We all want the camping shops and tent displays to be there, because its so important to see a tent up if at all possible before taking the plunge, and often their staff can offer helpful on the spot advice. Also, any aftersales support needed is likely to be easier to access. But their prices are unavoidably higher because of overheads, staff costs etc.
We all want to avoid spending more than we have to so go scavenging around t'internet looking for the cheapest price we can find.
But, if we all buy off the internet then at some point the shops will cease to be.
So, how do you decide what to do? One compromise is to buy from the internet/mail order arm of a shop-based company, I guess.
Any thoughts? MT
------------- Tackling life the Western District way
We ....or rather I do the research on the net and then drag the OH off to take a look before buying. Sometimes there are discounts if you buy online, so its worth looking around.
Delivery costs do tend to put me off a bit sometimes though...
Some shops sell on the net as well, PJ Camping in Essex have a very good display and their prices are very good we didnt find cheaper on the net when we brought our Vario 900
tbh, camping goods seem to be more of a specialist commodity which means that most of the websites are run by forward-thinking shops looking for an extra outlet. Unlike dvd's, hi-fi's and cd's i think this is how it will continue which gives the best of both worlds really allowing, as rodauk says, the buyer to have a browse, compare the prices and then take the plunge.
I've not come across any sites offering permanently cheaper prices over the internet as compared to their shelves, the odd one will give free delivery and some sell on ebay which can make it cheaper (but sometimes not).
My tip is to find your local shop who will offer a price-match and use them, easy to return and keeps your local business ticking over
I am always worried about returning faulty goods if you buy on the internet. Particularly large/heavy items like tents/stoves. It's easier to go in and plonk something down on the counter and ask for a refund than have to phone up, sort out a courier, pay return postage and hope they'll send you a replacement/refund asap. Having said that I have done both, I have bought lots of smaller items from internet suppliers and had no problems, even bought a tent as the one I wanted was much cheaper online, also wasn't available in my local shop. Do prefer to use my local shop though.
I've always used local shops and not found that much of a difference in prices. O.K, you might save the odd tenner buying the tent via the internet but compare that with the benefit of building a good relationship, getting great advice and, generally, a much better level of service.
Many places will price match genuine internet sites and also do good deals on any ancilliary items bought at the same time.
Think I've just been very lucky then, living in Glasgow there are a couple of Camping shops but nothing much. Tiso is a great shop tho.
I like to do my research on the net then scour the for best price. TBH I have gotten my last 2 tents from Outdoor Action and never had a prob and the postage costs arent too bad.
When we do get away (mostly stay in Scotland) and there are always great wee camp shops and it's there I buy the 'bits N bobs stuff.
It depends on the price diference between the Internet (the true cost inc delivery) and the shop. I don't mind paying a little more at the shop for looking at an item.
I have found that sometimes in the past the shops will match the Internet prices if you tell them the price you could get it for.
------------- Big Bunny
Robens Valley Lodge & Cabanon Pyramide 6 "... kids you distract the bear, while I run to the car...."
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Shop vs Tinternet
