Sierra Trading Post is a good place to get closeouts. You have to know the good brands though.

I'm actually selling our new tent on Craigslist right now because it had poor ventilation with the rainfly on and no privacy without it on. I wouldn't recommend that one (Kelty 4 person Green River).

However - you definitely could find a good deal on Craigslist. Read online reviews before buying any tent - that was our mistake!

Target seems to have the best deals and does carry some great brands, including Coleman. Our air mattress/pump came from there.

I recommend the REI used gear sale. You have to get there early (some camp overnight) but you can get some really good deals. All items are marked with a tag stating what the defect is. I got Maddy and I both hiking boots for the $20 range.

Also just watch the sales towards the end of summer. Target, Sports Authority etc. You can find some good deals there as well.

My tent bit too. I had too much ventalation. I'm sure if it was hot out it would have been great. I agree with CP read reviews before you buy.

I love my tent like nobody's business.


Yeah, there's little privacy in there during the daytime ... but alas, I've got nobody to be private with.

rei also has an online outlet. rei.com/outlet

I was so dissapointed with REI. They have tents and sleeping bags and hiking shoes, but I'm golden in all those departments.

Beyond that, they seem to specialize in Adventure Sporting Gear, and don't really have "camping" equipment, per se.



None of the things on my Covet List were from REI.

I've been really happy with our new tent.

It claims to be a 4 person tent, but it really only sleeps 2 with gear (and dog).

At least at the San Diego stores, the REI Used Gear sale is this Saturday the 14th. Each store has different hours.

Our next tent (Pavillion actually) will be from Panther Primitives. I am figuring it will cost around $2,500 the way I want to configure it: 16 x 20 or 20 x 20 Marquee with Flame Retardant SunForger and a few specialty add-ons.