Guest Post by Rob Woods
Everyone knows someone who just loves to spend time outdoors. Whether they’re constantly caravanning off to new exotic mountain destinations or regularly seeking out new places to make camp between adventurous endeavors, they’re the type who wants nothing more for the holidays than a new piece of gear to support their favorite hobby. And who could blame them? After all, camping is a wonderful way to explore nature and make the most of our state and National parks, and it’s a great way for busy entrepreneurs to get outside more often, which studies show is positive for your health.
That’s the thing when it comes to getting gifts for camping enthusiasts — camping gear can get expensive! This is especially true if you want top-of-the-line gadgets. So, how does one find a perfect gift for the campers in their life when one has budget constraints? Today, we share a few different ways to cut costs when looking for quality camping gear.
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Photo Courtesy of Unsplash
Buy Second-Hand or Discounted When Possible
One thing’s for sure: camping gear is pricey. Buying first-hand gear is enough to make anyone blanch at the price, which is why when it comes to camping gadgets and gear, second-hand or discount shopping is the way to go. If you look on eBay, you can find everything from tents and equipment to high-end camping backpacks at significantly reduced prices, many of them only
gently used. Further, sales discount sites compile a variety of savings, including eBay promotional codes, so you can find coupons for your favorite outdoor and sporting goods stores, making it easier to purchase even big-ticket items. Similarly, you can get on the mailing lists of sites like Moosejaw or REI to receive mailings with valuable discounts on their products.
Gadgets Make Great Gifts
Sometimes, trying to get a nice camping or outdoor recreation gift can seem daunting because all of the main items, like tents and gear, are some of the most expensive options. However, if you’re wanting to purchase something a little more reasonably priced, there are numerous essential gadgets that any camping fan would appreciate. For instance, just about any camper could benefit from a new compass or lantern, and there are dozens of similar little tools to suit a number or needs, like camping scissors or a portable elastic clothesline. You also may want to get them something they’d love but would never think to get for
themselves, like a parachute camping hammock. Even a pack of zip ties or a solid multi-tool would be a welcome gift for those who need to use those items so often. And for cat-lovers, this special backpack that will allow them to take their furry companion with them is a must!
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Make a Themed Kit
There are some items that anyone who camps needs whether they go often or just occasionally. Whether you get a ready-made first-aid kit like those sold by the American Red Cross or assemble some of the emergency gear the Department of Homeland Security recommends for emergency preparedness, an emergency first-aid kit is an essential item for any camper. For other kits, simply acquire a few camping items around a theme. For instance, you could make a camping picnic kit with some camping cookware and utensils as well as some non-perishable food items. If you know a hiker, you could get them a nice hiking backpack and fill it with great snacks and gear for a day on the hiking trail. You could also get some ropes, quickdraws, and a helmet for the rock climber in your life. This also allows you to tailor the gift to your budget — simply get as few or as many items for the theme you’ve chosen as you can afford. No matter how much you spend on the perfect gift for the outdoorsy person in your life, you can rest assured that camping gear and glamping essentials are the gifts that keep on giving. By keeping an eye on your budget in the process, you’l have more money left over to pick up gifts for the other loved ones in your life. And who knows? If you’re lucky, maybe that outdoorsy pal will invite you along on their next fabulous camping excursion.
Stonyboot represents a boot full of stones/rocks that get in from a lot of hiking and traveling. We are a travel couple that was tired of short vacations and now we travel full-time! We’d love to hear from you! Please email [email protected].
A big thank you to our guest writer Rob Woods at https://fixitdads.com/