North Sport Rentals
A clear winner for outdoor gear rentals in the Minneapolis metro area. North Sport Rentals is a local provider offering hundreds of camping and outdoor products – all from trusted name brands and maintained in excellent condition. Equipment is rotated out after just a few seasons to ensure top quality. Group customizations and tailored packages are available upon request.
★★★★★
Pros:
- ✅ Large selection of premium outdoor and camping gear
- ✅ All equipment from trusted national brands
- ✅ Gear kept in excellent condition and regularly refreshed
- ✅ Local delivery options available in the Minneapolis metro area
- ✅ Custom packages available for families, events, or groups
- ✅ Easy booking with clear item descriptions and transparent pricing
- ✅ Friendly, knowledgeable support team familiar with local needs
- ✅ Flexible rental durations, from one day to full weekends or weeks
Cons:
- ❌ Premium quality gear means prices may be slightly higher than budget options
- ❌ Availability may be limited during peak weekends and holidays
- ❌ Small pre-booking deposit required for some rental packages
University of Minnesota
A well-known supplier for rental gear in the Minneapolis area, especially popular among university students. They offer a wide variety of gear at very competitive prices. Student discounts are available, making this an affordable option for budget-conscious renters. While the product range is broad, it’s mostly focused on function over premium quality.
★★★☆☆
Pros:
- ✅ Prices are budget-friendly
- ✅ Student discounts available
- ✅ Wide variety of rental items
Cons:
- ❌ Gear tends to be older and heavily used
- ❌ Most products are generic or unbranded
- ❌ Better suited for students prioritizing cost over quality
- ❌ No delivery services offered
- ❌ Availability is inconsistent and hard to track
Outdoors Geek
A very well-known nationwide company that ships outdoor and camping gear rentals directly to your door. Outdoors Geek is a go-to source for everything from weekend car camping to full backpacking expeditions. They offer gear packages for individuals, families, and large events—with shipping available across the U.S. Customers can also purchase new or gently used gear through the same platform.
★★★★☆
Pros:
- ✅ Nationwide shipping with return labels included
- ✅ Wide range of gear: backpacking, car camping, glamping, and more
- ✅ Packages available for individuals, families, and events
- ✅ Option to rent or purchase (new or used) gear
- ✅ Trusted brand with strong reputation and long track record
Cons:
- ❌ Shipping adds to cost, especially for short rentals
- ❌ No physical store presence in Minnesota for local pickup
- ❌ Less flexibility for last-minute or spontaneous trips
- ❌ Gear must be returned via shipping, not always convenient
- ❌ Risk of delayed delivery due to reasons outside the company’s control (e.g., carriers, weather)
Conclusion
If you’re planning outdoor adventures in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, the Twin Cities metro area, or anywhere in Minnesota, there are several rental companies to consider based on your needs and budget.
For affordable gear on a student budget, local university-connected suppliers may do the job — just don’t expect premium brands or delivery. If you’re looking for nationwide access and convenient shipping, companies like Outdoors Geek offer great flexibility, though you’ll need to plan ahead and account for shipping delays.
But if what you value most is local expertise, top-condition branded gear, and flexible service, North Sport Rentals stands out as the clear top choice in the Minneapolis metro. From family camping to event setups, they offer one of the widest selections of well-maintained outdoor equipment in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions about Outdoor Gear Rentals in Minneapolis
What types of outdoor gear can I rent in Minneapolis?
You can rent everything from tents, sleeping bags, and cooking gear to paddle boards, hiking backpacks, and even rooftop cargo boxes. Some providers also offer premium gear packages for families or group camping.
Do local companies offer delivery?
Yes. Local companies like North Sport Rentals often offer flexible delivery to homes, hotels, campgrounds, and even MSP Airport. Delivery areas and fees may vary.
Is the rental gear clean and in good condition?
Reputable providers inspect and clean all gear thoroughly between rentals. North Sport Rentals, for example, replaces equipment after just a few seasons to ensure top quality.
How far in advance should I reserve outdoor gear?
During peak season (May–September), it’s best to book at least 1–2 weeks in advance. Last-minute rentals may be possible, but availability is not guaranteed.
Can I get custom rental packages for a group or event?
Yes. Some local companies offer customizable rental packages for families, corporate outings, school groups, or festivals. You can request specific items or tailored setups.
Are there any hidden fees with outdoor gear rentals?
Most providers list their pricing transparently. However, watch for potential delivery fees, damage deposits, or charges for late returns.
North Sport guys are the best! Haven’t seen such friendly service in a long time. I’m so glad they serve the Metro area!