Looking for Amazing Hiking Deals This Year. 15 Ways to Find Incredible Sales

Looking for Amazing Hiking Deals This Year. 15 Ways to Find Incredible Sales

When to Find the Best Hiking Gear Sales

As the weather warms up and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to start planning your hiking adventures for the year. But quality hiking gear can get pricey, so finding a good sale is key. The good news is that with some strategic planning, you can find incredible deals on hiking boots, backpacks, apparel and more. Here are 15 tips to help you scope out the top sales for hiking gear so you can head out on the trails in style without breaking the bank.

1. Mark Your Calendar

One of the best ways to save money on hiking gear is to shop during peak sale times. Make note of major holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day and Christmas when retailers tend to have big sales. The same goes for the peak summer season – many brands will discount last year’s gear to make room for new inventory. Amazon Prime Day in July is another great opportunity to score deals on hiking necessities. And keep an eye out for annual anniversary or birthday sales from outdoor brands like REI, Eddie Bauer and The North Face.

2. Check for Coupons and Cash Back

Before making any online purchase, it’s worth doing a quick search for coupons and cash back offers. RetailMeNot and Honey are browser extensions that will automatically apply any available coupons when you’re checking out. Rakuten also gives you cash back for purchases at hundreds of retailers. And don’t forget to check the sales circulars – even big box stores like Target and Walmart often have great deals on basic hiking gear.

3. Sign Up for Email Lists

One of the easiest ways to stay on top of sales is to sign up for email lists from your favorite hiking and outdoor gear retailers. REI is known for its members-only coupons and Memorial Day Anniversary Sale. Backcountry’s Peak Deals offer short-lived discounts on coveted items. Moosejaw has a unique rewards program where you earn points with purchases. And even Amazon has Lightning Deals for flash sales on hiking necessities. Getting those sale notifications right in your inbox means you can jump on deals before stock sells out.

4. Shop Clearance Sections

Before buying anything at full price, be sure to browse the clearance sections on hiking gear sites. Retailers like Backcountry, CampSaver and Mountain Steals have dedicated pages for discounted items that are overstock, used, returned or last season’s colors. Sort by your favorite brands or search keywords like “hiking boots” or “backpacks” to find deals. You can often save up to 70% off retail prices.

5. Wait for New Product Releases

When outdoor brands release new products for the season, past year models inevitably get discounted. For example, keep an eye out for the spring release of new hiking boots and look for last year’s boots to go on sale. Same goes for tents, packs, headlamps and other gear that sees annual design updates. The off-season is also a great time to buy – so shop for winter hiking gear in summer and vice versa.

6. Shop Used Gear

Websites like GearTrade.com and Poshmark make it easy to buy and sell used outdoor gear. Pre-owned items can be a fraction of the original price, especially if they are gently used. You can find everything from hiking boots and packs to outerwear and accessories. Just be sure to carefully inspect photos and descriptions so you know exactly what kind of condition the gear is in before buying.

7. Join Loyalty Programs

Signing up for loyalty programs through outdoor retailers can unlock special discounts and early access to sales. REI Co-Op members get back 10% of purchases as store credit each year and Moosejaw Rewards members earn points with every dollar spent. Some retailers also have tiered programs where you get bigger rewards as you spend more. Taking advantage of these loyalty perks is a great way to save on hiking gear for years to come.

8. Use Cash Back Sites

When you shop hiking gear through cash back sites like ActiveJunky and Rakuten, you can earn percentages back on each purchase. These sites partner with all the top outdoor retailers so you can rack up cash back on everything from footwear to apparel and equipment. Some even offer double or triple cash back during seasonal sales. Just remember to click through the website before purchasing for it to track.

9. Try Price Matching

If you see a particular hiking pack or tent you want at full price, try price matching. Many retailers like REI and Dick’s Sporting Goods will match lower prices from competitors. All you have to do is contact customer service and provide the link where you found the item at a cheaper price. This simple trick can save you big bucks, especially on big ticket gear items that rarely go on sale.

