logo
7 top pieces of gear, gadgets, and apps for hiking adventures

7 top pieces of gear, gadgets, and apps for hiking adventures

Boston Globe3 days ago
Get Starting Point
A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday.
Enter Email
Sign Up
REI's new Traverse Modular Bear Canister has three different sections — a bottom chamber, mid-section, and lid — that can be configured in different ways to adjust its volume so it can work for weekend to weeklong adventures.
REI Co-op
Advertisement
A multi-size — and multi-use — bear canister
If you're backpacking in a place where bears or other critters may try to infiltrate your food (meaning most wilderness areas), you'll want a bear-proof canister. REI's new Traverse Modular Bear Canister has been certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee and offers something no other canisters do: the ability to adjust its volume to suit weekend to weeklong adventures. This modular canister has a bottom chamber, mid-section, and lid. Use all three sections to create a large 11.25-liter container or attach the lid to the bottom chamber and you'll have a smaller 6.75-liter canister. An even bigger bonus: Once your supplies shrink on a longer trip, you can remove the midsection and pack the 6.75-liter container inside of it to save pack space (the adjustable nylon carrying case holds the sections together). The rugged canister, made of hard PVC-free plastic, makes a great seat while camping and its transparent orange coloring lets you see inside. Divots in the lid make it easy to twist while opening/closing. The Traverse Bear Canister isn't fully waterproof, so make sure you pack food inside watertight baggies or the entire canister in a dry bag. $79.95.
Advertisement
Helly Hansen's new Loke Jacket 2.0 is a comfy and affordable summer-weight rain jacket that has built-in RECCO Reflector technology, typically only found in high-end (and more expensive) outdoor gear.
Helly Hansen
A high-tech yet affordable rain jacket
For a great summer-weight rain jacket with all the features you need, check out Helly Hansen's new Loke Jacket 2.0. This comfy (not too stiff or crunchy) waterproof shell has pit zips, handwarmer pockets, adjustable Velcro wrists, a drawstring hem, and a spacious hood with an adjustable brim. It's windproof yet breathable so it allows moisture to escape — and prevents you from feeling clammy while hiking and adventuring. Its key feature: a RECCO Reflector, which is built into the hood (and usually found in pricier outdoor gear). This passive safety device, which doesn't require a power source, enables search-and-rescue crew to find you in case of an emergency. The new Loke jacket is made of 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric. It's available in men's (S-3XL), women's (XS-2XL), women's plus (1X-3X), and junior sizes (8-16; junior sizes don't come with RECCO technology). $120.
Advertisement
Mountain Equipment's new Xenith bags all have 900-fill goose down; a proprietary PLASMA fabric, meaning super lightweight and breathable with a weatherproof coating; and a mix of horizontal, vertical, and wedge-shaped baffles carefully integrated to maximize warmth.
Mountain Equipment
Super-light and lofty sleeping bags
It's easy to question the warmth of a sleeping bag that weighs so little, but Mountain Equipment's new Xenith bags achieve the perfect blend of featherlight and toasty. The UK-based company — a pioneer of high-alpine gear — has introduced three Xenith bags this year, all with 900-fill goose down; a proprietary PLASMA fabric, meaning super lightweight and breathable with a weatherproof coating; and a mix of horizontal, vertical, and wedge-shaped baffles carefully integrated to maximize warmth. The Xenith 1, rated to 41 degrees (the company's 'good night's sleep guaranteed' temperature), weighs just 12.7 ounces and saves precious weight by shedding the hood and offering a three-quarter zip — ideal for warmer climates. The more-versatile Xenith II, rated to 34 degrees, weighs 17 ounces and has a drawstring hood, a neck collar, and a three-quarter zip. The 19-degree Xenith III weighs 1.5 pounds and has twice the goose fill as the Xenith 1 for extra warmth in high-alpine and colder zones. They're not cheap — $419.95-$679.95 — but they're guaranteed to keep you warm to the rated temp or you can upgrade within 30 days (restrictions apply).
