Latest news with #KeltyCatena30SleepingBag


Buzz Feed
5 days ago
- Buzz Feed
Save Up To 50% Off For REI's Fourth Of July Sale
Hikers, campers, backpackers, and outdoors folks of all kinds, gather 'round! The REI Fourth of July Sale is here with up to 40% off gear of all kinds and up to 50% off clearance so you can stock up on all your essentials and luxury items alike and get outside this summer! REI Co-op members can also get 20% off one full-price Yeti item at checkout. Cool! Check out all of Yeti's offerings here from their best-on-the-market coolers to my personal favorite camp mug and so much more! Here are some of the most exciting discounted items, ready to join your gear list: An REI Wonderland 4 tent for 30% off because the best part of camping is that it's basically an excuse to have an outdoor sleepover with your besties, and this beaut is as spacious as can be! The tent is suited for three-season use and has a 69.4-square-foot interior. You can get the footprint for this tent here. Promising review: "Best tent ever!!!! Tall enough that I can stand inside, but not too tall that I can't set it up. It's easy to set up and take off without help (just me), and yet it's big enough that it feels like a palace inside. Plenty of pockets inside and little hooks for lights and whatever. You can close up all the windows and rainfly or leave it completely open with just the screen and enjoy the view from your sleeping bag. Even the lines and shapes that it forms when you are inside are beautiful! It's on the heavy side, but because I only car camp, I don't care. I'm in love with this tent, and it works so well, and it's so amazing that it makes me want to go camping even more!" —LuciaPrice: $300.29 (originally $429) A Kelty Catena 30 Sleeping Bag for 37% off if you're building out your car camping kit and want a super affordable option that doesn't skimp on coziness. The 30-degree rating makes it suitable for three-season camping and its roomy rectangle sleep makes sure you can stttrrreeeetttch out to get comfortable, just the way you like. Promising review: "Super warm, affordable sleeping bag! I was skeptical because of the price but now I regret not getting it sooner! Definitely a new staple in my camping setup." —EnigmaPrice: $37.39 (originally $59.95, available in two colors) A Petzl Sama climbing harness for 26% off because moving on from rental gym gear and investing in a climbing harness of your own is a beautiful rite of passage! This one is nice and padded for maximum comfort on the wall, has plenty of gear loops, and has been my most beloved piece of climbing gear for years now, on indoor hangs and days at the crag alike. I love this harness! It's comfortable, keeps me safe, and truly what more could I need? I like that the waist is adjustable with a buckle for security but that the leg loops are elastic so I don't have to fuss too much when putting it on. When I'm climbing and wearing this harness I'm literally not thinking about my harness at all, and I think that's high praise for a piece of gear that needs to be both trustworthy and is technically a men's harness, but I found that it just fit me the best! But if you're interested in this harness and want to check it out in women's sizing, Petzl makes a women's version called the Luna, which is also on sale right now! When it comes to harnesses, or any wearable outdoor gear for that matter, always be sure to check out the size charts in both men's and women's versions to see which will fit better instead of just assuming. Okay, rant over! Promising review: "Comfy waist belt with better than average padding. The gear loops are good for sport and 1-5 multi-pitch trad. The legs loops are non-adjustable but have elastic stretch to accommodate for medium to large legs." —Kzoo360Price: $62.73 (originally $84.95, available in sizes S–XL) A pair of collapsible trekking poles for 40% off for aiding your climbing (and making you look super legit). Yes, they help you get up the mountain, but we're not talking enough about how useful they are for getting down. Step with certainty and do your knees a favor by getting yourself a reliable pair! You don't want to skimp on quality with a piece of gear you're putting your weight on, uhhhhh next to a cliff edge. Under-$100 is a nice little price point for a high-quality set that's much cheaper than the alternatives while still making sure they're going to be safe and last you a long while. Promising review: "For the price, these are excellent trekking poles. I've brought them on day hikes and multi-day camping trips in which these prop my tent up. They're significantly cheaper than carbon and weigh nearly the same. If you're getting into hiking and aren't sure what to get, go for these, they're the best all-around introduction to trekking poles." —EKTPrice: $47.89 (originally $79.95; available in two colors) A Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system for 25% off that blows any other system out of the — say it with me — water. It's adaptable and easy to use in almost any situation, planned or not. I've encountered some pretty sad excuses for water sources and have still been able to get liquid into the bag to be filtered and safely consumed. The set comes with one squeeze screw-on water filter, two 32-ounce collapsible pouches, one replaceable pop-up drinking spout, and one syringe filter cleaner. It weighs three ounces. It removes bacteria such as Salmonella, cholera, and E. coli, and protozoa such as Giardia and If you're immunocompromised, be sure to read all the package instructions