I love REI. They have excellent gear, a wide selection, and a return policy that’s hard to beat. What I don’t like are the prices. They can get very spendy, especially with a couple of Boy Scouts in the house who seem to constantly need just one more thing. So it’s a delight for me to shop at the outlet, where prices are lower than in the store. Often, we’ll go to the store for something small like a new knife or compass and check out the bigger items to put on our wish lists. Then when they move over to the outlet, we can pick them up at a bargain. Right now, it’s an even better bargain!
REI is having a 50% or more sale. There are almost a thousand products to choose from, some better deals than others, but all at a substantial discount. One of the things I like about their site is that you can search a lot of different ways. Because I’m a bargain hunter, I usually search by greatest percentage off. A $100 item at 75% off is preferable to me than a $5 item that is now only $2.
I bought some Lexan items. They’re like disposable forks and knives only they’re super heavy quality that you don’t throw away. When you’re on a hike, every extra ounce counts! The best deals, of course, are on winter gear. If you’re the type who thinks ahead, this is a very good time to buy.
Shipping isn’t too bad. It’s even better if you have an REI in the area. They’ll ship it to the store for pickup at no charge. I went ahead and paid the shipping this time because it’ll cost me more than that in gas, and I don’t have any errands to run there this month. I like having the option, though.