Crew Picks: Essential Outdoor Gear

Whether you’re just getting started hiking or trying to take your outdoor skills to the next level, figuring out what gear you really need can be a challenge. Fortunately our team of experts have tried it all. Seriously, you should see our gear closets – they’re preeeetty ridiculous. Below the essentials that will make your next hike or backpacking trip epic. They also make great gifts for your favorite outdoorsperson.

A Lightweight Sleep System

If you’ve ever been caught off guard by cold weather, you know that an efficient sleep system is critical to a good night’s sleep. We love pairing an insulated inflatable pad with a down sleeping bag for a duo that’s lightweight, comfortable, and will hold up to years on the trail.
1- Klymit Static V Insulated Pad – $84.95
2- Klymit KSB 35 Down Sleeping Bag – $199.95

Safety Essentials

Being responsible in the outdoors means not only avoiding dangerous situations, but being prepared if things do go wrong. A compact filter and first aid kit are great item to keep in your pack just in case you or another hiker run into unexpected issues.
3- Sawyer Micro Squeeze Filter – $29.99
4- Hart Multiday First Aid Kit – $36.50

A Just Right Pack

If you want to enjoy your time outdoors, a pack that fits properly is vital. We love the 45 liter Stout and Amber packs from Gregory for their great fit and lifetime warranty. If you haven’t been fitted for a pack or could use a refresher course on proper fit, stop by. Our crew will be happy to fit you in a new pack or adjust your current one.
5- Gregory Stout 45 Pack – $159.95

Let There Be Light

A headlamp is an obvious choice for backpacking, but it’s a good idea to keep one on hand for day hikes too. If you run into an unexpected issue or sudden foul weather, you’ll be grateful for a light source.  The Petzl Actic headlamp is a crew favorite because of it’s seriously bright 350 lumen setting.
6- Petzl Actic 350 Headlamp – $49.95

A Lightweight Luxury

We’re in agreement, while you should work to purge your pack of unnecessary items, there’s room for one or two little luxuries that will make the backcountry feel like home. Since a love of the outdoors and appreciation for a good cuppa joe seem to go hand in hand, most of our crew opts for a lightweight filter for pour over.
7- GSI Ultralight Java Drip – $9.95

A Cozy Abode

A good backcountry shelter should be lightweight, easy to set up, and durable. The Kestrel 2 from Peregrine checks all of those boxes.
8- Peregrine Kestrel 2 Person Tent – $299.99

Self Care Must Haves

Your most important hiking equipment is your body, so taking care of it should be a priority. Supportive footwear that fits well will prevent injuries and blisters and make hiking a whole lot more fun. Stop by and our crew will be happy to fit you and answer all of your burning footwear questions. Trekking poles make uphills a lot easier and downhills much more low impact. We think everyone should use them, but if you tend to have joint pain they are essential.
9- Columbia Newton Ridge Plus – $90.00
10- Kelty Range 2.0 Trekking Poles – $59.95
Subscribe to our newsletter for once-a-week sales, new arrivals, and tips.
/by

Sneak a Peek at Black Friday Deals

The holidays will be here before you know it, and to be honest we’re pretty excited. We’ve spent the last several months scouring the country for Frugal Finds to share with you, and we think you’re gonna love what we’ve come up with! We’ll be announcing new deals as Thanksgiving gets closer, so check back regularly.

Monday, November 25th

30% off any one footwear item

Get your feet ready for winter with a new pair of boots or some cozy socks. Sunday evening we’ll be sending a coupon to our Frugal Insiders for 30% off any one footwear item – valid Monday only.

Insider only deal, sign up for our emails to make sure you get a coupon.

Tuesday, November 26th

30% off any one apparel item

Treat yo’ self to a new jacket or find the perfect flannel for dad. Monday evening we’ll be emailing out a coupon to our Frugal Insiders for 30% off any one apparel item – valid Tuesday only.

Insider only deal, sign up for our emails to make sure you get a coupon.

