8 Tips on Buying Camping Gadgets Online for Beginners

Want to go camping with your family and friends?

Camping keeps on increasing in popularity, even during the pandemic. As there’s a lower risk of transmission when outdoors while still following social distancing protocols, camping is a safer activity.

That said, many are beginning to take upon this hobby after cooping up in their homes for more than a year. Are you a beginner? Then you must be eager to buy some camping gadgets, tools, and essentials.

However, some things to keep in mind when buying online aside from checking the labels on products. Follow our tips below to avoid inconveniences.

1. Research What to Buy

First, create a checklist of what you want to buy. For example, do you need Bluetooth trackers, a water filter, and such? Thankfully, there are many helpful checklists of common camping essentials for beginners online, so half of your work is already done.

You can also join forums to get helpful advice from experienced campers. They know the best types of gadgets that you must have as a beginner. While you’re at it, make sure to ask for some useful camping tips as well.

When you have a general idea or, better yet, a checklist of camping gadgets you want to buy to make it easier to do the following steps.

2. Buy From a Trusted Online Store

Anyone can create a store and make it look professional, so you should be wary when making transactions online. Some websites might scam you, or you might input your credit card details on a phishing site. Cybercriminals will get your information while you won’t get your gadgets.

At the start of 2020, Google recorded over 2 million phishing sites. Why so many? Because they work.

Sometimes, the website is genuine, but the store itself is unprofessional. For example, you might get a bad experience if they have bad customer service, delayed shipment, or low-quality products.

That’s why it’s important to be careful when choosing an online store. Since you’re already online, do a bit of research first about trustworthy sites. Ask for recommendations from your friends, as well.

3. Check the Payment Methods

Major retailers like Amazon can be sure that they will offer a payment method that best suits your preferences. Other sites, however, may have limited options.

Check their payment methods to see if they offer something convenient for you. In most cases, though, it’s easy to pay online, especially via PayPal and the likes. What matters more here is the security of the payment channel.

4. Ensure the Security of the Site

This is the part you have to be most careful of. When ready to pay, ensure that the website secures every transaction.

Remember that hackers can redirect unknowing users from the genuine site to an unsecured site, where they collect your information. There’s a simple way to know you’re in a secured site, though.

Look for the little lock at the left of the URL in the address bar. It signifies that the website has SSL (secure sockets layer) encryption installed. The website will also start with “HTTPS” instead of “HTTP.”

Typically, the browser will warn you if you’re entering an unsecured site. However, for added protection, you can check it yourself before entering sensitive information on any website.

5. Review the Return and Refund Policy

One gripe consumers have with buying online is that they can’t test the actual product before buying it. As a result, there’s a risk of receiving a defective or damaged product, even if you buy from a reliable site.

Make sure you know the return and refund policy of the online store. Of course, you may not need to return the gadget at all. Still, it helps to know that they have a good system in place in case you need to.

6. Compare Prices

Camping is a popular hobby, so you always have a wide variety of options no matter what gadget you’re looking to buy. As such, comparing gadget costs should be your next step.

You might be able to find the same gadget in another store for a lower price. However, you may also find a better alternative.

However, don’t forget that the price shouldn’t be your sole deciding factor. You get what you pay for, so avoid making swift decisions. Keep in mind our other tips, like the credibility of the site and the online reviews.

7. Look For the Best Deals

The price isn’t the only thing you should look at when buying gadgets for camping. Likewise, it isn’t the only factor in determining the best deal.

You should also consider the amount of discount you’ll get and the product itself. For example, can you get a ton more features for $10 more? Then that’s a better deal than the cheaper option.

You can also look for vouchers or coupons you can use before buying. For example, you might snag a 20% off coupon from a few minutes of snooping online. Check for any ongoing or upcoming promos, too.

8. Read Online Reviews

How do you know if the camping gadgets deliver? By reading user testimonials online.

You can read online customer reviews on product pages, blogs, YouTube, and more. Forums for camping also have a lot of reviews coming from actual users of the product. All you have to do is a simple Google search.

Reviews are helpful because they feature the pros and cons of the product. In addition, they outline every detail, which helps you make a more informed decision. They also have actual pictures and, sometimes, demo videos.

You have to know how to filter out sponsored or paid posts, though. If the reviews don’t have anything negative, be doubtful. Don't forget to check the credibility of the reviewer as well.

Ready Up With the Right Camping Gadgets

Camping gadgets can be quite expensive. As such, it’s best if you take great care when buying online, especially if you’re a beginner.

Buy only from a trusted source and make sure you’re getting a good deal. Contact us today and let us know how we can help.