Steep and Cheap Return Policy: Step-by-Step Guide, Fees & Return Window
Scoring a massive discount on premium outdoor apparel and gear is exciting, but what happens when that technical jacket does not fit, or the trail runners feel a half-size too small? Dealing with returns on clearance items can feel stressful. Many shoppers worry about hidden fees, strict return windows, and complicated return rules. If you find yourself in this situation, understanding the steep and cheap return policy before sending your package back is essential.
Because Steep and Cheap is the discount outlet branch of Backcountry.com, it runs on a fast-moving inventory system. As a result, its return guidelines differ slightly from standard outdoor retail stores. This guide breaks down the full steep and cheap refund policy, detailing the exact 30-day timeline, how the $6.99 shipping fee works, non-returnable gear exceptions, and how to swap sizes smoothly.
Note: Return policies can update over time. This guide is verified with the latest available policy information for 2026.
1. Overview of the Steep and Cheap Return Policy
At its core, Steep and Cheap keeps things straightforward. Customers have a standard return window of 30 days from the date of delivery to return eligible gear. Because the site sells high-turnover outlet items at limited-time flash prices, all returned items must arrive in pristine, 100% brand-new condition with all original tags attached.
Steep and Cheap operates exclusively online. You cannot drop items off at a local brick-and-mortar store. All returns must be shipped through the mail. Additionally, the company does not process direct exchanges. If you need a different color or size, you must return the original item for a refund and place a separate order.
Here is a quick-glance cheat sheet to help you see how the policy works:
Steep and Cheap Return Policy Overview
| Policy Feature | Details & Requirements |
|---|---|
| Return Window | 30 days from carrier delivery date |
| Eligible Items | 100% new, unused, unwashed, unworn gear with original packaging and tags |
| Return Methods | Mail-in return only (UPS prepaid label or personal carrier) |
| Refund Method | Original payment method (credit/debit card, PayPal) or store credit |
| Direct Exchanges | Not supported (return original item for refund + place a new order) |
| Non-Returnable Items | Final sale items, load-bearing climbing/safety gear, food/nutrition, gift cards |
| Return Shipping Fee | $6.99 flat-rate fee deducted from refund (when using prepaid UPS label) |
| Restocking Fee | $0 |
| In-Store Drop-Off | Not available (online-only retailer) |
2. Return Window & Eligibility Requirements
Standard Return Window
The standard return window for Steep and Cheap is exactly 30 calendar days from the date your package is marked delivered by the carrier.
Because outlet items clear out rapidly to make room for new inventory drops, the company enforces this 30-day cutoff strictly. Once the 30-day window passes, the automated returns portal will no longer allow you to generate a prepaid label for that specific order.
Online vs. In-Store Return Windows
Steep and Cheap is an e-commerce-only business. There is no physical storefront or physical in-store return option.
Even though Steep and Cheap is owned by Backcountry.com, you cannot return Steep and Cheap purchases to Backcountry retail storefronts or third-party outdoor outlets. Bringing your Steep and Cheap items to a retail counter will only result in a polite decline. All outlet items must be mailed back directly to the specialized fulfillment warehouse. If you frequently shop at traditional outdoor outlets with physical retail desks, check out the Sierra return policy or the REI return policy for comparison.
What Items Qualify for Returns
To qualify for a full refund, items must be in brand-new, re-sellable condition. Eligible items generally include:
- Outdoor apparel, rain shells, and base layers
- Hiking boots, trail shoes, and casual footwear
- Camp gear (tents, sleeping pads, camp chairs, backpacks)
- Bike components, ski outerwear, and accessories
You must have proof of purchase to complete an online return. This is typically your original 8-digit order number, along with the email address used during checkout.
Conditions for Accepted Returns
Steep and Cheap inspects every return upon arrival at their warehouse. To ensure your return gets approved:
- Manufacturer Tags: Keep all barcode tags, brand labels, and hangtags firmly attached to the item.
- Original Packaging: Items must be returned inside their original poly bags, branded cardboard boxes, and protective wrappers.
- Footwear Testing: Always try on shoes and boots indoors on clean carpet. Shoes returned with dirty tread, scuffs, pet hair, or missing branded shoe boxes will be rejected.
