Here are some folksy tips that make outdoor living fun, affordable, and downright satisfying.
Pepaw loves spending time in the backyard, whether it’s grilling, gardening, playing with the grandkids, or just enjoying a quiet evening breeze. But he sure doesn’t believe in paying full price for outdoor gear. Whether you’re looking for chairs, lawn tools, grills, games, or lighting, Pepaw knows exactly how to stretch your budget and still create a backyard worth bragging about.
Buy Outdoor Gear at the End of the Season for Maximum Savings
Pepaw’s biggest money-saving trick is to buy outdoor gear when everyone else is packing theirs away. Late summer and early fall bring the steepest discounts on patio furniture, fire pits, grills, hammocks, and outdoor cushions. Retailers want to clear space fast, and Pepaw is always ready to swoop in.
He waits for prices to drop 50–70% and grabs the items he needs for next year. Patio chairs that were too pricey in June suddenly become bargains in September. Off-season buying takes patience, but Pepaw says it pays off better than any coupon.
He laughs, “A summer deal is sweetest in autumn.”
To time outdoor purchases, explore Pepaw’s Monthly Markdown Calendar: When to Buy What.
Choose Multi-Use Tools and Gear That Really Earn Their Keep
Pepaw avoids one-trick tools that take up space and don’t justify their cost. Instead, he looks for multipurpose gear that does double or triple duty. A sturdy, foldable table can serve as a picnic surface, a potting bench, or a craft station. A basic fire pit doubles as a grill with the right grate. Even a simple storage bench holds cushions while providing extra seating.
When it comes to lawn tools, Pepaw picks the essentials: a good rake, pruners, a quality hose, and a reliable lawn mower. He skips overpriced “innovations” and sticks to tools that have stood the test of time.
Multi-use gear means fewer purchases, less clutter, and more savings.
Browse This Week’s Barn-Burner Bargains: Deals Pepaw Says Are Worth Your Time to catch limited-time deals.
Shop Discount Chains, Thrift Stores, and Warehouse Clubs
Pepaw never limits himself to garden centers or big-box retailers. Discount chains often carry outdoor décor, planters, tiki torches, solar lights, and lawn tools at a fraction of the price. Warehouse clubs offer seasonal bundles, such as chair sets, storage boxes, and canopies, at far lower per-item prices.
Thrift stores also surprise Pepaw with solid finds. Folks donate outdoor furniture, pots, and games that only need a quick scrub or a fresh coat of paint. Heavy-duty metal pieces, especially, can last for decades with just a little TLC.
Pepaw says, “A useful bargain doesn’t care where it came from.”
Explore Pepaw’s Guide to Affordable DIY Home Fix-Ups to upgrade outdoor spaces without big spending.
Create Budget-Friendly Backyard Fun With Simple DIY Upgrades
Backyard fun doesn’t need expensive equipment. Pepaw uses a bit of creativity to elevate outdoor spaces on a budget. He strings solar lights for evening glow, repurposes old pallets into garden beds or simple seating, and uses leftover lumber to build birdhouses or small tables.
For entertainment, Pepaw sets up easy games like cornhole, ring toss, or giant Jenga made from cut 2x4s. These homemade versions cost a fraction of the price of store-bought sets and bring just as much laughter.
He also refreshes old furniture with outdoor spray paint instead of replacing it. Minor upgrades create a major difference without big spending.