The GPS app onX Backcountry has a Trail Mode that lets you plan hiking and backpacking routes, locate points of interest such as national monuments and campgrounds, and track current weather conditions.
onX Backcountry
Plan your trips with this app
Navigate through the wilderness with onX Backcountry, an invaluable GPS app. Under Trail Mode, you can plan hiking and backpacking routes, even avoiding active wildfires and monitoring air quality and smoke forecasts if you're out west. Choose satellite, topo, or hybrid view (hybrid view includes topo lines overlaid real images of the ground satellite view), and then select 3-D to get a good look at the terrain features. The maps show you points of interest such as trailheads, national monuments, and campgrounds, while a weather feature lets you track current conditions — from temperature and wind speed to barometric changes — and upcoming weekly forecasts. New this year, the app provides guidebook-quality info from local experts on 40 regions in seven western states, offering descriptions, route details, and even trail reports. It's also added HD Topo, displaying real-time detail of ridgelines, drainages, and other elevation and terrain features with precision to help with navigating. $34.99-$99.99 annually; free trial available.
Advertisement
Sea to Summit's new self-inflating Pursuit camping mattress blends lightweight and luxury feel. It comes in four different sizes or shapes, all of which offer horizontal foam-supported air channels that make for a more stable and comfortable mattress.
Sea to Summit
A mattress for added comfort on the trail
Make a little extra room for this cozy sleeping mattress that will make trail nights more enjoyable. Sea to Summit's new self-inflating Pursuit camping mattress blends lightweight and luxury feel. The mattress comes in four variations: 'regular' length and width (72-by-22 inches) or 'large' length and width (78-by-25.2 inches) — in both contour or rectangular shapes — so you can choose what suits your size and comfort level. The Pursuit measures 2 inches thick, has an R-value (warmth rating) of 3 — perfect for summer adventures — and comes with horizontal foam-supported air channels that make for a more stable and comfortable mattress (choose the Pursuit Plus, with its 4.2 R-value and 3 inches of thickness, for colder temps or added comfort). The XPEL Multi-Function Valve makes it easy to inflate/deflate the mattress, while the side-loading stuff sack with drawstring cord makes it a cinch to pack. Base weights start at 1.3 pounds for the Pursuit and 1.75 pounds for the Pursuit Plus. $139-$209.
Advertisement
Big Agnes now makes an XL version of its Copper Spur UL2 tent so you have room for gear storage in wet weather.
Big Agnes
A top tent that's home on the trail
It's nice to have extra wiggle room in your tent — for gear storage in wet weather, to spread out those 25-inch-wide camp mattresses, to fit in a furry trail companion, or to simply have a little distance from your tent-mate (it happens). Big Agnes now makes XL backpacking tents for just that: a little extra elbow room. One of our top picks — the Copper Spur UL2 XL — adds 6 inches of length, 2 inches of width, and 3 inches of height over the regular UL2 so you have some room to stretch or sprawl (it comes in a three-person XL version, too, that adds 8 inches of length, 2 inches of width, and 4 inches of height). The updated Copper Spur has a new HyperBead fabric that's lighter, stronger, and more waterproof than previous years' materials. It sets up quickly and easily with a main (four-way) tent pole and a cross pole, and has color-coded buckles that help with orienting the rainfly. The tent has two large and two small mesh gear pockets inside, and two doors and 9-square-foot vestibules. A top feature: Unzip the two zippers at the head end of the fly and use your upside-down hiking poles and extra guy lines to set up an awning. The tent offers 36 square feet of floor space — and is noticeably roomy for those used to a traditional two-person space — and weighs just 2.8 pounds (minus stuff sacks). $579.95.
Kari Bodnarchuk can be reached at
.
Kari Bodnarchuk can be reached at
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

