- Camping & Backpacking
Backpacking Gear Rental: Everything You Need to Know!
Backpacking is a great way to explore new areas and experience nature on foot away from the crowds. It can be leisurely or as strenuous as you want it to be and after you have the gear, it can be a pretty inexpensive vacation. However, procuring all of the specialized gear can be expensive at first when you’re not even sure you will love it. This is when backpacking gear rental comes into play!
Outdoor gear rentals offer people an opportunity to gear up and get outdoors to enjoy fresh air without having to purchase a substantial amount of gear. Plus, outdoor gear rentals don’t end at backpacking gear rental, many gear rental companies offer a wide variety of gear for outdoor activities including car camping gear, mountain bikes, and gear for water sports.
So, how do you rent backpacking gear? Let’s get into it!
Complete Guide to Renting Backpacking Gear
When it comes to backpacking gear rental, there are a number of things to consider and know before walking into a gear rental company. This guide goes over everything you need to know, bring, and consider before showing up to your backpacking gear rental.
What is included in the guide:
- Why and When to Rent Backpacking Gear
- What to Backpacking Gear to Rent
- What to Consider When Picking Rental Gear
- What Gear to Bring of Your Own
- Reading Rental Agreements
- Rental Companies
Equipment rental can help you start up new outdoor activities and try out new gear. So let’s try out some great gear, get some fresh air, and get a deal on some rental packages!
When & Why to Rent Backpacking Gear
People opt for backpack gear rental for a wide variety of reasons, from wanting to pack light on a flight to being first-time campers. Here are some reasons for when & why to rent backpacking gear.
Travel without gear
Traveling whether, flying or on a road trip, backpacking gear takes some expert-level planning. By opting to go to a backpacking gear rental upon arrival at your destination, you save on getting gear through airport security or loading it into your car on a long drive.This is a fantastic way to pack light.
Cost Savings
Rental gear can be a more affordable option than buying new gear especially if you’re just starting out. Backpacking gear can be expensive, so testing it out before you buy is a more affordable option. This is a big purchase for first-time campers.
Try Before you buy
Using a backpacking gear rental company to try out new gear or new features of a product, you can test if you like the product before you buy. Some backpacking gear can be a lot of money upfront so testing it first is a great idea. This is especially true for winter gear which can be significantly more expensive than 2 & 3-season gear.
Convience
Using a backpacking gear rental company to try out new gear or new features of a product can allow you to test if you like the product before you buy. Some backpacking gear can be a lot of money upfront so testing it first is a great idea. This is especially true for winter gear which can be significantly more expensive than 2 & 3-season gear.
Convenience
If you don’t backpack regularly or only need it for a special trip, it can be a convenient option if you don’t have storage space. Maybe your friend invites you on an epic backpacking trip in Glacier National Park in two weeks. It would be more convenient to rent your gear then buy it all in such a short period.
Specialized Gear
Renting gear can be a good option if you need specialized gear for a specific trip. Maybe you want to try out snowshoe backpacking, but don’t have winter gear. Maybe you’re backpacking in a place with bears and need a bear canister when you normally wouldn’t.
There are plenty of reasons to rent backpacking gear from not wanting to spend much money on new gear, to going on a camping trip that requires specialized gear. Let’s look at what gear to rent next!
What to Consider When Picking Backpacking Rental Gear
There is a lot of thought that goes into picking rental gear for your trip. For new backpackers it can be daunting to consider everything that goes into picking the right gear, choosing a rental company, and hitting the trail. Here is a condensed list of some things to consider when picking backpacking rental gear.
- Rental Company: There are so many different companies to choose from including large corporations like REI to local gear rental companies like Glacier Outfitters in Glacier National Park. I’ve rented bikes at Glacier Outfitters to bike Going-to-the-Sun Road and I HIGHLY recommend them!
- Gear Type: Consider the gear you want and need for the trip. If you have a preference for synthetic insulation or down. What size person tent do you need? Ensure that the rental company offers all of the gear that you need in one place.
- Gear Size: When you get to the rental company always check that the backpacking gear is the right fit and size for your needs. A backpacking pack that is too big or too small will be extremely uncomfortable on a long trek.
- Gear Condition: Before signing your rental agreement check the condition of the gear. I would even suggest blowing up your sleeping pad prior to hitting the trail to ensure it is in good working condition.
- Rental Fees: Understand all of the accrued fees prior to signing the rental agreement. While renting backpacking gear is much more affordable than buying everything, you don’t want to be surprised by hidden fees.
- Rental Period: When booking your gear and planning your trip, understand when you can pick up your rental gear and when you can drop it off. Is it only during business hours? That might impact your trek.
