The 10 Best Camping Gear Stores
Where Can You Buy the Best Camping Gear?
In our tech-driven world, the allure of the great outdoors beckons stronger than ever, offering a much-needed escape from screen-lit life. Camping, a timeless adventure, promises the thrill of exploring nature, the warmth of a campfire under a starry sky, and the joy of disconnecting from the daily grind.
But before you can lose yourself in the wilderness, you need the right gear. That's where online shopping comes in, offering an immense range of products right at your fingertips. From lightweight tents to portable cookware, the digital shelves are stocked with everything a modern camper could dream of.
Thursday, April 24th
2025 Camping Gear Store Reviews
REI
REI, founded in 1938, has grown into a massive co-op with 23 million lifetime members, and they emphasize a deep connection with nature and outdoor adventures. With a stellar "A+" BBB rating, REI offers a wide array of top-quality gear and brands for every outdoor need. Membership brings numerous benefits, including dividends, special offers, and free shipping. The cooperative also invests millions in conservation efforts and provides experiential retail, like in-store climbing walls and guided adventures. While they boast a 1-year satisfaction guarantee, some customers have reported issues with product quality and customer service, suggesting that experiences may vary. Despite this, REI remains our top destination for camping gear and outdoor experiences, reflecting its longstanding reputation and commitment to the outdoor community.
Campman
Campman, a company founded in 2006 in the Wasatch foothills, carries a range of equipment for camping, hiking, skiing, and climbing. They may not carry as many brands as their competitors, but you'll find some high-quality and innovative products here. They also sell used gear at lower prices. With features like a Price Match Guarantee, free shipping on orders over $50, and a comprehensive satisfaction guarantee for used gear, you're likely to be happy with your experience. Their InTents Rewards program offers birthday points, discounts, and early access to sales, while their knowledgeable customer service team goes above and beyond to assist customers. With a standout reputation for quality and budget-friendly options, Campman is a go-to destination for campers who value both performance and affordability.
Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops, founded in 1972 by Johnny Morris, is a renowned retailer for camping gear and outdoor equipment from trusted brands. Their website features a low price guarantee and rewards programs. Bass Pro Shops is committed to conservation and community outreach. However, there have been concerns about the decline in brand quality and warranty issues since the acquisition of Cabela's in 2017. Unused returns are accepted within 60 days, but some customers have reported challenges with customer service and unexpected order cancellations. Despite these issues, they have a perfect "A+” from the BBB and are still a reliable place to shop for your camping gear.
Cabela's
Cabela's, originally a catalog business selling fishing flies, was once a major player in the outdoor activities market. After being acquired by Bass Pro Shops in 2017, Cabela's has essentially become a mirror image of its parent brand. You'll find familiar brands to Bass Pro's offerings and comparable prices on their website, offering a wide range of gear for camping and more. They offer perks like free shipping on orders over $50 and a price match guarantee. While Cabela's no longer cultivates a distinct brand identity and redirects to Bass Pro Shops for certain information, they have made significant improvements in customer service since the time of our last review, earning an impressive "A+" rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Backcountry
Backcountry, a Utah-based retailer, began in 1996 with a vision to provide top-tier outdoor gear. With nearly 7,000 items available, they cater to hikers, campers, skiers, surfers, and more. They offer features like personalized assistance from their knowledgeable Gearheads support reps, discounts for first orders and students, a price match guarantee, a loyalty rewards program, and support for environmental conservation. However, recent customer reviews indicate inconsistent customer service experiences and a decline in their reputation. While Backcountry still offers competitive prices and great deals, we'd advise potential shoppers to proceed with caution.
DICK'S Sporting Goods
DICK'S Sporting Goods started as a small bait-and-tackle shop and has since grown into a leading retailer for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Their competitive pricing, price match guarantee, and free shipping on orders over $65 make them an attractive option for savvy shoppers. The interactive tools, such as the Tent and Sleeping Bag Finder Tools, help customers find the perfect gear for their needs. Although they have a generous 90-day return window that may accommodate items in used condition, some customers have expressed concerns about steep shipping costs and a complex return process. Because of these concerns and their "F” rating from the BBB, DICK'S Sporting Goods earns a cautious recommendation from us.
Wayfair
Wayfair is the ultimate one-stop shop, offering everything from home decor to baby essentials, appliances, pet supplies, and even lumber. But did you know they also have a range of camping and hiking gear for cheap? While their camping selection may not be as extensive as some competitors, they still have a fair variety of tents, camping chairs, grills, coolers, and more. Wayfair is known for its budget-friendly pricing, with frequent sales and discount codes for subscribers. However, keep in mind that some products might not be the best quality, so it's important to read the reviews and consider researching top camping gear brands. Returns are hassle-free within 30 days, and while Wayfair has received mixed customer feedback, their affordable camping gear inventory is still worth exploring.
