I don’t know about you, but REI (aka Recreational Equipment, Inc) is my happy place. Add on the fact that it’s a co-op, and full of clothing, gear and exciting new adventures and it’s easy to see why so many people love it!
But, we also love saving money on the things we love. Check out my 15 Ways to Save at REI this Year!
1. Become a member
One of the best ways to save big at REI is to become a member! As of this article, it only costs $20 for a lifelong membership – that’s right, a one time fee. But for the $20 membership, you can actually earn $20 towards your next purchase. Not bad, huh?
That in itself is worth it, but a membership also provides access to member exclusive events, classes and tours (some are free!), rentals, and a dividend based on what you spend. You also receive special member pricing on REI Adventures, with some pretty awesome trips planned both locally and globally.
Not sure about getting a REI Co-Op Membership? Check out this article – REI Co-Op Membership Review – Is It Worth It?
2. Use Member dividends
Speaking of dividends, who doesn’t love free money? As a member, you receive a dividend based on your purchases. It is usually 10% back, which can add up to a substantial amount, especially when you purchase large or pricey (but necessary!) gear.
Each March, you’ll receive a notice for your dividend amount, and it’s usually good for two years. And, if you use REI for your holiday shopping (which I recommend!) your dividends are just around the corner. But, with so much awesome gear, who can wait that long?
3. Subscribe to REI’s newsletter
Another great way to save is to sign up for their emails. You can stay on top of upcoming deals, as well as major sales and opportunities to save even more. Plus they send great suggestions for gifts for your loved ones, that you can then earn a dividend on.
As if you needed another bonus, signing up for emails means you get coupons right to your inbox, as well as ways to earn more dividends. It takes a minute, and you’re all set!
4. Attend the Garage Sales
REI is unique in that they also have garage sales a few times per year in a store near you! This is where they sell gently used and returned gear that has been opened. This is a great way to snag some deals on gear you’ve been eyeing down!
Showing up bright and early to the sale with your membership number in tow is the best way to go, but it’s so exciting to rack up a few things for the season! Don’t miss out on these!
5. Shop the REI Outlet
Like Garage Sales, the REI Outlet is another way of purchasing that makes REI unique and the best place to shop for outdoor gear. It’s easy to locate on their website, and REI often includes deals from their outlet in their emails. They even have a 50% off section.
The REI Outlet offers a Deal of the Day, usually at a staggering discount! They also show you upcoming deals for that week so you can plan ahead to pounce early. The amounts of merchandise are limited in numbers so it’s best to not wait.
The REI Outlet also offers a section for Deals Under $20. These items are usually discounted for extra savings, and you can really find some steals that are relevant to the current season. Definitely check this out!
6. Buy Used Gear
REI Used Gear is the way to go nowadays. Not only is buying second-hand great for the environment, but it has to be in great shape for REI to consider selling it. And, the discounts just because someone wore it once are pretty awesome.
Buying used gear is nice, but this is also a win-win for anyone looking to offload some things in their closet. That’s right – REI will actually give you a gift card for your trade. Maybe that sleeping bag wasn’t what you needed – you might as well get some money back!
7. Apply for the REI Co-op Mastercard
The REI Co-op Mastercard is another way to rack up savings at such a great store. If you make a purchase within the first 60 days, you can receive a $100 REI gift card! You get 5% back on REI purchases and percentages back on other purchases, as well.
You can also get extra savings on REI travel when using your card. If you use your Annual Dividend for adventure travel, REI will reduce your trip cost by 50% of the dividend amount you use. There are also no annual or foreign transaction fees!
8. Check out the REI Anniversary Sales
Each May, REI hosts their biggest sale of the year with the REI Anniversary Sale. This includes substantial markdowns, even up to 50% off on their “peak deals”. Think of this like the “Black Friday” of the summer!
The REI Anniversary Sale is a great way to snag deals right as summer is kicking off in full swing. And, they’ve been known to offer a coupon or two. Mark your calendar and plan ahead – the anniversary sale should not be missed!
9. Take a class
One of the best features of REI is the selection of expert-led classes they offer throughout the year. They offer both in-store classes, as well as classes out in the field, so you can make the most of your learning experience, ranging from bike riding to map reading to paddling.
But, did you know that for some classes, there are coupons offered at the completion of the class? That means you get to learn an awesome skill and receive a 23% off coupon to use towards gear or even another class for more hands-on training. Yes, please!
10. Seek out the REI brand
Sure, there are plenty of name brands that are highly recognized, but did you know that REI also offers their own brand? Being the outdoor experts they are, REI has put a lot of development into high quality gear that is comparable – if not better – than more recognized brands.
One of the best ways to save money is to look for the REI brands, especially when it’s well tested and top notch! Plus, they also include a wide range of sizes for their REI branded clothing, and strive to make their products sustainable and environmentally friendly.
11. Hit the Clearance Racks
Whether you shop online or drop into one of their inspirational stores, REI frequently has goods on sale and clearance. If you’re in-store, they often have clearance racks spread out, so it’s good to walk around to the different sections. Be sure to look for the red price tags!
However, when shopping online, you can quickly navigate to their deals and clearance items (which are considered separate from the outlet) by finding the “Deals” tab. Either way, it is a great place to start your search when looking for that next piece of equipment or clothing.
12. Manufacturers’ Rebates
Not only does REI honor certain Manufacturers’ Rebates, they also offer them under their “Coupons, Rebates, and Discounts” section, so they are right at your fingertips! This is good for those with brand loyalty who still want to support their co-op.
13. Volume Discounts
REI also offers volume discounts, as well! This is not just for Corporate or Group Sales (which, they have, also), but they have regular, consistent volume discounts on a host of products. Whether it be socks, food and snacks, or even paddling or cycling gear, it is worth considering!
If you have a friend who loves the outdoors as much as you do and you both want to rack up some savings, it is worth checking out their list to see where you can make this a win-win for both of you!
14. Free Shipping
I hate paying for shipping – and who doesn’t?! Well, good news is that REI offers free shipping in the US on orders of a pre-tax subtotal of $50 or more. But, we all know there are so many great items to purchase that it’s easy to hit that mark.
There are a few limitations to their shipping (such as certain oversized or heavy items), but they do offer free shipping for other large items. This also includes some of their big ticket items like skis and snowboards, as well as YETI, Otterbox and RovR coolers.
15. Take Advantage of Online Coupons & Promo Codes
One of the best things about shopping at REI is their availability of coupons! They have coupons attached to emails and anniversary and year end sales. And, they’re not just limited to full price items – they also offer coupons from time to time on their outlet gear, also!
They even have a coupon section on their website that takes you to all of the deals they have going on at the moment. Many of their coupons are at least 20% off, and they offer both in-store and online options. You can also find coupons on Koopy’s REI page!
Saving More at REI
REI is a great co-op that keeps sustainability and the customer experience in mind. Before you shop anywhere else, check out REI to see if they have what you’re looking for. Their customer service is top notch and they allow for painless returns, as well.
Those are just 15 Ways to Save at REI this Year! Do you have another saving tip? Let us know in the comment below!
