Nowadays, finding the right gear for your perfect setup has become a lot easier but also more expensive. A lot of 'Overlanding' gear nowadays comes with the so-called 'Overlanding tax.' No, it's not an actual tax, but more of a premium for gear.
Over the years, I've been camping, and my gear setup has gotten better and has changed to meet mine and my family's needs. I have become quite good at finding good deals on gear that can be used for overland camping.
One of the things that has helped me find budget gear is to get the word 'overlanding' out of my head when shopping for gear. That has opened my eyes to see that most gear that wasn't intended for overlanding can still be used for your overlanding setup. That has helped me find good deals on gear that I still use today.
Here are some of my favorite places to shop for budget overland gear.
Wallmart
Yes, I know what you are thinking - "of course, Walmart!" One of the main reasons I love Walmart is because chances are there will be a Walmart at your next camping destination. Countless times we have forgotten something for our trip, so we have to make a pit stop at the local Walmart to pick up the missing items. We also end up picking up other things that we think are a good deal. Over the last couple of years, the Walmart camping section has gotten better and better. Walmart's store brand is "Ozark Trail". Over time, the amount of items they carry has increased. Don't be fooled into thinking the quality of items they carry is junk and won't last. I have personally bought and used multiple Ozark Trail items, and they have yet to fail me. If you have no camping gear, you can walk out of Walmart with everything you need for your next trip. They have everything from tents, stoves, dishes, chairs, and the food you will need for your next trip. Walmart also has a great clearance section. Every visit I take to Walmart, I head straight to the camping section and then to the clearance section. I have found amazing deals on items to add to our camping setup.
Thrift Stores
I absolutely love thrift stores! The best deals I've found are at thrift stores. The Napier vehicle tent that I use with our setup, I found at a thrift store for only $25. That being said, thrift stores can also be a bust. I have been to many and found nothing that I can use. They are always a hit and miss. The strategy that works for me is going often and going to different locations. Some of the gear I have found includes our camping chairs, camping table, our Napier tent, and other small items. If you are really on a budget, I would recommend going to a thrift store and seeing what they have - you may be able to score some great deals on camping equipment.
REI Co-op
Yes i know,the common misconception with REI is that it is expesive, and well it is. Now let me show you how to get budge gear at REI. I was unaware That REI had a Co-op membership. At the time of this post the cost is $30. This is a one time cost and you will recive a $30 bonus card when you join.They also have other great benifits you can read about the here REI. I know it's an extra expense, but for me, it's worth it, and the membership is basically free. REI has a section called 'The Garage Sale,' where they sell used gear. Some of it has imperfections, some of it has issues, or missing items. This gear is typically greatly reduced. I have found many items here for a great price. Every time I am near my local REI store, I stop in and take a look. REI also has amazing yearly sales. They typically have them multiple times a year. As you can tell, REI is one of my favorite stores. I used to think it was too expensive until I went in and became a member.
Harbor Freight Tools and Napa Auto Parts
Harbor Freight used to be known for cheap, one-time-use tools, but not anymore. Over the last couple of years, they have started selling more high-end tools and accessories. One thing they focused on is better off-road gear. They have a house brand called 'Badland'; under that name, they make anything from winches to jacks. They provide a wide selection of off-road-themed gear for your off-road vehicle and setup. They also offer 'Apache' weatherproof cases. These have become very popular over the years and are a budget-friendly alternative to the typical Pelican or Roam cases. Additionally, they offer budget-friendly tools. It's important to have basic hand tools on the trail for those emergency situations. They offer every tool you will need, from removing an engine to turning a screw. I could go on and on about all the cool things at Harbor Freight. The best thing to do is go check it out for yourself.
The next place is Napa Auto Parts. They have become very popular for their awning. When the awning was first released, it was under the name 'Maxi Trac'. This awning was more budget-friendly before, but it's still more affordable than most options out there. The awning is basically a copy of the ARB Awning, so most of the accessories like the awning room will fit this awning. Napa has a house brand called 'Maxi Trac', and they offer multiple off-road-related items for your vehicle or setup. I personally own the awning and the Trash Caddy. Overall, the items offered are very budget-friendly and a great alternative to the more expensive premium brands.