Sometimes buying that new pair of hiking boots or backpacking tent just wasn’t the best idea. Maybe that gear isn’t needed after all, doesn’t quite fit the way it should, or when the credit card bill comes in the mail the true sticker shock hits. There are ways that backpackers and campers can return gear that they have purchased to get a refund.
Check the Return Policy on Backpacking and Camping Gear
When buying outdoor equipment, check the retailer’s return policy. What are they willing to accept returns and refunds for, and what kinds of gear do they not take refunds on. This can help you later on if you decide to return the item. Some retailers, such as REI, have generous return policies, while others do not accept returns. This is why checking the fine print is so important, especially if you are buying a big-ticket item, such as a new backpack. Generally, outdoor retailers will not accept returns on gear that is also used for rock climbing, which is for liability purposes.
Use the Gear at Home Before Taking it Outside
Before taking that new pair of hiking boots out in the dirt and mud, take a few days to test-drive the boots at home to make sure they fit. Wear the boots around the house with the socks that you also intend to wear with the boots. If the footwear just isn’t fitting like it should, the store may take a return and refund the money. This is because the boots haven’t been used on dirt yet, and can still be resold.
The same goes for a new tent. Set up the tent in the living room (if it is a freestanding tent). This not only helps you to become familiar with the tent set-up procedure, it also gives the user a second chance to really determine if the tent will be useful on the trail.
Returning Backpacking and Camping Gear After Being Used
Returning used gear is a different matter. Stores generally will not take back gear that has already been used in the field. However, if a piece of equipment fails while being used, and it hasn’t been that long since it was purchased, a store may be flexible. However, don’t be pushy if they aren’t willing to take a return.
A better option is to seek out the manufacturer of the product. If the piece of gear has failed during use, they may be willing to fix it or replace the item. Osprey, for instance, has what they call the “ All Mighty Guarantee,” which states that, “Osprey will repair, for any reason, free of charge, any damage or defect in our product.” Just make sure when sending gear that it is clean, that the parts that are broken are labeled, and include a note stating what the problem is.
Always Keep the Receipt
Unless you are buying from a retailer like REI that doesn’t require a receipt to return gear, always keep the receipt handy until you are satisfied with the purchase. Outdoor gear retailers may require a receipt of purchase in order to initiate a refund. Keep the receipt handy in a wallet, or make a file at home of purchased outdoor gear receipts.
Getting a refund on backpacking and camping gear isn’t as hard as it looks like, as long as you’re flexible and have done your homework ahead of time.
Bill Sassani - Bill Sassani is an outdoor enthusiast, educator, and writer with over 15 years' experience.
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