At Outdoor Essentials Shop, we stand behind our gear like we stand behind our campfire cooking. If your purchase doesn’t meet your expectations on the trail or at basecamp, we’ll make it right. Below is our straightforward return and exchange process designed for adventurers by adventurers.

Our Return Policy

We accept returns within 15 days of delivery for most items in new, unused condition with original packaging (tags still attached, gear unused). Some items have special considerations:

Non-Returnable Items:

  • Care & Repair Kits (once opened, these become personal hygiene items)
  • Footprints (custom-cut for specific tent models)
  • Hydration Packs (for hygiene reasons, must be unused)
  • Any item showing signs of use or missing original packaging

The Return Process (Simpler Than Reading a Topo Map)

  1. Request Authorization: Email us at [email protected] within 15 days of receiving your order with:
    • Your order number
    • Item(s) you wish to return
    • Reason for return
  2. Receive Instructions: We’ll email you a Return Authorization Number (RAN) and shipping instructions within 2 business days.
  3. Pack It Up: Securely package the item(s) with original packaging and include a copy of your order confirmation.
  4. Ship It Back: Send the package to our Chicago headquarters (address below) using a trackable shipping method.

Return Shipping Costs

Customers are responsible for return shipping costs unless the return is due to our error (wrong item shipped or defective product). We recommend using a trackable shipping service – trails may be unmarked, but your return shouldn’t be!

Exchange Process

Need a different size or color? Follow the same steps as returns, but specify you’d like an exchange. If the new item costs more, we’ll invoice you for the difference. If it costs less, we’ll refund the difference.

Refund Information

Once we receive and inspect your return (typically within 5 business days):

  • Refunds will be processed to your original payment method
  • Credit card/PayPal refunds appear in 3-5 business days
  • Original shipping fees are non-refundable

Return Request Template

Copy and paste this template into your email to [email protected]:

Subject: Return Request for Order #[Your Order Number] Hello Outdoor Essentials Team, I’d like to request a return/exchange for my recent order (#[Your Order Number]). Item(s) for return: – [Product Name] – [Size/Color if applicable] Reason for return: [Change of mind/Defective/Wrong item received/etc.] Please let me know next steps. I’ve reviewed the return policy at aboutyoucamping.com and confirm the item is in new, unused condition with original packaging. Best, [Your Full Name] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number – optional]

Return Address

Outdoor Essentials Shop
917 Evergreen Lane
Chicago, IL 60290
USA

Pro Tip: Consider keeping the original box for valuable items like backpacks or camp furniture until you’re sure they’re trail-ready!

Questions? Our gear experts are faster than a marmot spotting your snacks – email us at [email protected].

Happy trails and happy returns,
The Outdoor Essentials Shop Team