10. Buy Discounted Gift Cards

Here’s an insider tip – buy discounted gift cards to outdoor retailers and you can save money before you even start shopping. Sites like Raise, CardCash and GiftCardGranny sell gift cards up to 20% off the face value. You can find cards for REI, Backcountry, Moosejaw and other hiking gear stores. Just be sure to double check the fine print on expirations, fees, etc.

11. Attend Garage Sales and Swaps

For seriously discounted secondhand gear, attend garage sales and gear swaps hosted by hiking clubs and organizations in your area. Oregon Mountaineers and The Mountaineers in Washington, for example, hold annual gear sales where you can scoop up jackets, packs, trekking poles and more for huge discounts. Sadly, the previous owner’s loss can be your gain when it comes to quality used gear.

12. Time It Right

As with most products, certain times of year tend to yield the best hiking gear sales. April and May are great months for discounted cold weather apparel and equipment as retailers clear inventory before summer. November is also a top month for sales as brands compete for holiday shopping dollars. And January often brings steep discounts as retailers try to clear shelves after the holidays.

13. Shop Small Business Sales

Beyond the major retailers, small hiking and outdoor gear businesses can be great sources for sales too. Moosejaw and Backcountry have weekly deals that highlight gear and apparel from smaller brands you won’t find elsewhere. Small business sites like Huckberry and Evo also run regular sales on everything from footwear to packs and apparel. Following your favorite brands on social can clue you into upcoming deals and promo codes too.

14. Use Credit Card Points and Perks

If you have a travel or outdoor rewards credit card, see if you can use accumulated points and miles for statement credits at select hiking retailers, gift cards or online shopping portals. Cards like the REI Co-Op World Elite Mastercard even offer 5% back on purchases. The Perks at Work program from American Express also unlocks discounted gift cards and coupons for hiking brands. Credit card points are meant to be spent, so put them towards new gear!

15. Buy Used on eBay

eBay can be a treasure trove for deals on used hiking gear. Search by item specifics like size, brand, color and condition. Pay attention to seller ratings and reviews. Consider bidding on used items through auctions or look for discounted “Buy It Now” listings. If you aren’t picky about color or slight cosmetic imperfections, you can get quality gear at huge markdowns. Just be ready to thoroughly clean and inspect anything before hitting the trail.

With a savvy sale-sniffing strategy, investing in reliable hiking gear doesn’t have to demolish your budget. Follow these tips and tricks to hunt down deals so you can spend more time on the trail and less on gear. Motivate yourself to look for sales by setting a budget and sticking to it. And remember – quality hiking gear lasts for years, so it’s worth taking the time to find great deals.

Look for End of Season Clearance Sales

As temperatures start to cool and the hiking season winds down, it’s the perfect time to score deals on gear for next year. Retailers big and small will be clearing out inventory to make room for next season’s products. That’s why some of the biggest discounts on hiking boots, packs, apparel and more happen during end of season clearance sales. Here are tips to help you take advantage:

Shop Early for the Best Selection

The earliest bird gets the worm when it comes to clearance sales. As soon as you see those first red clearance tags in late summer or fall, start browsing. The best deals and widest product selection tend to happen right when sales first launch. Waiting too long means you’ll have to sift through picked over leftover inventory.

Sign Up for Sale Alerts and Emails

Make sure you’re on the notification list for your favorite outdoor retailers so you know when end of season sales launch. REI, Backcountry and Moosejaw typically announce clearance events via email and social media. This gives you a chance to preview discounts before the sale opens to the general public. Sales often start for members only too.

Stack Savings with Coupons and Rebates

Look for additional savings on top of clearance prices. REI frequently offers member coupons during sales – they had an extra 20% off clearance items last November. Moosejaw and Backcountry will also layer on coupon codes and cash back bonuses. And some credit cards like the REI Mastercard offer bonus rewards during special sales.

Sort by Biggest Discounts First

Once clearance sales begin, sort products by the biggest percentage discounts first. Backcountry lets you sort from highest to lowest percent off. REI’s clearance section also shows the original price crossed out next to the sale price. This helps uncover the deepest savings and gets your dollar stretching farther.

Be Flexible on Brand, Size and Color

Limiting yourself to a single brand or product criteria means you’ll likely miss out on some of the best deals. Keep an open mind across brands, size ranges and colors. A previous year’s model in an unusual color often gets marked down the most. Take advantage of the deals and save your pickiness for full-price purchases.

