Best way to obtain N scale gear while living in a rural area?

[t44florida]

Hi... I'm new here. When I read this post regarding "where to get gear," I registered so that I could answer. It has already been said that you will probably have to mail order items that you need in n-scale. I live in a typical Florida town most of the year. We have Wally world, Micheal's and the home depots but not one darn hobby shop. Well at least none that carry n-scale (nor any-scale). There is a large city 30 miles away but that involves gas and toll fees. When I started modeling I did not think about this. It has become one of biggest issues. I had to order most dedicated n-scale items (track, structures, trains, some building materials, etc...) on-line, wait and pay for shipping, and if I need more I must repeat the process. I have sworn so many times that I shouldn't have taken up this hobby because of these pains. It's not like you can run over to the local hobby shop and pick-up items occasionally. I have enjoyed my layout but I could have done without shipping charges and waiting on the mail truck.
My advice is: to plan well ahead, order as much as you can from the same on-line supplier to save on shipping, and order plenty so don't have to double down on the process. Best regards... AJ

 

[powersteamguy1790]

I've purchased most of my N scale material online. The dealers I've dealt with in the past 12 years are very reputable.

 

[shorttimer]

My only local source of train stuff is 20 miles away. I want to support them, but after I drive there and back, it's far cheaper to buy on line & have it arrive at my doorstep. Like 50% cheaper. You have to shop around for the great deals, but they're out there.