How to Find the Best Deals on Camping Tents

Buying a camping tent doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With the right strategies, you can find high-quality tents at affordable prices, leaving you more budget for other camping essentials or future trips. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, this guide will walk you through how to find the best deals on camping tents without compromising on quality or durability.

Know What You Need Before You Shop

Before diving into discounts and sales, it’s essential to determine exactly what type of tent you need. This step ensures you’re not swayed by flashy deals on tents that don’t fit your camping style.

Ask yourself these questions:

What type of camping do I do? Backpackers need lightweight tents, while car campers can prioritize comfort and space.
How many people will use the tent? Be sure to size up if you need extra room for gear or personal comfort.
What weather conditions will I face? Look for tents with appropriate waterproofing and ventilation for your typical camping environments.

Having clear criteria will help you focus on the right deals and avoid overspending on unnecessary features.

Time Your Purchase Strategically

One of the best ways to score deals on camping tents is to shop at the right time. Retailers often have predictable sales cycles where tents and other outdoor gear are discounted.

End-of-Season Sales: Late summer or early fall is a prime time to find discounts as retailers clear out inventory to make room for next year’s models.
Holiday Sales: Keep an eye out for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and holiday season promotions. These sales often include significant markdowns on outdoor gear.
Off-Season Shopping: Winter is an excellent time to find deals since fewer people are camping, and demand is lower.

Pro Tip: Sign up for newsletters from outdoor retailers to stay updated on upcoming sales and exclusive discounts.

Explore Discount and Outlet Stores

If you’re open to older models or slightly imperfect items, discount and outlet stores can be a goldmine for affordable camping tents. These stores often sell overstock, returns, or items with minor cosmetic flaws at reduced prices.

Where to Look:

REI Outlet: Offers discounted prices on past-season tents and gently used items through their online outlet or in-store Garage Sales.
Sierra Trading Post: A great option for finding brand-name camping gear at discounted prices.
Local Outdoor Stores: Some smaller outdoor retailers have clearance sections where you can snag a deal on display models or returned items.

Bonus Tip: Check if the store offers a warranty or return policy for peace of mind when buying discounted items.

Shop Online for Competitive Pricing

Online shopping opens up a world of possibilities for finding deals. Many retailers offer price comparisons, exclusive online discounts, and free shipping on camping gear.

Key Online Platforms:

Amazon: Offers a wide range of camping tents, often with competitive pricing and customer reviews to help you make informed decisions.
Backcountry: Known for frequent sales and a broad selection of high-quality tents.
eBay: A great place to find second-hand or discounted tents, but be sure to check the seller’s reputation and product condition before purchasing.

Use Price Tracking Tools:

Honey or CamelCamelCamel: These browser extensions track price changes on sites like Amazon, ensuring you buy at the lowest price.
Google Shopping: Compare prices across multiple retailers to find the best deal.

Take Advantage of Membership Discounts

Joining loyalty programs or membership clubs can save you money over time, especially if you frequently purchase camping gear.

REI Co-op Membership: For a one-time fee, members receive dividends (typically 10% back) on eligible purchases, plus access to exclusive sales and events.
Outdoor Retailer Loyalty Programs: Many outdoor stores offer loyalty points, free shipping, or discounts for members.
Credit Card Rewards: Some credit cards offer cashback or discounts when shopping at certain retailers.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning a big purchase, check if the store offers an additional discount for first-time members or email sign-ups.

Consider Buying Used or Renting

If you’re not ready to invest in a brand-new tent or only camp occasionally, buying used or renting can be an excellent way to save money.

Buying Used:

Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist: Local options often have great deals on gently used camping gear.
Gear Trade: An online marketplace specifically for used outdoor gear.
REI Used Gear: A curated collection of pre-owned camping gear that’s been inspected for quality.

Renting:

Local Outfitters: Many outdoor shops rent high-quality tents for reasonable prices.
Online Rental Platforms: Sites like Arrive Outdoors allow you to rent camping tents and gear and have them shipped directly to your door.

Buying used or renting helps you save upfront while still enjoying a quality tent for your trip.

Bundle Your Gear for Bigger Savings

Many retailers offer discounts when you purchase camping gear in bundles. These bundles often include a tent, sleeping bags, and other essentials, giving you more value for your money.

Starter Kits: Ideal for beginners, these kits provide everything you need for a camping trip at a reduced price.
Discount Codes for Large Orders: Some retailers, like Backcountry and Moosejaw, offer discounts for spending over a certain amount.
Group Buys: Coordinate with friends or family to purchase gear together and take advantage of bulk discounts.

Pro Tip: Even if you don’t need every item in a bundle, the savings might still make it worthwhile.

Negotiate and Price Match

If you’ve found a tent you love but not at the price you want, don’t hesitate to negotiate or ask for a price match.

Retail Price Matching: Many stores, like REI or Amazon, will match a lower price from a competitor if you provide proof.
Ask for Discounts: At smaller outdoor shops, don’t be afraid to ask if there are any additional discounts or promotions.
Coupon Stacking: Combine coupons or promo codes with ongoing sales to maximize your savings.

Beware of Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals

While it’s tempting to jump on a deal that seems unbelievable, make sure to do your homework before purchasing.

Red Flags to Watch For:

Unknown Brands: Stick to reputable brands with good reviews to ensure quality and durability.
Lack of Return Policy: Avoid buying from sellers who don’t offer returns or warranties.
Counterfeit Products: Be cautious when shopping on auction sites or lesser-known platforms.

Pro Tip: Read customer reviews and check the seller’s reputation before buying.

Conclusion: Smart Shopping Pays Off

Finding the best deals on camping tents requires a bit of research and patience, but it’s worth the effort to save money without sacrificing quality. By knowing your needs, timing your purchase, exploring different shopping platforms, and taking advantage of discounts, you can confidently snag a great tent at a fraction of the cost.

Remember, the best deal isn’t always the lowest price—it’s the balance between affordability, durability, and features that truly fits your camping style. Happy camping and happy saving!

Reviewed and updated on 01/24/2025