Gear Up for Summer: Unlocking the Best Deals at the REI Anniversary Sale 2025

As the days lengthen and the warmth of summer beckons, the call of the outdoors grows stronger. Flowers burst into vibrant color, migratory birds return, and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere begin planning their warm-weather adventures. For many, this season of preparation coincides perfectly with one of the most anticipated events in the outdoor retail calendar: the REI Anniversary Sale. Running from May 16 through Memorial Day, May 26, this annual sale is REI's biggest, offering substantial discounts of up to 30 percent on a vast selection of gear. For REI Co-op members, the savings are even sweeter, with an additional 20 percent off one full-price item and an extra 20 percent off one REI Outlet item using the promo code ANNIV2025 at checkout.

While REI takes center stage, other retailers are also joining the early Memorial Day sales, including major players like Backcountry and Public Lands, alongside smaller, cherished brands found on platforms like Garage Grown Gear. This confluence of sales presents a prime opportunity to acquire high-quality outdoor equipment at reduced prices, ensuring you're well-equipped for everything from casual day hikes and car camping trips to ambitious backpacking expeditions and trail runs.

Drawing upon years of rigorous testing and expert recommendations, we've sifted through the extensive offerings to highlight some of the most impactful deals available. This guide focuses on gear we've personally tested and loved, covering essential categories like tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, footwear, and apparel. Whether you're looking to upgrade your shelter, find a more comfortable sleeping setup, lighten your pack load, or simply refresh your outdoor wardrobe, the REI Anniversary Sale offers compelling options. We'll delve into the specifics of why these items stand out, often referencing our detailed guides to the Best Day-Hiking Packs, Best Tents, Best Sleeping Bags, Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads, Best Rain Jackets, Best Backpacking Water Filters, Best Merino Wool, and Best Binoculars.

This guide was updated on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, to include additional deals from brands like Fjällräven, Kelty, Big Agnes, and Osprey.

Featured Deals: Top Picks from the Sale

To kick things off, here are a few standout deals that represent significant value on highly recommended gear:

• The best backpacking tent: REI Half Dome SL 2+ Tent for $210 ($90 off)
• Our favorite backpacking sleeping bag: Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 30 Long Sleeping Bag for $199 ($66 off)
• The best hiking shoes: Salomon X Ultra 4 Hiking Shoes for $120 ($40 off)
• A classic commuter bike helmet: Thousand Chapter MIPS Helmet for $109 ($36 off)
• A good present for summer birthdays: Roark Bless Up Shirt for $67 ($22 off)

Backpack Deals: Carry Your Essentials in Comfort

A reliable backpack is fundamental to almost any outdoor activity, whether you're heading out for a quick day hike or embarking on a multi-day trek. The REI Anniversary Sale offers excellent opportunities to save on packs for various uses. Remember to consult our guides to the Best Day-Hiking Backpacks and the Best Travel Bags for more in-depth recommendations.

REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack for $42 ($18 off)

The REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack stands out as potentially the best-value day pack currently available, and the sale price makes it an even more compelling option. Despite its lightweight design, featuring minimal padding and straps, this pack offers surprising comfort, capable of carrying loads up to 15 pounds without causing shoulder strain. One of its most practical features is the generously sized side stash pockets, large enough to easily accommodate a Nalgene bottle or a folded rain jacket. Constructed from 70-denier recycled ripstop nylon, the Flash 22 is built for durability, and personal testing has shown it holds up well even on challenging terrain, enduring rough canyon hikes with nothing more than cosmetic mud stains.

REI Co-op Flash 18 Pack for $28 ($12 off)

For those prioritizing ultralight minimalism, the REI Co-op Flash 18 Pack is the stripped-down counterpart to the Flash 22. It foregoes the hip belt, side stash pockets, and floating lid for a truly bare-bones design. This makes it exceptionally lightweight and packable, ideal for travelers who want a versatile backpack they can easily stuff into a carry-on and use upon arrival. However, its minimalist nature means it's best suited for lighter loads, ideally under 8 pounds, and caution should be exercised with sharp items due to the lack of padding.

Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25 for $97 ($32 off)

Featured as one of our favorite day-hiking packs, the Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25 introduced the reviewer to the benefits of wider shoulder straps, which enhance comfort significantly without adding unnecessary bulk. The result is a pack that is both comfortable and remarkably light (weighing just 1 lb, 6 oz) and packable, making it an excellent secondary pack for travel. Its side pockets are spacious enough for a Nalgene bottle, and the 25-liter capacity is ample for carrying everything needed for a full day out. It even fits conveniently under the seat of smaller airplanes, proving its versatility for both trail and travel.

Nemo Resolve 15L Endless Promise Pack for $120 ($60 off)

For the environmentally conscious hiker who prefers to travel light, the Nemo Resolve 15L Endless Promise Pack is a top recommendation. This pack is a testament to sustainable design, made from 100 percent recycled materials, infinitely adjustable and repairable, and designed to be sent back to Nemo for complete recycling at the end of its lifespan. While it features a unique adjustment system utilizing bungees and pull-tabs instead of traditional straps, it sits comfortably and high on the back. Weighing in at 1 lb, 15 oz, it's relatively light, especially considering the hardware involved, making it a great choice for eco-friendly day trips.

Osprey Talon 22 Backpack for $120 ($40 off)

Osprey's Talon line has been a staple in the outdoor community since 2007, and the Talon 22 continues this legacy of success. This 22-liter model is the smaller sibling to the 33L version highlighted in our guide to the best day-hiking packs. Its construction from 100-denier high-tenacity nylon (Bluesign-approved) ensures durability while keeping the weight reasonable (2 pounds, 1 ounce for the S/M size). The dual zippered panel-loading design allows for easy access to your belongings, and numerous internal and external pockets provide ample storage and organization options, making it a highly functional pack for day hikes and other activities.

Trail Running and Road Running Deals: Footwear for Every Path

Whether you prefer the rugged trails or the smooth pavement, the right footwear can make all the difference in comfort and performance. The REI sale includes deals on running shoes designed for various terrains and preferences. Don't forget to explore our guide to the Best Barefoot Shoes for alternative options.

Xero Z-Trail Barefoot Sandals for $60 ($20 off)

These sandals are so exceptional, they inspired one reviewer to write a thousand words about them. The Xero Z-Trail Barefoot Sandals are often described as the barefoot alternative to Chacos. Unlike the rigid feel of Chacos, the Z-Trails are designed to flex and bend with your feet, promoting natural movement. Despite their minimalist design, they offer 10 mm of cushion, which is a significant amount for a barefoot shoe, making them a comfortable entry point for those new to barefoot-style footwear. They are truly that good for promoting foot freedom while providing protection.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Hiking Shoes for $120 ($40 off)

This is last year's iteration of the reviewer's favorite Salomon X Ultra 5 hiking boots. Salomon consistently produces our favorite hiking boots, known for their impressive balance of protection, traction, lightweight design, and ease of use. The X Ultra 4 shares these qualities, offering excellent grip that prevents toes from smashing on downhills and providing sticky traction for climbing rocks with surprising agility. These shoes are a testament to Salomon's expertise in creating footwear that performs reliably on varied terrain.

Altra Lone Peak 9 Running Shoes for $105 ($35 off)

The Altra Lone Peak series has been a long-time favorite for trail runners seeking a barefoot-like experience. The reviewer has worn the women's version for years, highlighting Altra's commitment to a zero heel-to-toe drop and a wide toe box, which allows toes to splay naturally. Despite this minimalist feel, the shoes provide excellent traction and protection against rocks and trail debris. If you're looking for a trail running shoe that promotes natural foot mechanics without sacrificing performance on rugged terrain, the Lone Peak 9 is an excellent choice, especially at this discounted price.

Altra Fwd Via Running Shoes for $120 ($40 off)

The Altra Fwd Via is Altra's take on a highly cushioned road running shoe, akin to models like the Brooks Glycerin Max. If you appreciate the plush, comfortable ride of a maximally cushioned shoe but are also drawn to Altra's signature wide toe box, the Fwd Via is designed for you. It provides the best of both worlds: ample cushioning for long road runs and the natural toe splay that Altra enthusiasts love. For more options, check out our guide to the Best Running Shoes.

Sleeping Bag and Sleeping Pad Deals: Rest Easy in the Great Outdoors

A good night's sleep is crucial for enjoying the outdoors, and the right sleeping bag and pad are key components of a comfortable camp setup. The REI sale features deals on options for various temperatures and preferences. Navigate the choices with help from our guides to the Best Sleeping Bags and the Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads.