Comb Through Clearance Sections Thoroughly

Don’t just glance at the clearance section – dig in deep. Look across all subcategories from packs to footwear and apparel to find hidden gems. Clearance stock is often poorly organized since inventory is dwindling. Be methodical in your searching, and you may uncover major scores.

Check for Clearance at Sporting Goods Stores

Don’t forget brick and mortar sporting goods stores like Dick’s, Sportsman’s Warehouse and Big 5. Their clearance sections offer deals on hiking gear you won’t find browsing online. And you can inspect items thoroughly before purchasing. Several times a year, they’ll also send deep clearance coupons by mail or email.

Buy Off-Season Gear for Next Year

Planning ahead? An end of summer clearance is the perfect time to score deals on cold weather hiking gear for winter excursions ahead. And vice versa – shop end of winter sales for summer gear. Buying out of season means deeper discounts now on items you’ll need in just a few months.

Price Match If You Find It Cheaper

If you spot a clearance item cheaper somewhere else, try price matching. Many retailers including REI and Dick’s will match competitors’ authorized lower prices. All you have to do is contact customer service – this trick alone can save you an extra 20-50%.

Use Credit Card Rewards and Gift Cards

Before checking out clearance deals, check your credit card rewards. Can you use points for gift cards or statement credits to save even more? Also look for discounted gift cards on sites like Raise and CardCash. Applying these can lower the upfront cost before applicable sales.

Consider Gently Used and Open Box Deals

For even deeper discounts, browse open box and used clearance sections. Retailers like Backcountry, Moosejaw and REI often have discounted items in near-perfect condition. Small cosmetic imperfections mean bigger savings off already reduced prices. Just inspect closely upon arrival.

End of season clearance sales offer some of the best opportunities to save big on hiking gear for next season. Follow these tips and tricks to uncover the deepest discounts before shelves are bare. Scoring quality gear at a fraction of the price will have you geared up for adventures ahead without breaking the bank!

Check Retailer Websites for Online-Only Deals

Beyond brick-and-mortar sales, more and more hiking and outdoor retailers are offering online-only deals you won’t find in stores. Special limited time sales and coupon codes help them compete with ecommerce giants like Amazon. Here are some tips to uncover web-exclusive savings:

Browse “Web Specials” and “Online Only” Sections

Retailers like REI, Backcountry and Moosejaw have dedicated web specials pages where you can find hiking gear deals available only to online shoppers. Items are typically discounted for a short period of time, so check back often.

Sign Up for Emails and Social Notifications

To stay in the loop on online sales, sign up for email newsletters from your favorite hiking websites. Follow them on social media too – limited time coupon codes are often announced on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Enabling notifications will alert you immediately.

Look for Free Shipping Sitewide Offers

One benefit of online-only sales is retailers will sometimes offer free shipping sitewide, no minimum spend required. This allows you to score deals on smaller hiking items like socks and base layers without inflated shipping costs. Keep an eye out for these limited time perks.

Stack Coupons and Cash Back

Look for additional coupon codes and cash back offers to layer on top of online-only sales and specials. RetailMeNot and Honey help you find valid coupons during checkout. And cash back sites like ActiveJunky give you a percentage back on each purchase.

Compare Prices with Other Retailers

An online-exclusive deal from one retailer may be cheaper elsewhere. Do a quick price comparison using sites like Google Shopping when you spot a hot deal. Or use camelcase plugins that show price histories and trends across merchants.

Take Advantage of Flash Sales

Flash sales from hiking gear sites can offer deep, short-lived discounts but sell out extremely quickly. Moosejaw’s Deal of the Day and Backcountry’s Peak Steals are prime examples. Create accounts ahead of time and be ready to pounce when you get sale alerts.

Look for Discounts in Their Apps

Some retailers like REI offer mobile app-exclusive coupon codes and discounts not available on their websites. Download apps from your go-to hiking merchants to unlock savings. Just remember to use the app when making the actual purchase.

Shop Early for the Biggest Selection

Online-only sale items tend to move quickly since stock is limited. Check back right when sales first launch for the best chance of snagging coveted items before they sell out in your size or preferred color.