28 Under-$25 Travel Finds To Make Your Next Trip Breezy
28 Under-$25 Travel Finds To Make Your Next Trip Breezy

Buzz Feed

time8 hours ago

  • Buzz Feed

28 Under-$25 Travel Finds To Make Your Next Trip Breezy

A luggage drink caddy to hold your essentials (iced latte, breakfast, emotional support water bottle) while you stay on top of the boarding passes and passports. This helpful holder attaches right to your luggage handles and can be quickly slipped on and off for max travel efficiency. The airport staff will all definitely agree you're the smoothest traveler they've ever seen — not that we care what they think... A pair of anti-nausea acupressure wristbands if you've been dreaming of lying deck-side with your piña colada but know your body may have other plans. These bands work by applying pressure to the Nei-Kuan point, which can help alleviate symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Reviewers with motion sickness have tested them against car, flight, and sea sickness and say they actually work — turning even skeptics into very thankful believers. A cosmetic bag that holds *so many* products and keeps them all organized in little compartments (including a center zipper-pouch to separate your brushes and keep the bag clean — genius). One reviewer says it's like having a vanity with you on vacation! It has a super elegant, chic look and can be opened flat to see everything inside, so no more dumping everything out and taking up the already very limited hotel counter space. A collapsable trunk organizer for those "uh-oh" road-trip moments when you hear all your travel gear rolling around the back after hitting a particularly ~sharp~ turn. The compartments and pockets are perfect for organizing all your essentials, and it's ultra-sturdy so they can even be stacked on one another! Or, it can be partially collapsed and put in the passenger seat to hold all your roadtrip snacks — Arizona tea and yogurt pretzels, anyone? A pack of body wipes if you're traveling somewhere with limited showers, need to clean off that icky feeling after a long flight, or just want to quickly freshen up before dinner after a day of sweaty sightseeing. These wipes have an oh-so-refreshing blend of antibacterial and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and oatmeal to help keep your skin hydrated while reducing grime. Reviewers love how large they are (12x12!), how gentle they feel on sensitive skin, and best of all, that they do 👏 not 👏 tear. A neck pillow-eye mask hybrid so you can finally catch some travel zzz's *without* that awful crick in your neck (or jolting awake when you feel yourself leaning toward the stranger in the middle seat). This design is *truly* innovative — it attaches to the flaps of a plane's (or car's!) headrest and uses the eye mask to keep your head in place for total 360-degree support. And the fact that reviewers say the Velcro doesn't catch on hair might just make it the answer to all your sleeping woes. A Tessan universal travel adapter that'll take all the thought out of charging your essentials (because you've got other things to worry about, like how the heck to get to the Airbnb). This little powerhouse works in over 200 countries and can plug in up to six devices at once (watch out for max watts, tho!), truly living by the motto "no device left behind". And it does it all while being a super portable little cube! A waterproof electronics organizer with a double-layer design so you'll know exactly where your chargers are — instead of rummaging in your bag, pulling out everything but what you need. It has different slots and compartments to keep your wires tangle-free and a spongey interior to cushion all your gadgets, and reviewers especially appreciate the bright color options so they can quickly spot it in their bag! Luggage-connector straps that'll make life a little easier for all the designated bag holders out there (we thank you for your service). These straps attach along the tops of your wheeled suitcases to create a train of luggage so you can stroll more smoothly with everything in tow. Reviewers have used these to securely transport five (and even eight) suitcases at once! Or, a bungee luggage strap so you don't need to lug your personal item on your back or constantly catch it when it slips off your carry-on. These adjustable straps stretch to hold your extra bags firmly to your luggage *and* have an easy slip-on design so you won't be fumbling when it's time to put everything away in the plane (and there's a line of people waiting behind you 😥). The Uniqlo crossbody bag if you don't want to carry a ton, but still want *just* enough space to keep your hands water bottle free. This super sleek bag has little details that make it a great travel companion, like roomy space and pockets so your essentials are *always* ready and organized when you're running out the door to make that reservation. Plus, it keeps everything close to your body and safe from rogue pickpockets — not today, sticky fingers, not today. Or an RFID-blocking travel pouch you can wear as a crossbody, over your neck, and even under your shirt for max security. It's got a super slim, lay-flat design and compartments with zippers that'll keep your valuables extra secure — so next time you're in a packed train, you can quickly place everything out of sight instead of keeping a steel-tight grip on your bag. A collapsible water bottle because while you and your 30-ounce Stanley may be attached at the hip (lips? straw?), it's admittedly not the most travel-friendly. This ultra-lightweight bottle has, literally, got layers to it. It holds 16 ounces of water and has a collapse-as-you-go design, so you're never taking up unnecessary space in your bag. And if you don't have the room to spare, no problem — it's got a nifty little carabiner built right in. A set of *compression* packing cubes that don't just keep all your clothes organized, but have some double-zipper action that helps squeeze all the extra air out (i.e., space for more options). What's left are super dense, super compact cubes that save up to 40% of space — which is especially helpful if you love the thrill of carrying two week's worth of clothes in a carry-on. Now you can easily pack double the amount