Outdoor Blog

Can You Rent a Tent for Camping?

Published

4 years ago

January 13, 2021

Of all the camping gear out there, a tent is one of the most essential. Although you can go camping without a tent, it’s much more comfortable and helps to keep the rest of your gear out of the elements if you have a good tent to sleep in.

Bringing your own tent isn’t always possible. Many avid campers don’t own a tent, or it might be a situation where camping is last-minute or too far away to pack the tent with you. Perhaps you want to test out a new tent before you buy it.

Camping tent rentals are a reality in most places and become more popular for campers who don’t want to make a huge investment in new camping gear. Read on for the full rundown!

You can still get the full camping experience with a rental tent.

Why tent a tent?

The initial investment for some tents is quite large. Group tents and models with special features are built with convenient design features and building materials that cost more to manufacture.

In some cases, the tent is rented out by the campground or a nearby business. In that scenario, renting a tent can save time and prevent you from having to cart a tent all the way back to another location. Camping tent rentals make camping more accessible to people without cars or people who live a long way from their camping destination.

First-time campers and those who only head into the backcountry infrequently may not need to have a camping tent on hand at all times. Hikers, for example, commonly rent camping gear for one night so they can complete a long out-and-back trail without spending too much.

Where can I rent a tent?

REI is one of the best-known places to rent tents. There are also some online companies such as Outdoors Geek, which will ship your rental gear to any FedEx location that accepts deliveries.

A plethora of smaller companies rent gear face-to-face or online. Campers might be able to find local options to rent tents depending on where the camping trip will be. Online rental companies are generally more convenient since they can ship your camping gear close to your destination.

Peer-to-peer tent rental companies also exist. The sharing economy, which is most famous for spawning companies like Airbnb and Uber, now allows owners of camping equipment to lease it out to others. This option may continue expanding, but it’s still in the beginning stages for many of the platforms that offer it, so you might not be able to find someone to rent a tent from locally.

Renting vs buying a tent

While there is a certain freedom to owning your own camping gear, renting is better for short-term use. Die-hard campers who spend lots of time in the backcountry typically prefer to have their own gear because they get used to it and build all the elements in their rucksack to work together.

For others, an inexpensive tent is enough. Perhaps you live in sunny SoCal where the tent won’t have to last through much rain or severe weather. If you know you’re only going to go camp when the weather is nice, then a tent for under $100 might be good enough for your needs.

However, renting a tent makes much more sense for campers who want to go on sporadic camping trips with fully loaded tents. Trying out new models or tents large enough to accommodate groups of campers is generally much cheaper if you rent.

People going to camp for special events like music festivals also benefit from renting tents. So much camping gear gets left behind at big music festivals that it’s become a big environmental concern, so renting a tent in that situation is a good idea for everyone.

How does a tent rental work?

It depends on where you rent your tent. REI locations allow you to go in person or call your local retail location by phone to reserve your gear. This is great for first-time and new campers who aren’t sure about their gear and want to see it. Plus, the sales associates can give helpful advice.

Online rental locations usually allow users to scroll through available tents and select the one they want. If you aren’t too picky about your gear and you can already tell what will be enough for your outdoor getaway, then the online catalog should work fine.

Most companies have a limit on the number of days you can have each rental. Some will let you take out tents for weeks at a time while others are more limited. Local shops with less gear probably limit their rental periods more if they have a high demand.

Once you have your rental period defined and tent selected, the store should tell you when and where you can pick it up. REI and other in-person shops will more than likely have you pick up your tent at that location, while online rental companies tend to ship the gear to you via FedEx or a similar company.

They include a return label with your rental so all you have to do is take it back to the shipping facility where you picked it up and send everything back. All told, this is one of the easiest ways to get your hand on a temporary tent without having to drag it around.

Renting larger tents is typically cheaper than buying them.

Features to look for in rental tents

The kind of camping trip you’re taking will determine which kind of tent you need to rent. If you’re backpacking by yourself, a one-person tent that’s ultralight and will fit in your rucksack will suit you best. You could also spring for a two-person tent to give yourself some extra room.

Glamping tents are an option for people who want to enjoy the great outdoors in style. Bear in mind that these are much larger and may require special handling to transport to your chosen campsite.

Here are a few other considerations to make when deciding which tent you should rent:

High-Quality Material: Canvas tents are the best for their sturdy construction. But you also have to make sure the seams of the material are will-stitched to prevent rain or dew from leaking into the tent. A ripstop bottom that won’t take damage from the ground and keep groundwater out is also a good idea. Remember that you’re going to be on the hook for damage to the tent. Look for a ten built out of high-quality material to make sure you’re protected and won’t have to fork over a fee because weak tent material got damaged.

Additional Features: Maybe you don’t need to have a satellite dish on your rental tent, but some convenient additions like gear bags, instant assembly, and awnings can help make your camping trip even easier. If you’re worried about bad weather, look for a tent that has a rain fly included with the rental. Families and groups who are going to share a tent might want to find a model that has room dividers for additional privacy.

Tent Season: If you’re going out during spring or summer, you might be able to get away with a 3-season tent. These more lightweight models are built to keep out a moderate amount of precipitation and bugs. They also tend to have mesh to facilitate better airflow in the tent. Extended season tents have less mesh and more poles so that they’re more sturdy and warmer in cooler fall and spring weather. 4-Season tents are meant for really cold temperatures and heavy snowfall. Believe it or not, there are some campers who need mountaineering-grade tents.

