The beauty of public lands is that they are open and available to everyone. However, the reality is that getting outside is sometimes costly. Fees, gear, transportation, and food are all expenses that make exploring nature difficult for many people. However, there are many ways to cut costs, opening up these spaces to those who otherwise wouldn’t have access. Here’s our advice to help you adventure outdoors on a budget so you can spend less time worrying about your wallet and more time connecting with nature.
Borrow Gear
When first exploring the outdoors, a great way to save money is to borrow gear. You’ll get to try out a new hobby with minimal financial investment.
If you have outdoorsy friends, family members, or neighbors, see if they’d be willing to share their gear with you. Oftentimes, they’ll be excited that you’ve taken an interest in something they’re passionate about and will happily lend you what you need. Just make sure to return it in the same condition you received it.
Another place to look is local outdoor organizations and groups, especially those catered toward beginners. More often than not, they will have gear they can lend you. There are plenty of places to find a group, including Social Media, MeetUp, and organizations like Outdoor Afro and Unlikely Hikers. Retailers such as your local REI will also often host outdoor events and trips that you can participate in. Not only will you have access to gear, but also a community of outdoor lovers willing to help you out!
Look Into Rentals
Another great way to save money in the outdoors is to rent gear. This option is especially helpful if you’re looking to get into something with a higher cost of entry, like backpacking, mountain biking, or skiing. Places like REI and Public Lands have in-store rentals, while sites such as Outdoors Geek and Lower Gear Outdoors will ship gear to you. And if you have a local outdoor outfitter, reach out and see if they offer rentals, as many often do.
It’s also smart to check in with your local library to see if they have outdoor gear they can share with you. Things like navigation tools, binoculars, guidebooks, and even backpacks are all potentially available to check out with your library card.
Buy Used
Purchasing gear secondhand is not only a great way to adventure outdoors when you’re on a budget but also helps reduce additional waste from reaching landfills. Thrift stores are great places to start when looking for used gear. While they can be hit-or-miss, sometimes you’ll find a gem at a great price. In fact, a few years ago, I found a used snowboard and bindings for $25 at my local thrift store that I still use today. You can also usually find used gear at steep discounts on secondhand online platforms like OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace.
For a more dependable choice, check out programs like REI Re/Supply or Patagonia Worn Wear. Found either online, in stores, or at special events, an advantage of these programs is that specialists inspect the gear before it gets listed for sale. I’m a strong advocate of REI Re/Supply and have personally found like-new camping and backpacking items 30-40% off their retail price.
There are a few things to know before purchasing used gear. Make sure items like clothes and backpacks fit correctly. You’ll also want to inspect the gear for any issues. Small tears, holes, and discoloration can be easily repaired, but more serious problems could have a major impact on the product’s integrity. It’s also a good idea to smell and pieces of gear – if something is off, you shouldn’t purchase it. Finally, items that are meant for safety, like helmets, are best bought new.
Invest in Quality Pieces
If you have some money saved up and are serious about exploring the outdoors, then it’s worth it to spend more on gear that’ll last. Not only will this save you cash in the long run, but it’s also better for the environment. The gear doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive either – as long as it’s made well and you take care of it appropriately, it should last for a long time.
If you don’t need the gear right away, keep an eye out for discounts or promotions. You also can likely find out-of-season gear or the previous year’s model on sale. If you see yourself shopping specifically at REI often, consider becoming a member. While it’s $30 for a lifetime membership, you’ll get 10% back on most full-priced purchases made throughout the year forever.
Repurpose What You Already Have
There are many household items that work great in the outdoors! For example, aside from a stove and propane bottles, you should have everything you need to cook a camping meal. Things like pots and pans, cutlery, cooking utensils, and plates work just as well at home as they do in nature. Or if you’re going on a short day hike, an old backpack or drawstring bag is more than enough to carry everything you need.