REI Co-op Magma 15 Sleeping Bag for $300 ($130 off)

The REI Co-op Magma 15 is our favorite bag for shoulder-season trips, those transitional periods when temperatures can be unpredictable and drop unexpectedly. Its standout feature is an excellent draft collar, highly effective at sealing in warmth and keeping out the chill. The bag's exterior is made from a durable 15-denier nylon ripstop, which is Bluesign-approved and treated with a non-fluorinated DWR coating to repel moisture. The variably spaced baffles, which are not stitched through, help keep the down fill evenly distributed and minimize cold spots, ensuring consistent warmth. The Magma 15 is a no-frills, high-performance bag that simply gets the job done, offering reliable warmth and moisture resistance.

REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag for $140 ($60 off)

For summertime car camping, the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag is our top recommendation. It provides ample warmth for three-season use and is notably affordable, especially at the sale price. Crucially, it's not a restrictive mummy bag. Unless you're tackling extreme conditions, there's no need to feel confined. The Siesta's rectangular cut offers a much roomier and more comfortable sleeping experience. Unlike many rectangular bags, it includes a hood, which is a valuable addition for retaining warmth on cooler nights, making it a versatile and comfortable option for casual camping.

Nemo Forte 20 Synthetic Sleeping Bag for $150 ($50 off)

The Nemo Forte 20 is a synthetic-fill sleeping bag rated to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, though its comfort rating is closer to 30 degrees, which aligns well with the reviewer's testing experience. The outer shell is constructed from a 30-denier recycled polyester ripstop, while the inner liner uses a 20-denier recycled polyester taffeta. This combination does an excellent job of managing the moisture that can build up inside a tent, a fact confirmed during a particularly soggy night of testing. The bag is filled with Nemo's Zerofiber insulation, made entirely from 100 percent postconsumer recycled content. This synthetic fill is remarkable for how small it packs down – it's the most compact synthetic bag the reviewer has tested in this temperature range – and it maintains its insulating properties even when wet, offering reliable performance in damp conditions.

Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 30 Long Sleeping Bag for $199 ($66 off)

Our favorite backpacking sleeping bag, the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 30, strikes an impressive balance between warmth, weight, and price. While not perfect, it offers the best compromise for the majority of backpackers. The reviewer has spent over two weeks sleeping in this bag in temperatures ranging from 28 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. While it was admittedly too warm on the hottest nights, it performed admirably in cooler conditions. Its versatility is enhanced by the ability to unzip it and use it like a blanket on warmer evenings. Note that for men, only the long version is currently on sale, while both long and regular sizes are discounted for women.

Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 0 Sleeping Bag for $244 ($81 off)

For those venturing into colder conditions, the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 0 Sleeping Bag is a strong contender. Although not yet formally reviewed, the reviewer tested it during the winter and was pleasantly surprised by its warmth. It kept the reviewer warm on several nights when temperatures dropped into the single digits, well below the bag's comfort rating of 13 degrees Fahrenheit. While wearing merino base layers and a wool hat (as is standard practice for sleeping bag comfort ratings), the bag provided reliable insulation. If you need a bag for colder weather without investing in extremely expensive, extreme-temperature gear, this is a solid and more affordable option.

Zenbivy Bed 25-Degree Sleeping Bag for $200 ($100 off)

The Zenbivy Bed 25-Degree Sleeping Bag (9/10, WIRED Recommends) offers what the reviewer considers the most comfortable backcountry sleeping experience available. While perhaps not the top choice for truly extreme situations, within its comfort range (rated to 35 degrees Fahrenheit), it provides unparalleled comfort. The Zenbivy system is more than just a sleeping bag; it's a modular setup combining a sheet, hood, and quilt-style bag that can be configured in various ways to suit different preferences and temperatures. This adaptability contributes significantly to its exceptional comfort.

Zenbivy Light Bed 25-Degree for $307 ($101 off)

A newer addition to the Zenbivy lineup, the Light Bed takes the innovative clip design of the original Zenbivy beds and reduces the weight. The reviewer has been testing this bag and finds it retains everything they loved about the original while being significantly lighter. A full review is forthcoming, but for those who have been interested in the Zenbivy system but wanted a lighter base gear weight, this is the option to consider. The price listed includes both the bed/sheet component and the quilt. Zenbivy is currently offering a 25 percent off sale on most items on their site, adding to the appeal of this lightweight system.