Number of Doors: One-person backpacking tents usually have one door or even just a flap. Groups of two or more who are going to be camping together might want to rent tents with more doors so that they can get in and out of the tent without stepping all over each other or waking their fellow camper.

Shape: Cabin vs Dome: A cabin-style tent is more square and offers a roomier interior. The walls are straighter than dome-style tents and the roof is going to be higher across more of its area. Dome-style tents have rounded roofs that are generally lower than cabin tents except in the center. Although the curved top reduces the available livable space in the tent, it also helps the dome withstand high winds better.

Ventilation: Whether you’re the only one in the tent or sharing it with others, you’re going to want a tent that can let some fresh air in if you’re camping in warm weather. If you don’t find a tent with good ventilation, the sun might warm up the inside of your tent and wake you up much earlier than you want it to. Fresh air inside the tent also helps reduce the amount of moisture and condensation. It’s never pleasant to feel muggy. If you’re camping in cold weather, a clammy tent will make you feel trapped by the harsh weather conditions.

Can you rent other camping gear?

Depending on what company you use, you can find lots of other camping gear for rent, including sleeping bags, mattress pads, snowshoes, camping stoves, headlamps, and cookware. Most places will let you rent these things one by one or as an entire camping package as you prefer.

This is where renting instead of buying comes in handy. If you rent the whole camping package, you won’t only be saving money on a backpacking tent. You’ll have everything you need for an overnight camping trip and you won’t have to worry about where to store it when you get home.

It might seem unbelievable that they can ship all of this so easily, but most camping tents pack down to a surprisingly small size. You can even rent backpacking rucksacks with your gear. When you arrive at the facility to pick it up, you can pack everything and hit the road to begin your epic backcountry adventure.

What if I don’t know how to use my rental gear?

Rental companies want you to have a good time with their gear. That’s why so many of them have customer service departments to help you figure out how to set up tents, like camping stoves, and get the most out of the camping gear you rent from them.

That’s one advantage companies have over the P2P option. Some individuals who rent their camping gear out may be happy to provide advice while others may not want to rent out their equipment to amateurs at all in case they accidentally damage it.

The companies who rent out gear often make a point to help people learn. REI is famous for this, hosting classes and events. The internet is also filled with camping aficionados who have made exhaustive efforts to make videos and walkthroughs for curious people.

How much does renting tents cost?

Generally speaking, these rental companies base the cost of renting each item on the retail value of the item. For example, an online rental company may charge around 15% of the total cost of a tent. They usually increase the per-day amount the longer you rent the tent.

There are a few reasons why they do this. For one, the longer you have the tent out, the more likely it will be damaged. These companies don’t want to build a reputation for sending out damaged gear, so they have to spend money to repair items if they’re broken.

They also want as many people as possible to use these items. Getting as many people as possible out into nature is kind of the main idea behind renting out camping equipment.

What brands are available for rent?

Tons of popular outdoor brands are available for rent. Depending on the specific rental company, ALPS Mountaineering, Marmot, MSR, North Face, and Big Agnes are just some of the names you can usually find.

The newer and bigger brand-name tents are going to come at a premium. However, you can sometimes find older models of really nice tents from these leading brands for a great price. Even with the newest models, renting them for a short time is going to be much, much less than buying them.

Renting gear: the trial run

One of the most common reasons people have for renting specific gear is because they want to try it out and see if they like it. Newcomers to camping and other outdoor leisure activities want to see if they like spending a few nights in the backcountry and more seasoned enthusiasts rent tents to see if they like the particular model.

Here’s a pro-tip: some rental companies have rent-to-own policies. How they work varies from place to place, but before you rent, check and see if the rental company has one. If they do, that means you can offer to buy the gear you rent if you like it. Some will even apply the cost of your rental to the final purchase price. There’s no better way to test gear out than to take it into the backcountry and see how it performs in real conditions.

Buying gear from rental companies

You can also buy used gear from these rental companies. They have to make room for new rental stock as manufacturers continue to improve their products. Sometimes you can find great camping gear that’s still comparatively new and still in great working condition. Best of all, since the company needs to get rid of it and has already made some money renting it out, they let this equipment go for a fraction of the price.

If you’re on the fence about renting gear or you aren’t picky about which tent you have, consider buying your first tent from a rental company. You can probably arrange to rent it and test it out first. For peace of mind and confidence in a product, rental companies are the place to go.

Renting a tent is the perfect way to test it out under real conditions.

Final Verdict:

You can rent all kinds of tents and other camping gear from a few different sources. Online retailers will ship the rental gear to your location or an intermediary shipping location like FedEx, while brick and mortar stores and P2P services allow you to pick it up from the renter.

In some cases, you can even buy the equipment you rent if you like it enough. Renting a tent allows first-time campers to get out into nature to see how they fare. More experienced enthusiasts can test gear or get too far away locations without hauling their own equipment long distances.

For campers of all experience levels, renting a tent is the best no-hassle way to experience a few nights in the great outdoors.

Bonus tip: Use these camping hacks and tricks to make your next camping trip even easier!

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

2 weeks ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

3 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

3 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.