of underwear you could ever need for your trip... ya know, just in case. A pack of travel-size laundry detergent because a capsule wardrobe is all fine and dandy until the staple plain white tee starts getting some pit stains. These liquid packets are safe for most fabrics, gentle on sensitive skin (unscented!), and work whether you're handwashing in a sink or using a machine. They'll leave your clothes stain-free and smelling fresh *without* having to use up your daily meal budget on laundering fees. And a portable travel clothesline so no matter where you are, you won't be plagued by a slightly musty, clothes-didn't-dry-all-the-way smell (iykyk). The lightweight line is made of a stretchy bungee material with hooks on each end for easy looping, has attached clips and stoppers that keep everything from bunching in the center, *and* can be lengthened or shortened. It's perfect for outdoor trips or travels abroad (because fair warning, the rest of the world isn't too keen on dryers). A set of macrame hat clips that'll be an extra set of hands keeping your sunhat crumple-free and photo-ready. It's super easy to hook onto the strap of your tote and strong, so you can even put it on the side of your luggage (which admittedly, we could be a little more gentle with) without worrying that it'll come flying off. A microfiber travel towel that won't track in all the sand from your beach day back to the hotel room thanks to its sand-resistant material (plus, the ones the hotel provides are normally too itty-bitty anyway). These towels are thin and lightweight enough to roll up for easy carrying, yet still super absorbent and quick-drying! And with vibrant colors and designs (that don't fade, BTW) you'll be suntanning in style. A mini handheld fan, the ultimate budget travel find that has not one, not two, but three functions! You're overheating in line at a theme park? No prob, turn on those (quiet! powerful!) blades. It's hour five of sightseeing and your phone's out of juice? Oh, it's also a portable charger. You take an evening hike and the sun goes down a little *too* fast? Yeah, it's a flashlight too (and brighter than a phone)! It does everything so well, you may even experience a divine awakening, like one reviewer did. A pack of Liquid I.V. for an extra boost of electrolytes that can help you stay hydrated on those days you hit 25,000 steps (and your body feels every single one). These drink mixes can really come in handy after a particularly sweaty day of sightseeing or a ~long night out~. Plus, they're individually packed and quickly dissolve in water, so perfect for on-the-go use! The Megababe odor-blocking foot spray, because when we're trekking through our Euro-summer itinerary for ten hours, our feet aren't exactly gonna smell minty fresh — until now. The ~magic~ of the spray is in the tea tree oil, which is anti-microbial and can help fight odor-causing bacteria *before* they have a chance to stink. Simply spritz the minty lavender "toe deo" on clean, dry feet for hours-long protection that has saved reviewers from those grueling, fume-producing 10-hour and 12-hour shifts. A Gold Bond Friction Defense stick because there are fewer things that can kill your vacay vibe like chafing (*shudder*). The stick's formula easily glides onto skin and can be put anywhere where friction occurs, like between thighs and under your clothes or gear. It creates a barrier against chafing without feeling greasy, has aloe to soothe any roughed-up skin, *and* reviewers say it holds up against sweat or getting wet! For anyone who has gone to an amusement park only to end the day with a limping, circular walk, this one's for us. An airplane pocket organizer that'll save you the hassle of rummaging through your bag mid-flight searching for the elusive ChapStick. It hangs from the pocket in front of your seat and can be pre-packed with all the wipes, chargers, and entertainment you'll need (it even has a spot to hang your wireless headphones from!). Reviewers say it doesn't take up any leg room and is *so* convenient to slip back into their personal item at the end of their flight without worrying they've forgotten anything. A 16-piece travel toiletries set to take away the worry that your must-have products won't make it through TSA unscathed. This comes with all the leakproof bottles and jars you'll need to carry your faves (including scoopers and a funnel for easy transfer!) *and* stores them in a clear, reusable TSA-approved bag, so you can rest easy knowing your skin and hair routines are safe. Or, a set of leakproof toiletry sleeves for your larger bottles because when you land, you want to be "go go go!" — not staying in to wash your clothes after your favorite lotion explodes. These elastics can stretch and mold over most full-sized bottles (minus anything with a pump — tho you can always try separating the top!) and if they catch any leaks, they are super easy to rinse out and reuse. A foldable jewelry organizer that'll replace that Ziploc bag so you'll actually wear your jewelry — not leave it in a tangled mess you'll deal with when you get home. It has handy elements to keep your bling organized (and scratch-free!), like a roll for your rings, an earring panel, buckles for your necklaces, and little zipper compartments for everything else. The soft material is slim and packs nicely, and it's especially helpful if you're going the carry-on only, capsule wardrobe route and need someplace to store the ✨ accessories ✨ that'll make each outfit feel new! A sleek travel wallet so you're not scrambling for your passport under the penetrating, impatient gaze of the TSA agent. It has *tons* of space to organize all the currencies, cards, documents, and passports (yes, plural; it fits two!) you need for your trip — even a handy little pen holder so it won't get lost in the black hole that is your personal item. And it has RFID blocking, so it helps protect your private info and gives you a little extra peace of mind. A foldable duffel perfect for when your luggage is full, but you just know you're going to be coming back with trinkets and souvenirs galore. It's super lightweight yet durable, and can be used as a personal item that fits under the seat of an airplane — yes, the smaller airlines too!

