37 Best Deals for Backpacking & Hiking Gear: REI Co-op Anniversary Sale 2025

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It’s that time of year again – REI Co-op’s Biggest Sale of the Year! The Anniversary Sale runs from Friday, May 16 – Monday, May 26, 2025 and is always packed with the best deals for summer hiking and camping gear and you can save hundreds of dollars if you plan your purchases correctly! 

But, I know that with so many things being on sale, sometimes it can be incredibly overwhelming to know what you should actually buy. Especially if you’re looking for backpacking and hiking gear – this is stuff you take into the wilderness to survive with, after all!

I worked as a green vest at REI Co-op for over six years and this sale was always wild, but I have some tips for you in order for you to make the most of the sale and your money (so make sure you read until the bottom for my top tips)!

There are so many items that go on discount during the Anniversary Sale, but in this post I’m going to focus on items that are most important for hikers and backpackers and tell you what gear I use on my hiking excursions, and which on-sale gear I think is the best value!

Everything on this list is something I either own and use myself, a family member uses it and loves it (and let’s be real… they bought it because I recommended it to them), I got to extensively test during my time as an employee at REI Co-op, or I’ve done a good amount of research on it and it’s in my shopping cart right now!

Best Overall Deals

  • 30% Off All REI Co-op Branded Clothing
  • 30% Off All REI Co-op Branded Camping & Backpacking Gear
  • 25% Off All Smartwool Clothing & Accessories
  • 25% Off All NEMO Gear
  • 25% Off All Big Agnes Tents, Footprints, Sleeping Bags & Sleeping Pads
  • 25% Off Jetboil Cook Gear (excludes fuel)
  • 25% Off Therm-a-Rest NeoAir X Series Sleeping Pads
  • 25% Off All Cotopaxi Clothing & Accessories
  • 25% Off All Osprey Hydration Packs
  • 25% Off Mountain Hardwear Clothing (excludes Kor AirShell)
  • 25% Off All Danner Footwear
  • 25% Off All Sea to Summit Gear
  • 20% Off All Mountain House Meals
  • $100 Off Garmin inReach mini 2
  • $200 Off All Garmin fenix 8 Watches

My Top 6 Hiking & Backpacking Anniversary Sale Picks

#1 Top Pick
Garmin inreach mini 2 device

Garmin inReach Mini 2

$300 (reg. $400)

Emergency SOS: Call for help with no cell service

Peace of mind: Send check-in messages from anywhere

#2 Pick
orange big Agnes copper spur tent

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent

$412 (reg. $550)

Freestanding & ultralight: Traditional setup, trail-friendly weight

Trusted brand: Excellent repair support & long-term quality

#3 Pick
yellow inflatable backpacking pad thermarest neoair Xlite

Therm-a-Rest Neoair Xlite NXT Sleeping Pad

$150 (reg. $200 starting)

Ultralight & warm: Perfect warmth-to-weight ratio

Trail-proven: Used on my entire PCT thru-hike

#4 Pick
grey trail running shoes

Altra Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoes

$105 (reg. $140)

Thru-hiker favorite: Lightweight, breathable, and built for long miles

Roomy fit: Wide toe box = happy feet on trail

#5 Pick
woman wearing a black, fitted, puffy jacket

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Hoodie

$270 (reg. $360)

Ultralight warmth: Weighs under 8 oz

Trail-tested: My most-used puffy for over 8 years

#6 Pick
black diamond trekking poles with wrist loop and cork handles

Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles

$172 (reg. $230)

Ultralight & strong: Used on my full PCT thru-hike

Flick locks: Secure adjustments vs. iffy twisting mechanisms

Best Hiking Clothing & Footwear Deals

1. Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Hoodie25% Off

woman wearing a pink down hoodie in a snowy landscape
Wearing my Ghost Whisperer while hiking in Chamonix, France

This jacket has earned its reputation. At under 8 ounces, the Ghost Whisperer is a thru-hiker classic – and for good reason. It delivers 3-season warmth, packs down incredibly small, and still manages to keep me cozy on those chilly alpine mornings and desert nights.