Opting for a backpacking gear rental as opposed to purchasing everything outright does take a little bit of consideration and planning, but in the long run, it will be worth it!
What Backpacking Gear to Rent
When it comes to choosing to go with a backpacking gear rental service rather than procuring all of your own gear, you will need to decide what you want to rent. While some gear rental companies will offer gear rental packages with everything you need to go backpacking, some will rent you just the gear you need.
Here is a short list of backpacking gear you can rent from most companies.
Backpacking Tents
Backpacking tents are significantly more lightweight and compact than standard camping tents. My favorite backpacking tent is in the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL series.
Backpacks
Your backpacking pack needs to be large enough to carry all of your gear and personal items. Backpacking gear rental companies should help you pick a bag that fits you well and will be comfortable on the trail. Osprey Backpacks are pretty common, but you could also try a Hyperlite backpack if you’re considering ultralight backpacking.
Sleeping Bags
If you do not own a backpacking-specific sleeping bag, you will need to rent one. Sleeping bags are made with backpacking in mind, because they are compact, lightweight, and have packable insulation.
Sleeping Pad
Your sleeping pad will make a significant difference in your comfort on the trail. Pick a sleeping pad that you will be comfortable on and don’t be afraid to test it out before agreeing to the rental.
Cooking Gear
Most cooking gear packages include a camp stove, pots or frying pans, and utensils. Rental companies offer cooking gear in different sizes and styles to fit your needs.
You will need to purchase fuel separately which is around $8.
Water Filters
Water filters are a necessity in the backcountry. There will be options for the type of filter that would best suit your preference. I would recommend a gravity filter for easy usability.
Headlamps
Rental companies offer headlamps for use which are a necessity in the backcountry. This is something you could easily bring yourself though!
Trekking Poles
Especially if you’re flying and don’t want to check a bag, trekking poles are a great piece of gear to rent as they are not allowed in carry-ons. If you’re new to backpacking I highly recommend renting trekking poles to help with balance.
Bear Canister
Many national parks will rent you a bear canister if you do not have one in an area they are required in, but you can also rent them from a backpacking gear rental company and get one that specifically fits your items.
GPS Device
Renting a GPS Device is gear for new backpackers or people not quite ready to splurge on this important piece of gear. If you do rent one from a rental company, consider asking if they can download your trail map onto the device.
Many rental companies will offer more gear than just backpacking gear. If you’re just going on a camping trip, they can also rent your things like camp chairs or a soft cooler. Have a list of gear you will need with you when you make the reservation to ensure you get everything you need.
What Gear to Bring of Your Own
When you utilize a backpacking gear rental company, you should always ask what type of gear you will need to bring or purchase of your own. While they can provide almost everything you need, there are a couple of items you will need to bring of your own or will want to purchase on your own.
When renting backpacking gear from a rental company, you will need to bring the following items on your own:
- Outdoor Apparel: Bring appropriate clothing for the weather conditions of your trip. I typically bring one outfit to hike in, one outfit to sleep in, and a rain and insulation layer.
- Footwear: Bring comfortable and sturdy hiking boots that are appropriate for the terrain. Break your shoes in before using them on your trip!
- Personal items: Pack your toiletries and medications in a small dry sack. Only bring what you need. It doesn’t make sense to carry a large container of shampoo on the trail. Use travel-sized containers for things like sunscreen.
- Food and Water: Bring enough food and water for the duration of your trip. You might be able to purchase backpacking meals at the gear rental place, but I would recommend showing up with all of the food you intend on bringing with you in a dry sack.
- Navigation: While you can rent a GPS Device from a rental company, also try to download the maps on your phone!
- First Aid Kits: You will likely be able to rent a first aid kit, but bringing your first aid kits means you can ensure you have appropriate gear and medications specifically for your needs.
As always, you can bring whatever gear you already own if it is appropriate for the terrain.
Reading Rental Agreements
Every rental company will have a different rental agreement. It is important to read through the rental agreement so you do not have any surprises! Here is a short list of things you need to look for in your rental agreement.
- Rental Period: Check the rental period and ensure that it aligns with the length of your trip. Specifically, look at the time. If you aren’t able to return the gear by the end of the day, you may need to extend the rental period an additional day. Are the rental periods for business hours only? Do they allow early morning entry to get gear?
- Rental Fees: Understand what the different fees are and what they are for. Additional charges include security deposits, cleaning fees, and late fees. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the payment schedule and the payment methods accepted. Many backpacking gear rental companies require the use of a credit card.
