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What is a Yurt?

Posted on November 16, 2020

Now that the hot summer is behind us, people are starting to adventure into the outdoors more and more. No matter if you camp or not, you have probably heard of a tent, but have you ever heard of a yurt? Do you know how a yurt and a tent are different from one another? Perhaps you are wondering where this item originated from. Let’s take a deep dive into the world of yurts and what they mean for the modern camper. What Is a Yurt? Unlike a tent or even a teepee, a yurt is a circular, dome-shaped shelter that can be easily assembled. The collapsible, foldable frame is made from flexible poles that create lattice walls, making it easy to reassemble. The outside of the yurt is often made of...

The Best Masks for Coronavirus

Posted on September 14, 2020

With Coronavirus still affecting the country, hundreds of thousands of people are looking for face masks. Whether it is a cloth one, a bandana or a medical mask, everyone is on the hunt for the best masks for Coronavirus. If you are still looking for that perfect mask, don’t worry. Here is a list of the best masks to fight against COVID-19. The Best Masks for Coronavirus In March, several U.S. states and numerous countries around the world went into lockdown over the COVID-19 pandemic. In April, the CDC recommended that all U.S. citizens wear a mask or cloth face covering while in public, along with social distancing a minimum of six feet. This is especially relevant for people on public transportation; in a crowded space, such as a grocery store or...

What Level of SPF Do I Need?

Posted on July 13, 2020

Summer is here, and that means tons of activities outdoors. This also means coming into contact with the sun. Protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays is vital to your health. The most popular way of doing this is with sunscreen. But once you go to the store to buy some sunscreen, all the different SPF levels overwhelm you. You might be asking yourself: What level of SPF do I need? What is the difference between all these levels? Which one is best for me? SPF 101 First, let’s go over what SPF means. SPF stands for “sun protection factor.” The SPF level measures the amount of protection the sunscreen offers from UVB rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. There is some math involved to figure out which SPF...

The Surplus Store is Still Here

Posted on May 1, 2020

With thousands of stores and businesses impacted across the country from the Coronavirus, The Surplus Store wanted to take a moment and remind its loyal customers that we are in it together. Even in this time of uncertainty and worry, we wanted to share with you who we are and why we matter – more importantly, that after this is all over, we will be here. Though many stores have chosen to either temporarily or permanently close their doors, The Surplus Store is currently working on a way to offer curbside pickup of our essential items, an option that will allow us to keep our doors open. We hope to open our doors soon and see all of you again. The Surplus Store Many of our customers know the current faces of The...

What to Consider When Choosing a Flashlight

Posted on March 15, 2020

Having a good flashlight is essential. Whether you are camping in dark woods, reading a book under your covers or hiding out during a storm, you want to make sure your flashlight can illuminate your area. With this goal, here are some qualities you should consider when choosing a flashlight. Battery There are several battery options: rechargeable, non-rechargeable and renewable. Non-rechargeable flashlights require batteries, usually AAA or AA. For those who are constantly moving or using their flashlight, rechargeable might be a better option. Renewable refers to flashlights with a hand crank or solar panel, making them idealistic for emergency kits or surviving storms. No matter the battery choice, you want to think about how long the flashlight will last. It is also important to consider if it will fade gradually over time or...

Best Romantic Hiking Spots in Los Angeles

Posted on January 14, 2020

Valentine’s Day is only one month away. People are thinking about flowers and chocolates and teddy bears. They are planning their romantic dinners or romantic getaways. But what a lot of people don’t consider is a romantic hike. Think about it. You and your significant other are outside in nature, seeing some truly beautiful sights. Hikes don’t cost any money, and you get to spend quality time with each other. It’s a perfect win-win for everyone involved. So instead of wasting time stressing out over presents and expensive outings, consider some of the best romantic hiking spots in Los Angeles to woo your loved one. Be sure to gear up at The Surplus Store before heading out on your romantic adventure! Bridge to Nowhere Our first spot is a 10-mile trip inside the San...

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Backpack

Posted on November 15, 2019

Whether you are carrying textbooks, all your camping gear or your laptop and charged, having a sturdy backpack is essential. You want to make sure your backpack doesn’t drag you down and instead helps you with your load, whatever it may be. There are four questions you should consider before going out and buying a backpack. What Kind of Backpack Should I Get? There are literally backpacks for anyone and any purpose. You could get a hiking one for those outdoor trips to help alleviate carrying all your equipment. You might be considering a versatile rolling backpack or a lightweight and portable laptop bag. Another idea is a stylish canvas bag. Ask yourself how often you will use the bag and for what purpose. For example, you should probably avoid a high-end designer backpack...

3 Things to Consider When Buying Halloween Costumes

Posted on October 17, 2019

Halloween is one of the few times during the year where figuring what cape to wear doesn't sound silly. Whether you're young or just young at heart, finding the right Halloween costumes can be a big deal for a variety of reasons. Getting a costume for your child's trick or treating adventures, or an office party isn't always as easy as it seems. You need to keep certain factors in mind when shopping for that perfect costume. The Surplus Store in West LA has been the one-stop for surplus & camping goods since 1946. We also offer some of the best Halloween costumes and options you'll find anywhere. That's why we've also come up with 3 things to consider when buying Halloween costumes. 1. Consider the Setting Are you getting a child's costume...

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How to Survive and Enjoy Burning Man 2019

Posted on August 16, 2019

Easily one of The Surplus Store’s favorite times of the year is upon us once again — Burning Man 2019. In the past, we talked to you about the festival’s history and various past themes, along with apparel essentials to best prepare you for this year’s bizarre festival located in Black Rock City, Nevada. But this year, we want to help you survive Burning Man 2019. Yes, survive. As much of a fun and surreal experience it can be, it is a physically and mentally exhausting sensory overload, filled with challenging art installations and of course, sand—and lots of it. With Burning Man 2019 just two weeks away, peep these tips to ensure you survive your first ever encounter with the mythical Burning Man festival. Hydration This one is a given and yet...

LA Pride Weekend 2019 Prep and What to Know

Posted on June 7, 2019

We here at The Surplus Store hope everyone is enjoying Pride Week 2019 because we are! This year, the LGBTQ+ community bands together once again to be seen, be heard, and continue changing American culture. This year’s pride festivities, which are certain to draw hundreds of thousands, will be capped off by a day of celebration, love, and recognition through food, music, parades and other festivities. With the exciting and fun-filled events on the horizon, here are some tips and tools to make this LA Pride Weekend memorable. Events to Attend From June 8th to June 9th, along San Vicente Blvd. between Melrose Ave. and Santa Monica Blvd., several Grammy-award winning LGBTQ+ and allied performers, including Ashanti and Meghan Trainor, will take center stage for a music festival under the motto of...