I’ve been using this puffy for over 8 years, and it’s still the one I reach for the most. It’s not the warmest jacket out there, but for ultralight backpacking, the warmth-to-weight ratio is hard to beat – especially at 25% off.

Best for: Backpackers and hikers looking to upgrade to a proven, ultralight puffy that doesn’t sacrifice performance.

2. REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie30% Off

woman standing in front of a trail signboard wearing a long sleeve hoodie and shorts
Wore my Sahara Shade Hoodie for the full Colorado Trail

I own four of these – yes, four – and for good reason. The Sahara Sun Hoodie is my go-to for full sun coverage on trail. It’s got thumb holes to keep your sleeves in place, a non-restrictive hood and neckline, and UPF 50 protection, so I can skip the sunscreen reapplication and just hike.

It’s a little heavier than some ultralight sun hoodies, and if it dropped 2-3 ounces it’d be perfect—but for the price (especially at 30% off!), it’s still one of the best value sun hoodies out there. I wear it on everything from desert hikes to alpine passes.

Best for: Anyone who wants breathable sun protection with a comfy, relaxed fit – especially hikers looking to invest in one solid sun hoodie.

3. KUHL Freeflex Dash Pants25% Off

Backpacking in my KHUL Freeflex Dash Pants

These are my favorite non-legging hiking pants for spring through fall. The KUHL Freeflex Dash Pant offers excellent full coverage, a straight-leg fit that doesn’t cling or ride up, and an actually comfortable stretchy waistband with a drawstring – perfect for wearing underneath a hip belt.

They’ve got zippered hand pockets and a drop-in side pocket on the thigh, which is perfect for maps, snacks, or a phone.

Full transparency: I did tear the knee during a fall on a backpacking trip (they’re not indestructible), and I do wish they were just a bit lighter and more breathable. But even after that, I still reach for these again and again – because they’re just that functional and comfortable.

Best for: Hikers who want a versatile, 3-season pant with real pockets and a flexible fit.

4. Janji Pace 7″ Short25% Off

bottom half of woman wearing skin tight above the knee black shorts and sneakers

These are not your average workout shorts. I own two pairs of the Janji Pace 7” Shorts, and they’ve quickly become one of my go-to for hiking, working out, and casual wear. They’re long enough to prevent the dreaded thigh chafe, but not so long they feel bulky – and most importantly, they actually stay in place.

The two side pockets are roomy enough for my phone (I’ve even put snacks in them before!), making them perfect for active days when I want to go hands-free.

Best for: Hikers, runners, or travelers looking for a functional, flattering short that holds up on trail.

5. Smartwool Classic All Season Base Layers25% Off

woman wearing base layer top sitting inside tent
Me wearing my Smartwool base layer top

When it comes to base layers, buy once, wear for years – literally. I’ve had the same Smartwool merino tops and bottoms since 2016, and they’re still going strong. I mostly wear them in winter under ski gear or just lounging at home when I don’t want to wear “real clothes” 😂

For hikers and backpackers, merino wool is a game-changer. It’s naturally odor-resistant, and helps your body thermoregulate in changing conditions – so you stay comfortable whether it’s cool, cold, or somewhere in between. I also don’t get that “sticky” feeling like I get when wearing synthetic layers.

Best for: Hikers and backpackers who want to invest in a sustainable, high-performance layering system made from natural fibers instead of plastic-heavy synthetics.

6. Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket25% Off

woman wearing full rain gear sitting on the ground next to rocks that spell out "2600"
My OR Helium Jacket got me through the end of the Pacific Crest Trail

This isn’t the perfect rain jacket for everyone – but if you’re a hiker or backpacker who doesn’t expect tons of rain but still wants to be prepared, the OR Helium might just be exactly what you need.

It’s ultralight, compact, and ideal for those “just in case” moments. I carried mine during the second half of my Pacific Crest Trail hike – when weather was more unpredictable in Oregon and Washington – and it was perfect for windy dayslight storms, and even some prolonged rain when I needed it most.

