate for a very cold night. To manage your heating needs, it helps if you have a cook stove.

If you're able, get a cook stove that is gas powered. It will be the easiest to use, and the most reliable when it's cold – and you don't have to look for wood and wait for it to catch on fire, like cooking over a campfire. Also, the chances of having a cook stove start a fire are minimal, compared to having a campfire that can much more easily get out of control.

When buying used camping gear online, you should be able to get a cook stove. Check the age of it, that it is all complete, and that the gas line works properly. If they're willing to throw in some cooking pans or utensils, so much the better!

Your used camping gear from online should work fine. Though they won't come with warranties, if you are a careful shopper, and have open communication with the seller, you should a better deal than buying new camping gear.