to make sure it's safe for you.I adore this water filter for its ease of use, adaptability, small size, and zero wait time. Just fill the bag, screw on the filter, and roll the bag to squeeze the filtered water into your bottle. You don't need to wait for it to be done like with water treatment pills or gravity systems, and there's no funky taste — just fresh, clean, crisp water. If even the bag-filling situation sounds like it would take too much time, you can also screw the filter DIRECTLY ONTO A WATER BOTTLE and drink straight from it. Game-changing. Either way, it's a quick, lightweight system that I completely recommend. Promising review: "I've taken this on a couple of backcountry/backpacking trips and it's so handy and easy to use. I find I prefer to carry two Smartwater bottles with me (one for dirty water, one for filtered water), screw the filter to the top of one, and squeeze clean water into the second bottle. I also love that it's small and lightweight. It's perfect for backcountry trips." —sarah279Price: $34.39 (originally $45.95) A Kelty camp loveseat for 25% off if snuggling up next to your boo watching the campfire is always your favorite part of the trip. Separate camp chairs are just tooooo far when you're in love! Promising review: "This chair is so easy to open and store as well. I love being able to sit side-by-side with my partner. The cup holder is nice as it can snugly hold a can, or the flap can move to the side and easily hold a camping mug with a handle. I like that it holds a variety of drinkware, so I am not stuck having to find somewhere to place the unique style cups that aren't cans or slim. Definitely my go-to camping chair when I am with friends or a partner! This is for two people sitting upright. You would not want to lie on this as there is a hard bar in the middle, but it is perfect for sitting close!" —LalaPrice: $97.39 (originally $125.95, available in three colors) A self-inflating sleeping pad for 30% off so you don't have to huff and puff into your pad after hiking all day and setting up your campsite. I recommend this pad for car campers or backpackers looking to get their feet wet and start to build out a kit. Promising review: "I love this pad so much. It keeps me warm in the winter, is the most comfortable pad I've ever slept on, and the material doesn't stick to you. 10/10 recommend. I love it so much I just deal with the weight and take it on my backpacking trips too." —HarryAHPrice: $59.39 (originally $84.95, available in short, regular, regular wide, and long wide sizes) A Tilley hat for 25% off to give your SPF some support and protect your face and neck from that bright, bright sun as you hike, fish, and while away these sunny summer days. Promising review: "This is the hat I've been looking for! Getting older and needing some shade on my noggin', face, and neck. I've purchased a few other hats but this one is the most comfortable, breathable, and covers my neck and long nose too. The wife says it looks good on me and she's picky!" —Danny DoradoPrice: $73.99 (originally $99, available in sizes 7–8 and five colors) An REI Co-Op Siesta 20-degree sleeping bag for 30% off that's oh-so-roomy, oh-so-cozy, and the perfect place for you to snuggle up on car camping trips where you can really make yourself at home. Reviewers especially love that you can unzip just the bottom for ventilation or even unzip it all the way into a quilt. Where are my "sticks one foot out of the blanket to sleep" friends at? This is the sleeping bag for you. Promising review: "I bought this bag for car camping, and it is my favorite bag. So far, one trip (two nights), and it only got down to the high 40s, so I stayed plenty warm. I did bring a flannel sheet, but I didn't really need it for warmth on this trip. The bag is roomy and comfortable. I love that the hood is big enough to accommodate my pillow, and I can turn easily in the bag. I also appreciate that in warmer weather, I can unzip the bottom of the bag to put a leg out (didn't need to on this trip). I usually sleep hot, but this bag did not feel confining like a mummy bag. Would recommend!" —StedmanbPrice: $104.29 (originally $149, available in medium, medium wide, long, and long wide sizes) A Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler that REI CO-op members can get for 20% off, famous for keeping your food and drinks colder than you could ever imagine for days at a time. Especially if you pre-cool it before you load it up, everything from seltzers and beers for campfire time to bacon, eggs, and OJ for a special backcountry breakfast will be ready to rock. Promising review: "This is the first Yeti cooler I have ever purchased, and I am in love. We used this camping and the drinks were so cold they may have been in our refrigerator. We did prime the cooler to get it chilled before loading it up, which was simple and made a huge difference! There was ice in our cooler three days after camping, and the drinks were still cold after sitting in our house without AC for four days in 85- to 90-degree heat! (It's a bummer, I know.) That really says something about the quality! Love the king crab orange color 10/10 if you're considering a Yeti, get a Yeti." —Steph_keen_Price: $260 (originally $325, available in five colors) A small medical kit for 25% off because it's a good idea to have first aid supplies on hand when you're out in the wilderness, full stop. This one has everything you need and is quite well-organized, which is actually very important in a real emergency. This kit always comes with me on