At the core of our initiative is a simple yet powerful mission: to collect and redistribute pre-owned outdoor gear, making exploration accessible to everyone. We’ve established a user-friendly platform that serves as a conduit for the generous contributions of fellow outdoor enthusiasts, creating a seamless and sustainable cycle of gear sharing.
In addition to our gear-sharing efforts, we also support low-income schools in pursuing outdoor activities, sponsoring education and donating new gear through charitable funds collected. Currently, we are actively supporting organizations in Nepal and India. Our short-term goal includes expanding our reach to Tibet, Bhutan, and Kenya, further extending our mission to make outdoor experiences accessible to underserved communities worldwide.
We are a community-driven initiative fueled by a shared passion for outdoor adventures accessible to all.
About Us
Trekking Thrift a 501c(3) certified nonprofit organization (Tax Id: 99-4839448 ) established in the United States by Neel Kannambadi . It was created to make outdoors accessible to all. Trekking Thrift allows anyone to donate lightly used hiking gear by submitting item details through the website; once accepted, a free shipping label is provided. Both donating and requesting gear are completely free. We also welcome monetary donations which will be used towards shipping costs, to buy gear and support outdoor activities in schools and institutions we support.
We’ve positively impacted over 475 kids across 14 institutions, raising more than $13,750 and donating gear valued at over $16,800.
Our efforts are made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: Sherpa Foundation (Boulder, CO), Yak 'n' Yeti Trekking Shop (Nepal), CrosTrek Outdoor Gear (India), and Baps Outdoor Store (Thimphu, Bhutan). Their partnership plays a vital role in helping us reach and uplift the communities we serve.
Our
Story
Our Mission
At the heart of this mission is a personal connection to the transformative power of outdoor adventures. I embarked on a trek to Philmont with Scouts in Cimarron, New Mexico, in the summer of 2023. Philmont was more than just a trek—it was a profound journey. Having experienced the positive impacts of hiking and exploration, I came to understand how a lack of gear and financial barriers can prevent many young enthusiasts from accessing these outdoor experiences.
This realization inspired me to create this platform to pay forward the enriching experiences I had. Trekking Thrift was founded in 2023 to make outdoor adventures more accessible. Additionally, we support low-income schools overseas by funding their outdoor adventures.
Join us in fostering a culture of shared experiences, environmental stewardship, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to embark on their own transformative journey through the beauty of nature.
– Neel Kannambadi
Core Team
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