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As you get ready to embark on your GREEN program adventure, we know that the packing list can be daunting, especially if there’s an item you’ve never heard of or don’t own! To help combat the challenges of purchasing great gear, we encourage you to check out secondhand items that can provide you the same solution, at a lower cost!
Did you know that it takes more than 700 gallons of water to produce one t-shirt? With thrifting or buying secondhand gear, you can reduce waste and promote the reuse and recycling of many materials and items that would normally end up in landfills and other forms of pollution.
Our team has put together a list of resources in finding preloved outdoor gear items to help maximize your program experience (and your wallet!) while traveling more sustainably. Check out these recommendations and resources below and feel free to share with your friends!
How to Select Your Gear
Gear selection is very important to your safety and comfort during your travels. Please take your packing list seriously because the gear will help determine your comfort throughout the program. Remember, there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear!
A general rule of thumb when selecting your gear is to get the nicest gear that you can afford. With that said, there are many places that provide clothing for a more accessible cost. Most thrift stores have racks of used poly-pro (long underwear) and fleeces. A $2 fleece is often just as warm as a $90 fleece. Used backpacks or luggage are available on the internet (eBay, Craigslist) and are rarely heavily used. Winter gear and equipment is usually on sale at the end of the winter, along with accessories like gloves, hats, etc. Buying used gear is more sustainable and will also help with your savings.
How to Check Equipment Quality
It’s also important that you know the history of your equipment. Where has it been and what has it done? Important technical gear should not be bought if your safety is at risk on your travels.
When purchasing waterproof gear such as rain jackets or pants, visually inspect for damage, confirm that water beads on the surface, and check for breathability in the fabric. When purchasing second hand boots, inspect the overall condition, paying attention to wear and tear, check for water resistance, and ensure the sole has sufficient tread. Wear the boots to assess comfort and support, and inquire about the boot’s history to make an informed decision on their durability and waterproof features. Also note that synthetic sleeping bags wear out fairly quickly with heavy use (1-2 years max) and are often a bad bet to buy used.
Second Hand Gear Resources
- REI: Score great deals on gently used gear from REI. Shop pre-loved gear and clothing from your favorite brands to save your wallet and landfill.
- Last Minute Gear: Buy new or a small selection of used gear. Rent camping gear, climbing gear, and snow clothes for ~$10-20. Borrow camping gear for FREE!
- Community Gearbox: Community Gearbox is an app empowering people and organizations to gather, share, track, and care for gear amongst people they know and trust.
- Poshmark: Find new and preloved outdoor gear items at up to 70% off retail prices. Poshmark makes shopping fun, affordable & easy!
- thredUP: thredUP is an online consignment and thrift store where you can buy and sell high-quality secondhand clothes. Find your favorite brands at up to 90% off.
- Facebook Marketplace: Buy or sell new and used items easily on Facebook Marketplace, locally or from businesses. Find great deals on new items shipped from stores to your door.
- Your Local Thrift Stores: Visit your local thrift stores (Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc) to get a first-hand shopping experience! This is a great way to be able to inspect your gear in-person before purchasing it while saving on shipping costs and supporting local stores too!