Just know: this isn’t a burly rain shell. If you’re heading into truly wet, sustained conditions, you’ll want a true 3 layer jacket. But for most 3-season backpackers, it’s a smart, weight-saving upgrade – especially at 25% off.

Best for: Ultralight or weight-conscious hikers who want emergency rain protection without carrying a full storm shell.

Okay, I haven’t personally tested this one yet. But, based on the specs, the Black Diamond Highline is seriously impressive for a lightweight rain jacket.

You’re getting 3-layer waterproof construction (a big win for durability), pit zips for ventingtaped seams and zippers, and a sub-11 oz weight. That combo is rare in the rain jacket world – especially at this price point (seriously – the next best thing is Arc’teryx and it’s $100 more and basically never goes on sale).

I’m honestly tempted to grab it during this sale just to see how it performs on trail. On paper, it checks a ton of boxes for hikers and backpackers who want legit waterproofing without the weight penalty.

Best for: Backpackers and hikers who want more reliable weather protection than an emergency shell, but don’t want to lug around a bulky rain jacket.

8. Brooks Bras30% Off

woman's back wearing a black bra with cross straps

I bought two of the original Crossback versions of this bra when they were first released in 2020, and I’m still impressed by how well they perform, especially for larger chested ladies doing low to medium impact activities like hiking. They’re supportivebreathable, and wick sweat like a champ, which makes them a solid choice for full-day adventures.

One of my favorite features? No plastic or metal hardware. No clasps, no adjusters, nothing that can dig in or rub under backpack straps. It’s smooth and stretchy, which is something you really appreciate after miles on trail.

If I had to nitpick, I do wish the side coverage was a bit higher, but I have wider-set boobs, so that might be more of a personal fit issue than a design flaw.

Best for: Hikers looking for a comfortable, no-chafe, clasp-free sports bra with solid support – especially for C+ cups on long days outdoors.

9. Cotopaxi Altitude Tech 5-Panel Hat25% Off

woman smiling wearing a hat and backpack
Me & my Cotopaxi hat

This is one of my absolute favorite hiking caps – and not just because it’s cute (but it is, and Cotopaxi always choses the best color combos every single year). This hat has a flexible brim and it breathes well even on hot, exposed trails.

It’s also surprisingly good at handling sweaty uphill slogs. The fabric wicks moisture off my forehead and doesn’t harshly rub.

Best for: Hikers who want a breathable, packable hat that performs well and adds a pop of color to their hiking outfit.

10. Altra Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoes25% Off

Tying my Altra Lone Peak shoe laces

The Altra Lone Peak has been my go-to hiking shoe since 2017. I’ve thru-hiked multiple trails in these starting back with version 3! And while I don’t always love every single update, version after version they continue to deliver: lightweightroomy, and built for big miles.

These are the shoes I recommend to anyone who’s keeping their pack weight low and logging long days on trail. There’s a reason so many thru-hikers swear by them: they’re super breathabledry fast, and the wide toe box gives your feet the space they need to expand comfortably as the miles stack up. Once my mom switched to these shoes on my recommendation, she could finally backpack without her Morton’s Neuroma causing pain.

Best for: Backpackers ready to ditch bulky boots and switch to a lightweight, breathable trail runner designed for long-distance comfort – especially if you’ve got wide feet or want more toe room.

11. Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX Hiking Boots25% Off

tan boots on a black sand beach with a large chunk of ice above the boots
The Danner 600s were amazing in rainy Iceland

I’ll be honest. I’m firmly on team non-waterproof trail runners for most hiking and backpacking. But I totally get that some folks will never give up their mid-height, waterproof boots. And for you, these are hands-down the best I’ve tried.

I originally got the Danner Mountain 600s because, well, they’re cute and Danner is iconic. But they’ve earned their spot in my gear closet. I’ve worn them hiking in West Virginia, snowy trails in the Sierra, and even exploring Iceland, and they held up beautifully in cold, wet conditions.

Despite not ordering the wide version, they worked well for my wide feet, and they were comfortable right out of the box – a rarity for boots.