Wednesday, November 27th

30% off any one gear item

Get your favorite outdoor lover geared up or get ready to make your New Years Resolution to get outside more a reality. Tuesday evening we’ll be emailing out a coupon to our Frugal Insiders for 30% off any one gear item – valid Wednesday only.

Insider only deal, sign up for our emails to make sure you get a coupon.

 

Black Friday, November 29th

Open in Asheville from 9am – 7pm; Greenville from 10am – 6pm

Frugal Backpacker Superlight Hammock with Straps – $34.99 (was: $59.99)

To put the Frugal Backpacker name on a product it has to be high quality and an awesome value. We’re super proud to be launching our very first Frugal Backpacker brand gear on Black Friday. This stylish hammock is made up of durable super-light ripstop parachute material and it comes with incredibly tough daisy-chain style webbing straps. A similar hammock with straps would be $100, but on Black Friday you can snag ours for under $40!

Valid Friday + Saturday – while supplies last.

 

Simple Modern Straw Lid Water Bottles – $9.99 (was: $20.99)

These durable double wall insulated bottles will keep your water ice cold all day long. Plus, Simple Modern donates 10% of their profits to worthy causes – it’s a gift you can feel good about.

Valid Friday + Saturday – while supplies last.

Mountain Hardwear Kor Strata Vest – $89.00 (was: $150.00)

This warm insulated vest features a sleek look that can go from trail to town without skipping a beat.

 

Handmade Mukluks – $9.99 (was: $24.99)

These toasty slippers are perfect for fighting winter chill.

 

Polarmax Baselayer Tops & Bottoms for the whole family

Men’s + Women’s Synthetic – $27.99 (was: $40.00)

Kid’s Synthetic – $19.99 (was: $27.00)

Men’s + Women’s Merino – $49.99 (was: $70.00)

Winter hikes and days on the slopes call for moisture wicking layers. These made in America baselayer tops and bottoms will keep the whole family dry, warm, and happy, no matter what winter throws your way.

Valid Friday + Saturday – while supplies last.

Mountain Hardwear Monkey Woman Grid Hoodie – $119 (was: $200)

This fleece is both sumptuously plush and lightweight. We love the slim underarm panels that make layering a breeze.

Valid Friday + Saturday – while supplies last.

Gerber Multitool Combo – $17.00 (was: $33.00)

This handy knife + keychain multitool combo is a perfect stocking stuffer.

Valid Friday + Saturday – while supplies last.

 

Sherpa Lined Throw Blankets – $24.99 (was: $49.99)

Valid Friday + Saturday – while supplies last.

Stay tuned for even more savings.

Saturday, November 30th

Open in Asheville from 9am – 7pm; Greenville from 10am – 6pm

#OptLocal on Small Business Saturday. We’ll be continuing our awesome Friday savings while supplies last.

Sunday, December 1st

Stay tuned for surprise savings.

/by

Crew Picks: 10 Trails We Love

Looking for a great place to get outdoors? When they aren’t helping customers gear up at Frugal, our gearheads are busy exploring local trails. Here are 10, ranging from easy to challenging, that have their stamp of approval.

View of Rainbow Falls

View of Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls – If stunning waterfalls and winding trails are your thing, Marie’s favorite hike,  Rainbow Falls is a must-do. This moderate 5 mile hike provides just the right amount of challenge.

Ravencliff Falls

Raven Cliff Falls – One of Isaac’s favorites, Raven Cliff Falls is a great hike for options. This trail can be done as a 3.8 mile out-and-back or a more challenging 7.7 mile loop. Both options offer incredible views.

View from the Chimneys

View from the Chimneys

The Chimneys – Originating from the Table Rock Picnic Area, this 1.5 mile hike is a family friendly trail that offers a 360 degree vantage point of Table Rock and the surrounding mountains.

Falls Creek Falls alive with fall color

Falls Creek Falls – This oft overlooked hike at Jones Gap State Park is one of Jess’s favorites. This out-and-back is just 1.7 miles, but what it lacks in length, it makes up for in difficulty and solitude.

