REI's Anniversary Sale Is Here — And It's a Big One
REI has officially kicked off its annual Anniversary Sale, the outdoor retailer's largest discount event of the year. Running through May 25th, the sale covers a wide range of gear — from tents and sleeping pads to GPS devices and smartwatches — making it one of the best times of year to invest in outdoor equipment ahead of summer.
For those with an REI membership, there's an added bonus: members receive 20 percent off one full-price or REI Outlet item using the code ANNIV26. A lifetime membership costs just $30, meaning even first-time sign-ups can recoup the cost quickly with a single purchase.
Smartwatches and Wearables Worth the Investment
One of the more impressive deals this year is on the Garmin Fenix 8, a premium multisport watch that normally retails above $1,000. The 47mm model is available at REI for $849.99 (down from $1,099.99), while Amazon has the 43mm version for $749.99. The Fenix 8 stands out for its built-in speaker, microphone, on-device assistant, dual-frequency GPS, and elite battery life — a serious tool for backcountry adventurers and trail runners alike.
For shoppers on a tighter budget, the Amazfit Active 2 offers solid value with a strong feature set at a fraction of the flagship price.
Survival and Safety Tech
The sale also includes the Garmin inReach Mini 2, last-gen but still one of the most rugged satellite communicators on the market. It requires a subscription plan to use, but for anyone heading into areas without cell service, it's a legitimate safety device — far more durable and reliable than relying on a smartphone.
Camping Essentials at a Discount
Beyond tech, the sale covers the fundamentals. Tents, sleeping pads, camp stoves, and water filtration systems are all discounted, with some deals matching or beating current prices at Amazon and other major retailers. If you've been putting off upgrading your sleep system or shelter ahead of camping season, this is a well-timed window.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Sale
A few things to keep in mind before shopping:
- The sale ends May 25th — prices aren't guaranteed to last until the final day on popular items.
- Cross-check prices — some deals are matched or undercut at Amazon, Walmart, or specialty outdoor retailers.
- REI membership pays off fast — the 20% off coupon on a single item can cover the $30 lifetime fee with one mid-range purchase.
- Check the REI Outlet — clearance items are eligible for the member discount, often yielding better savings than sale pricing on new inventory.
Whether you're planning a weekend canoe trip, a multi-day backpacking route, or just gearing up for summer hiking, the REI Anniversary Sale is worth a look before it wraps up late this month.
Source: The Verge — REI Anniversary Sale 2026
