How to Save Money Renting Camp Gear

Let’s be honest—camping can get expensive fast. Between tents, sleeping bags, camp stoves, coolers, and all the little accessories you didn’t even know existed, the price of gearing up for a weekend in the woods can rival a hotel stay. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to. Learning how to save money renting camp gear is one of the smartest moves you can make as an outdoor lover—especially if you’re just dipping your toes into camping or don’t hit the trails every weekend.

Renting camping gear isn’t just for beginners. It’s for the budget-savvy, the eco-conscious, and anyone who wants to experience the outdoors without cluttering their garage with stuff they’ll only use twice a year. Let’s break down exactly how to make it work for you.

1. Why Renting Camp Gear Makes Financial Sense

Think of camping gear like any other investment. If you camp only a few times a year, buying every piece of equipment brand new just doesn’t make sense. Tents, sleeping pads, and backpacks can run hundreds of dollars—and that’s before you even factor in cookware or lighting.

Renting lets you enjoy premium-quality equipment for a fraction of the cost. For instance, renting a $400 tent for $40 a weekend frees up cash for travel, food, or park fees. You also skip the headache of storage, cleaning, and maintenance.

But beyond cost, there’s a big-picture advantage: sustainability. By renting, you’re reducing waste and extending the lifespan of gear that might otherwise sit unused in someone’s basement. It’s a win-win for your wallet and the planet.

If you’re new to camping, renting also helps you experiment with different setups. You’ll quickly discover whether you prefer the comfort of car camping, the minimalism of backpacking, or the luxury of glamping—without committing to expensive gear up front.

2. Where to Rent Quality Camping Gear Without Overspending

There’s a surprising number of options when it comes to renting outdoor equipment, from well-known national retailers to local outfitters who cater to weekend warriors. Here are some top choices when figuring out how to save money renting camp gear:

• REI Co-op Rentals – A reliable favorite with a wide selection, from backpacking tents to bear canisters. Their rates are competitive, and the gear is top-notch.
• Arrive Outdoors – They ship gear directly to your door or destination, which makes it incredibly convenient for fly-in camping trips.
• Campmor and Moosejaw – Great for deals and occasional clearance rentals.
• Local outfitters – Don’t overlook small rental shops near national parks or state campgrounds. They often offer better prices, especially off-season.
• Peer-to-peer rental platforms – Sites like GeerGarage or Outdoorsy allow individuals to rent gear directly from others in their area, often at lower rates than retail stores.

Pro Tip: Always compare total rental costs—including deposits, insurance, and cleaning fees. Some rental platforms appear cheaper upfront but tack on add-ons at checkout.

3. Smart Timing: When to Rent for the Biggest Savings

Timing is everything. Just like airfare or hotels, gear rental prices fluctuate throughout the year. If you want to master how to save money renting camp gear, learn to play the timing game.

• Off-season rentals (late fall, winter, or early spring) often come with steep discounts since fewer people are camping.
• Mid-week rentals are cheaper than weekend rates.
• Holiday weekends (like Memorial Day or Labor Day) tend to book up early and can cost 20–40% more.
• End-of-season clear-outs sometimes include “rent-to-own” deals, where rental companies sell off gently used gear at massive discounts.

If you’re planning ahead, reserve early—some companies offer 10–15% off for advance bookings. But if you’re flexible, last-minute rentals during quiet periods can save even more.

4. Insider Tricks to Save Even More on Camp Gear Rentals

This is where the fun begins. Beyond basic discounts, there are sneaky little ways to squeeze extra savings out of your rental experience.

• Stack your savings: Use cashback extensions like Honey, Rakuten, or Capital One Shopping when booking online. Many offer cashback for outdoor retailers.
• Bundle gear: Renting a “camping package” (tent + stove + sleeping bag) is usually cheaper than renting items separately.
• Join loyalty programs: REI members often get rental discounts or credits. Local rental shops may have “frequent renter” programs too.
• Use rewards cards: If you pay off your credit card monthly, use one that offers travel or outdoor rewards for bonus points.
• Refer a friend: Some companies give both you and your friend discounts for referrals—perfect if you’re planning a group trip.

You’d be amazed how quickly these little hacks add up. A few stacked discounts could easily save $50–$100 on a single trip.

5. Rent the Right Gear: What’s Worth Renting (and What’s Not)

Not all gear is created equal. Some items are better rented, while others make sense to buy once you know your camping style. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

The idea is to rent big-ticket or bulky items until you know what works for you. Once you’ve dialed in your preferences, invest in quality gear you’ll use repeatedly.

6. Avoid Hidden Rental Fees and Costly Mistakes

Even the savviest campers can get caught by hidden costs. If you really want to nail how to save money renting camp gear, pay attention to the fine print.

Here’s what to watch out for:

• Damage fees: Always inspect and photograph gear before and after your trip.
• Late return penalties: Plan to return a day early if possible—many rental shops charge full-day late fees.
• Cleaning charges: Shake out tents, wipe cookware, and dry everything before returning.
• Deposit holds: Be prepared for temporary holds on your card, especially for expensive gear like power stations or high-end tents.
• Insurance: Optional insurance can be worth it for first-timers, but skip it if you’re careful and experienced.

Proactive renters save money. A 10-minute inspection can save you from paying for someone else’s broken zipper or scuffed cooler.

7. Try Before You Buy: How Renting Helps You Make Smart Purchases

Renting is the ultimate “try-before-you-buy” opportunity. For example, you might think you need a massive six-person tent—until you realize you prefer minimalist backpacking trips. Or maybe you’re curious about fancy gadgets like the Ecoflow River Pro power station or the Alpicool car fridge. Renting lets you test these items in real-world conditions before committing.

This approach prevents expensive regrets. Instead of dropping $1,000 on equipment you might never use again, spend $50–$100 renting and learn exactly what fits your style. It’s research disguised as adventure.

Plus, if you fall in love with a piece of gear, many companies offer rental credit toward purchase, allowing you to apply part of your rental fee toward buying the same model new or refurbished.

8. Bonus Tip: Earn Money from Gear You Own

Want to take things one step further? Once you start building your own collection of gear, you can actually make money from it. Platforms like GeerGarage let you list your equipment for rent—essentially turning your gear closet into a mini side hustle.

Here’s how it works:

1. List your tent, cooler, or sleeping bag online.
2. Get notified when someone nearby wants to rent.
3. Approve the request, hand it off, and earn passive income.

It’s an awesome way to offset the cost of new purchases and contribute to the sharing economy. Think of it as a community gear swap—where you get paid.

Conclusion

Camping doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Once you understand how to save money renting camp gear, you unlock the freedom to explore without draining your budget—or your storage space. Renting gives you flexibility, sustainability, and the chance to discover what truly enhances your outdoor experience.

So next time you’re planning a weekend under the stars, skip the gear-buying panic. Rent what you need, stack your savings, and let the adventure begin—affordably, responsibly, and with room left in your wallet for the next trip.