The first thing you need to figure out when shopping for hiking gear is which pieces of gear are good deals and are discounted because of low quality.
You need to be honest with yourself and determine what level of a hiker you are.
If you're just a weekend walker won't need as much equipment as an avid hiker.
After you establish what type of hiker you are, you can establish what type of hiking gear you will need.
Initial Expense For those of you who are buying equipment for the first time, you need to watch out for some of the raw deals that outdoor specialty stores are offering.
A good idea is talking to someone who is an experienced hiker or even dragging an experienced hiker along to help with your purchases.
You can never put a price tag on informed assistance, so having that seasoned hiker with you to help select your gear can save you a lot of time, money and heartache.
Alternate Hiking Stores Of course there are other places to purchase discount hiking gear such as a flea market which will have excellent prices and if you search hard enough some quality equipment.
At most flea markets, you will also find people that are willing to bargain so don't be afraid to haggle.
Look for sales when the season is just beginning or ending and try not to buy during the peak times because most specialty stores will put a premium price tag on their gear.
Assemble Your Own Set Another way to save on discount hiking gear is to create your own set of hiking gear.
You can save a bundle.
One example of this is that walking sticks sell anywhere from $25 to over $100 dollars each.
There are several other ways to convert household items and other miscellaneous items into valuable hiking gear that can help you out in the woods and possibly even save your life.
Do not hesitate to explore your home for the possibilities today! Finally, make sure that once you have compiled your hiking gear that it is comfortable for you.
Ensure that you know all of the ins and outs of using your gear and try it out in controlled situations.
It is better to find out that the communication device you created from a few empty pop cans doesn't work in your own backyard than it is to make that discovery in the middle of nowhere.