Best for: Hikers who want a mid-height, waterproof boot that’s functional and stylish, especially for cold weather, muddy trails, or shoulder-season conditions.

Best Backpacking Gear Deals

1. Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent25% Off

orange big Agnes copper spur tent

While I personally prefer ultralight trekking pole shelters, I’ve seen enough Copper Spurs in the wild to know this tent seriously earns its reputation. If you’re looking for a freestanding tent that’s light enough for backpacking but still offers the ease and comfort of a traditional setup, this is one of the best options out there.

A few of my PCT friends used the Copper Spur UL2 for their entire thru-hike and they loved about how versatile it was. On dry nights, they’d leave the fly off and enjoy stargazing and more venting. It was a snug but comfortable fit for two people, and it was easy to split the weight and make it even more pack-friendly. Just note: packs and shoes had to stay outside.

I use the Tiger Wall Platinum, so I know Big Agnes makes quality gear and their repair support is excellent if you ever need it. Durable, lightweight, and backed by a great company, this tent is a smart buy – especially at 25% off.

Best for: Backpacking duos or solo hikers who want a lightweight, freestanding tent with excellent versatility and trusted durability.

2. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT Sleeping Pad25% Off

a mesh tent without rainfly pitched showing sleeping bag and sleeping pad inside
My Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite set up inside my tent

If you’re building an ultralight backpacking sleep system, the NeoAir Xlite NXT should be at the top of your list. This pad has the warmth-to-weight ratio at R = 4.5 and only 12 oz for my short size (and only 13 oz for regular!)

I used mine for my entire Pacific Crest Trail hike and it held up beautifully. The new valve is a major upgrade – it makes inflating easier and prevents air from escaping between breaths, which is a huge win after a long day on trail.

Even better? Therm-a-Rest’s repair and replacement warranty is amazing. I’ve had to use it, and the support was fast, helpful, and no-hassle. This is one of those buy-it-once pieces of gear that’s actually worth the investment.

Best for: Backpackers looking for an ultralight, warm, and dependable sleeping pad with great support and long-term durability.

3. REI Co-op Magma 30 Down Trail Quilt30% Off

sleeping quilt partially zipped

Quilts > sleeping bags. If you’ve ever felt claustrophobic in a mummy bag, you owe it to yourself to try a quilt. Switching to a quilt completely solved my issues with feeling constricted in narrow ultralight bags, and I’ve never looked back.

While I haven’t personally used the Magma Trail Quilt (I use Katabatic and Enlightened Equipment), I’ve studied the specs, sold many of these while working at REI, and have friends who own and love it.

This quilt has more fill weight than my 40°F quilt, which I’ve comfortably taken down to 40°F. If you’re a woman who sleeps warm like me, and you’re pairing it with a solid sleeping pad (R-value 4+), this should work well in the 30–40°F range.

Quilts are also lighter, more packable, and easier to adjust as temps fluctuate. So ditch the bag – you’re compressing the down underneath you anyways (compressed down = no warmth).

Best for: Backpackers who want a roomier AND lighter alternative to mummy bags without sacrificing warmth or comfort.

4. REI Co-op Flash Air 50 Pack30% Off

backpacking pack sitting on grass
Flash Air Pack overlooking the ocean

Fun fact: I actually tested a sample version of the Flash Air backpack back in 2022 through REI’s gear tester program! I took it on a quick overnighter along the Bay Area Ridge Trail, carrying my usual ultralight setup, and I came away thinking this is a well-built, beginner-friendly UL pack, especially for those just starting to shed weight from their base kit.

It’s simple, lightweight, and one of the few ultralight packs backed by REI Co-op’s generous return policy, which is great peace of mind if it turns out to not be a good fit.

Now, it’s not my personal go-to because the shoulder straps didn’t work well for my broad shoulders and larger chest. But if you’re petite or have a smaller frame, this could be a fantastic option – just make sure to get properly fitted before hitting the trail.

Best for: Ultralight beginners looking for a lighter pack with mainstream support, and especially petite hikers or those wanting to test the UL waters without committing to cottage gear just yet.