Nemo Tensor All-Season Sleeping Pad for $165 ($55 off)

Nemo's updated 2024 Tensor-insulated sleeping pads (8/10, WIRED Recommends) boast an impressive R-value-to-weight ratio, making them stand out in the market. The All-Season model is our top pick for backpacking trips, offering an R-value of 5.4 while weighing a mere 18.2 ounces. Beyond the numbers, the Tensor is praised for being thick, comfortable, and notably quiet – a significant improvement over older pads that could be quite crinkly. The slightly lighter Trail model is also on sale, as is the Extreme Conditions pad, which is currently the lightest and warmest option available, making the Tensor line a strong choice across various conditions.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad for $157 ($53 off)

A favorite among ultralight hikers, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT is our pick for backpackers aiming to minimize pack weight while still ensuring a comfortable night's sleep. The XLite NXT delivers comfort and insulation while weighing in well under 1 pound for the regular size. Its 3-inch thickness provides ample cushioning from the ground, and with an R-Value of 4.5, it offers sufficient warmth for most three-season camping scenarios. This pad is a testament to achieving lightweight performance without sacrificing essential comfort.

Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Regular Wide Sleeping Pad for $154 ($66 off)

Sea to Summit's Ether Light XT is only slightly heavier than the Therm-a-Rest XLite but offers significantly more cushion, measuring 4 inches thick compared to the XLite's 3 inches. This extra thickness makes it a particularly good ultralight option for side sleepers who need more padding to prevent hips from bottoming out. The reviewer also prefers the baffle design and finds it to be slightly more durable, positioning it as an excellent alternative ultralight pad. Note that this deal is available through the REI Outlet, as the Ether Light XT has been succeeded by a newer model.

Tent Deals: Your Home Away From Home

Finding the right tent is essential for protection from the elements and providing a comfortable base camp. The REI Anniversary Sale includes deals on tents for various group sizes and backpacking styles. For more WIRED-tested recommendations, check out our Best Tents guide.

REI Half Dome SL 2+ Tent for $210 ($90 off)

REI Co-op brand gear consistently offers some of the best value in the outdoor market, and the Half Dome SL 2+ tent is a prime example. Our pick for Best Two-Person Backpacking Tent, the Half Dome is known for its rugged construction and relatively lightweight design (4 pounds). It provides generous living space for two people plus their gear, all at a reasonable price point, especially when on sale. The tent body combines durable 40-denier ripstop nylon for the base and floor with breathable 20-denier nylon mesh for the upper body. A welcome rarity these days, the Half Dome includes a footprint. The aluminum tent poles are interchangeable, simplifying setup and takedown, making this a reliable and user-friendly backpacking tent.

Sea to Summit Alto 1-Person Tent for $250 ($250 off)

Designed with solo adventurers in mind, Sea to Summit's ultralight Alto tent (8/10, WIRED Recommends) focuses on minimizing weight. At just 33 ounces for a semi-freestanding tent, it remains one of the lightest options available, and the current price makes it an exceptional deal. The use of mesh netting contributes to its low weight. For those seeking more warmth, the Plus version, which incorporates less mesh, is also on sale for $275 ($275 off), representing an equally outstanding value. The Alto is a strong choice for backpackers prioritizing weight savings on solo trips.

Sea to Summit Telos Plus 3-Person Tent for $325 ($325 off)

Sea to Summit's "3-plus season" tents, like the Telos Plus 3-Person model, are built to handle a wide range of weather conditions while remaining remarkably light. This three-person version weighs in at just 3 pounds and 12 ounces. The reviewer used it on a five-day trip in northern California during the shoulder season, experiencing everything from warm daytime temperatures to nighttime lows in the 40s and overnight winds gusting up to 60 mph. The tent performed admirably. A clever design detail is the pole bag, which is made rigid by a plastic insert and can be clipped to the tent ceiling to hold a headlamp, effectively turning it into a lantern and illuminating the interior. This combination of lightweight design, durability, and thoughtful features makes the Telos Plus an excellent option for group trips.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent for $412 ($138 off)

The Big Agnes Copper Spur series is widely regarded as the leader among freestanding ultralight tents. The reviewer has used both the two-person and three-person models (on sale for $450) over the years and notes that Big Agnes has continuously refined the design to near perfection. This is a high-quality, well-designed tent that is lightweight, easy to set up, and remains stable even in strong winds. The steep sidewalls maximize interior living space compared to many other tents, and the ability to use trekking poles or sticks to create awnings from the vestibules is a great feature. The primary drawback is typically the price, but the current sale makes it a much more accessible investment for a top-tier ultralight tent.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Bikepacking Tent for $472 ($128 off)

