Outfitter Prices

imported
#1

My wife and I are planning on walking the AT this year starting in July. As we will be starting in summer and ending in winter, we will need to pick up a full set of winter clothing at some point. We would prefer to buy what we need at the appropriate time rather than bring a whole heap across from NZ and then have the additional hassle of posting it all on monthly until we need it. But then this raises the issue of prices. I have seen some indication that the outfitters on the trail are rather expensive. How did people find them? (Note that in selecting gear, we look for utility value and cost and place nil importance on brand names).

David

#2

You’re right, outfitters along the trail often mark up prices, especially for popular items. Not all, but some. Best bet is to order your gear over the internet, from a reliable online retailer.

Bear Wrastler

#3

One attractive option is to order your clothing & equipment during your hike from Campmor - a huge discount Outfitter located in New Jersey. They will ship to any address on the Trail (P.O. General Delivery or private address). You can call them from any payphone @ 1-888-campmor or order online @ www.campmor.com

I have used them on many thru-hikes (A.T. & P.C.T.) and have always been satisfied.

happy trails!

freebird

#4

CAMPMOR!!!
:cheers

southpaw

#5

Since you are stating in july I assume you are going southbound, I’d l;ike to suggest that you might be better served by stopping in NJ and trying to get a ride to campmor. you can then get on sale items and clothes that will fit you better. HAVE A GREAT HIKE

mr magoo

#6

Why not contact John Craig (Kiwi AT’03) at john.craig@clear.net.nz for some advice about getting gear in the US. If you are going to start in Maine, let me know if I can help you get to the big K since I live in western Maine. finch@megalink.net (207.597.2604)
I have used Campmor to ship gear for a hike in Arizona and it worked well.
Finch

Thomas Hamilton

#7

there’s a big campmoor store in Pennsylvania, around Port Clinton I think.

i don’t really think the prices at the trailside outfitters were any more outrageous then any other outfitter’s outrageous prices. the trailside outfitters just seem not to carry the low-end gear and offer up only the most expensive versions of things.

0101

#8

Thankyou all for your replys. They have been most helpful. We will aim to take all our basic stuff from New Zealand and only buy to supplement and to replace worn out gear.
0101 - Thanks. I suspected as much.
Thomas - Had dinner with John a few weeks ago and we are planing on doing so again in a few weeks - before we leave for the AT and he leaves for the Bibulmun (Australia).
Thanks all for the info on Campmor. I had not come accross them.

David