First-time campers are often at a loss about where to buy cheap camping equipment and how well it will stand up against more expensive equipment apart from wondering how the outdoor experience will be. Much of camping fun is determined by the quality of camping equipment used and while buying the equipment, there are downfalls to cheap camping gear, which can be avoided; we cover some for you.

First-time campers can save a bit on investment in camping gear by asking around in the family circle or among buddies if they can borrow the equipment they have; however, they also need to be prepared to be turned down as many persons having purchased quality camping equipment may not like loaning it. Among the risks associated with borrowing costly camping tool is damage the tent or causing the camp-stove to burn besides the normal hesitancy in asking for the loan of the stuff; this makes it ideal to opt buying cheap camping tools instead.

Large shopping malls such as K-Mart or Wal-Mart are great choices for purchase of cheap camping gear, with basic camping equipment available within a wide range of budget-frames. The only up-side to cheap camping equipment is the lowered price tag, but there's not much coming your way as far as durability is concerned as this type tends to disassemble - on you sometimes - and is thus avoidable for those that intend going on more camping holidays. With a little bit of camping experience under the belt, avid campers can look forward to investing in more expensive and long-lasting items in camping gear as buying cheap camping gear lacks durability and causes adds up to more expenses, in the long run (constant replacements burn a hole in the pocket). Thus, it's advisable to wait until you are a seasoned camper and then buy the more dependable camping gear as opposed to bypassing cheap camping gear for the more expensive variety at first-go as this will get you your money's worth as time goes by!

The downside to cheap camping gear is that it may be defective and ruin the outdoor experience for you but if looking out right for cost-effective, sturdy and cheap camping gear basics: cooking stove, tent, sleeping bag and camping cookware, forethought will prove useful in making a smart purchase. There are better quality alternatives available too, though these come at a higher price, but for the avid camper, these are worth the money and the wait.

Beginning with the basics: zero in on a light, water-proof tent that comes with easy to install instructions besides being quick to assemble; similarly, your choice of sleeping bag needs to be comfy, cozy and simple fold-variety so it's easy to store. Many campsites have strict rules about no open-fires, so buying a stove is a good idea and to go with it, you can pick up a few basic pots, pans and cutlery isn't the tinfoil variety for you surely don't want to taste scraped-off metal in your camp-out meal. Wait and buy good quality camping gear over cheap camping gear, recommend experts.