Table Rock’s elevation gain is no joke

Table Rock – Featuring a 2,000′ elevation gain, this strenuous 6.6 mile hike is not for the faint of heart.  But those who brave it will be rewarded unbeatable views, a great workout, and serious bragging rights.

View from Lover’s Leap

Lover’s Leap – The picturesque AT hub of Hot Springs, NC tends to quiet down over the winter, making it a perfect day or weekend getaway. Hannah recommends enjoying a picnic atop Lover’s Leap and then unwinding in the town’s namesake natural hot springs.

Carl Sandburg’s lakefront home offers plenty of hikes

Big Glassy Mountain – Carl Sandburg’s home is just over the border in Flat Rock, NC and offers plenty of well maintained trails. One of our favorite’s is Big Glassy, a 3.2 mile out-and-back that’s perfect for a mountain top picnic. On your way back down the mountain, stop at the goat barn – in spring you might see newborn goats.

Looking Glass in Fall

Looking Glass Rock – A challenging 6.4 miles climb will take you to the top of one of the most iconic features in Pisgah National Forest. Make it to the summit and you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views of the area. Savannah loves this trail so much that she got engaged there.

Pink Beds has plenty of unique flora

Pink Beds Loop – If a relaxing walk in the woods is what you seek, Pink Beds is the place to be. The trail is a 5 mile loop through gently rolling hills, open fields, and wetlands with unique flora. It’s conveniently located near the beginning of Pisgah National Forest. We recommend stopping at Oskar Blues for a post hike pint.

Mt. Pisgah alive with greenery

Mount Pisgah – This 3 miler is a great place to stop on a day trip to Asheville. It’s close to town and offers unmarred views of Shining Rock Wilderness, Cold Mountain, The Great Smoky Mountains, and Mount Mitchell.

Subscribe to our newsletter for once-a-week sales, new arrivals, and tips.

/by

The Ultimate Frugal Gift Guide

Kiss gifting stress goodbye! Our team of experts has put together a list of gifts that are sure to wow with options for every budget.

Gifts $20 and Under

Small budget? No worries! These gifts are sure to make your buds feel special. They also make awesome stocking stuffers.

  1. UST Flexware Bowl – $4.99 – This cleverly designed bowl folds down flat, so it’s easy to have on hand. It’s popular among avid campers and dog lovers alike.
  2. Luci Lux – $19.99 – This inflatable solar light is great for friends who love to hang outside.
  3. Floppy Friends Sloth – $9.99 – Let’s get real. Who doesn’t love sloths? This precious plush will score points with all the kids on your list.
  4. Enamel & Co Mama Bear Mug – $16.25 – Because the tough mamas on your list could use some caffeine – trust us.
  5. Simple Modern Ascent Bottle – $18.99 – This double wall bottle keeps beverages seriously cold. It’s the perfect gift for that friend who’s trying to cut down on their plastic usage.
  6. GSI Java Drip – $9.95 – For your friend who’s, well, a little bit of a coffee snob. This lightweight pour over will let them make a superior cuppa joe on the trail, on the road, or wherever they happen to be.
  7. Sawyer Mini Filter – $19.95 – For efficient filtration, it doesn’t get much better than the Sawyer Mini. This compact filter can be used to pre-filter into the included soft bottle or inline on a bladder, so you’ll never be without fresh water.
  8. GSI Nesting Wineglass Set – $14.95 – These compact wine glasses are just right for those friends who love romantic picnics.
  9. Siberian Sky Beanie – $20.00 – This colorful beanie is sure to brighten up even the gloomiest of winter days.