5. Osprey Ariel/Aether 65 Pack25% Off

red osprey backpacking pack

If you’re not ready to go ultralight just yet (or you’re carrying bulkier gear), the Osprey Ariel (women’s) and Aether (men’s) are some of the most comfortable traditional packs out there. They’re not ultralight by any means, but they’re built to carry heavier loads without killing your back.

This was actually my mom’s first backpacking pack, and it worked great for her when we were starting out. I’ve also used the Ariel on snow camping trips where I was carrying extra weight, and I was impressed with how well it supported everything and stayed comfy on my shoulders and hips.

These packs are super durable, have adjustable frames and harnesses, and are available in Osprey’s Extended Fit sizes, so they’re a great choice for folks who need a supportive, customizable fit.

Best for: Beginner to intermediate backpackers who want a classic, supportive pack that can carry heavier gear comfortably – especially great for winter treks and longer trips.

6. Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Pillow25% Off

small blue pillow

This is one of my tried and true pieces of backpacking gear. I used the Aeros Pillow for my entire Pacific Crest Trailhike and I still bring it on every trip. It’s just that good.

Personally, I’ve never loved the whole “use your puffy or a sack of smelly hiking clothes as a pillow” trick. It’s uncomfortable, inconsistent, and kind of gross after a few days. The Aeros is ultralight (just 2.5 oz), packs down tiny, and gives me a way better night’s sleep, which makes all the difference when you’re hiking and sleeping on the ground every night.

Best for: Hikers ready to ditch the lumpy stuff sack pillow and upgrade to something small, light, and actually comfortable.

7. MSR PocketRocket Deluxe25% Off

A camping stove, a bear canister, and other items on a log
MSR PocketRocket Deluxe

This is my go-to backpacking stove. I’ve been using it for the last few years and it has consistently outperformed other ultralight options I’ve tested.

At just 3 oz, it’s super compactsurprisingly sturdy, and boils water faster than similar models (like the BRS 3000 or Snow Peak LiteMax). I especially love the wider flame base, which spreads heat more evenly across the bottom of the pot – helpful for when I’m actually cooking in the pot.

The built-in igniter can be a little finicky at elevation (which is common with piezo igniters), but I always carry a Bic lighter anyway, so it’s never been a dealbreaker.

Best for: Ultralight backpackers looking for a reliable, compact stove that performs well and shaves ounces without sacrificing functionality.

8. Jetboil Flash25% Off

small camp table with a jetboil, water bottle, spoon, and coffee supplies on top
My Jetboil Flash is part of my car camping kit nowadays – still love it!

The Jetboil was my first-ever backpacking stove, and it’s still one of the most beginner-friendly options out there. The all-in-one design is compact, simple to use, and boils water crazy fast.

I’ve since switched to a lighter setup (PocketRocket + titanium mug) for backpacking, but I still bring my Jetboil on car camping trips when I just want something fast and convenient for my morning coffee.

The newer version has an updated ignition system, which I haven’t tested yet, but I’m hoping it’s more reliable than the older one. That was my only gripe: the auto-ignitor sometimes failed, even at sea level. That said, it’s easy to light manually, and still one of the most efficient stove systems for beginners.

Best for: New backpackers or car campers who want a simple stove system that’s fast, convenient, and reliable (with a lighter in your kit, just in case).

9. Sea to Summit Frontier Ultralight Long Handle Spoon25% Off

a long handled spoon

I’m a spoon girl (spoon > spork). I’ve been using the Sea to Summit Long Spoon for at least seven years, and it’s never let me down.

The long handle makes it way easier to reach deep into backpacking meal bags without getting your knuckles covered in sauce. And unlike a spork, the spoon shape actually lets you scrape out every last bite, including all the tiny crumbs and saucy goodness.

It’s also the lightest long spoon I’ve ever come across, and when you’re counting ounces, that matters.

Best for: Backpackers who want a light, reliable utensil that makes eating trail meals easier, cleaner, and more efficient.

10. Mountain House Freeze Dried Meals20% Off

woman sitting in hatch of car with a blanket on her lap eating a backpacking meal out of a bag
I love Mountain House for backpacking and lazy car camping meals!