- Odor & Cleanliness: Items must be free from smoke odors, body odors, pet fur, trail dirt, and chalk dust.
3. How to Return Items to Steep and Cheap
Returning an item through the mail is straightforward. You can initiate your return either through your registered account or through the guest checkout tool.
[Start Return]
│
┌───────┴───────┐
▼ ▼
[Account User] [Guest Checkout]
Log in & click Enter Order # &
Order History Billing Zip Code
│ │
└───────┬───────┘
▼
[Select Items & Print $6.99 UPS Label]
│
▼
[Repack in Original Box with Tags]
│
▼
[Drop Off at Authorized UPS Location]
In-Store Return Process
As noted above, Steep and Cheap does not operate any retail stores. There are no physical customer service counters where you can return or exchange outlet merchandise in person.
Online Return Process (For Account Holders)
If you created an account when you placed your order, follow these simple steps to start your online return:
- Visit SteepandCheap.com and click Sign In at the top right corner.
- Select Order History from your account dashboard.
- Locate the order that contains the gear you want to send back and select Return Item.
- Choose the specific items you are returning and select a valid return reason from the dropdown menu.
- Generate and print your prepaid UPS return shipping label and packing slip (Return Merchandise Authorization / RMA).
- Pack the gear carefully inside the original delivery box or a sturdy poly mailer, making sure all tags and accessories are enclosed.
- Tape the pre-printed shipping label securely over the original shipping label, removing or blacking out old barcodes.
- Bring the package to any official UPS Store, authorized shipping depot, or hand it to a UPS delivery driver.
Mail-In Return Process (For Guest Checkout)
If you checked out using Apple Pay, PayPal, or as a guest without creating an account password, you can still return your items through their online portal:
- Go to the Steep and Cheap Help Center or click the Order Status / Returns link at the bottom of the homepage.
- Enter your Order Number (found in your confirmation email) and your Billing Zip Code.
- Select the gear you wish to return and submit the request to generate your return label.
- Download the PDF, print the label, and follow the same packaging steps outlined above.
Helpful Tip: If you cannot locate your order number, search your email inbox for "Steep and Cheap Order Confirmation" or check your credit card statement for the transaction date and exact charge amount.
Return Label Instructions & Carrier Options
Steep and Cheap provides a convenient, prepaid UPS return label that simplifies the shipping process. When you use this label, you do not have to pay anything at the post office or UPS counter. Instead, a flat return shipping fee of $6.99 is automatically deducted from your final refund balance.
If you prefer, you can decline the prepaid label and pay for return shipping yourself using USPS, FedEx, or another carrier of your choice. If you choose this method, address your package to the return address provided on your RMA slip. Always choose a shipping service that includes end-to-end package tracking and insurance so you are protected if the carrier loses your parcel.
4. Refund Methods & Processing Time
Refund Destinations
Once your return package arrives at the warehouse, it undergoes a quick manual inspection by the intake team. Once approved, your refund method is determined by your original payment type:
- Credit or Debit Cards: Funds are returned directly to the specific card used during checkout.
- PayPal / Apple Pay: Funds are credited back to your underlying payment account.
- Store Credit: If you used a gift balance or requested store credit, your Steep and Cheap account balance will be credited.
- Gifts: If you are returning an item received as a gift and have the original order number, your refund is typically issued in the form of Steep and Cheap store credit.
Processing Time
The overall processing time for a return involves two phases:
- Warehouse Inspection: It generally takes 3 to 5 business days for the returns team to unpack, scan, and inspect your gear after delivery.
- Bank Posting: Once Steep and Cheap approves the refund, it takes an additional 2 to 5 business days for your banking institution or credit card provider to reflect the credit on your statement.
In total, expect the entire refund journey to take roughly 7 to 12 business days from the moment you hand the box to the carrier.
When Returns May Be Denied
Steep and Cheap reserves the right to deny returns that fail basic eligibility criteria. Common reasons for return denials include:
- Items returned without original brand tags or manufacturer hangtags
- Garments showing visible trail dirt, mud, snagged fabric, or wash wear
- Footwear with dirty outsoles, indicating outdoor trail use
- Products with distinct odors (smoke, heavy perfume, detergent)
- Incomplete returns missing essential components (tent stakes, stuff sacks, technical straps)
If your return is rejected, the warehouse will contact you, and the items may be shipped back to you at your expense.