Bob Ward's
Bob Ward's is Montana's oldest and largest sporting goods retailer, with a captivating backstory that began with a 15-year-old's adventurous spirit and an unexpected stop in Missoula. They offer a decent range of 2,000+ outdoor gear and products, neatly categorized for easy browsing. Bob Ward's also offers 80 food items, including fun choices like freeze-dried ice cream sandwiches. While they don't offer price matching, they have deep discounts and free shipping on orders over $50. Their return policy allows for 30 days to return unused items, though a shipping fee may apply. With an "A+" rating from the Better Business Bureau, Bob Ward's is a solid choice for outdoor gear, but it lacks customer reviews with detailed insights into the online shopping experience and the rewards programs found on other websites.
CampSaver
CampSaver, an online retailer known for its extensive selection of outdoor equipment and competitive prices, has over 19,000 products in its inventory and free return shipping for 60 days after purchase. However, they have faced criticism for slow delivery times, leading to an "F" rating from the BBB. There have also been instances where CampSaver has been dishonest about shipping costs, such as issuing invoices stating that shipping is free, only to later demand a hefty fee, claiming it was a mistake. Additionally, the cluttered website design lacks the clean and professional look found on simpler sites, giving it a sketchy feel. While CampSaver offers a huge selection of camping gear, these issues with delivery, shipping costs, and website design are areas that need improvement in order to compete with top-rated websites.
Moosejaw
Moosejaw, an outdoor gear company established in 1992, offers a wide range of equipment for various activities. While their primary focus is clothing, they also provide gear for biking, camping, climbing, running, snow sports, travel, water sports, and yoga. With a sarcastic brand personality and their Dog Hall of Fame, Moosejaw aims to deliver a unique and playful shopping experience. However, their reputation raises concerns, with an "F" rating from the BBB and a "poor" score of 2.3 stars on average from mostly-unhappy shoppers. While they offer a wide selection of products and competitive pricing, their customer service and fulfillment seem to adopt a "devil-may-care" attitude. Therefore, if you decide to shop with Moosejaw, it's important to keep expectations in check and be prepared for potential hiccups.
Continued from above...
Have you ever felt the excitement of choosing the perfect sleeping bag or the anticipation of clicking "buy" on that high-tech GPS you've been eyeing? It's a modern-day treasure hunt, and the prize is a memorable adventure.
There are several reasons why shopping for camping gear online has surged in popularity over the last few years. First, convenience plays a pivotal role in the online shopping experience. With the broad array of online camping stores, people can browse and purchase camping gear anytime, anywhere, without the constraints of physical store hours or locations. This ease of accessibility is particularly valuable for outdoor enthusiasts who may have busy schedules or limited access to brick-and-mortar retailers specializing in camping equipment.
Online shopping for camping gear also offers an unparalleled variety of products. Unlike traditional stores - limited by physical space and inventory - online retailers can showcase a vast array of camping gear, ranging from tents and sleeping bags to cooking utensils and portable stoves. This extensive selection lets you compare different brands, features, and price points all at a click of the button. This can help you make more informed purchasing decisions tailored to your specific camping needs.
However, the convenience of online shopping comes with its own set of challenges. Ever been overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices? Or found yourself hesitating over a crucial piece of gear, wondering if it's as durable as it claims? It's not just about finding a good deal; it's about finding the right equipment that won't let you down when you're miles from civilization.
Here's where savvy shopping comes in. Consider the following points to make sure you have a smooth experience:
- Quality and reliability. Look for gear from reputable brands known for their durability and performance. Read customer reviews to understand how products hold up in real-world conditions.
- Variety. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned backpacker, you'll want to shop with a store that caters to your specific needs.
- Price. Compare prices, but remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best. Look for good value rather than just low cost, and keep an eye out for sales and discounts. Find out if the website has a price match guarantee.
- Educational resources. Especially for camping beginners, look for sites offering guidance and advice, whether that's through blog posts or experienced live chat agents. Understanding how to choose and use your gear can make or break a camping trip.
- Return policy and customer service. Check the return policy. If your new tent arrives with a rip, or your flashlight fails on its first night, you'll want hassle-free returns and responsive customer service. Some retailers only allow returns on unused items, so make sure to read the fine print.
Top Consumer Reviews has thoroughly reviewed and ranked the best camping gear retailers available online today to help you have the unforgettable wilderness getaway you've been dreaming of. As you navigate through the digital wilderness of options, remember that the best gear is the kind that suits your unique adventure style. Whether you're a solo trekker or a family of campers, the right choices will enhance your connection with nature and ensure that your outdoor experiences are nothing short of extraordinary.
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