Why Buy Used Camping Gear?

If you're thinking of going camping, you have probably started pricing the camping gear you' want to get. You've seen how expensive it all it – nothing is cheap these days! Things are expensive, but you can't exactly just skip having a tent, can you? Well, you can, if you want to sleep under the stars, but most people really prefer to have a tent as a shelter when camping.

Unless you've access to more money than the rest of us, you may be considering buying some used camping gear that is for sale. Is that a good idea? For many items, it is! Take a look at these notes:

When NOT To Buy Used

Don't buy used camping gear for things that are personalized – such as hiking boots. To be most effective – in fact, to keep your feet from hurting you a lot – you will want your boots to be broken in to your feet, not the previous owner. While the boot may eventually conform to your foot, why risk it? And why risk the foot fungus the previous owner may have had? It's better to have new boots, and if you watch the sporting goods stores, you can take advantage of a sale and get exactly the kind you want. For example, it is not unheard of to buy very good, heavy duty hiking boots for under forty dollars, if you shop when there's a sale.

You also don't want to buy used camping gear that may be outdated or unsafe. Some types of lanterns are not nearly as safe as the more modern types, and it would be a bad idea to use the older type unless you are clear on how it works. Safety should be paramount. Also, for items like walking sticks, if you try it out and it holds securely, you may be okay. But for how long? Used camping gear doesn't come with a warranty. New camping gear does.

When used camping gear is missing pieces, pass it up. That tent may look like it is all there, but be sure all the tent pegs are present and that you know how to set it up. While you may think a missing peg is no big deal, finding a replacement peg can be – especially if you don't get around to getting one prior to that first camping trip. New camping gear comes complete.

Advantages Of Buying Used

If you can't afford to get totally outfitted right away, you can buy used camping gear – for now. When you can afford to replace things, as needed, do it. In the meantime, not having an expensive sleeping bag shouldn't keep you from your camping trip.