Gifts $50 and Under

  1. Killtech Kids’ Naveon Fleece – $21.00 – This lightweight fleece is just the right weight for little explorers.
  2. Columbia Kids’ Fluffy Fleece – $39.99 – Your favorite snuggle bug won’t be able to resist this plushy fleece hoodie.
  3. Columbia Snow More Gaiter & Hat – $30.00 – Cozy? Check. Adorable? Check. It doesn’t get much more fun than this cute set!
  4. Arcade Ranger Belt – $26.00 – This stretchy belt is metal free and low profile – perfect for backpacking and travel.
  5. Columbia Lost Lager Beanie – $25.00 – This toasty beanie is the epitome of classic.
  6. Wolverine Plainwell Plaid – $34.99 –  This rugged plaid offers Wolverine durability for a frugal price.
  7. Stanley Two Bowl Adventure Cookset – $40.00 – This compact cookset has everything that even the most “extra” backpacker needs.
  8. Stanley 7 Qt Adventure Cooler – $45.00 – Ice for days in a compact size. Your favorite fisherman or beach bum will love this tough cooler.
  9. Pudus Classic – $24.99 – Even Oprah is a fan of these snuggly socks. They come in dozens of prints and are sure to be a hit with everyone on your list.

Gifts $100 and Under

  1. Kelty Range 2.0 Trekking Poles – $59.95 – Trekking poles reduce fatigue and really take your hiking to the next level. This is a great gift for your friend who wants to try new trails.
  2. Killtech Caddry Fleece – $72.00 – German brand, Killtech, has been making quality outdoor gear for decades. We’re huge fans of this sleek fleece.
  3. Columbia Powder Lite Down Jacket – $99.99 – This classic insulated jacket offers superior warmth at an unbeatable value.
  4. Klymit Static V Sleeping Pad – $54.95 – This plush sleeping pad is incredibly light. Thanks to its v-shaped channels it maintains its loft all night long. We love it for the camper who doesn’t want to sacrifice on comfort.
  5. Columbia Kids’ Powder Lite Down Hoodie – $84.99 – This toasty jacket can stand up to even the chilliest of snow days.
  6. Camelbak Lobo Hydration Pack – $100.00 – With a 100 oz bladder and a helmet compatible design, this hydration pack is perfect for your favorite mountain biker.
  7. Mountainsmith Trippin’ Day Pack – $59.95 – We dig this pack’s vintage charm. It makes a great commuter, hiking, or travel pack.

Gifts $100 and Up

  1. Tidal Coast Kayak Package – $419.30 – This sit on top kayak package is an awesome deal. For less than $500 you get a kayak, paddle, and deluxe seat.
  2. Mountainsmith Bear Creek 2 Tent – $139.95 – This lightweight + super breathable tent is a great value, and is sure to be a hit with your favorite camper.
  3. Columbia Bugaboot II – $110.00 – These insulated boots are ready for whatever winter throws their way.
  4. Kelty Cosmic 20 Sleeping Bag – $169.95 – Kelty calls this down bag a “unicorn at a pony price” and we’re inclined to agree. This bag offers compact down construction loaded with clever features (we love the stash pocket), at half the price of similar bags.
  5. Deuter Air Contact 65 + 10 Pack – $280.00 – This pack has plenty of room for extended trips, and features Deuter’s lifetime warranty. We love the breathable Air Contact back panel.
  6. Columbia Heavenly Omni Heat Boots – $140.00 – These waterproof + insulated boots will keep your feet dry and happy in temps down to -25F. The furry lining takes the cozy factor to the next level.
/by

Favorite Hikes: Table Rock

Difficulty – Strenuous

Distance – 6.6 miles out-and-back

Directions to Trailhead – Take SC-183, Hester Store Rd and SC-135 N to New Hope Rd in Pickens County 34 min (21.3 mi). Turn left onto New Hope Rd 4 min (2.4 mi). Turn left onto SC-11 S 2 min (2.1 mi). Turn left on W Gate Rd to Table Rock State Park Rd.

Dog Friendly – Yes. Make sure to keep your dog on a leash.

When you think of SC mountains, you probably think of Table Rock. This iconic mountain offers sweeping views of Greenville’s watershed and surrounding mountains, and is just a 15 minute drive from Travelers Rest. Plus, at just under 7 miles, it’s a fantastic workout. Water sources are scarce on this trail, so be sure to bring plenty of water. Because Table Rock has pretty steep elevation changes, a pair of trekking poles will make this hike much more enjoyable. Trust us, your knees will thank you.

 

/by