7 top pieces of gear, gadgets, and apps for hiking adventures
7 top pieces of gear, gadgets, and apps for hiking adventures

Boston Globe

time3 days ago

  • Boston Globe

7 top pieces of gear, gadgets, and apps for hiking adventures

Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up REI's new Traverse Modular Bear Canister has three different sections — a bottom chamber, mid-section, and lid — that can be configured in different ways to adjust its volume so it can work for weekend to weeklong adventures. REI Co-op Advertisement A multi-size — and multi-use — bear canister If you're backpacking in a place where bears or other critters may try to infiltrate your food (meaning most wilderness areas), you'll want a bear-proof canister. REI's new Traverse Modular Bear Canister has been certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee and offers something no other canisters do: the ability to adjust its volume to suit weekend to weeklong adventures. This modular canister has a bottom chamber, mid-section, and lid. Use all three sections to create a large 11.25-liter container or attach the lid to the bottom chamber and you'll have a smaller 6.75-liter canister. An even bigger bonus: Once your supplies shrink on a longer trip, you can remove the midsection and pack the 6.75-liter container inside of it to save pack space (the adjustable nylon carrying case holds the sections together). The rugged canister, made of hard PVC-free plastic, makes a great seat while camping and its transparent orange coloring lets you see inside. Divots in the lid make it easy to twist while opening/closing. The Traverse Bear Canister isn't fully waterproof, so make sure you pack food inside watertight baggies or the entire canister in a dry bag. $79.95. Advertisement Helly Hansen's new Loke Jacket 2.0 is a comfy and affordable summer-weight rain jacket that has built-in RECCO Reflector technology, typically only found in high-end (and more expensive) outdoor gear. Helly Hansen A high-tech yet affordable rain jacket For a great summer-weight rain jacket with all the features you need, check out Helly Hansen's new Loke Jacket 2.0. This comfy (not too stiff or crunchy) waterproof shell has pit zips, handwarmer pockets, adjustable Velcro wrists, a drawstring hem, and a spacious hood with an adjustable brim. It's windproof yet breathable so it allows moisture to escape — and prevents you from feeling clammy while hiking and adventuring. Its key feature: a RECCO Reflector, which is built into the hood (and usually found in pricier outdoor gear). This passive safety device, which doesn't require a power source, enables search-and-rescue crew to find you in case of an emergency. The new Loke jacket is made of 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric. It's available in men's (S-3XL), women's (XS-2XL), women's plus (1X-3X), and junior sizes (8-16; junior sizes don't come with RECCO technology). $120. Advertisement Mountain Equipment's new Xenith bags all have 900-fill goose down; a proprietary PLASMA fabric, meaning super lightweight and breathable with a weatherproof coating; and a mix of horizontal, vertical, and wedge-shaped baffles carefully integrated to maximize warmth. Mountain Equipment Super-light and lofty sleeping bags It's easy to question the warmth of a sleeping bag that weighs so little, but Mountain Equipment's new Xenith bags achieve the perfect blend of featherlight and toasty. The UK-based company — a pioneer of high-alpine gear — has introduced three Xenith bags this year, all with 900-fill goose down; a proprietary PLASMA fabric, meaning super lightweight and breathable with a weatherproof coating; and a mix of horizontal, vertical, and wedge-shaped baffles carefully integrated to maximize warmth. The Xenith 1, rated to 41 degrees (the company's 'good night's sleep guaranteed' temperature), weighs just 12.7 ounces and saves precious weight by shedding the hood and offering a three-quarter zip — ideal for warmer climates. The more-versatile Xenith II, rated to 34 degrees, weighs 17 ounces and has a drawstring hood, a neck collar, and a three-quarter zip. The 19-degree Xenith III weighs 1.5 pounds and has twice the goose fill as the Xenith 1 for extra warmth in high-alpine and colder zones. They're not cheap — $419.95-$679.95 — but they're guaranteed to keep you warm to the rated temp or you can upgrade within 30 days (restrictions apply). The GPS app onX Backcountry has a Trail Mode that lets you plan hiking and backpacking routes, locate points of interest such as national monuments and campgrounds, and track current weather conditions. onX Backcountry Plan your trips with this app Navigate through the wilderness with onX Backcountry, an invaluable GPS app. Under Trail Mode, you can plan hiking and backpacking routes, even avoiding active wildfires and monitoring air quality and smoke forecasts if you're out west. Choose satellite, topo, or hybrid view (hybrid view includes topo lines overlaid real images of the ground satellite view), and then select 3-D to get a good look at the terrain features. The maps show you points of interest such as trailheads, national monuments, and campgrounds, while a weather feature lets you track current conditions — from temperature and wind speed to barometric changes — and upcoming weekly forecasts. New this year, the app provides guidebook-quality info from local experts on 40 regions in seven western states, offering descriptions, route details, and even trail reports. It's also added HD Topo, displaying real-time detail of ridgelines, drainages, and other elevation and terrain features with precision to help with navigating. $34.99-$99.99 annually; free trial available. Advertisement Sea to Summit's new self-inflating Pursuit camping mattress blends lightweight and luxury feel. It comes in four different sizes or shapes, all of which offer horizontal foam-supported air channels that make for a more stable and comfortable mattress. Sea to Summit A mattress for added comfort on the trail Make a little extra room for this cozy sleeping mattress that will make trail nights more enjoyable. Sea to Summit's new self-inflating Pursuit camping mattress blends lightweight and luxury feel. The mattress comes in four variations: 'regular' length and width (72-by-22 inches) or 'large' length and width (78-by-25.2 inches) — in both contour or rectangular shapes — so you can choose what suits your size and comfort level. The Pursuit measures 2 inches thick, has an R-value (warmth rating) of 3 — perfect for summer adventures — and comes with horizontal foam-supported air channels that make for a more stable and comfortable mattress (choose the Pursuit Plus, with its 4.2 R-value and 3 inches of thickness, for colder temps or added comfort). The XPEL Multi-Function Valve makes it easy to inflate/deflate the mattress, while the side-loading stuff sack with drawstring cord makes it a cinch to pack. Base weights start at 1.3 pounds for the Pursuit and 1.75 pounds for the Pursuit Plus. $139-$209. Advertisement Big Agnes now makes an XL version of its Copper Spur UL2 tent so you have room for gear storage in wet weather. Big Agnes A top tent that's home on the trail It's nice to have extra wiggle room in your tent — for gear storage in wet weather, to spread out those 25-inch-wide camp mattresses, to fit in a furry trail companion, or to simply have a little distance from your tent-mate (it happens). Big Agnes now makes XL backpacking tents for just that: a little extra elbow room. One of our top picks — the Copper Spur UL2 XL — adds 6 inches of length, 2 inches of width, and 3 inches of height over the regular UL2 so you have some room to stretch or sprawl (it comes in a three-person XL version, too, that adds 8 inches of length, 2 inches of width, and 4 inches of height). The updated Copper Spur has a new HyperBead fabric that's lighter, stronger, and more waterproof than previous years' materials. It sets up quickly and easily with a main (four-way) tent pole and a cross pole, and has color-coded buckles that help with orienting the rainfly. The tent has two large and two small mesh gear pockets inside, and two doors and 9-square-foot vestibules. A top feature: Unzip the two zippers at the head end of the fly and use your upside-down hiking poles and extra guy lines to set up an awning. The tent offers 36 square feet of floor space — and is noticeably roomy for those used to a traditional two-person space — and weighs just 2.8 pounds (minus stuff sacks). $579.95. Kari Bodnarchuk can be reached at . Kari Bodnarchuk can be reached at

