I've Hiked for 30+ Years, and These 57 REI Labor Day Deals Are Must-haves for Any Trek or Campsite--From $8

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  Travel and Leisure on Fri, Aug 29th, 2025 by Travel + Leisure

REI’s 2025 Labor‑Day Sale: A Complete Guide to Outdoor Savings

When the summer heat begins to wane, REI’s annual Labor‑Day sale arrives with a promise of fresh gear and generous discounts. The “Labor‑Day Sale 2025” – highlighted in Travel + Leisure – runs from August 26 to August 31, giving shoppers a full week to scoop up tents, backpacks, apparel, and more at prices that make the outdoors more affordable than ever.

Below is a distilled, “behind the scenes” look at what the article covers, what you’ll find in the sale, and practical tips to help you maximize your haul.

1. The Core of the Sale

Discount Structure

• Standard Discounts: 20 %–30 % off a large swath of items, from sleeping bags to technical apparel. The majority of the inventory is slashed in this range, offering significant savings on staple gear.
• Special “Deal‑of‑the‑Week” Items: Certain categories receive deeper cuts—up to 50 % off on select high‑end backpacks, technical jackets, and trail‑running shoes. These limited‑time offers are announced daily on REI’s website and app.
• “Back to Basics” Bundles: The sale includes a curated selection of “Back to Basics” bundles. These kits pair complementary items—e.g., a tent, sleeping pad, and tarp—at a bundled discount that is typically better than buying each piece separately.

Product Focus

• Camping & Backpacking: Tents (including 4‑person and 5‑person models), sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and lightweight tarps.
• Outdoor Apparel: Technical outerwear, base layers, and footwear from brands like Patagonia, Arc‑Geek, and Salomon.
• Hiking & Trail Running: Shoes, hiking boots, trail running gear, and lightweight trekking poles.
• Water Sports & Outdoor Recreation: Kayaks, paddleboards, and wetsuits.

The article notes that while every category receives a discount, the biggest markdowns are found in backpacking gear and technical apparel—perfect for those planning a late‑summer trip.

2. How REI Supports Your Shopping Experience

Online & In‑Store Options

The sale is broadly available both on REI’s website and at its physical stores nationwide. Travelers can reserve items online for in‑store pickup, while the “Shop & Ship” option ensures items are delivered to their door within the usual 2–5 business‑day window.

Free Shipping & Returns

REI’s generous return policy is highlighted: free returns on all items within 30 days of purchase, no matter where the product was bought. Shipping on most orders is free for a minimum spend of $75, and a $5 shipping fee applies to orders below that threshold.

Labor‑Day Weekend Extras

• Early Bird Specials: For those arriving on Saturday, REI offers a “First‑Hour Free” sale where the first 200 customers receive an additional 10 % off on top of the standard markdowns.
• REI Co‑op Member Perks: Co‑op members (those who contribute a yearly fee) get an extra 5 % off on top of the sale prices, as well as exclusive access to “members‑only” bundle deals.

3. Featured Brands and Must‑See Deals

The article emphasizes a few standout brands and items that appear in the sale:

A special mention goes to the “Adventure‑Ready” bundle from REI Co‑op, which includes a lightweight tent, a sleeping pad, and a basic tarp—all packaged at a 35 % discount when bought together.

4. How to Plan Your Purchase

1. Prioritize Essentials

The article recommends focusing first on “must‑have” items for your next trip. For example, if you’re heading into a backcountry area, a reliable tent and a lightweight sleeping pad should take precedence over new hiking boots.

2. Check the “Deal‑of‑the‑Week” Alerts

REI updates daily specials on their app and email newsletters. Subscribing ensures you don’t miss the 50 % off on trail‑running shoes that could be announced on a Wednesday.

3. Compare In‑Store vs Online

While online purchases have free shipping, some items—especially large backpacks or sleeping bags—can be tested in person. If you’re close to a REI store, consider buying in‑store to avoid any shipping delays.

4. Consider Bundles for Better Value

Bundled deals often give you a better discount than purchasing each item separately. For instance, a “Back to Basics” backpack‑tents bundle might save you an extra 10 % over the individual markdowns.

5. Final Takeaway

REI’s 2025 Labor‑Day sale is designed to help outdoor enthusiasts gear up for the final leg of the summer season at a fraction of the cost. With 20–30 % off most products, deeper discounts on key items, and the flexibility of shopping online or in‑store, it’s a prime opportunity to stock up on high‑quality gear. The article’s comprehensive rundown—coupled with REI’s friendly return policy and member perks—makes this sale a compelling event for anyone planning the next adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a weekend hiker looking to upgrade your trail shoes, the Labor‑Day sale offers a chance to acquire essential gear without breaking the bank. Be sure to bookmark the sale dates, sign up for REI’s alerts, and start listing your must‑have items today. Happy hunting—and happy hiking!