If you love spending time in the outdoors, like I do, then you know that there is nothing you would rather have than the right outdoor gear for every activity you love. There is no gift you would rather receive on Christmas or your birthday than an addition to your collection of outdoor gear. You search the internet and catalogs for it and you frequent the stores that sell outdoor gear. You cannot help it, you just love being in the outdoors and having the outdoor gear to prove it.

Hopefully you take time to really develop a passion for an outdoor sport or leisure activity before you run out and purchase all the proper equipment. Take advice from someone who has done that too many times - don't do it. I know how hard it is after a great experience to not want all of the outdoor gear to do it like a professional, but wait. Try out the activity several times before make a decision about purchasing the gear.

Before you decide to make a big purchase try renting the outdoor gear for your favorite activities or ask a friend to borrow theirs. This will not only help you save money for a little longer on gear but it will also provide you with the benefit of trying out different kinds of outdoor gear before you settle in on what is best for you. After a process of trial and error you can make a responsible purchase because you know the exact variety of outdoor gear that you like.

Consider too, whether this newly found activity will be something you love for many years to come or if perhaps it is just a fleeting hobby. If you sense that your interest in this sport or activity may decrease over time you may be able to purchase less expensive or less technical outdoor gear. I know it may feel tough, but come to grips with the fact that you will probably not be an expert at every outdoor activity you enjoy. Try to choose one or two activities at a time to really throw your time, energy, and money into.

Once you narrow the field of activities that you really love and after you have taken time to borrow or rent the outdoor gear you can begin to purchase what you like. It is important to be selective and choosy as you shop. We all know the frustration of not having just the right outdoor gear. Shop at a store, usually the smaller the better, that has a staff of knowledgeable employees that have actually done the activities you are inquiring about. Make sure that the outdoor gear you purchase has a fair return policy or even a warranty in case of any problems.

All that is left to do is enjoy your new outdoor gear! Enjoy that first weekend getaway and put that new outdoor gear to good use. You know your next purchase of outdoor gear is probably just a little while away, so enjoy what your newest purchase while it is still new.