5. Steep and Cheap Exchange Policy
Direct Exchanges Are Not Supported
One of the most common points of confusion for buyers is the company's exchange policy. Because Steep and Cheap is a clearance site featuring limited-quantity flash sales, inventory sells out within hours. Because of this high turnover, Steep and Cheap does not offer direct exchanges.
The warehouse cannot hold a replacement size or color while your returned package travels through the mail.
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ HOW TO SWAP GEAR SIZES │
│ │
│ Step 1: Check website for desired size/color right now. │
│ Step 2: Purchase the new item immediately to secure stock. │
│ Step 3: Ship the ill-fitting item back for a full refund. │
│ Step 4: Contact a "Gearhead" to match any original promos. │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
The "Return and Reorder" Method
To swap an item, use the simple "Return and Reorder" process:
- Go to Steep and Cheap immediately and check if your preferred size or color is still available.
- If it is in stock, purchase the replacement item right away so it does not sell out.
- Package up the item that did not fit and mail it back using the standard return steps to receive a refund.
Protecting Your Promotional Pricing
If you bought your gear during a special limited-time promo code event and the price has since risen, reach out to customer support. Call or chat with a "Gearhead" representative and provide both your original order number and your new order number. In most cases, they can manually match the original sale price on your replacement order.
For buyers who prefer stores with standard direct exchanges or longer evaluation windows, read our guide on the parent brand's Backcountry return policy.
6. Non-Returnable or Restricted Items
Due to safety regulations, legal liabilities, and hygienic restrictions, certain products are considered non-returnable items. Before purchasing or attempting to send back clearance gear, ensure your product is not on this list:
- Life-Safety Climbing Gear: Climbing ropes, rock protection (cams, nuts), climbing harnesses, carabiners, belay devices, and climbing helmets cannot be returned under any circumstances. Once safety hardware leaves the warehouse, it cannot be verified for structural integrity.
- Avalanche Safety Gear: Avalanche airbag packs, safety canisters, and avalanche beacons/transceivers cannot be returned once delivered.
- Final Sale Clearance: Any product explicitly marked as "Final Sale" on the product detail page or at checkout is sold as-is and cannot be returned.
- Food & Perishables: Energy chews, hydration mixes, freeze-dried camping meals, and nutritional supplements.
- Gift Cards: Physical or digital gift cards are non-refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
- Used or Altered Gear: Any equipment that has been tested outside, worn on the trail, modified, or washed.
7. Fees, Deductions & Exceptions
Return Shipping Label Fee
Steep and Cheap does not provide free return shipping on standard returns. When you choose to print their prepaid UPS return label, a flat $6.99 fee is automatically deducted from your final refund balance.
For example, if you return a $100 jacket, your total refund back to your credit card will be $93.01. If you are returning multiple items from the same order, package them together inside a single box using one return label so you are only charged the $6.99 deduction once.
Restocking Fees
Steep and Cheap does not charge a hidden restocking fee on standard items. As long as your gear is eligible, clean, and in its original retail packaging, no percentage-based restocking penalties apply.
Heavy & Oversized Freight Items
The standard $6.99 shipping deduction only applies to standard parcels. Heavy or oversized freight items-such as hard-sided bike travel cases, roof cargo boxes, kayaks, and fully assembled bicycles-require special freight shipping. If you need to return an oversized product, return shipping charges will be significantly higher and reflect standard commercial freight rates. Contact customer service before attempting to return freight merchandise.
Return Fee Waivers (Damaged or Incorrect Items)
You should never have to pay a return fee for a store mistake. The $6.99 return shipping fee is completely waived if:
- You received the wrong size, color, or model due to a warehouse packing error.
- The item arrived damaged in transit.
- The product had a verified manufacturer defect straight out of the box.
If any of these exceptions apply to your shipment, do not use the automated returns portal. Contact customer support first so an agent can issue a complimentary return label with zero deductions.
8. Holiday & Extended Return Policies
During the winter holiday shopping season, Steep and Cheap provides an extended return timeline so gift-givers can shop early without worry.