Mountain House makes some of my absolute favorite freeze-dried meals, and seeing them on sale is always a win – because let’s be real, they’re not cheap!

These meals are tasty, and super easy to prep just add boiling water and wait 9 minutes. My personal go-to flavors? Biscuits & GravyBreakfast SkilletVeggie Chorizo ScrambleChicken & DumplingsBeef Stroganoff, and Beef Lasagna. I usually eat the entire 2-serving pouch in one go since the calorie count is lower than some other brands.

They’re ideal for newer backpackers or anyone looking for zero-fuss trail meals that actually taste good.

Best for: Hikers who want fast, yummy food on trail without the cleanup or cooking hassle.

Best Day Hiking Pack Deals

1. Osprey Mira/Manta Hydration Pack25% Off

blue osprey backpack

Real talk: this is the daypack I always wanted, but never pulled the trigger on because of the price. But with 25% off, I absolutely recommend it – especially if Osprey packs fit your body well and you’re planning long, strenuous day hikes.

Think: Half DomeCascade CanyonMt. Whitney, or hot desert routes where water carries are heavy and comfort really matters. This pack has Osprey’s trampoline-style mesh back, which offers amazing ventilation and airflow, and the frame & suspension system helps distribute weight way better than most daypacks on the market (which are usually frameless and sit right against your back).

Add in the included hydration reservoir, and it’s a smart buy for hikers who want a supportive, breathable, all-day comfortable pack.

Best for: Hikers tackling long day hikes, hot-weather adventures, or anyone who wants a more supportive day pack with hipbelt pockets.

2. REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack30% Off

Me wearing the Trail 25 pack

I bought this pack on a whim because I liked the color… and now it’s become one of my most-used daypacks. Over the past year I’ve taken it everywhere from Yosemite and the PNW, to Hawaii and the Arizona desert. It’s even my go-to airplane personal item.

What really sold me is the thoughtful organization:

  • The outer pocket is perfect for quick-grab items like chapstick, snacks, and sunscreen
  • The inner mesh pocket fits my wallet, headlamp, car keys, and (of course) more snacks
  • There’s a vertical mesh sleeve inside that’s ideal for stashing a puffy or rain jacket
  • hydration sleeve with a hanging tab keeps my hydration reservoir in place
  • Oh, and it even comes with a built-in rain cover and special stowing spot!

It’s officially 25L, but honestly feels roomier than that, and the price – especially at 30% off – makes it an amazing value.

Best for: Day hikers, travelers, and anyone who wants a well-designed, versatile daypack without breaking the bank.

Best Hiking & Backpacking Accessory Deals

1. Garmin inReach Mini 2$100 Off

a purple backpack with an orange inreach device hanging off of it
The inReach comes with me on all my trips

This is one of the most important pieces of safety gear I carry on backpacking trips. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 allows you to trigger an SOS to get emergency help – even if you’re completely out of cell service. It could save your life if you’re injured, lost, or unable to self-rescue.

I mainly use it for non-emergency communication. I send an “I’m OK” check-in to my parents every night while I’m on trail, and it gives everyone peace of mind. It’s also super helpful for getting pinpointed weather forecasts when I’m deep in the backcountry.

You can pair it with your phone via the Garmin app, which makes it really easy to type out longer messages using your phone’s keyboard. I find the monthly $14.99 subscription to be well worth my money for peace of mind.

Best for: Solo hikers, thru-hikers, and any backpacker heading into remote areas where reliable communication and emergency access matter.

2. Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles25% Off

woman backpacking holding trekking poles
Using my Black Diamond trekking poles thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

These are the trekking poles I used for my entire Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike, and they’ve held up through thousands of miles. They’re ultralight, super sturdy, with adjustable flick locks (way better than twist locks, especially in cold or wet conditions), and cork grips that mold to your hands and wear better over time than foam.

If you’re looking for adjustable trekking poles that are both lightweight and bombproof, these should be in your checkout cart. I’ve never had one break, and that’s saying something considering what I’ve put them through (they also supported my trekking pole tent for the entire PCT… and more!)

