REI Anniversary Sale: Essential Gear Deals for Travelers in 2025
Discover the top REI Anniversary Sale deals on outdoor gear, apparel, and travel essentials—with expert tips for maximizing your savings.
REI Anniversary Sale 2025: The Biggest Gear Event of the Year
Each spring, REI Co-op hosts its much-anticipated Anniversary Sale, offering travelers and outdoor enthusiasts a premier chance to upgrade their gear at significant discounts. Running from May 16 to May 26, 2025, this event features deals both online and in-store, with savings of up to 30% on top brands. Whether you’re gearing up for hiking trips, cross-country road adventures, or lightweight travel, this guide covers the year’s best deals, shopping tips, and how to make the most of REI’s member-exclusive perks.
Read on for the complete breakdown of top-travel gear deals, must-know sale details, expert picks, and FAQs for smarter shopping.
Key Sale Details & Highlights
- Sale Dates: May 16–26, 2025 (Memorial Day period)
- Location: Online at REI.com, REI Outlet, and physical REI stores nationwide
- Top Savings: Up to 30% off on select gear, apparel, and footwear from renowned brands
- Membership Coupons:
- 20% off one full-price item (online/in-store, code ANNIV2025)
- Extra 20% off one REI Outlet item (online only, code ANNIV2025)
- 20% off entire REI Re/Supply used gear order (online, code USED2025)
- Inventory: Limited stock—shop early for best selection
Why the REI Anniversary Sale Matters for Travelers
For travelers, adventure seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts, the REI Anniversary Sale is an annual landmark event. It’s the ideal time to acquire high-quality, durable gear for less, whether you’re planning a backpacking expedition, a car camping retreat, an overseas adventure, or urban day trips.
REI’s member-centric approach delivers additional coupons and discounts, making it uniquely beneficial to join during the sale or to leverage existing membership perks.
Top Travel Gear Deals in 2025
Below are the most notable travel-ready items and categories with exceptional discounts during the REI Anniversary Sale:
- REI Co-op Brand Clothing & Gear
Save 30% on select REI Co-op branded outdoor apparel, packs, and gear (excluding bikes). Ideal for layering, performance travel, and budget-friendly upgrades. - Co-op Cycles Bikes
Enjoy 20% off all Co-op Cycles bikes. Great for bikepacking adventures, urban commuting, or long-distance touring. - Smartwool Clothing & Accessories
25% off merino base layers, socks, and accessories. Perfect for versatile packing, warmth, and odor-resistance. - Thule & Yakima Racks and Accessories
Take 20% off all car racks, roof boxes, and accessories for easier road trip packing and efficient gear hauling. - Hydro Flask Drinkware and Kitchenware
Score 25% off insulated bottles, mugs, and food containers—essential for hydration and camp cooking. - Garmin Watches & Navigation
Save $200 on Garmin fenix 8 watches and $100 on Garmin inReach Mini 2. Top picks for adventure navigation, GPS-tracking, and emergency communication. - BOTE SUP Boards & Accessories
15% off, popular for water-based travel and recreation. - Selected Outdoor Gear Brands
25% off Big Agnes, Black Diamond, Coleman, Exped, Kelty, NEMO, Therm-a-Rest, and more. Includes tents, sleeping pads, and technical packs. - Selected Outdoor Clothing Brands
25% off Cotopaxi, Fjällräven, KUHL, Outdoor Research, prAna, The North Face, and more. Excellent for adventure travel and versatile layering. - Selected Footwear Brands
25% off Altra, Danner, KEEN, La Sportiva, Oboz and more. Travel-tested for hiking, approach, and long treks.
Expert Picks: Best Travel-Ready Items on Sale
| Category | Recommended Product | Typical Savings | Why It’s Great for Travel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daypack | REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack | 30% off | Lightweight, spacious, fits travel essentials |
| Travel Water Bottle | Hydro Flask 32 oz Wide Mouth | 25% off | Keeps drinks hot/cold, resistant to leaks |
| Merino Base Layer | Smartwool Classic 150 T-Shirt | 25% off | Packable, odor-resistant, dries quickly |
| Tent | NEMO Dagger 3P | 25% off | Spacious, ideal for group travel/camping |
| Hiking Footwear | KEEN Targhee III Mid | 25% off | Durable, waterproof, comfortable for varied terrain |
| Travel Navigation | Garmin inReach Mini 2 | $100 off | Critical for off-grid communication and SOS |
| Car Rack | Thule Motion XT Rooftop Box | 20% off | Maximizes storage for road trips |
| Sleep System | Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Pad | 25% off | Lightweight, comfortable, easy to pack |
Member-Exclusive Deals & Perks
REI Co-op membership elevates your savings and shopping experience during the Anniversary Sale. With a one-time $30 fee, members enjoy exclusive deals beyond public discounts:
- 20% off coupons (full-price & Outlet items)
- 20% off entire Re/Supply used gear order
- 10% annual member rewards on eligible purchases
- Extended return window (1 year for members vs. 90 days for non-members)
- Free U.S. shipping (all orders)
- Access to REI Re/Supply (trade-in and used gear program for budget-conscious and sustainable travel)
- Discounts on shop services (gear repair, bike tune-ups, rentals)
- Exclusive trip discounts for selected REI Adventure Travel trips (book select itineraries for 20% off)
- REI Mastercard cardmembers earn 5% rewards on all REI purchases, including Anniversary Sale items
Tips for Maximizing Your Savings at the REI Anniversary Sale
- Shop Early: Popular items and sizes sell out quickly, so browse early and buy promptly.
