Spring means flowers blooming to me, walking long outside, dreaming of going out into the water and going out into the national park, refreshing my gear with rays. Every year, Ray’s big anniversary sale hits just before Memorial Day weekend and starts the summer with the store’s biggest discount. That’s when you hit big, expensive items like tents, backpacks, boots and more. from May 16th to 26thyou can get 15-30% from most items in the store and online. After being a member of the cooperative for several years (giving you another 20% savings), I’ve gathered some opinions on the best sleeping pads, water containers, and even underwear. Below are some of my favorite deals they announced this year.
Great deals on clothing and travel bags
REI Flash Pack
- buy now: Starting at $19.83 ($39.95) on Rei.com
- transaction: 30-50% off
REI’s flash packs are popular for good reason because they are affordable and durable. Even my most used REI backpacks have been around for over a decade, so the investment was well worth it. I prefer a small 18 liter bag for casual day trips and trips, but I prefer over 50 liters for multi-day trekking.
Duer Penz
- buy now: Starting at $59.19 ($79.00) on Rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
I usually suffer from the number of bulky jeans that fit in my suitcase. Otherwise, wear the heaviest denim while traveling to avoid overloading your bag. However, the lightweight features of Duer’s “Lite” denim pants are no joke. These jeans keep me cool in the summer and reassure me of my packaging efforts. What’s more, the designer appears to be adding to the latest trends.
Smartwool Merino Underwear
- buy now: $34.73 ($48.00) on rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
Smartwool Socks are an absolute necessity (and for sale), but basically another moisture-sucking accessory that revolutionized my active wardrobe is underwear and briefs made from the same merino wool. The material is soft, odor-resistant and temperature-controlled, but it can also say goodbye to concerns about cham and jock itching. Even if the colors and patterns remain on sale, they will still steal pairs that can be found.
fjallraven pants
- buy now: Starting at $122.49 ($175.00) on Rei.com
- transaction: 30% off
The Scandinavian company really understands the refined style that combines functionality with functionality. The brand’s various trousers lasted for years and have the level of quality I would expect from Fjallraven. Even the carefully thought out pockets are impressive. Moreover, the brand is one of the most focused on sustainability of all components and impacts.
Bushido III Trail Running Shoes Sportsman
- buy now: $108.69 ($145.00) on rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
This respected shoe brand Bushido line is my trail runner for hiking. (I bought multiple pairs at once.) With its breathable mesh, a lock plate on the sole, and its overall lightweight, it’s perfect summer shoes for outdoor adventures.
Camping equipment trade
Nemotensor Sleeping Pad and Nemodisco Sleeping Bag
- buy nowStarting at $134.89 ($179.95) on rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
The squealing sleeping pads had awakened me in the middle of the night when I changed position, but then I found a sweet relief with this quiet and comfortable tensor sleeping pad. It is also insulated to stop the heat from losing its ground. (This brand offers ultra-lightweight and warm options.) Furthermore, Nemo’s disco sleeping bag is designed for side sleepers, so it’s loose on the waist and has a flap near the top to keep your face warm without softening.
Summit Eros Premium Pillow from the Sea
- buy now: $41.19 ($54.95) on rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
It’s incredible that something so small can make such a difference to your beauty sleep. Eros’ explosion pillows are easy to carry and soft to touch. Plus, it is carved on the head covers of most mummy sleeping bags, so you don’t have to worry about moving in the dark in the middle of the night and getting lost.
Helinox Chair 1
- buy now: $89.89 ($119.95) on rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
Sitting on the logs around the campfire is an old-fashioned idea, but spending time in a folding chair is much more comfortable. Instead of wandering around bulky or heavy things, invest in advanced camping seats. The sturdy Helinox chair snaps together in seconds and packs easily while carrying pockets for drinks and flashlights.
Eno Double Nest Hammock
- buy now: Starting at $41.19 ($54.95) on Rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
Doublenest Hammock can support up to 400 pounds of weight for up to two people, but pack it into a small carry sack. Every time a hammock purchases, ENO plants two trees through a partnership with Trees for the future.
Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp
- buy now: $37.39 ($49.95) on rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
Headlamps are essential for camping, and black diamonds make the best. Currently I get 25% of several different kinds from the brand, but my pick is the Spot 400 headlamp. It features 400 lumens of white flood lights with beam distances of up to 100 yards, plus red lights at night and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
Ray Half Dome Tent
- buy now: $209.29 ($299.00) on rei.com
- transaction: 30% off
The Ray Half Dome is a Rockstar tent. It is lightweight, easy to set up, breathable (the rainfly has vents), and is definitely sturdy. I have pitched this tent myself many times over the years, but maintained bone dryness during the unexpected downpour. Additionally, the front yard provides extra space to store the bag beyond the footprints of the tent itself, which gives you more room for sleep.
Black Diamond Trekking Pole
- buy now: Starting at $74.89 ($99.95) on Rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
Maybe he didn’t realize he needed a trekking pole, but he didn’t realize that taking off his legs and relieving knee and back pain would allow him to walk longer distances. Some of the best on the market are from black diamonds. Cork sweats and sweats to prevent blisters. They can be easily adjusted to different lengths to go uphill or downhill.
I’ll trade on everything else
Osprey Hydration Pack
- buy now: Starting at $83.93 ($140.00) on Rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
If I didn’t have a hydration pack, I rarely drink water. Because I have very easy access to the tubes on the move. There’s no need to pause and take anything out of your bag. The Osprey has my favorite design with easy-to-use nozzles and large openings, filling the pouch with water. Be sure to purchase a cap for your mouthpiece. This can easily fall into the dirt and (even worse) of the airport floor.
Hydro Flask Water Bottle
- buy now: Starting at $33.69 ($44.95) on Rei.com
- transaction: 25% off
If you like to stick to a water bottle, far away we love hydro-powered flasks. The brand’s double-wall insulation stabilizes the temperature of your drinks for a day’s hike. Ice-cold drinks can last 24 hours, while hot drinks can last up to 12 hours.
Garmin Inreach Mini 2
- buy now: $299.99 ($400.00) on rei.com
- transaction: $100 off
If you’ve ever been concerned about the safety of the forest, this is for you. This satellite communicator requires no cell service that is rarely present in many forests, national parks, or other remote areas. Let your loved ones know that you’re okay, especially if you’re on a solo trip.
Boat Paddle Board
- buy now: Starting at $475.09 ($559.00) on rei.com
- transaction: 15% off
For those who want to go out on the water, the boat makes it easy with an inflated kayak and paddle board (both sitting and SUP). The durable material can handle many rough hazing, but the board comes with a repair kit as well as a hand pump and easy-to-assemble paddle. And the whole thing is packed into a convenient travel bag.
This article was originally published in 2021. Current information was updated on May 16th, 2025. Lindsey Matthews previously contributed to reporting this article.
