Here are 40 of our favorite deals from REI’s massive Anniversary Sale

The Ultimate Outdoor Upgrade: How REI’s Anniversary Sale Is Revolutionizing Your Next Adventure

As the sun climbs higher and the days stretch longer, outdoor enthusiasts across the country are gearing up for summer expeditions—whether that means summiting mountain peaks, backpacking through national parks, or simply enjoying a weekend under the stars. And this year, there’s no better time to upgrade your gear than during REI’s massive Anniversary Sale, running now through May 25th. With deep discounts on everything from high-tech wearables to rugged backcountry essentials, this annual event isn’t just a shopping spree—it’s a strategic opportunity to invest in gear that can truly transform your outdoor experience.

REI’s Anniversary Sale has long been the gold standard for outdoor gear savings, and 2024 is no exception. This year’s event features over 40 standout deals, many of which are exclusive to the co-op or matched at major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. But what makes this sale truly special isn’t just the price cuts—it’s the quality and innovation behind the products on offer. From smartwatches that double as survival tools to ultralight tents engineered for extreme weather, these aren’t just gimmicks. They’re tools designed by experts, tested in the field, and trusted by adventurers worldwide.

And for REI members—those who’ve invested the modest $30 lifetime membership fee—the savings go even deeper. With the code ANNIV26, members can take an additional 20% off one full-price item or one REI Outlet product, stacking discounts in a way that can slash hundreds off high-ticket gear. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a first-time camper, this sale offers a rare chance to access premium equipment at accessible prices.

Smartwatches That Do More Than Tell Time

In the modern outdoor landscape, your watch is no longer just a timepiece—it’s a command center. The Garmin Fenix 8, currently discounted at REI, Amazon, and Walmart, exemplifies this evolution. Priced at $749.99 (down from $999.99 for the 43mm model), this multisport powerhouse isn’t just a fitness tracker; it’s a full-fledged expedition companion.

Equipped with a built-in speaker and microphone, the Fenix 8 allows for hands-free calls and voice commands via its on-device assistant—ideal when your hands are full navigating rocky terrain or setting up camp. Dual-frequency GPS ensures pinpoint accuracy, even in dense forests or deep canyons where standard GPS signals falter. And with battery life that stretches up to 20 days in smartwatch mode (and over 100 hours in GPS mode), it outlasts most smartphones by weeks.

But the real magic lies in its sensor suite. Advanced heart rate monitoring, pulse oximetry, sleep tracking, and even a built-in flashlight make the Fenix 8 more like a personal health and survival hub. For ultramarathoners, thru-hikers, or anyone pushing physical limits, this watch doesn’t just record data—it interprets it, offering insights on recovery, training load, and even stress levels.

For those seeking high-end features at a lower price point, the Amazfit Active 2 shines at just $84.99 (down from $99.99) at REI, Best Buy, and Target. Despite its budget-friendly tag, it includes built-in GPS, AI-powered health insights, and even chatbot functionality that analyzes your activity data and offers personalized tips. It’s a rare example of premium tech trickling down to the mass market.

And then there’s the Garmin Venu 4, now $499.99 ($50 off) across multiple retailers. Designed for the everyday athlete, it blends style with substance. Beyond tracking workouts and sleep, it introduces wellness features like caffeine and alcohol intake logging—helping users understand how lifestyle choices impact performance. Its Garmin Coach feature tailors training plans based on sleep quality and recovery, making it a true personal trainer on your wrist.

Compact Communication: The InReach Mini 2

When you’re miles from the nearest trailhead, your phone becomes little more than a paperweight. That’s where satellite communicators like the Garmin InReach Mini 2 come in—and while it may require a subscription, its value in remote areas is immeasurable.

Currently available as a last-gen model at a discount, the InReach Mini 2 weighs just 3.5 ounces but delivers global two-way messaging, SOS capabilities, and location sharing via the Iridium satellite network. Unlike cell phones, which rely on terrestrial towers, this device works anywhere on Earth—even in the most isolated corners of the Arctic or Amazon.

The device pairs with your smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing you to send pre-written messages or type custom ones using a small interface. You can also share your GPS coordinates with emergency services or loved ones, ensuring someone always knows where you are. For solo travelers, thru-hikers, or anyone venturing off-grid, this isn’t just a gadget—it’s a lifeline.

While newer models like the InReach Mini 3 offer slightly better battery life and faster messaging, the Mini 2 remains a rugged, reliable option—especially at a discounted price. And unlike your phone, which can crack, overheat, or die in cold weather, the Mini 2 is built to endure. Its magnesium alloy chassis and IPX7 waterproof rating mean it can survive drops, submersion, and extreme temperatures.

Why REI’s Sale Is Different—And Better

REI’s Anniversary Sale isn’t just about discounts—it’s about curation. Unlike Amazon’s algorithm-driven deals or Walmart’s broad clearance events, REI selects products based on real-world performance, durability, and user feedback. Every item on sale has been vetted by outdoor experts and tested in the field.

This focus on quality over quantity means you’re not sifting through cheap knockoffs or outdated tech. Instead, you’re getting access to gear that’s been battle-tested by professionals. Take the Garmin Lily 2 Active, now $249.99 ($50 off)—its lowest price ever. Designed with a smaller, more elegant form factor, it’s ideal for those who want advanced health tracking without the bulk of a traditional sports watch. It includes heart rate monitoring, sleep analysis, and even a women’s health tracker, making it a standout in the wearable space.

This commitment to community and sustainability sets REI apart. When you buy from REI, you’re not just getting a discount—you’re supporting a mission-driven organization that prioritizes people and planet over profit.

The Hidden Value of Membership

At first glance, the $30 lifetime membership fee might seem like an unnecessary add-on. But for frequent outdoor shoppers, it pays for itself in just one or two purchases. With the ANNIV26 code, members can apply an extra 20% off to one full-price item—effectively turning a $100 purchase into $80, or a $500 tent into $400.

And the benefits don’t stop at discounts. Members gain access to exclusive gear launches, early sale access, and a share of the co-op’s annual profits in the form of dividends. In 2023, REI returned over $200 million to its members—proof that shopping with purpose can also be financially smart.

For families, the savings multiply. A set of kids’ hiking boots, a durable backpack, and a weather-resistant jacket can easily cost $300+. With member discounts and sale pricing, that total could drop below $200—making outdoor adventures more accessible for all.

Final Thoughts: Gear Up for the Season Ahead

REI’s Anniversary Sale isn’t just a fleeting discount event—it’s a seasonal reset for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a chance to invest in tools that enhance safety, performance, and enjoyment in the wild. Whether you’re upgrading your smartwatch for better trail navigation, adding a satellite communicator for peace of mind, or simply replacing worn-out gear, now is the time to act.

With deals running through May 25th and member-exclusive savings stacking on top, the window to maximize value is open—but not for long. And remember: the best gear isn’t just about specs or price tags. It’s about reliability, innovation, and the confidence it gives you to go further, stay safer, and explore deeper.

So as summer approaches, don’t just pack your bags—upgrade your kit. Because when the trail calls, you deserve to answer with the best tools at your side.

This article was curated from Here are 40 of our favorite deals from REI’s massive Anniversary Sale via The Verge