Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
You do not need expensive outdoor brands to find comfortable clothes for hiking or an active vacation. Stores such as Academy, Walmart, Target, Ross, Marshalls and Burlington often have affordable hiking pants, moisture-wicking shirts, lightweight jackets and other useful outdoor clothing. In this guide, we will compare the best budget-friendly stores and explain what items are worth buying at each one.
Amazon Pick: Eddie Bauer Hiking Pants
For readers who prefer a familiar outdoor brand, this Eddie Bauer hiking-pants option is worth comparing for fit, available sizes, and current price. Check the current price and available colors on Amazon.
Academy Sports + Outdoors — Best Overall for Affordable Hiking Gear
Academy Sports + Outdoors is one of the best places for beginners to shop because it carries actual outdoor clothing at reasonable prices. You can usually find lightweight hiking pants, moisture-wicking shirts, rain jackets, shorts, hats and hiking shoes in one place. Look for store brands and sale items if you are trying to keep the total cost low. Academy is especially helpful when you want to try on different sizes instead of ordering online.
What to look for at Academy
Look for lightweight pants with stretch, quick-dry shirts, a packable rain jacket and comfortable shoes with good grip. Avoid buying very heavy clothing unless you are traveling somewhere cold.
Walmart — Best for Low-Cost Basics
Walmart is a good place to start when you need affordable clothing for a short hiking trip or outdoor vacation. You can often find lightweight pants, athletic shirts, shorts, hoodies, rain jackets and comfortable socks without spending too much. The selection may not be as specialized as an outdoor store, but many items work well for beginner hikes, sightseeing and travel.
What to look for at Walmart
Check the men’s activewear and outdoor sections for stretch pants, quick-dry shirts and lightweight layers. Look closely at the fabric and fit instead of buying something only because it says “hiking.” Choose clothing that feels comfortable, allows easy movement and is not too heavy.
Target — Best for Affordable Activewear and Travel Basics
Target can be a surprisingly good place to find affordable clothing for hiking, sightseeing and active vacations. Its activewear and outdoor-style clothing often includes lightweight pants, stretch shorts, moisture-wicking shirts, jackets and comfortable basics. Target is especially useful when you need clothes that can work for both hiking and everyday travel.
What to look for at Target
Check the men’s activewear section, seasonal clearance racks and clothing from brands such as All in Motion and Wrangler. Look for lightweight fabrics, stretch, secure pockets and clothing that feels comfortable when walking or sitting for long periods.
Target’s clearance section is also worth checking, as prices and available items can vary by location and season.
Ross, Marshalls and Burlington — Best for Discounted Brand-Name Finds
Ross, Marshalls and Burlington can be excellent places to find discounted activewear, lightweight jackets, hiking-style pants, shorts and moisture-wicking shirts. Shoppers may find recognizable brands at prices lower than traditional department stores. However, the available products, sizes and brands can change frequently, so it may take some searching to find the right item.
What to look for at discount stores
Check the activewear, men’s pants and jacket sections carefully. Look for flexible pants, breathable shirts, light layers and comfortable clothing from reliable brands. Because inventory varies by location, buy a good item when you find the correct size and price.
Kohl’s and JCPenney — Best for Sales, Coupons and Easy Sizing
Kohl’s and JCPenney are useful places to shop for activewear, travel clothing and lightweight outdoor basics. Both stores often run sales and promotions, making it possible to find comfortable pants, athletic shirts, shorts, jackets and name-brand items at reasonable prices. Their organized departments and wider size selections can also make shopping easier than at discount stores with changing inventory.
What to look for at Kohl’s and JCPenney
Compare the sale price with the regular price and check whether any store coupons are available. Focus on lightweight stretch pants, breathable shirts, comfortable shorts and thin jackets that can be layered. Avoid paying full price when a similar item is likely to go on sale.
Amazon — Best for the Widest Online Selection
Amazon offers a large selection of hiking pants, quick-dry shirts, lightweight jackets, shorts, socks and other outdoor clothing at many price levels. It is convenient when you know your size or cannot find a suitable item locally. However, quality and sizing can vary between brands, so it is important to compare product details before ordering.
What to look for on Amazon
Check the fabric information, size chart, recent customer reviews and return policy. Look for clothing with stretch, breathable material, secure pockets and quick-dry features. Avoid choosing an item only because it has a low price or the word “hiking” in the title.
Macy’s and Dillard’s — Best for Premium Brands on Sale
Macy’s and Dillard’s can be good places to find higher-quality activewear, jackets, hiking pants and outdoor brands, especially during seasonal sales and clearance events. Regular prices may be higher than Walmart, Target or Academy, but discounted items can sometimes offer better materials and longer-lasting quality at a reasonable price.
What to look for at Macy’s and Dillard’s
Check the clearance racks and online sale sections before paying full price. Look for lightweight jackets, stretch pants, breathable shirts and trusted outdoor or athletic brands. Compare the final sale price with Academy, Kohl’s and Amazon to make sure it is genuinely a good deal.
Which Store Should You Choose?
The best store depends on your budget, available time and the type of clothing you need. Academy is a strong starting point when you want proper outdoor clothing at reasonable prices. Walmart and Target are useful for inexpensive basics, while Ross, Marshalls and Burlington may offer excellent brand-name deals if you have time to search. Kohl’s and JCPenney are good for dependable sizing and sales, and Amazon offers the widest online selection. Macy’s and Dillard’s are worth checking when premium brands are heavily discounted.
Final Thoughts
Beginners do not need to spend hundreds of dollars on hiking clothes. Start with comfortable lightweight pants, a breathable shirt, a thin jacket and suitable shoes. Compare prices, check clearance sections and choose clothing that can also be used for travel or everyday activities. The best purchase is not always the cheapest item—it is the one that fits well, feels comfortable and can be worn more than once.
Planning a Colorado vacation? Check out our complete guide on what to pack for a summer Colorado trip, including jackets, clothing and hiking essentials.