Outdoor gear is an investment, and Backcountry builds its return policy around that reality. Unused gear can come back within 90 days of delivery for a full refund. Gear you have actually taken outdoors gets a narrower 30-day window and only qualifies for store credit, not a cash refund.
This split approach, known inside the outdoor retail industry as a ‘used gear policy, was updated on July 1, 2024, and represents the current Backcountry return policy framework in 2026. Understanding both tracks before you return can protect your refund and save you the $8.99 return shipping fee.
| Information | Details |
| Website | www.backcountry.com |
| Return Time | 90 days (unused gear); 30 days (used, undamaged gear) |
| Return Medium | Online by Mail and In-Store |
| Exchange Period | Return and reorder; no direct exchange system |
| Refund Time | 5 business days after return is received and inspected |
| Refund Method | Original payment method (unused); Store credit only (used gear) |
| Contact | 1-801-204-4655 |
| Email Support | help@backcountry.com |
Contents
- 1 How the Backcountry Return Policy Is Structured
- 2 How to Start a Backcountry Return
- 3 Return Shipping: The $8.99 Flat Rate Label
- 4 In-Store Returns at Backcountry
- 5 Backcountry Refund Timeline
- 6 What Backcountry Will Not Accept
- 7 Backcountry Exchange Policy
- 8 Warranty and Defective Gear
- 9 How to Reach Backcountry Customer Service
- 10 Backcountry Social Media Handles
- 11 Frequently Asked Questions About the Backcountry Return Policy
- 12 Conclusion
How the Backcountry Return Policy Is Structured
The Backcountry return policy splits returns into two distinct tracks based on whether the gear has been used. Getting the two confused is the most common mistake, and it can mean the difference between a full refund and a store credit.
Track 1: Unused Gear Returns (90 Days)
If your gear has never left the house, you have 90 days from the delivery date to return it. The item must come back in the exact condition it arrived: original box and packaging, manufacturer tags still attached, and nothing indicating use. Backcountry will issue a full refund to your original payment method once the warehouse receives and inspects the return. If your original payment method is unavailable for any reason, you will receive store credit instead.
Track 2: Used Gear Returns (30 Days)
Took those boots on a day hike and realized the fit is wrong? Backcountry will still take the gear back, but only within 30 days of delivery and only for store credit. The item must be undamaged. Gear that shows dirt, damage from improper use, or signs of accidents will be rejected. This applies to clothing, footwear, and technical gear alike.
There is no gray area on what ‘used’ means at Backcountry. If it went outside, it is used. If it was tried on indoors only and shows no signs of wear, it may qualify as unused, but the warehouse team makes the final call upon inspection.
How to Start a Backcountry Return
Every Backcountry return requires a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number before you ship anything. You have two ways to get one:
- Self-service: Log into your Backcountry account, go to Order History, select your order, and generate the RMA from there.
- Gearhead assistance: Call 1-801-204-4655 or use the live chat on backcountry.com to have a Gearhead generate the RMA and email you the return label.
Once you have your RMA number, include it on paper in the package if your order came with a paper invoice. If not, write both the RMA and order number on a piece of paper and place it inside the box before sealing.
Return Shipping: The $8.99 Flat Rate Label
For eligible returns within the contiguous US (excluding freight items), Backcountry offers a flat rate FedEx return label for $8.99. This fee is deducted from your final refund or store credit. If you prefer to receive store credit instead of a cash refund, Backcountry waives the $8.99 fee entirely when you opt for store credit. Drop your securely packaged item at any FedEx drop-off location.
You can also ship the return using your own carrier. Use the address provided in your Return Confirmation email. Backcountry recommends a trackable shipping method when using your own carrier, since they will not be responsible for packages lost in transit.
Oversized and Freight Items
Bikes, kayaks, rooftop tents, and other oversized items have different shipping rules. Freight returns typically cost a flat $25.00 for the return label, and some items may require the customer to arrange and pay for full freight carrier costs. Contact a Backcountry Gearhead before returning any large item to confirm the exact fee.
