Many moons ago, there weren't very many thrift stores around, but there were "army surplus" stores in abundance - happy hunting grounds for impoverished college students looking for decent outdoor gear.

A lot was actually quite decent, although heavier than the top of the line civvie gear. When I became mil surp myself,and began to earn some money, I was happy to get lighter, brighter gear. But the militry stuff worked.

Keep your eyes open and you can find some fabulous bargains in thrift stores