Bikepacking, the fusion of backpacking and cycling, is growing in popularity, and gear manufacturers are responding with specialized equipment. Big Agnes was an early innovator among mainstream brands, designing tents with shorter pole sections specifically to fit conveniently between drop handlebars or inside panniers. The Copper Spur UL3 Bikepacking tent is our favorite bikepacking tent among those tested. It weighs just 3 pounds, 11 ounces (1.6 kilos) and offers enough space for two people comfortably (though it can be a squeeze for three). Lighter, smaller one- and two-person versions are also available. All models feature twin vestibules and doors, hidden helmet storage, and external webbing for drying wet clothes, making them thoughtfully designed for the unique demands of bikepacking.

Nemo Dagger Osmo 2P Tent for $375 ($25 off)

Nemo's Dagger Osmo line of tents (8/10, WIRED Recommends) are known for being reasonably lightweight while offering roomy interiors. The three-person version (also on sale) has been the reviewer's go-to tent for trips with their children due to its livable space. Setup is straightforward thanks to the single main pole design that forks at each end, supplemented by a cross pole in the middle. The tent features two spacious vestibules, providing ample storage for gear. On clear nights, leaving the rain fly off allows for excellent stargazing through the mesh tent body. The Dagger Osmo balances weight, space, and ease of setup effectively.

Nemo Mayfly Osmo 2P Backpacking Tent for $300 ($100 off)

The Nemo Mayfly Osmo (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is a three-season backpacking tent with a trail weight of 3 pounds, 8 ounces for the two-person model tested. When split between two backpackers, this means each person carries under 2 pounds of tent weight. The Mayfly achieves this weight savings through a semi-freestanding design, which requires partial staking for full setup. While on the smaller side at 27.9 square feet of living space, it offers two 7-square-foot vestibule areas for gear storage. The cross pole design provides a wider roof area than many tents of similar size, enhancing livability. The reviewer particularly appreciates the white mesh (as opposed to black) and the simple clips that secure the rain fly, making setup and use intuitive.

Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo Backpacking Tent for $175 ($86 off)

This tent is the reviewer's favorite single-wall ultralight solo tent, with a full review forthcoming. After extensive use, the reviewer has become a convert, especially for summer camping. The Lunar Solo effectively addresses the common issue of condensation in single-wall tents through ample mesh ventilation and a top vent in the vestibule, reminiscent of the design found in the reviewer's all-time favorite backcountry shelter, the Hilleberg Akto (10/10, WIRED Recommends). While it has its quirks (reading the pitching tips is recommended), if you desire something more substantial than a tarp that still weighs only 26 ounces (740 grams), the Lunar Solo is hard to beat, offering excellent value at this sale price.

Hiking and Biking Deals: Apparel and Accessories for the Trail and Road

Beyond the big-ticket items like tents and sleeping bags, the REI sale also includes deals on essential apparel and accessories for hiking and biking. These items can significantly enhance your comfort and safety on any adventure.

REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket for Kids for $56 ($24 off)

A perennial repurchase for the reviewer's children, the REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket offers exceptional value, making it hard to find a better kids' rain jacket at this price point. The kids' version features a 2.5-layer shell construction with a non-fluorinated (PFAS-free) durable water-repellent (DWR) coating, ensuring effective water resistance without harmful chemicals. Taped seams prevent leaks, and an adjustable hood provides a secure fit. These jackets are built to last through a year of active use, providing reliable protection from the rain (assuming they don't get lost!). They are a staple in our guide to the Best Rain Jackets.

Roark Bless Up Shirt for $67 ($22 off)

The Roark Bless Up Shirt is highlighted as the perfect summer shirt, so much so that the reviewer bought one for multiple family members last year. Roark Clothing is a smaller company known for producing high-quality active apparel. The Bless Up shirt, made from perforated synthetic fibers, is ideal for hot, humid conditions, excelling on beach days with temperatures soaring above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Its breathability and quick-drying properties make it a comfortable choice for staying cool in challenging summer weather.