Ask About Price Matching Policies

If you find a web special item cheaper at another retailer after you already purchased, try asking for a price match. Many stores like Moosejaw and Backcountry will retroactively refund the difference.

With a little luck and perfect timing, scoring online-only deals can help stretch your gear budget even farther. Follow these tips to unlock web-exclusive discounts you won’t get wandering store aisles. Just be ready to act lightning fast before coveted items disappear from your virtual cart.

Don’t Overlook Small Local Shops

As convenient as big box retailers and major ecommerce sites can be, don’t forget about the small independent hiking and outdoor shops in your area. These local spots can be goldmines for steep discounts, especially for end of season gear. Here are some tips for supporting small business while saving big:

Ask About Seasonal Clearance Sales

Smaller shops tend to be more flexible than big retailers when it comes to clearance discounts. Don’t be shy to inquire about any upcoming seasonal sales. Many will offer steeper markdowns for locals to keep business within the community.

Sign Up for Their Email Lists

Even if their website seems outdated, local shops likely still send out email alerts about flash sales, coupons and limited deals. Get added to their contact list so you never miss a money-saving opportunity in your inbox.

Follow Social Media for Pop-Up Discounts

Keep tabs on small hiking shops’ Instagram and Facebook pages for surprise sales announcements. Limited weekend promos and flash giveaways are often promoted exclusively on social media to reward engaged followers.

Ask About Price Matching

Many mom-and-pop outdoor shops are willing to price match items that are cheaper at larger competitors. Bring proof of the competitor’s price to the register to ask for a match. This ensures you get the best deal while supporting local.

Shop End of Season for Deep Discounts

Smaller retailers tend to heavily discount older inventory come end of hiking season to free up cash flow. Shop end of summer and fall for seriously marked down cold weather gear. Repeat in spring for summer gear deals.

Buy Discounted Gift Cards Online

Even if your favorite local shop doesn’t sell their own gift cards, you can find discounted cards for general mall gift cards or Visa/Mastercards. Apply these towards a purchase to save instantly.

Ask About Used Gear Trade-In Values

See if any nearby shops accept used gear trade-ins from locals. The trade-in value often gets discounted deeper than what larger retailers offer. Use it towards new purchases for amplified savings.

Negotiate on Big Ticket Items

For splurge worthy gear, discreetly inquire if there’s any room for negotiating on the price, especially for display models or last season items. Smaller retailers tend to have more flexibility. Cash talks!

Buy Local Gear Brands

Supporting local hiking gear brands sold exclusively in your area often translates to special discounts not found online. Ask about any upcoming demo days to test products and score deals.

Before driving miles or waiting weeks for online orders, check your neighborhood shops for deals on hiking gear. Cultivating relationships with small business owners can lead to loyalty perks, discounts and insider access to savings. Plus, keeping dollars local just feels good!

Sign Up For Retailer Email Lists to Get Sale Alerts

One of the easiest ways to stay on top of deals from your favorite hiking and outdoor gear retailers is to join their email lists. From limited time coupons to early access to sales, email alerts can help you save big. Here are some tips for making the most of being on their contact list:

Look for Opt-In Checkboxes at Checkout

When you’re making a purchase on a retailer’s website, watch for opt-in checkboxes to join email and SMS lists. This ensures you’ll be notified of upcoming sales and promos relevant to your purchasing history.

Check Website Footers for Sign-Up Forms

Don’t see an opt-in checkbox during checkout? No problem. Retailer website footers usually contain fields to input your email address to subscribe. Look for headings like “Join Our List” or “Email Sign Up.”

Follow Brands on Social Media

In addition to email lists, follow your favorite hiking brands on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Limited time coupon codes and flash sales are often announced on social media first.

Create Accounts and Update Preferences

For full access to exclusive deals, create free member accounts on retailer sites. Updating your product preferences helps tailor alerts and offers to items you actually want to buy.

Check Promotions and Spam Folders

To ensure you don’t miss any sale emails, add retailer addresses to your email contacts. This prevents vital alerts from accidentally going to spam or promotions folders.

Look for Confirmation and Welcome Emails

After signing up for email lists, keep an eye out for confirmation and welcome emails. These may contain special coupon codes only for new subscribers to incentivize joining.

