Okay, let’s get straight into how I actually scored sweet deals on theoutdoorstrader, none of that vague theory stuff. I was itching for a new lightweight pack without blowing my budget, so I dove in headfirst.
Step One: Stalking The Place Like A Hawk
I made this my morning coffee ritual, every single day. Just opened the site and hit refresh on the backpack section. No fancy searches at first, just scanning everything new. You gotta know what’s usually out there before you spot the actual steal. Took notes on normal prices for brands I wanted – Osprey, Hyperlite – boring, but necessary groundwork.
Step Two: Setting The Trap
Right, so I knew roughly what a “fair” price looked like. Time to get specific. Used the Saved Searches trick. Filtered hard: “Osprey,” “45-55L,” condition “Like New” or “Excellent.” Saved that search. Boom. Got email alerts whenever something matching popped up. No more manual refreshing madness. Also set alerts for “Hyperlite Mountain Gear” – gotta cast a wide net.
Step Three: Moving Faster Than Lightning
Here’s the kicker: good deals vanish fast. Saw an alert for an Osprey Atmos AG 50 in “Like New.” Price? Almost stupidly low. Didn’t waffle, didn’t “think about it.” Slammed that “Message Seller” button immediately. My opener?
- “Hey, is the Atmos 50 still up for grabs?”
- Followed by, “I can send payment right now via Venmo if you are.”
Key points: Super quick, showed I was serious, used Venmo – most sellers prefer fast apps.
Step Four: The Polite Hustle & Details
Seller replied quick. Pack was indeed available. Here’s my “proven buyer trick” in action:
- Asked for specific extra photos – seam points, hip belt padding, inside the lid. Wanted no surprises.
- Did NOT lowball right away. Instead, asked: “Is the price listed your absolute best?” Simple question.
- Seller knocked off another $15 just for asking nicely! Confirmed it included shipping.
Checked the pics carefully. Looked legit.
Step Five: Sealing The Deal & Shipping Pressure
Sent payment instantly via Venmo. Then, politely but firmly: “Awesome, thanks! Could you shoot me the tracking number as soon as it’s shipped? Really appreciate it.” This gentle nudge helps avoid shipping delays.
The Result? Got an Osprey Atmos AG 50, barely used, for 45% off retail. Including shipping. Seller shipped it next morning, tracked immediately. Pack showed up perfect – just like the pics.
What Actually Works:
- Saved searches + alerts = Your ears on the ground.
- Speed kills (deals). Hesitate, lose.
- Ask “Is this your best price?” – works way more often than aggressive lowballing.
- Request specific photos. Protects YOU.
- Promise fast payment (Venmo/PayPal). Sellers love zero hassle.
- Politely ask for tracking ASAP after paying. Keeps things moving.
It’s not about magic tricks. It’s about being ready, moving fast, asking nicely, and covering your own butt. Stick to that, and the deals start showing up. This method hasn’t failed me yet.