Fjällräven Abisko Hybrid Trail Trousers for $136 ($59 off)

Fjällräven's hiking pants, or "trousers" as they call them, have a legendary reputation, and the reviewer's experience spending most of the spring in a pair of Abisko Trail trousers confirms why. They are surprisingly warm yet lightweight and particularly effective at blocking wind. The G-1000 Lite Stretch recycled fabric provides excellent freedom of movement thanks to its stretchiness. A valuable feature, especially for those concerned about ticks and insects (like the reviewer, who has had Lyme disease), is the ability to cinch down the leg cuffs. The fabric can also be waxed to renew its waterproofness, adding to the trousers' longevity and versatility. These trousers are a durable and comfortable option for various hiking conditions.

Smartwool Performance Hike Light Cushion Crew Socks for $18 ($6 off)

While the reviewer still slightly prefers Darn Tough's lightweight hiking socks, these Smartwool socks are a very close second and represent excellent value at the sale price. As the reviewer notes, you can never have too many wool hiking socks. Made with 56 percent merino wool, they offer a good balance of stretch and durability and remain remarkably odor-free even after multiple days of wear on the trail. Having two pairs to rotate is a simple strategy for keeping your feet dry and comfortable on longer hikes.

Smartwool Running Low Ankle Socks for $14 ($5 off)

These Smartwool socks are the reviewer's top pick for merino ankle running socks, although they haven't yet been added to the Best Merino Wool Clothing Guide. While the merino content is around 54 percent (blended with nylon and elastane), they are thin, lightweight, and perform exceptionally well with various types of running shoes, including barefoot shoes. Their ability to resist odor is surprisingly good given the merino percentage. At this price, they are a fantastic addition to any runner's sock drawer.

REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie for $35 ($15 off)

The REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie offers incredible value compared to many other sun hoodies on the market, especially those featured in our Best Sun Protection Clothing guide. WIRED reviewer Jaina Grey found it to be super soft and breathable, with practical thumb holes to protect the back of your hands from the sun. With a UPF 50 rating, this hoodie provides excellent sun protection. It can be a much easier way to ensure kids or family members with sensitive skin are protected from harmful UV rays compared to constantly applying sticky sunscreen.

Thousand Chapter MIPS Helmet for $109 ($36 off)

Ranked as our second-best helmet in the guide to the Best Bike Helmets, the Thousand Chapter MIPS Helmet is packed with thoughtful features for urban commuters and casual riders. It includes a magnetic rear light that easily detaches for recharging and a convenient pullout tab that allows you to secure the helmet to a bike rack using a lock. Available in a variety of appealing designs and colors, it also incorporates MIPS technology, a crucial safety feature designed to reduce rotational forces during certain impacts. This helmet blends style, safety, and practicality.

Giro Escape MIPS Helmet for $97 ($33 off)

Another excellent option for commuters featured in our guide, the Giro Escape MIPS Helmet is equipped with rechargeable lights integrated into both the front and back, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions. It features an understated, commuter-friendly design and, importantly, includes MIPS technology for added protection against rotational impacts. This helmet is a solid choice for riders prioritizing safety and visibility during their daily commute or casual rides.

Camping Deals: Enhance Your Camp Experience

Camping involves more than just sleeping outdoors; it's about the entire experience, from cooking meals to relaxing around the fire. The REI sale includes deals on various camping accessories that can make your time in the wilderness more enjoyable.

MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove for $45 ($15 off)

Currently in the final stages of testing for an upcoming backpacking stove guide, the MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove is poised to be our top recommendation for propane canister stoves. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, ease of use, and ability to quickly boil water (approximately 3.5 minutes for 1 liter at sea level). Crucially, it has proven to be more durable and reliable than other ultralight stoves tested. Weighing a mere 2.6 ounces, it's an incredibly lightweight and efficient option for backpackers and campers who need a dependable way to cook or boil water.

Garmin inReach Mini 2 for $300 ($100 off)

While the reviewer hasn't personally used a satellite communicator on a trip yet, they understand their importance for safety in remote areas. If they were to carry one, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 would be the choice. It's tiny and lightweight (3.5 ounces), making it easy to stash in a pack. It operates on the reliable Iridium satellite network, allowing you to send an SOS message from virtually anywhere, even outside cellular service. Additional features like waypoint tracking and interval tracking add functionality, and it seamlessly integrates with compatible Garmin watches, making it a powerful safety tool for backcountry adventures.