Browse Archive Emails for Previews

Want to know what type of alerts to expect? Search retailer email subject lines for words like “sale,” “coupon” and “clearance” to preview the type of savings opportunities ahead.

Avoid Overload by Unsubscribing Anytime

If sale emails ever start to overwhelm your inbox, use email preferences or unsubscribe links to opt out or modify alert frequency. Tailor subscriptions to sales you care about most.

With hiking gear email alerts, the biggest sales and latest deals can come right to you. Sign up to receive limited time coupons, early access and other subscriber-only perks from your favorite outdoor retailers. Just a few extra clicks now can translate to big savings ahead on gear!

Check Social Media for Pop-Up Sale Announcements

Beyond emails, following your favorite hiking brands on social media can provide insider access to limited time sales. Flash giveaways and surprise promo codes are often announced on platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter with very little advance warning. Here are some tips for unlocking social media-exclusive savings:

Enable Post Notifications

On brand Instagram and Facebook accounts, click the bell icon or “Follow” button to enable notifications. This ensures you never miss a post so you can jump on deals as soon as they’re announced.

Watch Stories for Hidden Coupons

Beyond the main feed, regularly check brand Instagram Stories and Facebook Stories. Special discount codes are often shared briefly via Stories then disappear in 24 hours if not used.

Follow Hashtags and Influencers

Search relevant hashtags like #hikingsale to uncover deals from smaller brands you don’t already follow. Outdoor influencers on social media may also share exclusive promo codes when promoting products.

Join Facebook Groups and Subreddits

Specialized Facebook Groups and subreddits like r/CampingGear are great sources for crowdsourced sale intel. Follow along for community discussions about the best deals happening now.

Look for Comment Contests

Brands will sometimes run social media contests where commenting and engaging with a post enters you to win free gear or discounts. Stay on the lookout and participate regularly.

Check Both Big Brands and Local Shops

Follow major retailers like REI and Backcountry as well as your favorite local outdoor shops for a diverse range of pop-up sales. Smaller businesses tend to offer more flash giveaways.

Enable Mobile Alerts on Apps

For real-time notifications, enable push notifications in retailer mobile apps like REI. New coupon alerts and geo-targeted offers often get pushed instantly to app users.

Uncovering pop-up sales through social media requires staying constantly tuned in. But with sale alerts going straight to your phone, the savings payoff can be massive. Just be ready to act quickly since these limited time deals tend to vanish fast!

Hit the Outlet Malls and Stores

Don’t overlook brick-and-mortar outlet malls and stores in your deal hunting quest for hiking gear. The in-person deals at outlets can rival or beat sales from online retailers. Here are some tips for shopping outlet locations:

Search Outlet Store Locators Online

Many major outdoor brands like The North Face, Columbia and Merrell have dedicated outlet store locators on their websites. Plug in your zip code to find the nearest discounted locations.

Check for Printable Coupons and Offers

Before heading out, browse outlet brand websites for printable coupons you can bring in-store for additional discounts. RetailMeNot and Groupon also offer outlet-specific promo codes.

Sign Up For Loyalty Programs

Outlet stores like Nike Factory Store have free loyalty programs you can join for exclusive member savings on top of already reduced prices.

Wear Layers and Proper Footwear

Trying on hiking clothes and footwear is a must, so dress appropriately in layers you can easily shed or add. Bring along hiking socks and insoles to test footwear too.

Head Straight for the Clearance Section

Once in-store, make a beeline right for the clearance racks and walls to scout the best deals up to 70% off or more. Dig deep since hidden gems get buried.

Browse the Aisles Thoroughly

Beyond clothing and shoes, thoroughly browse aisles for marked down accessories like hats, gloves, packs and equipment that are often overlooked.

Open Box and Used Items Often Get Discounted

Gently inspected open box and used items on clearance racks offer some of the biggest in-store savings. They provide great value if you don’t mind some wear and tear.

Ask About Price Adjustments

If something gets marked down again after your purchase, ask about a price adjustment at the customer service desk. Many outlets will credit you the difference.

