Where to Buy Used Outdoor Gear: Get Outside Cheaply and Sustainably

Let’s face it: getting outside can require a lot of gear. From tents to camping stoves and hiking poles to backpacks, the cost of enjoying the great outdoors safely and comfortably can really start to add up.

It can also take its toll on the environment, as it takes a surprising amount of energy to turn fabrics into useable items. An estimated 92 million tonnes of textile waste is generated each year; much of this is non-biodegradable so when it ends up in a landfill, it remains there indefinitely.

This is why buying used outdoor gear is the way to go. Not only will it save you money and help you get some great stuff for a fraction of the retail price, but it’s also a much more sustainable option.

So, where are the best places to get hold of used outdoor gear? This article will highlight brands that repurpose and resell outdoor clothing and equipment, as well as social media platforms, forums, online marketplaces and gear exchanges specifically for buying second-hand.

Brands that repurpose and resell outdoor gear

Some of the biggest outdoor brands take sustainability very seriously and make an effort to repurpose some of their gear. Brands like Patagonia and Arc’teryx have been paving the way for others to follow with their sustainability ethos, which is great for us when we’re looking to grab a bargain. Here are some of the best brands to go to for used outdoor gear.

Patagonia Worn Wear

“The best thing we can do for the planet is cut down on consumption and get more use out of stuff we already own,” say Patagonia. From its environmental campaigns to social activism, Patagonia is well-known for its sustainability ethos and was a key player in bringing environmental awareness to the outdoor industry.

Patagonia’s Worn Wear program allows you to buy from a collection of used gear, and return used gear for credit. They have tons of renewed outdoor clothing available, particularly things like jackets, fleeces and hiking pants, as well as backpacks.

The North Face Renewed

Introduced in 2018 and very recently refurbished, The North Face Renewed is a circular model that renews old or damaged gear to “like-new” standards. Of course, some things just can’t be brought back to life, which is why the California-based brand also donates leftover and irreparable goods for recycling.

On the North Face Renewed, you’ll find outdoor clothing such as fleeces, jackets and hiking pants, as well as gear like backpacks and sleeping bags. I personally love The North Face’s jackets, and love that you can buy a quality waterproof for as low as $40 through the programme.

Arc’teryx Used Gear

Arc’teryx gear is often expensive, which is why the Canadian brand’s Used Gear initiative is perfect for those looking to score a deal. You can also trade in your used Arc’teryx gear, and they’ll reward you with 20% of its original price back as a gift card.

You’ll find a range of clothing on sale, including jackets, fleeces, hiking pants and hiking boots, all of which have been repurposed or renewed. You’ll also find backpacks among their selection.

REI Co-op Good & Used

“Buying used instead of new typically avoids carbon emissions of 50% or more,” say REI. Not only can you buy used gear from REI’s Good & Used program, but they also take back items with free shipping in exchange for an REI gift card. The Good & Used program is reserved solely for Co-op Members, but becoming a member requires a one-time payment of just $20.

REI’s Good & Used program sells gear such as backpacks, camping supplies and ski boots, as well as clothing such as jackets, fleeces, hiking pants, t-shirts and shoes. Some of their stuff is more than 50% off, so you can pick up some total bargains.

Vango’s Camping Recycled

Vango’s Camping Recycled is a great place to find used camping gear. As well as tents, they also sell repurposed awnings, sleeping bags, roll mats, cooking equipment, camping furniture, rucksacks and hiking boots. Some of their stuff is reduced by as much as 50%!

They sell items that function as intended, but can’t be sold through retail partners, such as samples, demo kits and refurbished products. This means you can pick up some great deals on gear that might have never even seen the outside.

Finding used outdoor gear on social media platforms

Another place to find used outdoor gear is on social media platforms like Facebook and Reddit. There are a bunch of groups and subreddits where people sell, trade and swap used items. However, I’d advise being cautious with your purchases when buying from social media platforms and making sure you know exactly what you’re getting.

Here are some places to get you started:

• GearTrade Subreddit
• Climbing Gear Exchange UK
• Outdoor Gear Exchange UK
• Wild Camping UK Gear
• Backpacking Gear Flea Market

Online marketplaces and gear exchanges

General online marketplaces such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree are good places to look, but there are also several websites specifically for buying and selling used outdoor gear. Unfortunately, most of these seem to be located in North America only, but if you are in the US or Canada, they’re great places to search.

• Gear X
• Gear Trade
• MEC Gear Swap
• Outdoors Geek

Repair, resell and recycle your old gear to keep it on the trails and out of landfills.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support — Lauren.

Accommodation – Booking.com
Flights – Booking.com
Travel insurance – World Nomads
Excursions & tours – Viator
Outdoor gear – Decathlon
eSIMs – Airalo

Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!