cheap outdoor gear |

A useful item: Poncho liner

Posted onFebruary 21, 2019March 5, 2019AuthorPaul Mags2 Comments

A poncho liner, aka “a woobie”, is another potentially useful tool to have in the gear kit. Read More …

The Frugal Backpacker – The $300 Gear Challenge

Posted onJanuary 9, 2019March 21, 2019AuthorPaul Mags28 Comments

Backpacking gear on the cheap. If you are new to backpacking or on a budget, here is a complete gear list for less than $300 — Updated Jan 2019. Read More …

Gear review: UBTech Travel Pants

Posted onDecember 27, 2018December 27, 2018AuthorPaul Mags9 Comments

The UBTech Travel Pants are a less expensive alternative to the popular prAna Zion pants. Here’s a review based on over a year of hard use. Read More …

Gear review: LWCWUS Thermals (MilSurplus)

Posted onDecember 18, 2018December 19, 2018AuthorPaul MagsLeave a comment

A mere $22 for cold weather tops and bottoms comparable to midweight layer offerings from mainstream outdoor companies. Read More …

Gear review: Bank line for cord

Posted onJune 26, 2017April 24, 2018AuthorPaul Mags5 Comments

A strong and inexpensive alternative to both paracord and traditional outdoor accessory cord. Read More …

Gear Review: M65 jacket liner

Posted onApril 13, 2017October 2, 2018AuthorPaul Mags4 Comments

Another inexpensive and effective surplus store special. Read More …

Website of the week: Fakespot

Posted onFebruary 3, 2017July 15, 2017AuthorPaul Mags4 Comments

Fakespot helps sort the dross from the gems regarding lower priced gear and clothing for the outdoors. Read More …

Quick Tip: Sun shield reflector for insoles

Posted onJanuary 4, 2017January 4, 2019AuthorPaul Mags7 Comments

Some DIY reflective insoles to help keep the feet warm when stationary in winter. Read More …

The AliExpress wormhole

Posted onSeptember 27, 2016January 21, 2017AuthorPaul Mags6 Comments

AliExpress is becoming more and more of a choice for outdoor gear. Some observations. Read More …

A well worn piece of gear over the seasons

Posted onJuly 6, 2016April 24, 2018AuthorPaul Mags6 Comments

My well loved and used boonie hat. Read More …

What not to dirtbag

Posted onJuly 5, 2016February 23, 2018AuthorPaul Mags15 Comments

I’m a big proponent of inexpensive backpacking gear and clothing when it makes sense. But there are some items where it is worth spending more money. Read More …

Quick Tip: Ammo boxes for caching

Posted onMarch 29, 2016April 21, 2017AuthorPaul Mags2 Comments

Caching food or other supplies for off-the-beaten trips or even convenience? Surplus ammo boxes are an inexpensive and easy way cache these supplies. Read More …

Quick Tip: Pull tab guyline tensioner

Posted onMarch 22, 2016April 24, 2018AuthorPaul MagsLeave a comment

Make a guyline tensioner out of pull tab from a can. Light, cheap and easy to use. Read More …

Jack of All Trades gear

Posted onMarch 15, 2016August 9, 2017AuthorPaul Mags9 Comments

Limited budget, space and/or time? Here is a Jack of All Trades gear kit for backpacking, camping , trail work , day hikes and mild winter activities. Read More …

Gear review: Paradox DriRelease thermals from Costco

Posted onFebruary 16, 2016December 19, 2018AuthorPaul Mags1 Comment

A review of the Paradox DriRelease thermals. Well made, affordable and effective base layers typically found at Costco. Read More …

Quick Tip: Sun shield for winter camping

Posted onJanuary 27, 2016October 9, 2018AuthorPaul Mags3 Comments

A simple trick for sleeping warmer at night. Read More …