Memorial Day might still be circled on the calendar, but REI is already treating it like it’s in full swing. This year, the outdoor co-op quietly rolled out its holiday deals ahead of schedule, slashing prices on everything from technical hiking boots and roomy family tents to packable rain jackets and camp-ready cookware. For anyone plotting summer road trips, backcountry overnights, or simple afternoons in the local park, it’s an unusually good moment to upgrade gear without paying full price. We combed through the markdowns to uncover the 50 best finds-some marked down by as much as 67%-so you can spend less time scrolling and more time getting outside.
Early Memorial Day Savings At REI Discover Deep Discounts On Top Outdoor Brands
REI is wasting no time kicking off summer, quietly rolling out markdowns on big-name gear well before the long weekend rush. Savvy shoppers can already snag steep discounts up to 67% off on everything from backcountry essentials to casual camp comforts, making this the ideal moment to upgrade worn-out gear or finally grab that splurge-worthy piece you’ve been eyeing. Shelves-both digital and in-store-are stacked with deals on tent upgrades, high-performance trail runners, and insulated layers built for shoulder-season adventures, so the only question is which part of your kit gets an upgrade first.
Whether you’re plotting a thru-hike or curating a cozy car-camping setup, you’ll find deep price cuts on trusted names that have earned their spot in weekend duffels and rooftop cargo boxes alike. Highlights include:
- Lightweight backpacks tailored for fast-and-light travelers and minimalist packers
- Weatherproof shells that handle surprise mountain squalls and chilly coastal winds
- Supportive hiking boots with grippy soles and trail-ready durability
- Sleep systems-from pads to bags-engineered for comfort without the bulk
- Camp furniture & cookware that transforms any site into an outdoor living room
| Category | Top Deal | Up To |
|---|---|---|
| Trail Footwear | Waterproof hikers | 60% off |
| Camping | 3-season tents | 55% off |
| Apparel | Rain jackets | 50% off |
| Accessories | Daypacks & belts | 45% off |
Essential Camping Gear Markdowns From Reliable Tents To Cozy Sleep Systems
Elevate your base camp without blowing your budget by zeroing in on the gear that matters most: shelter, sleep, and the small essentials that keep everything running smoothly. Lightweight backpacking tents, roomy family car-camping setups, and storm-ready shelters are all quietly hiding in the discounts, with durable pole systems and weatherproof rainflies that punch far above their new, slashed price tags. Pair those with footprint add-ons and seam-sealed construction, and you’ll be ready for surprise mountain squalls or dewy coastal mornings without sacrificing pack space.
- 4-season and 3-season tents with easy-pitch designs
- Down and synthetic sleeping bags rated for shoulder-season temps
- Sleeping pads that balance plush comfort with packable profiles
- Camp pillows that actually feel like the one on your bed
- Compact repair kits for on-the-fly tent and pad fixes
| Gear Type | Best For | Deal Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Ultralight Tent | Backpacking | Up to 40% off |
| Double Sleeping Bag | Car Camping | Up to 50% off |
| Insulated Pad | Cold Nights | Up to 45% off |
Once your shelter is dialed in, focus on building a sleep system that turns any campsite into a retreat. Look for loft-rich quilts that snap into place over pads, compressible camp blankets for fireside lounging, and plush self-inflating pads that are equally happy in a tent or the back of your SUV. Mix and match pieces to suit your style: a mummy bag for alpine missions, a rectangular bag for laid-back weekends, or a hybrid quilt for hammock-friendly versatility. With strategic stacking of discounts, you can walk away with a complete, dialed-in setup that’s warmer, lighter, and kinder to your wallet than anything you’ve camped with before.
Trail Ready Footwear And Apparel Deals For Hikers Runners And Everyday Adventurers
From cushioned trail runners that eat up elevation gain to lightweight hiking boots that don’t need a week-long break-in, this early sale is packed with gear that keeps your feet happy from trailhead to taproom. Look for rockered midsoles to smooth out long miles, grippy lugged outsoles for slick roots and scree, and moisture-wicking merino socks that fend off blisters when the temperature spikes. For everyday commuters who secretly dress like they’re about to summit something, there are sleek, city-ready shoes with trail DNA-think breathable mesh uppers, subtle toe protection, and bounce-back cushioning that makes concrete feel just a bit more forgiving.
- Trail runners: Agile support and fast-drying uppers for mixed terrain.
- Hiking boots: Ankle-stable, waterproof, and built for loaded packs.
- Performance socks: Cushioned, blister-guard, and odor-resistant.
- Technical tops: UPF-rated, quick-dry fabrics for sun-soaked ridgelines.
- Hybrid shorts & pants: Trail-stretch styling that works from office to overlook.
| Gear Type | Best For | Deal Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof hikers | Muddy spring routes | Up to 40% off |
| Trail running shoes | Daily miles & race day | Up to 35% off |
| Technical apparel | Layering in shifting weather | Up to 50% off |
Discounts vary by style and color-limited sizes move fast.
Editor Approved Best Buys Smart Picks To Maximize Your REI Sale Haul
Our gear obsessives combed through hundreds of markdowns to find the standout pieces that punch above their price tag, from trail essentials to camp luxuries. Think all‑day comfortable hiking boots, a stuff‑anywhere down jacket that actually stays warm when the temps dip, and ultralight trekking poles that collapse small enough to ride in a carry-on. We also flagged a few under‑the‑radar upgrades-like compression stuff sacks that magically create space in overstuffed packs, and water filters that convert sketchy trail sources into crisp, clean sips in seconds.
- Trail workhorses: Durable backpacks, moisture‑wicking layers, and blister‑proof socks.
- Camp comfort: Cushy sleeping pads, plush camp chairs, and insulated mugs for slow mornings.
- Weather armor: Waterproof shells, packable rain pants, and wind-cutting midlayers.
- Tech essentials: Solar chargers, headlamps, and GPS watches with battery to spare.
| Smart Pick | Best For | Why It’s a Steal |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Daypack | Daily hikes & travel | Sub-2 lbs, multiple pockets, deep discount |
| Midweight Fleece | Shoulder-season layering | Works as a jacket or midlayer, under $60 |
| Compact Camp Stove | Weekend backpacking | Fast boil times, tiny packed size |
| All-Weather Shell | Rainy trail days | Premium waterproofing at entry-level pricing |
In Retrospect
As REI’s early Memorial Day rollout reminds us, the best outdoor seasons rarely wait for a date on the calendar-and neither do the best deals. Whether you’re upgrading a well-loved setup or finally investing in that piece of gear you’ve been eyeing for years, this sale is a chance to step into summer better prepared, and for less.
From big-ticket essentials to small trail luxuries, the 50 standout finds above are only a glimpse of what’s marked down. If something caught your eye, don’t wait too long; inventory and sizes tend to move quickly once the holiday rush hits.
In the meantime, consider what kind of adventures you want this season to hold-longer hikes, quieter campsites, smoother commutes, or simply more time outside. Then let your gear list follow that vision, not the other way around.
The deals may be limited-time, but the extra miles, early mornings, and late sunsets they enable can last well beyond the sale.