REI Is Hosting an Under-the-radar Summer Sale—Shop the 50 Best Deals on Gear From Patagonia, Vuori, and More
REI Is Hosting an Under-the-radar Summer Sale—Shop the 50 Best Deals on Gear From Patagonia, Vuori, and More

Travel + Leisure

time3 days ago

  • Travel + Leisure

REI Is Hosting an Under-the-radar Summer Sale—Shop the 50 Best Deals on Gear From Patagonia, Vuori, and More

If there's one thing REI excels at (aside from curating a selection of some of the best outdoor gear on the market), it's hosting an impressive sale. The retailer just quietly marked down so many summer travel essentials for outdoor enthusiasts, and from camping gear to breathable apparel, there's no shortage of deals that are yours for the taking. After spending several hours scouring the staggering selection of seasonal markdowns in this REI sale, I've compiled a list of the 50 best deals actually worth your money, including well-made pieces from Vuori, Columbia, Patagonia, and more. No matter what's on your shopping list to stock up on for your next camping adventure, hiking excursion, or outdoorsy trip, you'll have no trouble finding something to be excited about adding to your suitcase—starting at just $9. Vuori Men's Meta Pants Athletic Slim, $102 (originally $128) On Cloudsurfer Trail Waterproof Trail-running Shoes, $135 (originally $180) Columbia Freezer III Dress, $38 (originally $55) Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boots, $97 (originally $130) Teva Original Universal Sandals, $42 (originally $55) Osprey Viva 65 Extended Fit Pack, $165 (originally $220) Patagonia Guidewater Hip Pack, $180 (originally $239) Big Agnes Sidewinder Camp 35 Sleeping Bag, $101 (originally $170) InfinityLab InstantGo 10000 Built-in Lightning Cable, $42 (originally $70) Hydro Flask Wide-mouth Vacuum Water Bottle, $31 (originally $45) Supportive footwear and breathable hiking clothes are marked down to new-low prices at REI right now, and brands like Vuori, Fjallraven, and Kuhl have discounted gear that'll instantly take your summer packing list to the next level. The Vuori Men's Meta Pants Athletic Slim are versatile, flattering, and $26 off, while the Patagonia Hydropeak Board Shorts are fit for your next tropical vacation at just $57. And if it's top-rated shoes you're after, the Teva Universal Trail Sandals are now available for $75 and perfect for hiking, beach days, and everything in between. Kuhl Persuadr Shirt, $55 (originally $75) Vuori Men's Meta Pants Athletic Slim, $102 (originally $128) Fjallraven 1960 Logo Badge Sweater, $50 (originally $100) The North Face Wander Shorts 2.0, $37 (originally $50) Patagonia Hydropeak Board Shorts, $57 (originally $75) Keen Nxis Evo Waterproof Shoes, $126 (originally $180) Merrell Speed Eco Hiking Shoes, $83 (originally $110) Altra Rivera 3 Road-running Shoes, $91 (originally $140) On Cloudsurfer Trail Waterproof Trail-running Shoes, $135 (originally $180) Teva Universal Trail Sandals, $75 (originally $100) REI is practically giving away women's apparel and footwear during its latest sale, with items like exercise dresses, travel pants, and packable sandals starting as low as $38; you'll be able to stock your cart with summer must-haves without blowing your travel budget all in one place. The shopper-loved Columbia Freezer III Dress is currently 31 percent off in a wide range of sizes from XS to 3X, and the Free Fly Pull-on Breeze Skirt is another stylish yet functional find at 26 percent off. Plus, everything from hiking boots to fashionable sandals have received generous discounts for the summer, with the colorful Merrell Alpine 83 Sneaker Recraft Shoes topping our shopping list at just $75. Vuori Performance Joggers, $75 (originally $94) Columbia Freezer III Dress, $38 (originally $55) Patagonia Reversible Extended Break One-piece Swimsuit, $110 (originally $149) Vuori Elevation Trousers, $89 (originally $128) Free Fly Pull-on Breeze Skirt, $50 (originally $68) Teva Original Universal Sandals, $42 (originally $55) Merrell Alpine 83 