Taking in the outdoors is free, but really enjoying it can get quite expensive with all the outdoor gear one needs. This is where sale events like Amazon’s Prime Day and Big Deal Days are truly welcomed. You get the gear you want, the savings makes any gear more enjoyable, and your wallet is blessed with more cash to blow on the actual adventure.
The big question: is Amazon Prime Day really worth it for outdoor gear and how much can you actually save?
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When is Amazon Prime Day 2026?
| Event | Timing | What It’s Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Prime Day | June 23 – 26 | Entry-to-mid level brands in camping, gadgets, outdoor cooking & summer clothing |
What About Prime Big Deal Days 2026?
| Event | Timing | What It’s Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Big Deal Days | October (TBA) | Late-season clearance, cold-weather apparel, gifting & outdoor tech |
How To Shop Prime Day for Outdoor Gear
Here is a few hard-won rules so you actually save instead of just feeling like you saved:
- Check the price history before you trust the discount. Retailers love to bump a price up before a big sale, then “slash” it back to normal – so a “40% off” tag can be smoke. Run the product through a free tracker like CamelCamelCamel or Keepa (both have browser extensions) and look at the graph. If today’s price isn’t actually near its lowest point, it’s not a deal – it’s theatre!
- Make a list before the sale, not during. Prime Day is designed to make you buy things you didn’t need. Decide what you’re actually replacing or upgrading, and ignore the rest.
- Mid-tier brands are where the real Prime savings live. Coleman, Columbia, Olight, Solo Stove – these discounts meaningfully. Premium brands (YETI, Arc’teryx_ barely move; wait for their own sales or Black Friday.
- Add to your watchlist/cart early. Amazon shows you price drops on watched items when the sale hits – easier than hunting.
- Check the reviews, not just the discount. A cheap bad product is the most expensive thing you can buy.
- Don’t forget the trial. No Prime membership? The 30-day free trial covers the sale – just set a reminder to cancel if it’s not for you.
What We’re Watching This Year
Just like any sale, on Amazon Prime we’re watching for steep discounts on gear we love, but the wallet doesn’t. Since we’re already loaded with tents, chairs, coolers, and backpacks – we are going to focus on upgrading our sleeping bags, better camping lights, upgrade the power station and of course, outdoor clothes for the kiddies. I’m not sure if it’s cheaper to feed them or clothe them!?!
Amazon Prime FAQs
1. When is the next Prime Day?
June 23 – 26 is the next Prime day, followed by the Big Deal Days in October. Amazon will announce the dates closer to the event.
2. Is Prime worth it for outdoor gear?
Yes, if you love mainstream brands like Coleman, Columbia, Olight, Solo Stove, etc. No, if you’re into high-end gear like YETI, Arc’teryx, Patagonia, Big Agnes, etc. Here, you’re better off shopping directly during their sale events.
3. Do I need Prime to get the deals?
Yes – Prime Day deals require a membership, but Amazon offers a free 30-day trial you can cancel anytime.
4. Prime Day vs. Black Friday – which is better for gear?
My preference – Black Friday! You’ll find deeper discounts on higher-end brands during Black Friday. Brands like YETI only discount a small selection of products, usually on colours they want to clear out. If you can wait, shop Black Friday, if not, shop Amazon Prime for mid-brand gear or Amazon’s own line of tech and clothing.
Here’s the Gear We’ve Actually Tested, So You Know What’s Worth Watching For:
- JetBoil Flash Java Kit Review: sweet little stove that will have you drinking coffee in 100 seconds
- 5.11 Rush 24 2.0 Review: the pack that takes a beating and still holds your gear together
- Big Agnes Skyline UL Review: the chair light enough to backpack with
- Rugged Road 45 Review: our favourite cooler to haul – lightweight & floating
- YETI Rambler Bowls: keeps the bugs away and food cold in style
- YETI LoadOut GoBox 1: the mini gear case I want as a gift
👉 What Amazon Prime pieces are you eyeing or most likely to take advantage of?
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