- Eligible Purchases: Any qualifying order placed between November 1 and December 31.
- Holiday Return Deadline: You have until January 31 of the following year to return items.
All standard eligibility rules still apply under the holiday return policy. The gear must remain completely brand-new, unwashed, and unworn, with all original factory tags attached.
9. Customer Support & Contact Information
Steep and Cheap shares its customer service team-known as "Gearheads"-with Backcountry.com. These reps are experienced outdoor enthusiasts who can help you print return labels, set up price adjustments on reorders, or troubleshoot sizing issues.
Contact Channels:
- Toll-Free Phone: 1-800-409-4502
- Live Chat: Accessible 7 days a week directly on the Steep and Cheap website by clicking "Chat with a Gearhead" in the header or footer.
- Support Ticket: Available through the online Help Center contact form.
Support Hours (Mountain Time):
- Monday through Friday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM MT
- Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM MT
Pro-Tip for Fast Help: Have your 8-digit order number and the product item number (SKU) ready before calling or opening a live chat window. This helps the Gearhead pull up your order information immediately.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I return items to Steep and Cheap without a receipt or order number?
No. Steep and Cheap does not offer no-receipt returns. Because it operates entirely online, you must have an official 8-digit order confirmation number or a registered account email to locate the purchase and generate a return authorization slip.
How long does a refund from Steep and Cheap take?
Once your package reaches the returns center, the warehouse inspection takes roughly 3 to 5 business days. After inspection approval, your bank or credit card company usually takes an additional 2 to 5 business days to post the credit to your statement.
Can I return online orders from Steep and Cheap to a Backcountry retail store?
No. While Steep and Cheap is owned by Backcountry, its outlet inventory cannot be returned to Backcountry physical storefronts. All Steep and Cheap returns must be mailed back to the warehouse using an approved carrier.
What items are non-returnable at Steep and Cheap?
Items that cannot be returned include climbing safety equipment (ropes, harnesses, belay devices, carabiners), avalanche beacons and airbags, items marked "Final Sale," nutritional foods/energy chews, gift cards, and any gear showing signs of outdoor use or missing tags.
Does Steep and Cheap charge a restocking fee?
No, there is no restocking fee for standard apparel, footwear, and equipment returns. The only standard deduction is the $6.99 flat-rate return shipping label fee if you choose to use their prepaid UPS return label.
How do I return a damaged, defective, or incorrect item?
If your gear arrives damaged or you were sent the wrong item, do not use the standard returns portal. Contact customer support via live chat or phone right away. A Gearhead will issue a free replacement or generate a prepaid shipping label with the $6.99 fee completely waived.
Can I return a gift to Steep and Cheap?
Yes, you can return a gift as long as you have the original order number and the item meets standard new-condition requirements within the 30-day window. Refunds for gifts returned without direct access to the original purchasing account are issued as Steep and Cheap store credit.
Can I return climbing gear if it was never used outdoors?
No. To maintain complete life-safety integrity for all athletes, Steep and Cheap does not accept returns on load-bearing climbing hardware, harnesses, helmets, or ropes once they have been delivered, even if the gear was only tried on at home.
Can I avoid paying the $6.99 return shipping fee?
Yes. You can avoid the $6.99 deduction by purchasing your own shipping label through USPS, FedEx, or another carrier and mailing the package back at your own expense. However, depending on package weight and distance, the $6.99 flat rate is often cheaper than standard carrier retail rates.
Does Steep and Cheap offer price adjustments if an item drops in price?
Because Steep and Cheap relies on rapid flash sales, daily discounts, and temporary price cuts, price adjustments are generally not provided if an item's price drops further after you complete your purchase.
Final Thoughts on Returning Gear to Steep and Cheap
Returning clearance outdoor gear does not have to be difficult. As long as you keep your items in brand-new condition with tags attached, ship them back within the 30-day window, and remember the $6.99 return label deduction, the process is smooth and predictable. If you need a different size, take advantage of the "Return and Reorder" method right away so your favorite outdoor items do not sell out before you get your replacement.
Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by location. Always confirm details on the official Steep and Cheap website or with customer service. Information verified 2026.
Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest Steep and Cheap return policy updates and check our other outdoor gear guides before your next purchase!
