A great site for finding stuff on Craigslist is www.craigshelper.com you put in your zip code, a distance, and a search term. the site then checks every Craigslist within that distance, and returns your items. it's a great time saver.

also, check out REI stores for their returns dept, lots of virtually new stuff cheap. some people abuse REI by buying stuff, using it on one trip, then returning it for a full refund.