With some strategic planning and browsing, outlet malls provide an opportunity to touch and try before you buy. Scout all corners and racks to uncover the best deals on gear so you’re ready to hit the trails in style on a budget.

Take Advantage of REI Garage Sales

REI Garage Sales are legendary clearance events offering deep discounts on customer returned and used gear. Items range from slightly scuffed to like-new condition at up to 75% off retail prices. Here are insider tips for scoring deals:

Sign Up for REI Garage Sale Emails

REI sends advance notice of Garage Sale dates and highlights to members who opt-in to their promotional emails. This gives you a heads up to plan ahead.

Arrive Early for the Best Selection

Doors often open 1-2 hours prior to the official start time, so get in line early. VIP members get first dibs during early access. The most coveted items go first.

Bring Your REI Member Coupon

Active REI members get a special coupon for up to 30% off a single Garage Sale item. Remember to have it handy as you shop.

Be Flexible Across Brands, Sizes and Colors

Keep an open mind and don’t hunt for something too specific. Finding great deals requires flexibility across product criteria since inventory is unpredictable.

Dig Through the Clearance Section

Look beyond the main Garage Sale section for the clearance area with steeper discounts on especially worn or older model items. Big savings can offset cosmetic wear.

Inspect Gear Closely Before Buying

Carefully check zippers, snaps, sole tread and any moving parts to ensure function isn’t compromised. Know what kind of condition you’re getting.

Bring a Game Plan But Stay Flexible

Having a general list of needs helps, but striking when you see a great deal on something you weren’t expecting is key. Deals sell out quickly!

Use Credit Card Points or Gift Cards

Make your REI dollars stretch farther by paying with discounted gift cards from sites like Raise or redeeming credit card points for statement credits.

With close inspection and smart shopping strategy, REI Garage Sales let you outfit your entire hiking ensemble at a fraction of retail cost. Just be prepared to sprint, dig and haggle to uncover the best deals before crowds snatch them up!

Search eBay and Other Resale Sites

Used gear sites like eBay, Poshmark and Mercari can be goldmines for scoring discounted hiking items beyond just what retailers sell. With some strategic searching, you can find major brand gear at steep resale value. Here are some tips:

Search Exact Brands, Models and Sizes

Use specific search filters like “Osprey backpack large” or “Merrell boots 10 wide” to instantly find relevant results. The more precise, the better.

Look For Lightly Used Condition

Filter search results by condition like “used” or “excellent” if you want minimal wear and tear. Read descriptions and inspect photos carefully before purchasing.

Consider Heavily Discounted “For Parts” Listings

Even non-functioning items can offer value for spare parts and materials. “For parts” listings tend to be deeply discounted if damage is cosmetic only.

Set Price Drop Alerts on Watchlists

If that coveted tent or jacket is still out of budget, set eBay alerts to notify you if the listing price drops to your ideal budget. You can also make offers.

Factor in Shipping Costs

An item might initially look like a steal, but high shipping fees can cancel out the deal. Calculate total costs before committing to buy.

Read Seller Reviews and Check Ratings

Vet seller profiles thoroughly before purchasing used gear. High ratings and glowing reviews instill confidence in quality and condition.

Pay With a Credit Card for Purchase Protection

In case the item condition isn’t as described, pay using a credit card so you can dispute the charges if unsatisfied.

Inspect Upon Arrival Before Using

Immediately inspect seams, zippers and snaps for damage when package arrives. Check for mold or excessive dirt too. Document any issues before first use.

eBay and resale sites remove the middleman retailer to get you steep discounts straight from other enthusiasts. Just ensure sellers have solid credentials before taking the used gear plunge.

Join Outdoor Gear Swap Facebook Groups

Specialized buy/sell/trade Facebook Groups focused on outdoor gear can unlock access to incredible deals within your local community. By connecting directly with sellers, you can score huge discounts without paying retail markups. Here are some tips for leveraging gear swap groups:

Search Relevant Terms Like “Camping Gear Swap”

Dig up active groups by searching your city name plus terms like “outdoor gear swap,” “hiking gear trade,” or “camping gear exchange.” Look for groups with regular new posts.

Browse Recent Listings and Post Photos

Join and lurk for a bit while browsing new items listed for sale or trade. When ready to list your own gear, post clear photos showing any wear and details.