Best for: Hikers and backpackers who want lightweight but durable trekking poles that are trail-tested and built to last, especially for long-distance or rugged trips.

3. Nalgene Water Bottle50% Off

teal blue Nalgene water bottle

It’s a classic for a reason. Nalgenes are virtually indestructible, can hold boiling water (hello, hot water bottle in your sleeping bag!), and just… work. At 50% off, it’s a no-brainer whether you’re replacing a lost one or grabbing your first.

Best for: Anyone who wants a reliable, tough-as-nails water bottle for trail or everyday use.

4. Black Diamond Spot 400R Headlamp25% Off

blue headlamp

This is a solid rechargeable headlamp that’s perfect for backpackers who want to ditch disposable batteries. The built-in battery makes it great for longer trips (just recharge with your power bank).

400 lumens is bright enough for night hiking and it also has a red light mode, which is great for preserving night vision around camp or in your tent.

I have a few of these headlamps (they’re like the main freebie the brand reps hand out) and I’m always happy with them, even though I opt for a lighter version in my personal kit.

Best for: Hikers who want a light, bright, rechargeable headlamp without the battery fuss.

5. Counter Assault Bear Spray25% Off

backpacking pack on ground with bear spray attached to hipbelt
Bear spray on hipbelt

If you’re hiking or backpacking in grizzly country, bear spray is a must-have safety item and now’s a good time to grab it. Just a heads-up: you can’t fly with itit does expire, and it’s not allowed in some parks like Yosemite – so only stock up if you actually need it for upcoming trips.

Best for: Hikers headed to brown & grizzly bear country like the Canadian Rockies, Alaska, Yellowstone, or Glacier who need reliable protection and peace of mind.

6. HART Weekend First-Aid Kit30% Off

first aid kit showing the bandaids gauze, and other supplies inside

first aid kit is non-negotiable when hiking or backpacking, and this one from HART is a great starting point. It covers the basics and is compact, but here’s a pro ultralight tipditch the bulk by transferring everything into a ziplock bag for instant weight savings.

Best for: Hikers who want a ready-to-go first aid kit they can easily customize or streamline.

7. NEMO Moonlight Elite Reclining Backpacking Chair25% Off

neon yellow short backpacking chair

I don’t bring chairs backpacking. I’m team sit pad + rock or log. But I snagged this Moonlite Elite on a great deal and after a few uses, plus flying it to Hawaii and back, I’m honestly impressed.

It’s more stable than other backpacking chairs I’ve tried, and I really like that the stuff sack has a folding design vs. a rigid sleeve, which makes it way easier to pack up. If you’ve been curious about adding a little comfort to camp, this is the chair I’d go with.

Best for: Backpackers or minimalist car campers who want a stable, compact chair that packs down small for 18 oz.

8. Garmin fenix 8 AMOLED Sapphire$200 Off

garmin fenix watch with Topo map features on screen

Yes – it’s crazy expensive. But I’ve been using the fenix 6 Sapphire since early 2020 and it’s still going strong. In a world where most tech lasts maybe 1-3 years, this watch just keeps performing. It’s 100% not necessary at all, but if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line smartwatch, I can vouch for the fenix.

I use it to track all my hikes and the GPS accuracy is amazing. I also use it for all of Peloton strength and cycling workouts, it monitors sleep and stress (which I’ve found freakishly accurate), and even gives me early signals before I get sick. For backpacking, I upload GPX files directly to the watch, so I can follow my entire route right from my wrist and get turn-by-turn guidance.

The fenix 8 takes everything I love and levels it up with a bright AMOLED screenmulti-band GPS, longer battery life, a built-in flashlight, and probably tons more athlete features that I don’t even know about. If you’re serious about tracking your training, navigation, or just want one smartwatch that can do it all for years, this is it.

Best for: Tech-savvy hikers, backpackers, and fitness lovers who want a durable, do-everything GPS watch that goes way beyond step counting.