In-Store Returns at Backcountry
Products purchased at any Backcountry retail store must be returned to a store location. Bring your item and proof of purchase to any Backcountry store. Online purchases may also be returned in-store with a valid RMA number. Cash purchases of $500 or more will be refunded via store credit or check, not cash.
Backcountry Refund Timeline
After your return arrives at the Backcountry warehouse, the Gearhead team inspects the gear to verify its condition. Processing takes up to 5 business days. Your bank may then add another 3 to 5 business days to post the credit. For store credit, the balance appears in your Backcountry account after the same 5-day inspection window. You will receive a confirmation email when the return is processed.
What Backcountry Will Not Accept
- Dirty or visibly damaged gear: Items damaged through ordinary wear and tear, improper use, or accidents are rejected outright.
- Used gear after 30 days: No exceptions. After day 30, used gear is not eligible for any refund or credit.
- Used gear for cash refund: Store credit only, regardless of condition.
- Returns without an RMA: All returns require prior authorization.
Backcountry Exchange Policy
Backcountry does not run a formal exchange system. If you need a different size, color, or model, the recommended approach is to return the original item and place a new order simultaneously. This prevents the replacement from going out of stock while waiting for your return to process. The new order ships immediately without waiting for the warehouse to receive your return.
Warranty and Defective Gear
If your gear develops a manufacturer defect, contact Backcountry Gearheads at help@backcountry.com before initiating a return. Warranty issues are handled separately from the standard return process and may result in repair, replacement, or a credit depending on the manufacturer’s warranty terms. For bike-related warranty concerns, contact the manufacturer’s warranty team directly.
How to Reach Backcountry Customer Service
- Phone: 1-801-204-4655 (Gearheads available by phone and live chat)
- Live Chat: Available at backcountry.com
- Email: help@backcountry.com
Backcountry Social Media Handles
- Facebook: Backcountry
- Instagram: @backcountry
- Twitter/X: @Backcountry
- YouTube: Backcountry
- Pinterest: Backcountry
Frequently Asked Questions About the Backcountry Return Policy
1. Can I return gear I used on one trip to Backcountry?
Yes, but only within 30 days of delivery, and only for store credit. The item must be undamaged. Dirty or visibly damaged gear will be rejected. There is no cash refund option for used gear under the Backcountry return policy.
2. Does Backcountry charge a return shipping fee?
Yes. Using the Backcountry FedEx flat rate return label costs $8.99, deducted from your refund. This fee is waived if you choose to receive store credit instead of a cash refund. Freight items carry higher shipping costs.
3. How long does the Backcountry return process take?
After your package arrives at the warehouse, inspection and processing take up to 5 business days. Add 3 to 5 more business days for your bank to post the credit. In total, expect 10 to 15 days from drop-off to seeing the refund in your account.
4. What is the return window for unused Backcountry gear?
Unused gear has a 90-day return window from the delivery date. Items must be in original condition with all packaging and manufacturer tags intact. A full refund to your original payment method is issued once the warehouse accepts the return.
5. Can I return a Backcountry purchase without the original packaging?
The Backcountry return policy requires unused gear to be returned with the original box or packaging and all manufacturer tags. Missing packaging may result in the return being rejected or the item only qualifying for store credit at the warehouse’s discretion. Contact a Gearhead at 1-801-204-4655 to discuss your options if the original packaging is unavailable.
Conclusion
The Backcountry return policy rewards shoppers who act quickly and keep their gear clean. The 90-day window for unused items is one of the most generous in outdoor retail. The 30-day used gear policy gives adventurers a real-world trial period, even if the store credit limitation stings compared to a cash refund.
Know your return track before you head out, get your RMA number before shipping anything back, and take advantage of the fee waiver by choosing store credit when you don’t need the cash immediately. The Backcountry Gearheads are genuinely helpful, so call or chat if you hit any complications.
Disclaimer: The return policy information on ReturnsPolicies.info is for informational purposes only and may not reflect the latest updates. Always verify the current policy directly on the retailer’s official website before making any purchase or return decision. We are not affiliated with any of the retailers mentioned.