Another area where you can adventure outdoors on a budget is repurposing your closet. While you want to wear weather-appropriate clothes, you likely already have everything you need at home. Regular workout attire is perfect for activities like hiking and biking, while your winter coat and blanket are great for cold evenings outside. If you plan on adventuring into nature often, you might want to invest in outdoor-specific clothing. But if you’re just starting out there’s no need to spend lots of money on new clothes.
Plan Your Meals Carefully
If you plan to camp, meals usually take up a large portion of your budget. However, there are ways to cut down spending while still eating well!
The most cost-effective way to save money on camp meals is to plan ahead of time. You can course out exactly what you want to eat while making sure everything stays within your budget constraints. Classic camping meals like hot dogs and s’mores are not only tasty but also inexpensive. However, feel free to create a menu that makes the most sense both for your appetite and for your wallet.
Also, try to grocery shop as much as you can ahead of time. While camp stores are convenient, it comes at a price. The more you can plan and purchase ahead of time, the more inexpensive your meals will be.
Finally, incorporate ingredients that you have in your kitchen! There’s no need to buy things like spices and seasonings if you already have some in your pantry. It’s also smart to do a quick inventory of your refrigerator to see if there’s anything you might want to bring.
Take Advantage of Free or Discounted Fees
While entrance fees may be a potential barrier to exploring the outdoors, there are many ways to gain access to these lands at little or no cost.
Each year, most federal land management agencies, including the National Park Service, US Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management, announce several days when entrance fees are waived for all visitors. While the dates vary from one agency to the next, it’s worth noting these fee-free days if you want to adventure outdoors on a budget. You can find out more here.
Also, check your eligibility for a free or discounted America the Beautiful pass, which covers the entrance and day-use fees at most federally managed public lands. Certain groups, including current US military, veterans, those with permanent disabilities, and fourth graders qualify for a free pass. Others, like those over 62, are offered a discount price. Even if you’re not eligible for a special rate, it’s worth picking up the standard $80 annual pass if you plan on visiting public lands often.
For those hoping to visit a state park, reach out to your local library beforehand. In states such as California, Colorado, Minnesota, Kansas, and others, libraries will have state park passes that you can check out, helping reduce the financial burden of exploring nature.
Finally, many public lands are always free to enter and explore! While they might not have the same fanfare as a place like a national park, countless wilderness landscapes cost nothing and will leave you inspired and in awe.
Try Dispursed Camping
While camping fees can get expensive, there are ways to spend the night outdoors without incurring a cost. Staying at an established campground will likely have amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and potable water, but they sometimes are pricey. If you want to save money camping outdoors, look into dispersed camping. Note that if you’re a novice camper, I recommend that you stay at an established campsite.
Dispersed camping simply means setting up camp outside of a designated campground. This practice is usually allowed on land managed by the US Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management. You’ll need to be completely self-reliant, as you won’t have access to amenities found at established sites. However, it’s free, which is great for your wallet, and you are likely by yourself, which makes it a great option if you’re looking for some solitude. Just make sure to contact the local ranger station beforehand for official guidelines.
I recently drove to the Mojave Desert to disperse camp at the Trona Pinnacles. To read all about my experience, click the button below!
Transportation Alternatives
The cost to reach your favorite trailhead or outdoor space can add up, especially if it’s far away. Here are some alternative transportation options that will not only help you save money but also reduce excess emissions.
Carpool with someone the next time you head outdoors. You’ll save money on the ride and get to experience nature with a friend. Also, look into local outdoor groups. They might have events or activities that include transportation.
Utilizing public transportation is another great way to visit local hiking trails and outdoor spots for less. Check online for resources in your area, like Seattle’s Trailhead Direct program or the LA Transit to Trails website.
Finally, bike or use human-powered transportation the next time you travel to a local trailhead or nature park. You’ll get a great workout in and you won’t have to pay a cent for your ride.
Follow these nine pieces of advice and you’re sure to have an epic adventure outdoors, even if you’re on a budget! If you’re ready to embark on your next adventure outside, please reach out! We at GoForth are experts at turning your outdoor dreams into a reality. Click on the button below to learn more about our offerings, and contact us if you’re ready to take the first step toward a life outdoors!