Price Items Below Retail Value

Check current prices for comparable new gear, then list yours at 60-70% off retail depending on age and condition. Offering deals entices buyers.

Meet Locally and Pay in Cash

To finalize a sale, arrange a convenient public location for a meetup. Bring small bills and inspect items thoroughly before handing over cash.

Start Small If New to Gear Swaps

If new to buying and selling used gear, stick to affordable accessories and clothing at first. Building some references helps bolster your credibility in groups.

Factor in Accessories and Add-Ons

When buying big items like tents or packs, ask if stakes, rain flys or other accessories are included. Bonus items add extra value.

Negotiate Respectfully Within Reason

If an item has been listed for a while with no takers, discreetly inquire if the seller is flexible on price. But avoid aggressive lowball offers.

With savvy shopping and selling skills, gear swap groups provide access to insane deals right in your backyard. Just use common sense when meeting strangers and prioritize quality connections over one-time deals.

Attend Used Gear Sales Like GearFest

Used outdoor gear swap meets and festivals can offer tons of discounted, gently used equipment all in one place. Events like GearFest in the Pacific Northwest should be on your radar for major deals. Here are some tips for shopping these used gear sales:

Pack Cash in Small Bills

While some sellers may accept digital payment, cash is king at these events for haggling and quicker checkout. Bring small denominations to pay exact amounts.

Bring Your Own Bags and Gear Transport

These events can yield bulky items like tents and packs, so come equipped with duffels, totes and gear haulers to easily transport purchases.

Arrive Early for the Best Selection

Early entry tickets are often available for the first dibs on items. Otherwise, get there before opening crowds to snag coveted gear.

Come Prepared to Haggle on Prices

Many sellers expect haggling at used sales. Discreetly negotiate especially for higher priced items or bundles. Cash often helps seal better deals.

Chat with Sellers About Gear Condition

Ask detailed questions to sellers on items age, use, defects and performance. Documentation on issues can give you bargaining power on prices.

Sort by Category Then Dig Deep

Prioritize categories like packs and tents first since those see high demand. Then thoroughly comb all vendor booths for hidden gems in less popular categories.

Inspect Gear Closely Before Buying

Check zippers, fabric, buckles, velcro and snaps for excessive wear and damage. Know exactly what condition you’re getting regardless of the deal.

Exchange Contact Info with Sellers

If following up with sellers after the event for item condition questions, ask for their contact information including phone number and email.

For well-prepared shoppers, used gear sales can yield amazing deals you won’t find anywhere else. Just set your budget ahead of time and inspect everything closely before laying down cash.

Look for Discounted Display Models or Customer Returns

Searching for floor models, customer returns and other open box specials at retailers can unlock huge savings on barely used hiking gear. These items may have minor cosmetic flaws or be missing tags, so they can’t be sold as new. But the deep discounts often outweigh minor defects. Here are some tips:

Ask Associates About Availability

Don’t see a section for open box deals? Politely ask customer service or sales associates if they have any display models, returned items or slightly damaged stock available at a discount.

Inspect Items Closely Before Purchase

Examine gear thoroughly for any signs of wear and flaws described by the retailer. Zippers, buckles, soles and fabric should still be functional.

Look for Special Markings and Signs

Terms like “floor model,” “display unit,” “customer return,” “clearance,” “open box” or “excellent condition” indicate gear may be deeply discounted due to use or flaws.

Try Negotiating a Lower Price

Discreetly inquire if the retailer is willing to authorize an additional percentage off an already marked down open box item. It never hurts to politely ask.

Understand the Return Policy

Before purchasing, know the return policy for these specialty items. Some may only allow returns for store credit, not cash, if damage is discovered later.

Use Credit Card Points or Gift Cards

Make your savings stretch even further by redeeming credit card rewards points or using discounted gift cards towards an open box find.

Ask About Availability of All Accessories

Important accessories like tent stakes or pack rain covers may get lost with floor models. Verify all original parts are included before purchasing.

Display models and customer returns provide an eco-friendly way to save big on gear that may just have some easily overlooked cosmetic flaws. Just be sure to thoroughly inspect condition and function before using to avoid disappointment.

