One other thing that jacked me once: shipping prices. You'll find something for a great deal, and find a ridiculous $20 shipping charge tacked on.

Also, for anything waterproof, ask and make sure it is! My Gore-tex bivy bag isn't (yet). Waiting for my patches to come in...

I've made some great buys on EBay - and a few horrible ones too. Usually, I will look for an item, then price shop Amazon, REI, Etc., to compare prices then bid to get the best deal.

The seller who specializes in the market you are buying from may not have the best price (higher starting price, higher shipping, great descriptions).

If you can find someone who sells stuff that's all over the map - often they don't describe the item well (try misspelling key words for the item in your search). They also may not have their shipping estimates dialed in and you can get the shipping cheap too.

Do your homework and scour EBay for where the bargains might be hiding.

Good evening,

Thanks for the Ebay tips folks, I have purchase 3 items so far and the experience has been all good.

It seems like a great way to buy new/used outdoor equipment, especially when you live in an out-of-the-way location.

Mike