Wait for the Gear Sales!

I know that we talk gear a LOT here.  It's not because we think everyone is loaded and should spend their money on gear, but I can think of plenty of things much WORSE to spend money on. :)

In our family, we value the memories we make outdoors and so we make the little sacrifices so we can own the equipment that safely (and happily) gets us out there.  Our life is by no means extravagant, but a Gear Closet is a must.  And we are ok with that.  And yes, we are MORE than willing to spread the love and loan it out too - we truly want others to take full advantage of those precious family moments.

I am not going to tell you that all gear/equipment is created equal, because more often than not, you get what you pay for (at least in the value of it.)  But, there is no shame in second-hand shopping (most gear lasts forever!) - garage sales, Craiglist.com, REI Garage Sales, etc.  And buying off-season helps a ton too (you just have to estimate growth for your kids if you buy that way!)

This week REI is having their mega Anniversary Sale and there are some smoking deals on things that don't usually go on sale.  Having lived in Alaska and Washington before I moved to Wyoming, REI was THE place to go.  I am FAR from one now, but they have great gear (and their return policy is unbeatable.)  I thought it would be fun to make a little wish-list of bigger-ticket things I, personally, would recommend when you can get them on sale!

Before I begin, I also wanted to do a little shout-out to Tiny Trekker (which you will learn more about later this week.)  They are an incredible little company that works hard to provide excellent customer service and keep the gear in stock that truly helps families get out.  They have free shipping on orders over $45 and a daily deal with a HUGE reduction in price.  By all means, PLEASE support the "Little Guy" first - REI is great, but the customer service at Tiny Trekker blows them away.  They are having a pre-memorial day sale right now on some great camping gear (tents, sleeping bags and kids' balance bikes)  Sale ends May 28th.


If I were going to take a family shopping to the REI Anniversary Sale.....And remember, Members get to take 20% off of one full-price item.

1. Chariot - these VERY rarely go on sale.  20% off is a great bargain if you can't find one use (which we never could.)

 2. Weehoo i-Go Trailer - Just discovered these and have NOT tried one yet, but they look like a great way to go on longer family rides with kids that are too big for a Chariot (or something similar) but too small to keep up.  I have heard excellent things about them.  Oh and they are MUCH safer than a Trailer Bike. Full Price, so use that 20% off member deal!

3. ENO DoubleNest Hammock - we have one of these that we will review later this summer, but they are an AWESOME treat for the campsite relaxing arrangements!  30% off.

4. 15% off all Full-Price Kayaks, Canoes and Stand-Up Paddleboards (excluding Wilderness Systems Kayaks.)

5. 20% off all Thule and Yakima Racks, Boxes and Accessories.

Some of these links are affiliates.  See my full disclosure here.