Ask for Discounts and Price Matches When You Can

Don’t be shy about inquiring for deeper discounts directly from retailer customer service reps and managers. Polite requests can often yield additional percent-offs or price matches. Here are some situations where it pays to ask:

Price Matching

If you find an identical in-stock item cheaper elsewhere, ask the retailer to match the competitor’s lower price. Many stores like REI and Dick’s will happily do this to keep your business.

Coupon Stacking

When allowed, try combining current sales or promos with valid printable manufacturer coupons for amplified savings on big purchases.

Return Policy Exceptions

If past the standard return period and an item is now on clearance, ask if they’ll still allow a return so you can re-purchase at the lower clearance price.

Imperfect and Open Box Items

Display models or customer returns with minor cosmetic defects often get additional discretionary discounts. Doesn’t hurt to ask!

Used Gear Trade-In Values

When trading in old gear, discreetly inquire about any flexibility boosting the quoted trade-in value. Especially if your items are in high demand.

Student and Military Discounts

Flashing a valid student ID or military membership card can sometimes unlock a spontaneous percent-off at checkout. Always ask!

Manager Special Coupons

Managers often have discretion to issue special one-time use coupons. If you get excellent customer service, it can’t hurt to politely request one at checkout.

The worst retailers can say is no when asking for discounts, price matches and coupons. But landing an occasional yes makes it well worth the effort. Persistence and politeness pay off.

Use Cashback and Coupon Sites for Extra Savings

Before purchasing hiking gear, always check cashback websites and coupon aggregators to maximize savings. These sites partner with retailers to help you stack savings beyond just sales prices. Here are some great resources:

ActiveJunky

One of the top cashback portals for outdoor gear. You get percentages back on purchases from retailers like Backcountry, Moosejaw and REI. Rates from 5-15%+.

Rakuten

General cashback site that offers up to 10% back from stores like REI, The North Face, Columbia and more. Can really add up on big purchases.

Honey

Browser extension that automatically tests coupon codes and applies the best savings at checkout. Works on many outdoor ecommerce sites.

RetailMeNot

Leading source for valid printable promo codes and coupons across all your favorite gear brands and retailers. Easy to search and filter.

Groupon

Beyond local deals, Groupon frequently offers sitewide discounts for major retailers that can be applied to hiking gear purchases.

CouponCabin

Cash back and promo code aggregator with hiking deals for stores like REI, Backcountry, Moosejaw and more. Highlights top current offers.

CardCash

Save up to 25% on discounted gift cards to outdoor gear retailers – pre-pay at a discount to amplify savings on purchases.

A quick search on these sites almost always yields additional percent-off discounts and promo codes to boost your savings. The extra few minutes is well worth the effort!

Be Flexible and Patient – the Best Deals Take Time

Scoring incredible discounts on hiking gear often requires patience and flexibility. The most coveted items in the perfect size and color rarely go on sale. By keeping an open mind and persistently watching for deals over time, you can eventually land bargains. Here are some tips:

Make a List But Stay Open-Minded

Having a list of needed gear helps stay focused when sales shopping, but don’t become fixated on specific brands or models. Being open to alternatives nets the best deals.

Sign Up for Alerts and Check Often

It can take multiple sale cycles for an item to get discounted, so get on email lists and check regularly. Repeatedly seeing what goes on sale helps identify patterns.

Consider Used, Refurbished or Last Season’s Models

If dead set on a particular jacket or tent, consider used versions or buying last season’s model. These often get discounted heaviest over time.

Use Price Tracking Tools

Sites like CamelCamelCamel show historical Amazon price data so you can see when prices were lowest in the past. This helps you identify ideal times to buy specific items.

Set Up Price Alerts and Watchlists

When you spot something you want that’s still too expensive, set eBay alerts or retailer wishlist notifications. They’ll email you when there’s a price drop.

Take Advantage of Off-Season Sales

Shop for summer gear in winter and vice versa. Retailers discount out of season items heavily to clear old inventory and free up storage space.

Scoring the absolute best deal often requires persistently watching and waiting for the perfect sale alignment. But by tracking prices over time, staying flexible, and jumping on well-timed discounts, your patience will pay off tremendously.