Outdoors

This makes a lot of sense. To @UXAndrew's point, I never go camping, in part because I don't have a tent, mobile BBQ, etc. That said, since this is targeted for the recreational/infrequent camper, it may be challenging to turn Outdoors into a big business. You might rent equipment once or twice a year but as soon as you become a serious camper, you're likely going to purchase your own gear.

Rent to own got a bad wrap in pre-Internet days because it felt like paying 3X for something you should probably save for... Internet layaway is an interesting concept, and I'm not sure if I've seen any company ever successfully pull it off... For example, what if, like @rrhoover mentioned I could rent twice a year for 20 bucks each time (40 dollars I never get back) or rent twice a year for 25 dollars with the extra 10 dollars going toward any future purchase? Wouldn't you think to yourself "Okay, it's 5 more bucks and eventually I might want a tent and why not?" Then when you did want to buy a tent, where would you go?

@rauston meet @alyraz ! ....Cooperation between you two would be killer!! Not only could I rent an amazing campsite, bu I could bring some sick gear as well!

I think gear has a lot to do with the experience! Actually, at least for me, building a campsite was always as enjoyable as being in nature. I don't love nature (Inside is the best side!!), but I do love building a tent and making a fire. Having been in the army, I know how much poor gear impacts performance too. I wish they had your product here! Let me know if I can ever help you :-)

I posted this because about once or twice a year I think "Wow, I should go camping..." and I never do because it's always such a production. I don't own a tent or a sleeping bag, only some of my friends do, etc. etc. etc. I wish there was a service near me that had this kind of thing so I could just rent some equipment for a weekend and go have a nice time. Outdoors equipment is expensive, but renting it shouldn't have to be.

Thanks for sharing @UXAndrew. Our goal is simple...make it easier for people to have outdoor experiences. At the end of the day, it's the experience that's important, not the gear.

I dig this. Would also be good for snow sports, where the barrier to entry is pretty high and could include clothes.