Trying a new sport or activity can be both exciting and expensive if you’re starting from square one. There are some key staples you need when embarking upon a season of backcountry hiking and/or camping as well as a number of odds and ends that will make your trip just that much more efficient. Gearing up doesn’t have to break the bank.
Luckily, there are tons of ways to seek out second-hand gear that will meet your needs. Shopping second hand is a good idea for many reasons. For one, it saves money. In addition, taking unwanted gear off someone else’s hands keeps it out of the landfill and does good for mother nature. Cutting on spending while being environmentally conscious? We’d call that a win-win! Here’s what you need to know:
Things to Keep in Mind When Buying Second-Hand Gear
There are two things to keep in mind when purchasing used hiking gear: the price and the condition.
Ensure You Purchase Gear in Good Condition
When buying used gear, you need to make sure it’s still functional and in tip-top shape. For example, if you’re buying a used pack or tent, be sure to check the seams and zippers to make sure there are no tears and everything is in working condition. If possible, set up the tent to make sure all parts are together and working. If you can’t actually handle the gear yourself before purchase, ask for photos or videos of all angles including close-ups.
Run a Personal Price Check
It is possible to get awesome deals when shopping second hand, especially when it comes to lightly used gear. That said, it’s important to check out the original sale price of an item to confirm you are getting a deal for buying it used. Visit the maker’s website, shop around a bit, and negotiate or look for another sale if you feel the price is too close to the original.
Not sure where to look for your used gear? Here are some gold mines we’d suggest checking out:
MECs Used Gear Site
Hop online and check out Mountain Equipment Co-op’s used gear site. This can be found right on their homepage and will give you access to items across Canada. If you’re looking for something specific, you can likely find it here! Because MEC gear is of excellent quality, their used gear is just the same.
Switching Gear in Canmore
Switching Gear is an athletic clothing and gear consignment shop in Canmore. They have a wide range of gear, from packs to paddle boards, and you’re sure to find what you’re looking for here. Because many locals update their gear frequently, the quality and price are typically great and the staff is incredibly helpful. It’s also a bonus to be able to view and try out the gear in person before making a purchase.
Facebook Marketplace
If you’re on the hunt for used gear, the Facebook Marketplace is always a good option. Try Bow Valley Gear Loft, Canmore Buy and Sell, and other local groups. These sales are all independent, but because of the small community, you can often go and take a look for yourself before committing to purchase.
Scouts Canada in Calgary
If you’re ever in the city, Scouts Canada in Calgary has a wide selection of used gear for you to browse. You can find camping equipment, outdoor gear, and more. Visit the site and located the store closest to you. If you can’t make it to Calgary, you can also shop online.
Hop online or head to your local hot-spot to save money on amazing gear.
We’ll see you outside!
Luckily, there are tons of ways to seek out second-hand gear that will meet your needs. Shopping second hand is a good idea for many reasons. For one, it saves money. In addition, taking unwanted gear off someone else’s hands keeps it out of the landfill and does good for mother nature. Cutting on spending while being environmentally conscious? We’d call that a win-win! Here’s what you need to know:
Things to Keep in Mind When Buying Second-Hand Gear
There are two things to keep in mind when purchasing used hiking gear: the price and the condition.
Ensure You Purchase Gear in Good Condition
When buying used gear, you need to make sure it’s still functional and in tip-top shape. For example, if you’re buying a used pack or tent, be sure to check the seams and zippers to make sure there are no tears and everything is in working condition. If possible, set up the tent to make sure all parts are together and working. If you can’t actually handle the gear yourself before purchase, ask for photos or videos of all angles including close-ups.
Run a Personal Price Check
It is possible to get awesome deals when shopping second hand, especially when it comes to lightly used gear. That said, it’s important to check out the original sale price of an item to confirm you are getting a deal for buying it used. Visit the maker’s website, shop around a bit, and negotiate or look for another sale if you feel the price is too close to the original.
Not sure where to look for your used gear? Here are some gold mines we’d suggest checking out:
MECs Used Gear Site
Hop online and check out Mountain Equipment Co-op’s used gear site. This can be found right on their homepage and will give you access to items across Canada. If you’re looking for something specific, you can likely find it here! Because MEC gear is of excellent quality, their used gear is just the same.
Switching Gear in Canmore
Switching Gear is an athletic clothing and gear consignment shop in Canmore. They have a wide range of gear, from packs to paddle boards, and you’re sure to find what you’re looking for here. Because many locals update their gear frequently, the quality and price are typically great and the staff is incredibly helpful. It’s also a bonus to be able to view and try out the gear in person before making a purchase.
Facebook Marketplace
If you’re on the hunt for used gear, the Facebook Marketplace is always a good option. Try Bow Valley Gear Loft, Canmore Buy and Sell, and other local groups. These sales are all independent, but because of the small community, you can often go and take a look for yourself before committing to purchase.
Scouts Canada in Calgary
If you’re ever in the city, Scouts Canada in Calgary has a wide selection of used gear for you to browse. You can find camping equipment, outdoor gear, and more. Visit the site and located the store closest to you. If you can’t make it to Calgary, you can also shop online.
Hop online or head to your local hot-spot to save money on amazing gear.
We’ll see you outside!
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