How to Buy Camping Supplies

Camping is a wonderful family activity, but buying the camping equipment and supplies can be expensive and it's easy to purchase items you won't need. Follow some of these tips when you get ready for your next camping trip. It'll save you some money.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Make a list of equipment you'll need and another list of equipment you already have. Itemize everything for the camping trip and include obvious items such as tent, sleeping bags, folding chairs, cookware, charcoal and marshmallows.

2. Include basic items in the camping supply list. Treat the camping trip like any other vacation. Many people forget basic items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, hairbrushes, deodorant and matches.

3. Determine what type of camping trip you're planning, then you'll know what supplies you will need to buy. A camping trip that involves a lot of hiking might include hiking supplies whereas you'll want to buy fishing gear if you're camping at the lake.

4. Research the gear before you buy camping supplies. Figure out why it's necessary to buy for the camping trip. Take your research notes with you to shop for camping supplies. Compare and contrast each piece of equipment, especially if you are on a budget. Decide what's necessary and what would just take up room.

5. Search around at camp supply stores and regular department stores. The primary camping season starts in late spring, when the kids are out of school, the weather is warmer and the days are getting longer. This is also the time that many stores start having sales on camping supplies.

6. Look for bargains at discount stores, outlet stores and flea markets. These places also are a great place to shop for camping supplies.

7. Develop a budget to control spending for buying camping supplies. Avoid spending for camping supplies that are excessive or unnecessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Off season is a good time to shop for camping supplies, although there's not much selection, if you can find something you need, you can save a lot. Stores try to deplete their inventory to make room for new.

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[nezab24]

on 6/2/2009 Lists, lists, lists....it is so easy to remember the big stuff, like a fry pan or pot, then forget the spoons, spatulas, can opener. If you are going to be tent camping then purchase some medium size plastic storage containers to keep camping stuff together and dry even after you come home from camping. Make a list for cookware and utensils, one for food items (don't forget salt and pepper), one for clothes, one for personal items. Save the lists and they will be ready for your next camping trip. Camping has been a real joy in my life and would love for everyone to experience it a couple of times.

[rcbzn]

on 4/4/2009 You might want to try to shop the price comparison websites that specialize in camping gear like www.gearbuyer.com and www.spadout.com. That way you'll know what the best price is.