Those considering purchasing a tent, a fishing rod, a sleeping bag, or other outdoor activity equipment in Florida can still take advantage of a temporary sales tax exemption that will remain in effect until the end of the year.
The Hunting, Fishing and Camping Sales Tax Holiday 2026 began on September 1 and will run until December 31, 2026, according to the Florida Department of Revenue.
During that period, certain products related to camping and fishing can be purchased without paying the sales tax, as long as they fall within the categories and price limits established by the state.
What camping items can be purchased tax-free?
Among the camping products included in the exemption are flashlights and camping lamps priced at $30 or less.
They also qualify, when they cost $50 or less, portable camping stoves, portable hammocks, folding camping chairs, and sleeping bags.
In the case of tents, the limit is significantly higher: they can be purchased without sales tax when their price is $200 or less.
What fishing items are exempt?
The exemption also includes several of the most common products for those who engage in recreational fishing in Florida.
The bait and fishing tackle qualify when each item costs $10 or less. If several of these items are sold together, the limit is $20 or less.
Fishing tackle boxes and bags are exempt when priced at $30 or less.
For rods and reels, the limit is $75 or less when sold individually. If a rod and reel are marketed as a set, the price can go up to $150 and still qualify for the exemption.
The complete limits are outlined in the official Florida tax guide for 2026.
Examples of purchases that may qualify
A $179 tent, a $45 sleeping bag, or a $25 camping lantern would fall within the limits set by Florida.
You could also qualify for a fishing rod priced at $70 or a rod and reel combo for $140.
In contrast, a $250 tent or a $70 sleeping bag would fall outside the exemption because they exceed the limit applicable to their category.
The maximum price applies to the product being purchased and does not mean that the consumer has a global spending limit during the period.
It also applies to certain online purchases
The regulations cover purchases made through online vendors and e-commerce platforms.
An eligible item can benefit from the exemption when the seller accepts the order during the fiscal campaign period and it is processed for immediate shipment, even if the product ultimately arrives to the buyer after December 31.
The Department of Revenue considers an order accepted, among other assumptions, when the company confirms a purchase made online and begins the process of shipping it.
What purchases are not exempt?
The measure does not mean that any product related to outdoor activities can be purchased tax-free.
The rentals and repairs of eligible items are not included. Purchases intended for commercial use also do not qualify.
Moreover, Florida indicates that the exemption does not apply to certain sales made within theme parks, entertainment complexes, public lodging establishments, or airports.
It is also important to pay attention to packages that combine different items. If an exempt product is sold as a single unit along with another that does not qualify, the entire set may be subject to sales tax.
You can pay with a gift card
Consumers can also use a gift card to pay for an eligible product.
The important thing is that the item is purchased during the exemption period. The date on which the gift card was originally acquired does not determine whether the product qualifies.
Until when will the exemption be in effect in Florida?
The tax campaign will be valid until Thursday, December 31, 2026.
This leaves nearly the entire last quarter of the year to make eligible purchases for camping and fishing, although it’s advisable to check both the type of product and its price before making a payment.
The Florida Department of Revenue has published the official information for the Hunting, Fishing and Camping Sales Tax Holiday 2026, along with the applicable rules for consumers and businesses.
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