You don't need to own a closet full of gear to spend a weekend at the lake. If you camp once or twice a year, renting is the simpler, cheaper way to get outside — and the Guelph-to-Toronto corridor has more options than most people realize. This guide breaks down where to rent camping gear, what each option is good for, and how to find one close to home.
Why rent camping gear instead of buying it?
A four-person tent, two sleeping bags, pads, a stove and a cooler can run well over $700 to buy new — for equipment that sits in storage 50 weekends a year. Renting lets you:
Pay for gear only on the trips you actually take Skip the storage problem in a condo or smaller home Try high-quality tents and sleeping systems before committing to buy Travel lighter and pick up everything in one place
For occasional campers, families testing the waters, and anyone with a last-minute long weekend plan, renting is usually the smarter call.
The four ways to rent camping gear in the corridor
1. Door-to-door delivery services
Some rental businesses pack a complete kit and drop it at your home the day before your trip, then collect it after. Best for people who want zero hassle and are happy to pay a little more for convenience.
2. Storefront pickup shops
Pickup shops let you reserve online and collect your gear in person — often cheaper than delivery, and you can inspect everything before you go. Best for renters who don't mind a short drive.
3. Community gear libraries
University outdoors clubs and community programs rent gear cheaply to members. Best for students and budget backcountry trippers who can work around membership rules and limited stock.
4. Local rental marketplaces (like LEND-IT.CA)
A marketplace brings personal lenders and small rental businesses together in one place, so you can compare local options, see what's available near you, and book securely online. Best when you want choice, local pickup, and to support nearby rental businesses rather than a single shop.
Finding a rental near you
The corridor covers a lot of ground, and where you rent usually comes down to what's closest. LEND-IT.CA lists camping gear across communities including:
Guelph and Cambridge Milton and Halton Hills Mississauga and Brampton Oakville and Burlington Toronto and the wider GTA
Because listings are local, you can usually find pickup within a 20–40 minute drive — and a lot of the corridor's best camping is the same distance the other way.
What to check before you book
What's included — confirm tent size, sleeping bags, pads, stove, cooler and any cooking gearCondition and cleaning — good listings show recent photos and confirm gear is cleaned between rentalsPickup vs. delivery — and the timing for eachDeposit and booking terms — most rentals hold a refundable security depositAvailability on your dates — long weekends book up fast, so reserve early
Frequently asked questions
Where can I rent camping gear near Toronto? You can rent from delivery services, storefront pickup shops, community gear libraries, and local marketplaces like LEND-IT.CA, which lists gear from lenders and rental businesses across the Guelph-to-Toronto corridor.
How much does it cost to rent camping gear? Individual items typically start a few dollars per night (chairs, lanterns) up to $15–$40 for tents, and complete multi-person kits often run roughly $90–$210 for a weekend depending on group size and season.
Can I rent gear for a weekend trip? Yes. Most rentals are priced per night or per weekend, and weekend trips are the most common booking. Reserve early for long weekends.
Is renting better than buying? If you camp only a few times a year, renting is usually cheaper and easier. Regular campers may save by owning core items and renting the rest.
Ready to find gear near you? Browse camping gear on LEND-IT.CA to compare local rentals across the Guelph–Toronto corridor and book securely online. Have gear sitting unused? You can list it and earn from it too.
