Dear Bargainista - #13

Jay from Toronto writes:

I like reading your blog. Do you know where one might find good packs and tents for hiking for a good price?

•••
Dear Jay,
It's been long time since I’ve gone camping but here goes...

Summer is high-season for camping gear so if it’s a deal you're looking for, you’re probably better off waiting until the fall.

You may find different stores are better for specific items.

As for tents and packs, Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) is always a safe bet. They only sell to members but it's worth the $5 for a lifetime membership. Their products are pricey but you’ll be paying for value, plus you’ll get a bevy of other membership benefits.

Tent tip: When buying a tent, I suggest going to a store with demos and trying them out. Depending on your size, you may find some tents more comfortable than others. From what I understand, MEC has several floor models you can check out in-store and some tips online.

Camp Connection isn’t known for its packs and tents but it’s a fine place for filling in the gaps and finding the smaller items and other basics you may need for your trip. Last time I checked they were well-stocked with knapsacks, including Obus Forme ones at reasonable prices.

Camper tips: If you’re planning on spending at least $200 there over the course of a year, it’s probably worth splurging $50 for a membership - you’ll save 20% off all purchases! It’s a hopping place in June while parents and kids are busily getting all their gear for overnight camp. I suggest buying a membership in June (or July, if you’re kids don’t go to camp until August) so it extends over two camp seasons.

There are several other camping stores in Toronto. What are your favourite camping stores? Do you have any camping shopping tips? Leave a comment.

Dear Bargainista would love to hear from you too! Have a question about shopping, fashion or food? E-mail us.

Technorati tags: camping, Camp Connection, MEC, tents

Tip of the Week: to tip or not to tip?

BMO/Mozaik MasterCard recently released a study examining our tipping habits.

Canadians apparently are lousy tippers, except at restaurants. When it comes to other services, if we tip at all, it’s usually quite low.

Americans are very generous. In some European countries, it’s customary not to tip (sometimes tips are included in the price.)

Most of us (a whopping 78%) know a 15% tip is the standard for restaurant servers. What about other services? For example, do you tip your hair stylist? What if she owns the salon?

What do you think of tip jars? How much do you tip?

photo credit: Margaret Hall on flickr

Technorati tags: BMO, MozaikMasterCard, spending habits, tips

Michelle Yorke Jewellery Designs

I discovered Michelle Yorke’s jewellery during my trip to Halifax. While at Lady Luck, a wonderful accessories shop located at the Historic Properties, I found a display case of Michelle’s collection. It reminded me of the fabulous Anita Cuff. It was my first full day in town and I wasn’t ready to part with my money.

I learned Michelle was a regular at the Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings. The market is a favourite brunch spot whenever I’m in town, this visit was no exception.

Thanks to my aunt’s pre-brunch scouting, I found Michelle’s table. I felt like a kid in a candy store – she had a ton of stuff – there was everything from bracelets, to rings, watches, hair accessories, necklaces and watches. Every piece is made by hand from beads (glass, semi-precious stones or wood) intricately woven together with nickel-free stainless steel. Best of all, she offers it at wholesale prices. I picked up a great watch and a barrette.

I saw other pieces of her collection in a couple other galleries at higher prices. She has made quite a name for herself throughout the province. She’s been a member of the Nova Scotia Designer Crafts Council since 2001, I can see why. I’ve had nothing but compliments on my watch. Best of all, it’s a one-of-kind piece of art from my hometown.

Technorati tags: Halifax Farmers’ Market, Historic Properties, Michelle York Jewellery Designs

Weekly wish – Roots uptown bag

Every now and then, I regret some of my shopping decisions. Like last spring when Roots had weekend sale with 25% off everything in the store.

I thought I wanted a new purse, a black one similar to my Coach bag, small with a shoulder strap. I was rushed and figured I’d have another chance during the summer sale. Wrong!

By sale time, some purses in funky colours were available but the black ones were gone. Of course, Roots upped it’s game by introducing some new designs at regular price. I like the new Uptown Bag in black patent leather. I'd like it even more if it was in prince leather. No sale, no rush. I thought maybe if I wait...

I may get at least part of my wish after all. This morning I received a coupon for 25% off new merchandise from now through August 12. I haven’t found a prince version of the bag online, maybe I’ll find it in the store.

If you’re wishing from something new from Roots this weekend, you’re in luck. I’m also sharing my coupon with you. If you use it, let me know what you buy.

Do you have any regrets for not buying something this summer? What’s your weekly wish?

Technorati tags: Coach, Roots, Uptown Bag