boaboabo

I graduated this year and got my first job, but to find it's not as great as I expected. Everything seems boring for quite a long time, but now I have found new fun in my outdoor life. It's fantastic! Hope more people will fall in love this sports

However, I just got a second-hand backpack and even don't have a tent yet.

I wonder where you guys buy your outdoor equipment, could you recommend some good stores?

I got this from my friend, but not sure if really that good.

Hope we can exchange more useful info here, that's why I join in today.

Turn Key

Welcome aboard and I hope we can help as you develope your new interest. I understand your feelings about work. Maaaaany years ago I'd hoped that finishing school and entering the working world would solve all my problems. Solved a few but opened new ones, too. Oh well. Nothing's perfect but you sure can make it better:cool: !

The best way I've found to buy most of the equipment I need is by searching "the net". Sites like this one can give you the info you need on different products. For the most part, memebers are going to tell you the truth about what works and what doesn't. After that, use "the net" to find the best price for the exact product you need, order it and sit back and wait for delivery. Works great for everything but "big ticket" items that you may want to look at first. It also saves a lot of time and money that would be wasted running from store to store. I love doing my Christmas shopping in my pajamas ! Only thing I advise is that you make sure that the credit card you use for such purchases is the type that will protect you against fraudulant use (check with your card provider about this). Better yet, get a card that you use ONLY for "on-line" purchases and nothing else. Makes it easier to watch.

Hope this helps some and again, welcome aboard!

Happy Camping!

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rockhill

As TurnKey pointed out the web helps make the research easy now a days. I suspect you will go thru a couple of items before finding what works best for you. As to where to buy? wide choice. I have purchased some off the internet while other items came from local stores ie: Cabelas,REI,Academy Bass Pro. Internet is good but I like to see/feel/try it on at a retail store. You will find a avenue that best suits your taste.

Welcome aboard

CyberCelt

You can find anything you need on eBay. That is where we purchased our Travel Trailer and Van (package deal).

I have found many things at Goodwill and Academy Surplus. Yard sales are good.

Perhaps your job would best be outdoors in a park or you could volunteer to give tours at a natural area. Life is too short to do something you hate.

Best to you in your life.

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Keep Your Wheels on the Road!

CyberCelt

USAer.com ~ RVing Texas
USAer Blog ~ Scenic Byways and Backroads

toejam

I recommend avoiding Cabelas, Academy, and Bass Pro since they cater to camping out of the back of a truck. They have lots of hunting supplies and a tiny bit of backpacking stuff. If you can get to an REI store they have a great selection and helpful staff. Mountian Sports in Arlington is my favorite shop in DFW. Read a few issues of Backpacker magazine for more ideas. At first it will look like all backpacking gear costs a fortune, but keep looking and you'll find the reasonably priced stuff. Buy a little at a time - you don't need everything to get started.