Ruffwear Confluence Life Jacket for $86 ($29 off)

This Ruffwear Confluence Life Jacket represents the reviewer's personal purchase from this year's REI sale, intended for their 1-year-old puppy. With a lot of summer boating planned, and despite a spouse's insistence that dogs are natural swimmers, the reviewer prefers the added safety of a life jacket. Beyond providing buoyancy, the jacket features handles that make it easier to grab the dog if needed, whether they jump in for a swim or accidentally fall overboard. It's a practical purchase for ensuring canine safety around water.

Kelty Low Loveseat for $97 ($33 off)

The Kelty Low Loveseat is described as the coziest way to relax around a campsite. While it is admittedly large, heavy, and somewhat awkward to fold and carry, its comfort around the campfire with a loved one is unmatched. As long as you have sufficient space in your vehicle for transport, this chair provides a comfortable and inviting seating option for car camping trips, perfect for unwinding after a day of outdoor activities.

Nemo Moonlite Elite Backpacking Chair for $135 ($45 off)

For backpackers who crave the comfort of a chair at camp, the Nemo Moonlite Elite is a top contender. Weighing in at just 18 ounces, it's among the lightest backpacking chairs available and packs down remarkably small. It also cleverly addresses a common issue with lightweight pole chairs: the included base pad prevents the chair legs from sinking into soft ground. This thoughtful design makes it a practical luxury item for those willing to carry a little extra weight for significant comfort at camp.

Nalgene 32 oz Wide-Mouth Water Bottle for $8.50 ($8.50 off)

Getting a classic Nalgene water bottle for half price is an undeniable deal. The reviewer expresses a preference for this timeless classic over newer styles, noting its reliability and suitability for hiking. Nalgenes are lighter than stainless steel bottles and are considered the most practical option for carrying water on hikes. The wide mouth makes them easy to fill, clean, and even use with water filters. Grabbing two of the larger 48-ounce bottles and placing them in backpack side pockets is suggested as a simple way to ensure a family stays hydrated.

Coleman Cascade Classic Camp Stove for $98 ($32 off)

This version of the Coleman Cascade Classic Camp Stove is described as the "fancy" iteration of our favorite camp stove. It features electronic ignition and a distinctive pale green paint job. Whether these upgrades are worth the extra cost compared to the standard version (available for $59 at Walmart) is a matter of personal preference. Regardless of the version, the Coleman classic design provides a reliable two-burner stove for car camping, capable of handling a variety of cooking tasks.

Sea to Summit Frontier 3L Ultralight Cook Pot for $52 ($23 off)

While perhaps not strictly "ultralight" for all backpacking styles, the Sea to Summit Frontier 3L Cook Pot is the reviewer's go-to pot for family backpacking trips and represents a lightweight option for cooking for a group. Despite some potentially misleading online reviews, the pot itself is quite good. Its hard-anodized aluminum construction is sturdy and facilitates good heat transfer for cooking. The ceramic nonstick coating makes cleanup significantly easier, especially when paired with a good scraper. The pot is also designed to nest with the 2L version ($49), and theoretically the 1.3L version ($49) inside that, offering modular cooking options on the trail.

Sea to Summit 3L Frontier Ultralight Pan for $49 ($25 off)

The Sea to Summit Frontier pan is hailed as the reviewer's all-time favorite backcountry cooking vessel. While bringing an 8-inch frying pan backpacking isn't the ultralight ideal, this pan is indispensable for those who want to cook more than just boil-in-a-bag meals. It's perfect for building sauces or sautéing freshly caught fish. The pan distributes heat reasonably evenly, and its curved edge makes cooking and cleanup easier. The combination of its great design, ceramic coating, and surprisingly low weight (just 13 ounces) makes it a highly functional and recommended piece of camp kitchen gear.

GSI Outdoors Compact Pot Scraper for $5 ($2 off)

While not a massive discount, the GSI Outdoors Compact Pot Scraper is highlighted as possibly the best piece of backpacking gear the reviewer owns. It's the unsung hero of backcountry cleanup, transforming the tedious chore of scrubbing pots into a quick task. While it won't magically clean severely burnt food (boiling water in the pot is the solution for that), for most situations, a quick scrape with this tool gets the pot 99 percent clean. Considered indispensable by the reviewer, it's well worth picking up, especially with a small discount.