- Use Member Coupons Wisely: Apply your coupons to big-ticket items that rarely go on sale (e.g., travel backpacks, premium footwear).
- Compare Online & In-Store: If possible, try gear in-store for fit and comfort, then check inventory or order online for best availability.
- Check REI Outlet: The Outlet features clearance deals—stack your extra 20% off member coupon for added savings.
- Sustainability Savings: REI’s Re/Supply program offers gently used gear; use your coupon for deep discounts while shopping sustainably.
- Leverage Free Shipping: Members get free standard shipping. Non-members need to hit $60+ for free shipping.
- Review Exclusions: Not all products qualify; bike simulators, ski gear, watercraft, and GPS-equipped electronics are typically excluded (consult sale terms).
- Set up Pickup: Ship online orders to your local REI for free pickup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When does the REI Anniversary Sale take place in 2025?
A: The sale runs from May 16 to May 26, 2025, covering Memorial Day.
Q: What brands and gear are included in the biggest discounts?
A: Notable deals feature REI Co-op, Smartwool, Hydro Flask, Thule, Yakima, Big Agnes, Black Diamond, NEMO, and top footwear/clothing brands. Discounts range up to 30% off.
Q: Do I need to be an REI member to access the best sale prices?
A: While everyone can access advertised sale prices, members receive exclusive coupons, deeper discounts, extended returns, and free shipping.
Q: Can I use multiple member coupons in a single transaction?
A: Member coupons are typically limited to one per eligible item or per eligible Outlet/used order. Plan purchases to maximize savings.
Q: Are past-season items and flash deals a part of the sale?
A: Yes, REI offers up to 50% off past-season styles from brands like Patagonia and The North Face, plus time-limited flash deals on REI Co-op gear.
Q: What’s the return policy for sale items?
A: Members can return items within one year, while non-members get a 90-day return window. All purchases are covered by REI’s Satisfaction Guarantee.
Q: How do I join REI and what are the ongoing membership benefits?
A: Sign up online or in-store for a one-time $30 fee. Benefits include deeper sale discounts, annual rewards, extended returns, used gear access, and free shipping.
Bonus: Quick Guide to the Digital Sale Catalog
REI’s digital Anniversary Sale catalog is available ahead of the event, helping travelers plan purchases and track top deals within specific gear categories (e.g., ultralight tents, pro-grade cook kits, adventure travel packs, weather-resistant apparel). Use this resource to build your wish list and research your picks before stock runs out.
Road Trip & Adventure Essentials at a Discount
- Car racks & rooftop boxes for maximizing storage on long drives (Thule, Yakima)
- Travel-friendly coolers and kitchen gear for camp cooking (Coleman, Hydro Flask)
- Sleep systems—sleeping bags, air pads, and tents designed for fast setup and lightweight packing
- Quick-dry towels, packing cubes, and travel organizers for organized, efficient packing
- Safety & navigation electronics (discounted Garmin watches and spot devices)
- Outdoor footwear—for hiking, walking tours, or city exploration
Shopping In-Store Versus Online: Which Is Best?
- In-Store: Try before you buy, access immediate staff advice, and order unavailable sizes/items for home delivery or free store pickup.
- Online (REI.com & REI Outlet): Largest product selection, convenience, and access to member-tracked coupons. Online sales include free delivery options and can be shipped to store for pickup.
Both methods deliver full access to REI’s Satisfaction Guarantee and membership benefits.
Sustainable Travel Gear: Shop Re/Supply for Eco-Friendly Finds
For eco-conscious travelers, REI’s Re/Supply program offers gently used gear at a fraction of new price—improving sustainability and savings. Use your member coupon on Re/Supply orders and score essentials like packs, jackets, and tents that support responsible travel.
Bottom Line: Why Smart Travelers Shop the REI Anniversary Sale
With unmatched discounts, exclusive member perks, and trusted outdoor brands, the REI Anniversary Sale is the year’s top event for upgrading travel gear. Early shopping, coupon strategies, and thorough product research ensure you’ll secure the best deals—whether hunting for an essential daypack, technical footwear, or ultralight tent. Membership amplifies savings and service, giving travelers ongoing benefits well beyond the sale.
Action Plan: Maximize Your Adventure Savings This Year
- Start your wish list early and research top products via REI’s digital catalog.
- Join REI Co-op for full access to sale and membership discounts.
- Prioritize high-value gear (tents, packs, footwear, navigation tech) for coupon use.
- Monitor flash deals, past-season, and Outlet items for deeper savings.
- Choose sustainable travel by shopping REI’s Re/Supply program.
- Shop before the crowd—best items sell fast!
