Travel + Leisure 2025 Under $50 Guide to REI Hiking & Camping Gear - Quick Take

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  Travel and Leisure on Fri, Nov 28th, 2025 by Travel + Leisure
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Travel + Leisure’s 2025 “Under $50” Guide to REI Hiking & Camping Gear – A Quick Take

In the spring of 2025, Travel + Leisure released a handy roundup of the best hiking and camping gear that you can snag from REI for $50 or less. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a backpacking enthusiast on a tight budget, or simply looking to add a few reliable pieces to your outdoor kit, the article offers a no‑fuss look at what’s worth buying—complete with links to each product’s full spec sheet, user reviews, and sometimes a little buying advice from the REI co‑op’s own experts.

Below is a condensed, yet thorough, walkthrough of the guide, broken into product categories and highlighting the top picks and key selling points.

1. Trekking Poles – “Stability, Lightness, and Comfort”

• REI Co‑op Trekking Pole (10‑ft, 3‑way, 4‑piece set)
  The pole set is praised for its “sturdy aluminum frame” and “fold‑out system that’s easy to set up on the trail.” The 10‑foot length is a sweet spot for moderate hikes, and the adjustable “3‑way” feature means you can switch between 10‑, 9‑, and 8‑foot settings with a quick twist. The included “rubber grip” and “shock‑absorbing handle” are highlighted as ideal for uneven terrain.

• Fifth Gear Trail Pro 10 ft. Poles
  While slightly pricier (just under $50), these poles come with a “tri‑angular shape” that the article notes is “especially stable on technical sections.” A quick link to a Fifth Gear review page gives more detail on the carbon‑fiber construction that keeps the weight down to 3.4 lbs each.

2. Water‑Storage Solutions – “Never Be Thirsty”

• REI Co‑op 1‑Liter Water Bottle
  The bottle is advertised as “ultra‑light” and is marketed for “ultra‑compact backpacks.” The article stresses the “double‑layer construction” that helps keep drinks at the right temperature for hours.

• Klean Kanteen 16‑oz Water Bottle
  A 16‑oz version that the piece notes is great for “high‑intensity day hikes.” It’s a bit thicker (0.35 lbs) but offers a “secure screw‑on cap” that won’t leak during a descent.

• Hydro Flask 32‑oz Travel Bottle
  The writer links to a Hydro Flask FAQ, explaining that the “double‑wall vacuum insulation” keeps cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours—an appealing perk for multi‑day treks.

3. Backpacks – “Carry Light, Carry Right”

• REI Co‑op 30‑L Daypack
  Designed for “urban hikes and day excursions,” the 30‑liter bag comes with a “ventilated mesh back panel” that the article cites as keeping you cool during summer hikes. It also features a front zip pocket for a hydration reservoir and a water‑proof shell.

• Osprey Daylite Plus (28‑L)
  A quick link to the Osprey product page shows the “dual‑compartment design” that the article deems “ideal for gear separation.” The “lightweight aluminum frame” and “compressible suspension” make it a favorite for minimalist hikers.

4. Sleeping Gear – “Sleep Like a Champ”

• REI Co‑op Sleeping Pad (Inflatable)
  The pad is praised for its “3‑inch thickness” and “inflation‑time of under 60 seconds.” The article recommends it for “lightweight packers” and points out the “compact roll‑up design” that fits in the rear pocket of most daypacks.

• Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
  Although technically an “in‑flat” pad, the Z Lite Sol is highlighted for its “dry‑dry” construction that keeps you dry even on wet surfaces. The article links to a Therm‑a‑Rest tutorial on how to properly pack and maintain the pad.

5. Cooking & Food Storage – “Keep the Flavor Going”

• REI Co‑op Portable Stove (Liquid Fuel)
  This 120‑W stove is called a “budget‑friendly, high‑output” option. The article explains the “simple fuel‑add process” and links to a REI cooking guide that covers “fuel safety and stoves for beginners.”

• Seal‑Pouch Water‑proof Food Bags
  The Seal‑Pouch line is noted for being “ultra‑light” and “tamper‑evident.” The article offers a link to a Seal‑Pouch FAQ that explains how to properly seal and store perishable items on multi‑day hikes.

6. Footwear – “Comfort in Every Step”

• REI Co‑op Trail Runners
  The article mentions the “mesh upper” that provides breathability, and the “rubber outsole” that offers good traction on varied terrain. A short link to the product’s durability test highlights that the pair holds up well after 200 miles of use.

• Vasque Short‑Trip (St. Vrain)
  A slightly higher price (just under $50) but praised for its “closed‑toe protection” and “adjustable cuff.” The article links to a Vasque review that confirms the shoe’s versatility for both hiking and occasional mountain biking.

7. Miscellaneous Essentials – “The Little Things”

• REI Co‑op Headlamp (Tactix) – The “3‑mode LED” headlamp is recommended for “nighttime navigation” and comes with a “magnetized clip.” The article links to a headlamp care guide.

• REI Co‑op Quick‑Dry Towel (Microfiber) – Highlighted for its “fast‑drying” and “compact fold.” The article notes that it’s “perfect for quick showers after a long day on the trail.”

• REI Co‑op First Aid Kit – A “compact, all‑in‑one” kit that the article states is a “must‑have” for any day hike. It includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a “hand‑held emergency whistle.”

8. Buying Tips & Where to Shop

The guide goes beyond the product list, offering practical advice on selecting gear within a $50 budget:

• Check the material: Lightweight aluminum or composite is often better than heavy steel for trekking poles.
• Look for dual‑purpose items: Many items like the REI Co‑op daypack can double as a grocery tote or a small carry‑all for the office.
• Use the “Compare” feature on REI’s website: The article links to the REI comparison page, which lets you stack multiple gear options side‑by‑side and filter by price, weight, or customer rating.

The article also reminds readers to “take advantage of REI’s annual 10% off sale” and to keep an eye on “refurbished items,” which can bring higher‑end gear into the $50 range.

9. Bottom Line

Travel + Leisure’s November 2025 roundup of under‑$50 REI gear provides a useful, well‑structured cheat sheet for outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay well-equipped without breaking the bank. The guide covers the essentials—trekking poles, hydration, backpacks, sleeping gear, cooking, footwear, and more—highlighting the best options in each category and providing direct links to product pages for deeper dives.

Whether you’re stocking up on gear for a weekend hike or gearing up for an upcoming multi‑day trek, the article’s concise summaries and handy links make it easy to find exactly what you need. So next time you’re eyeing the REI store (online or brick‑and‑mortar), check out this guide—your wallet and your adventure will thank you.