- Conditions of the Gear: Prior to signing the rental agreement, check the condition of the gear. Make sure that it is in good condition. If you notice any wear and tear, document it and bring it to the attention of the rental company before signing the agreement.
- Liability: Be aware of the responsibilities and liability clause in the agreement in the event of damage or loss of gear.
- Cancellation Policy: Be aware of the cancellation policy in case you need to cancel due to weather or travel. Do they offer a full refund or a partial refund?
- Insurance: Some rental companies will have an insurance fee to protect against gear damage and loss, however, you can also inquire about insuring it as well!
- Flat Rate: Some rental companies will offer a flat rate fee. Be aware of what is all included in the flat rate so you don’t have any unexpected charges.
Read the agreement carefully and ask if you have questions! A rental package can usually come along with a discounted rate rather than renting each piece of gear individually. Advanced reservations ensure the rental company has the gear you need, whereas a walk-in rental might procure a rush fee.
Rental Companies
There are so many rental companies to choose from, but I have included some well-known reputable gear rental companies and what they are specifically known for.
REI Co-Op
Probably one of the more popular gear rental companies in the Seattle Area, they have backpacking packages but also gear for other outdoor activities. You can rent the gear online and pick it up in-store. They have a huge variety of items to choose from so you can test out high-quality gear or opt for a cheaper option.
Outdoors Geek
Outdoors Geek is a backpacking gear rental company that is based online. You can pick your gear online and they will ship it to your door! They have everything you need from backpacking gear to DIY Glamping Gear. Based in Colorado they have nationwide shipping options! If you end up loving the gear, you can buy it at a discounted price.
LowerGear
LowerGear is based in Arizona and also ships gear nationwide. They have phenomenal rental options for individuals who only need a single person tent or group rentals. Their online interface is easy to use and their rental agreement is easy to read.
If you’re looking to explore Washington and rent gear, the Washington Trail Association has put together a comprehensive list of everywhere you can rent recreation equipment in the state of Washington. You can read the article here.
My best suggestion for finding a rental company in the city you’re traveling to is to search “backpacking gear rental in [city]”.
How much does it cost to rent backpacking gear?
Rental costs are going to vary significantly based on what you rent and for how long. There is usually an initial fee for day one, but every day after day one comes at a discounted rate. From what I have seen, renting a backpack can run from $15 – $25 a day, while a complete backpacking package could be anywhere from $145 – $300 for a two day trek.
Here are some examples of rental prices from popular rental companies:
- REI: Rental prices at REI are based on individual gear. Rental prices begin around $20 per day for a backpack and $30 for a tent. The package rate for all of the backpacking gear is discontent. If you are planning on renting gear for 10 or more people, you will need to call the REI you’re renting from and confirm availability. View REI Gear Rental Here!
- Outdoors Geek: Rental prices for a backpack begin at $25 a day and $35 for a tent. For their basic single-person package, gear rental begins at just under $150. They also offer couples backpacking rental packages and dog backpacking rental packages. View Outdoors Geek Gear Rental Here!
- LowerGear: The single-person backpacking package at LowerGear ranges from $170 – $270. This is dependent on the type of gear you include in your package. Higher-quality gear will be more expensive than basic gear. View LowerGear Backpacking Gear Rental Here!
Go to each of their pages to check out the exact pricing as everything is subject to change depending on the time-of-year, quality of gear, and availability of gear.
Pack It Up!
Embarking on a backpacking trip is an exciting adventure and the option of backpacking gear rental opens up significant opportunities for both new backpackers and seasoned backpackers. In this guide, we looked at why renting backpacking gear is an excellent option, from cost savings and convenience to having an opportunity to try before you buy.
Renting gear allows you to tailor your gear to your specific needs and trip! Choose a reliable gear rental company and be sure to read the rental agreement thoroughly to understand all costs.
Make a list of the gear you need to rent and the gear you will bring on your own. Make sure there is availability and secure your rental ahead of time!
If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below. Otherwise, enjoy your trek! You’re going to love it.
Meet the Author -
Sarah Borgen
I am an Educator and outdoor Enthusiast based out of Seattle and writer of Exploren Borgen! My adventures consist of weekends spent in the woods, on a hike, car camping, and taking a deep breath of fresh air. When not on an adventure, you can find me in a classroom teaching high school science! I love having a job that allows me to the opportunity to discuss things like conservation, sustainability, and accessibility.
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Meet the author
Sarah Borgen, AKA your outdoor bestie
I’m an outdoorsy educator and adventure advocate, which is why I’m passionate about creating resources – like blogs, guides, and interactive maps – to simplify your travels. I’m eager to share some of Washington’s greatest destinations and hidden gems with you.
