REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) is a well-known retailer specializing in outdoor gear, including tents, backpacks, hiking equipment, and more. If you are looking for a high-quality tent, REI is a great place to shop. However, with so many options available, knowing when REI tents go on sale can help you get the best deals.
In this article, we’ll explore the different sale events at REI and how you can take advantage of these discounts. We’ll also provide tips for finding the best tents at the lowest prices. Whether you’re an experienced camper or a first-time buyer, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
REI Sales Events Throughout the Year
REI holds several major sales events throughout the year. These sales often feature discounts on tents and other camping gear. Here are the main times when REI tents go on sale:
1. REI Member Sale (Spring and Fall)
REI members can look forward to exclusive sales during the spring and fall. These events are typically held once in the spring and once in the fall. During the REI Member Sale, you can find up to 30% off select tents and other camping equipment.
To become an REI member, you need to pay a one-time fee of $20. In return, you’ll get access to member-only sales, discounts, and other benefits like dividends on purchases.
2. REI Anniversary Sale (May)
The REI Anniversary Sale is one of the biggest and most anticipated sales events of the year. Held every May, this event celebrates REI’s founding and offers discounts on a wide range of outdoor gear. Tents are often included in this sale, with savings of up to 40% or more.
The Anniversary Sale lasts for about a week, and you can expect both in-store and online deals. This is the perfect time to purchase a new tent for your upcoming camping trips.
3. Black Friday (November)
Black Friday is another major sale event that REI participates in. In recent years, REI has even closed its stores on Black Friday, encouraging people to go outdoors instead. However, the company still offers online deals during this time.
While the discounts on tents may not be as deep as during other sales events, Black Friday still provides an opportunity to grab a good deal, especially on last year’s models or clearance items.
4. Holiday Sale (December)
REI’s Holiday Sale typically takes place in December, just before the Christmas season. This sale often features discounts on a variety of outdoor products, including tents. You can find tents from top brands like REI Co-op, MSR, and Big Agnes, as well as other camping accessories at reduced prices.
It’s a great time to shop for gifts or pick up gear for your own outdoor adventures.
5. End of Season Clearance (Late Summer to Fall)
As the camping season winds down, REI offers end-of-season clearance sales. This usually happens in late summer or early fall when REI is looking to clear out their summer inventory to make room for winter gear. During these clearance events, you can find significant discounts on tents, especially if you’re shopping for less popular models or older designs.
This is a great time to grab a bargain if you don’t mind buying tents that may be from the previous season.
How to Find REI Tent Sales Online
While REI’s in-store sales are well-known, you can also find excellent deals online. Here are some ways to find the best deals on REI tents:
1. Sign Up for REI’s Email Newsletter
REI regularly sends out newsletters to members and customers. These newsletters often include information about upcoming sales, exclusive discounts, and special promotions. By subscribing to the REI email newsletter, you’ll be the first to know about any sales events involving tents.
2. Check REI’s Clearance Section
REI’s website has a dedicated clearance section where you can find heavily discounted outdoor gear, including tents. This section is updated regularly and includes tents that are either discontinued or part of seasonal sales.
You can filter the clearance section by category, size, and brand to quickly find the tents on sale.
3. Use REI’s Price Match Guarantee
If you find a tent at a lower price at a competitor’s store, REI offers a price match guarantee. This means they will match the competitor’s price for the same product. It’s worth checking if the tent you want is on sale at another retailer before making your purchase at REI.
4. Follow REI on Social Media
REI is active on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. The company often posts about upcoming sales, promotions, and limited-time offers. Following REI on these platforms can help you stay informed about discounts on tents and other outdoor gear.
5. Wait for REI’s Flash Sales
Occasionally, REI will offer flash sales, which are limited-time promotions that provide steep discounts on select items. Flash sales typically last for a day or two and can feature tents at up to 50% off. Be sure to watch for these sales, as they offer some of the best deals on outdoor gear.
Tips for Getting the Best Deals on REI Tents
While knowing when REI tents go on sale is important, there are other strategies you can use to maximize your savings.
1. Plan Your Purchase Ahead of Time
If you know you’ll need a new tent for an upcoming trip, it’s a good idea to plan your purchase ahead of time. Keep track of the sales events mentioned above and try to buy your tent during one of these events to get the best possible price.
2. Shop for Tents Online
While shopping in-store can be convenient, REI often offers better deals online. You can browse a wider selection, find more sales, and even get free shipping on some items. If you’re shopping for a specific tent, the online store is often the best place to find it on sale.
3. Look for Tent Bundles or Sets
REI sometimes offers bundles that include a tent along with other camping gear like sleeping bags, air pads, or cooking equipment. Buying a bundle can save you more money than buying each item separately, especially during sales events.
4. Take Advantage of REI’s 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
REI has a generous return policy, allowing you to return or exchange tents if they don’t meet your needs. If you buy a tent during a sale and later find a better deal or realize it’s not the right one for you, REI’s satisfaction guarantee gives you peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
REI tents go on sale during several key events throughout the year, including the REI Member Sale, Anniversary Sale, Black Friday, Holiday Sale, and end-of-season clearance events. By shopping during these times, you can save a significant amount of money on high-quality tents.
If you want to find the best deals online, make sure to sign up for REI’s newsletter, check the clearance section, and keep an eye out for flash sales. With a little planning and patience, you’ll be able to get the tent you need at a price that fits your budget.
Remember that REI’s sales events are an excellent opportunity to invest in gear that will last you for many outdoor adventures. Whether you’re upgrading your camping setup or purchasing your first tent, REI provides a wide selection of tents at competitive prices.
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