Sneaker Recraft Shoes, $75 (originally $100) Saucony Tempus Road-running Shoes, $112 (originally $160) Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boots, $97 (originally $130) Keen Elle Criss Cross Sandals, $94 (originally $125) Whether you're on the lookout for a packable sun hat or a pair of trekking poles, REI's latest sale has all the best outdoor accessories to take on the trails—and prices now start at $20 for a limited time. We found the five-star Osprey Viva 65 Extended Fit Pack marked down by 25 percent, and the lightweight Gregory Nano 22 H2O Hydration Pack available for $67. But it's the Mammut Ducan Spine 50-60 Pack that's the real steal at nearly $100 off. This is also your chance to score accessories like sunglasses and hip packs, with the Smith Boomtown ChromaPop Polarized Sunglasses sporting an impressive $64 discount. Gregory Nano 22 H2O Hydration Pack, $67 (originally $90) Leki Cross Trail 3 TA Compact Trekking Poles Pair, $120 (originally $170) Osprey Viva 65 Extended Fit Pack, $165 (originally $220) Patagonia Guidewater Hip Pack, $180 (originally $239) Smith Boomtown ChromaPop Polarized Sunglasses, $145 (originally $209) Casio BioMass PRW-6611 Analog Watch, $315 (originally $420) Mammut Ducan Spine 50-60 Pack, $168 (originally $260) LifeStraw Go Series Water Filter Bottle, $33 (originally $45) Ctr Boonie Hat, $25 (originally $32) Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks, $20 (originally $26) Customize your campsite with unbeatable gear picks from REI—all on sale, from $32. Camping basics like tents and sleeping bags have been marked down, but we even spied luxurious add-ons like the Eno TechNest Hammock and the Big Agnes Mica Basin Camp Chair XL for $70 and $129, respectively. If you're hoping to upgrade your outdoor cooking situation, grab the Helinox Table One Camping Table that's a sturdy place to dine at for $105 (not to mention it's easy to pack up in a hurry), and the Nite Ize Radiant 314 Rechargeable Lantern will light the way for evening bathroom runs and the interior of your tent for a mere $32. Big Agnes Blacktail 4 Tent, $244 (originally $350) Alps Mountaineering Wavelength Blanket, $50 (originally $80) Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Sleeping Pad, $140 (originally $199) Big Agnes Sidewinder Camp 35 Sleeping Bag, $101 (originally $170) Nite Ize Radiant 314 Rechargeable Lantern, $32 (originally $45) Big Agnes Mica Basin Camp Chair XL, $129 (originally $200) Yakima SkyRise Medium Tent, $1,425 (originally $1,899) Eno TechNest Hammock, $70 (originally $100) Helinox Table One Camping Table, $105 (originally $150) InfinityLab InstantGo 10000 Built-in Lightning Cable, $42 (originally $70) Many of REI's big ticket items may still sit at the higher end of your budget, but the site is also well-stocked with valuable sale picks that fall under the $50 mark. From packable tech like the $45 Skullcandy Mod True Wireless Earbuds to easily overlooked items like the GSI Outdoors Pioneer Chef's Tools (now $18), there are so many gear essentials that will give you the best bang for your buck during the retailer's latest sale. Even highly-rated brands have affordable must-haves to choose from, like the Hydro Flask Wide-mouth Vacuum Water Bottle that's now available for only $31 and will keep your beverage of choice cold for up to 24 hours. JBL Endurance Sprint Wireless Sport Headphones, $25 (originally $50) Black Diamond Zip Lantern, $26 (originally $35) Hydro Flask Wide-mouth Vacuum Water Bottle, $31 (originally $45) InfinityLab InstantConnect USB-C to Lightning Charging Cables, $15 (originally $25) Skullcandy Mod True Wireless Earbuds, $45 (originally $60) Klean Kanteen Rise Wine Tumbler, $18 (originally $25) Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 Hip Pack, $34 (originally $45) Ignik Foot Warmers, $9 (originally $15) GSI Outdoors Pioneer Chef's Tools, $18 (originally $25) Nite Ize RadDog All-in-one Collar and Leash, $21 (originally $30) Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store