What to Use Your Member Coupon On

REI Co-op members get 20% off of one full-priced and one outlet item during the Anniversary Sale! Here are my top hiking and backpacking gear picks for using your coupon on.

  • Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 Pack: HMG makes some of the toughest ultralight packs out there. If you want a barebones, bombproof pack, this is the one to get.
  • Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie: If you’re not chasing grams, this is a buy-once, cry-once kind of jacket. It’s warmer and more durable than the Ghost Whisperer, and backed by Patagonia’s lifetime warranty.
  • Altra Timp 5 or Lone Peak 9+: I rotate between both of these and still can’t decide which I like more. But now both of these have a Vibram outsole for grippier traction, and since they’re not on sale, they’re a perfect use for your member coupon.
  • Sawyer Squeeze Filter + CNOC Dirty Bag: This is my tried and true water filter. I used it for my entire PCT thru-hike and never had to replace it. Even though this isn’t the most expensive full-price item to use your coupon on, this is still my top filter pick – I’m not a fan of the ones that are on sale.
  • OUTLET Coupon Pick: Big Agnes Tiger Wall 3 Platinum Tent: I’ve used this tent on hundreds of miles of trail, including thru-hikes of the Wonderland, High Sierra, and John Muir Trails. It’s an excellent ultralight, semi-freestanding shelter for 3-season trips. Read my full review of the Tiger Wall Platinum.
a tent set up among large boulders with a mountain ridge in the background at guitar lake
Tiger Wall 3 Platinum pitched

Top Tips for Shopping the REI Co-op Anniversary Sale

Be a Co-op Member

REI Co-op Membership costs $30 and lasts a lifetime – no renewal fees! Being a member gets you access to so much more during these sales – like the member coupons. Each membership gets 20% off one full-priced and one outlet item during the sale with the code ANNIV2025. There are some brand and item exclusions, but for the most, it’s fair game!

On top of the 2 coupons above, members can get an extra 20% off of a used gear item from the Re/Supply shop with the code USED2025! This is great if you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint by buying used vs. new. I highly recommend shopping in-store for used gear – in my opinion, you get to better assess the quality of the item. Remember, used gear is not returnable!

Membership also earns you a 10% reward on your full-priced purchases. Obviously, this is a sale, so you’re probably not buying anything at full price. BUT – you could still earn reward on all of your sale items if you’re a member and also have the REI Co-op Mastercard. It’s a $0 yearly fee credit card that allows you to earn 5% member reward on everything at REI Co-op: sale items, outlet items, used gear, services like ski waxing & bike tunes, and even donations to the REI Co-op Action Fund. Pretty neat, right? Make sure you apply at your local store if you’re interested – it helps them out more than you know.

Sometimes they’ll run a few member-only special discounts halfway through the sale as well, so keep your eyes peeled for those!

Shop Early

Items do sell out during the sale. I’ve seen it happen plenty of times. So if you really have your eye on something, make sure you buy it during the first weekend of the sale!

Shop In Store

And have patience while doing so. Trust me, you’ll get better service. But why shop in store vs. online? Because due to some weird brand contracts and something called MAP (minimum advertised price) Pricing. They can’t legally show certain items online during big sales like these with the member-only coupons.

It’s annoying, and trust me, employees don’t like it either. But it’s just the way contracts can be. These items may be hidden from the website, but they’re not taken off of the sales floor. So check out your local store if you notice something has disappeared from the website!

Get Geared Up!

Sales like the REI Co-op Anniversary Sale can feel overwhelming with so many options, but I hope this guide helped you cut through the noise. These picks are based on gear I’ve personally testedused on trail, or recommended to close friends and family who have loved them just as much.

That said, remember, fit and personal preference matter most, especially when it comes to packs and footwear. If the Osprey or REI Co-op packs, or the Altra shoes I love don’t feel right on your body, don’t worry! There are plenty of other great options out there. The right gear is the gear that works for you.

This roundup focused on hiking and backpacking essentials, but the sale includes so much morefrom car camping to climbingcycling, and beyond. If you’re building out your gear closet or upgrading your setup, now’s a great time to shop and save.

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