A Guide to Buying and Using Second-Hand Tents for Camping

Out of all of your camping gear, your shelter is arguably the most important piece of equipment you’ll buy. Not only does it provide a comfortable place for you to lay your head down at the end of a long day, but it also offers vital protection from the elements. While it’s natural to go straight to your favorite outdoor retailer to buy a brand-new tent when you’re ready to invest in another shelter, there are several reasons you may want to reconsider and opt for a used tent instead. Read on to discover the many benefits of purchasing a used tent and uncover an in-depth second-hand tent guide, from buying it to using it in the field. Without further ado, let’s dive right in!

Why You Should Consider Buying Used Camping Tents 

Although it’s hard to beat box-fresh tents with all their accessories intact and reliable store warranties to protect them, there are real and notable advantages to buying used camping tents instead. Consider these top 3:

1. It Saves Money

Let’s face it, high-quality camping tents can cost a pretty penny – especially when brand new. The main and most obvious benefit to buying second-hand is the money you’ll save on your purchase. While the value of second-hand tents can vary greatly, most shoppers can expect to save anywhere from 25% to 70% off the original retail price. Factors like the tent’s age and condition, however, will play a huge role in a used tent’s price on the second-hand market. No matter what, buying a used tent helps campers get more expensive, better-quality tents at a more affordable price. Plus, you may even be able to score a tent with cool features or accessories you wouldn’t normally spend the money on.

2. It’s Better for the Environment

Not only is investing in used gear easier on your wallet, but it’s also much friendlier to the environment. Buying a tent second-hand instead of brand new reduces the waste of new materials and resources that would otherwise go into producing a tent from scratch. Plus, giving gear a second life keeps it out of landfills, where it would sit, unused and creating pollution, for hundreds of years.

Opting for a second-hand tent also makes it easier for you to vote with your dollar. For someone who really wants a specific tent, but doesn’t necessarily agree with the values of its maker, buying it second-hand can be a great way to get the gear you want, without supporting values you don’t believe in. 

3. It’s Likely Already Broken In

Anyone who’s bought a brand-new tent has probably experienced a short period of having to break it in. For canvas tents, this often includes seasoning the tent and sealing its seams to ensure proper resistance to water. Others may want to lubricate the zippers, apply bug-proofing treatments, and coat them with other protective finishes. Buying a used tent can eliminate a lot of this hassle, as it’s likely already been broken in and is ready for adventuring. Now, this will greatly depend on the condition it’s being sold in, but at least, it’s nice to know your new tent has already had its kinks worked out before it became yours. 

A Guide to Buying and Using Second-Hand Tents

Before you take the plunge into buying and using a second-hand tent, make sure you’ve checked all the right boxes to ensure you’re getting the best deal. 

Decide What You’re Looking For

First things first, you’ll need to decide what exactly you’re looking for. “Tents” is a wide-ranging term that covers everything from single-person synthetic backpacking tents to extravagant event-sized canvas glamping shelters. Getting specific about what you’re looking for can make it easier to find your perfect used tent among the sea of gear on the second-hand marketplace. Some of the features that might be important to you include:

• The brand
• The shape and style
• The size and capacity
• The weight
• The materials
• Its fabric coatings and treatments
• Its various design features

Know Where to Look for the Best Deal

There are numerous places to find used camping tents, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. The first places you think of when buying anything used are the popular second-hand marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist. For some, these are great options thanks to how quickly and easily you can make a deal with the seller and pick up your purchase. Other shoppers might prefer purchasing from companies instead of individual sellers, as this route can offer more buyer protection. Many outdoor retailers like REI and Backcountry have dedicated second-hand marketplaces for used gear. Not only will it be easier to find exactly what you’re looking for on sites like these, but you’ll also benefit from the vetting process these companies undergo to ensure you get the best product possible. If you know exactly what brand and style you’re looking for, going directly to the brand’s website can be a reliable option. White Duck Outdoors, for example, has a section on their website dedicated to their used gear, making it a breeze to find exactly what you need from a reliable source.

Things to Consider Before Making Your Purchase

Once you’ve found a used tent you’re interested in, there are a few things to consider before swiping your card. First, find out the age of the tent. Was it manufactured in 2022, 2012, or 2002? While some high-quality tent styles can hold up for decades, every tent will have an average lifespan. If you want to get more than a few seasons out of your used tent, always opt for one that was manufactured more recently. 

In addition to its age, the current condition of the tent will be one of the most important factors to consider. Check for signs of damage, including mold, mildew, rips, tears, bends, and breaks. Some shoppers may opt for a tent with some signs of wear in order to get a cheaper price, while others would prefer a tent in like-new condition that will require little TLC before camping.  Keep in mind that some damage is easier and cheaper to repair than others, and it might be worth spending a little extra on the initial cost rather than splurging on fixing damage after purchase. 

Preparing Your Tent for the Outdoors

Once you’ve found the perfect tent and are ready to take it outdoors, you’ll want to double-check that everything is in working order to avoid problems on the road. Pitch your new tent in your backyard or at a local park to fully inspect it. Check for damage the seller may not have been transparent about, and make repairs or modifications if necessary. You may also need to reapply fabric coatings and treatments like water and UV protection, depending on how recently the last owner did. This is also a good time to get to know your tent, from learning how to pitch it properly to discovering any quirks you might not have known about otherwise. 

Final Thoughts

Camping shelters are essential pieces of gear for anyone adventuring outdoors overnight, keeping you comfortable and protected amidst the elements of nature. While buying a tent brand new from your favorite outdoor retailer might be your natural course of action, there are a number of benefits to buying your gear used instead. Whether you’re looking to save money, skip the breaking-in process, or help the environment, purchasing used tents over new ones is a solid choice for many campers. If you plan to go this route, follow the guide outlined above to ensure you get the best tent for your needs, and a great deal on it, too.