Brits are turning to second-hand camping gear as rising travel costs push holidaymakers towards cheaper UK staycations, with new data from Gumtree revealing a 42% month-on-month increase in camping-related searches in April 2026.
Demand is being driven by essential kit, with camping tables (+81%), camping chairs (+70%), tents (+44%) and camping stoves (+38%) among the most searched for categories, as consumers look to cut the cost of getting outdoors**.
The trend comes as 78% of UK adults plan a domestic overnight trip in the next 12 months, with over half (55%) believing UK holidays are now the more affordable option*. With festival season and Bank Holidays approaching, camping is fast emerging as one of the most accessible and cost-effective ways to get away.
Andy Harper, CEO at Gumtree, said: “Camping is fast becoming one of the most affordable ways for Brits to get away this summer, and we’re seeing a clear shift towards second-hand first as people look to cut costs.
At the same time, it’s a big opportunity for sellers. A lot of this gear is only used once or twice, so people can easily turn unused items into extra cash while helping others enjoy the outdoors for less.”
People are looking for the full camping set-up and not just browsing tents. Shoppers can save hundreds of pounds by opting for pre-loved over new.
Gumtree data shows the scale of potential savings across key camping categories:
| Item | Avg new retail price | Avg price on Gumtree | Pre-loved savings | % Saving |
| Tents | £518.00 | £91.55 | £426.45 | 82% |
| Sleeping bags | £88.00 | £18.40 | £69.60 | 79% |
| Camping beds (Airbeds, pop-up bed’s, sleeping mats etc.) | £92.00 | £18.75 | £73.25 | 80% |
| Camping Stoves & Cooking Equipment | £96.00 | £21.40 | £74.60 | 78% |
| Camping furniture (chairs, tables, etc.) | £89.00 | £17.20 | £71.80 | 80% |
Average retail prices vs second-hand camping equipment on Gumtree*
Sourced across leading camping brands
For many, the appeal goes beyond affordability. The trend reflects a broader shift towards more flexible, low-commitment travel, particularly among first-time campers and those planning one-off trips for festivals, Bank Holiday weekends or summer getaways.
The surge is also creating a major resale opportunity. Garages, sheds and cupboards across the UK are filled with lightly-used camping gear, often bought for a single trip and rarely used again. As demand grows ahead of summer, sellers are increasingly cashing in on unwanted equipment while helping others access affordable outdoor essentials.
Tips for buying second-hand camping gear on Gumtree:
- Check images closely for wear and tear, especially tents, seams and zips
- Message sellers to confirm condition and usage history
- Ask whether items have been used at festivals or for occasional trips
- Ensure all components (poles, pegs, bags) are included
- Choose between local collection for those bulky items or consider delivery – small camping equipment such as camp kettles can be delivered straight to your door, local stores or secure lockers
Tips for selling and decluttering camping gear:
- Use clear, high-quality images showing all components
- Be transparent about condition, including any wear and tear
- Highlight key features such as waterproofing or brand quality
- Price competitively based on similar listings
- List early to capitalise on peak camping and festival demand
Whether you’re planning your first camping trip or looking to turn unused gear into extra cash, Gumtree makes it easy for both buyers and sellers to benefit – helping holidaymakers access affordable kit while enabling households to declutter ahead of the summer season.