most longer hikes and definitely on all backpacking trips. It's small, light, and completely unobtrusive! It has many different kinds of bandages, a splinter and tick remover, bug bite relief wipes, aspirin, and more!Promising review: "It is exactly what I was looking for. It has everything expected. It is properly sized for backpacking or moto-camping with my dog." —Josh LPrice: $24.69 (originally $32.95, available in three styles) A BearVault Bear Canister for 20% off, which is the most trusted way to keep your food away from bears, for your safety and theirs. These are popular in the western US where in some areas with grizzlys they're required, but they're useful almost anywhere if you want a surefire way to keep food untouched by all critters. This is the smallest model, which is great for solo adventurers and quick trips. It also comes in larger sizes for longer trips or for people sharing one can. To lock, simply twist to close and to open it back up, just press on the black nubs on the lid whenever they get to the I moved to the West Coast, I was sooooo excited that I finally had to get a bear canister! They may be heavy and tough to put in a pack, but hey, they're iconic! This small can fits into a pack relatively easily and holds a lot, especially if you're keeping volume in mind while shopping. And they really are useful beyond just for bears. I brought mine to Joshua Tree this past weekend because the last time I was there, there were a ton of mice, and there's just no good place to hang a food bag. Enter: the can! And hey, don't forget to put your trash and any other scented items like toothpaste in there for the night, too. Promising review: "I love this thing. It fits easily into my pack, and can fit electrolytes, snacks, a collapsible mug, matches and fuel, and six to eight freeze-dried meals. Even witnessed an inquisitive deer who accidentally rolled it down a rocky hill and not a scratch or crack on it!" —stacePrice: $61.49 (originally $76.95, also available in larger sizes) A lightweight beanie for up to 52% off that'll keep your noggin' and ears nice and warm on cool early mornings and late nights at camp. Sometimes what stands between you and a good night's sleep outdoors is a cozy hat to keep you warm through the night. Promising review: "I own a couple of these and have given some as gifts. They are one-size-fits-all but fit my head (men's large) which I appreciate! Nice colors. Not scratchy. Affordable. Easy to stuff into a purse or pocket." —MarionMPrice: $10.83+ (originally $22.95, available in three discounted colors) The iconic Petzl Grigri belay device for 25% off, because if you've been rock climbing for a bit, chances are it's time to finally invest in one of these bad boys. The assisted brake gives peace of mind to both climbers and belayers alike, whether you're top rope or lead climbing. Need a locking carabiner to go with? I use a Black Diamond RockLock Screwgate Carabiner. It goes without saying that I love my GriGri! It keeps me and my climbing partner's safe, and what's not to love about that?! Finally buying one felt lite a true rite of passage, and YEAH I talked the ear off of the nice REI worker who sold it to me when I bought it in-person at the store. Thanks, nice REI person! Promising reviews: "Great belay device. I use it constantly and have had no issues with it. The paint will most likely wear off from rope friction, but the function of the belay device is great. Prefer it way more over my old ATC belay device." —Matt"I love my Pretzl GRIGRI. As a 5'4" woman who lead climbs with 6'+ guys, it saves my butt on a regular basis. I feel completely comfortable catching a whip with this, no matter what distractions are going on or how fast I need to react. It does take a bit of practice to learn how to feed the rope through smoothly for lead belaying, but after a bit of practice, it doesn't slow me down at all. I also feel much safer climbing with my belayer using an auto-locking belay device, and I've never had any issues with any Pretzel GRIGRI I've ever climbed with. I highly recommend it." —livhausPrice: $74.89 (originally $99.95, available in three colors) A Ninja PFD (that stands for "personal flotation device," aka a life jacket) for 20% off. It's made by NRS, the most beloved rafting, kayak, and water sports gear brand around. The thoughtful fit gives you a great range of motion for paddling while still conforming to the body, and it has lots of special features like zippered pockets, attachment points, and a silicone-coated waistband to help keep it in place while taking a dunk. Promising review: "This was recommended to me by a sales associate. They were out of stock in the store, so I ordered it online. Design works great for paddling! The style allows for a much better range of movement than the normal zip-up PFD. It's lightweight and easy to put on and take off with two side buckles and two shoulder straps. Front pocket is great for storing stuff; can fit a phone in a dry bag with room for a wallet and keys." —AlisonPrice: $119.89 (originally $149.95, available in sizes XS–XXL and four colors) An 18-liter folding cooler for 30% off so you can keep your car camping dinner and breakfast items nice and chilly overnight. Going to bed after a hot meal and a cold drink and waking up to a cold glass of OJ all in the middle of the woods is one of the great joys in life. Price: $24.39 (originally $34.95, available in three colors) A Trail 2 waist pack for up to 50% off so you can bring along your phone, some smacks, and other essentials while remaining hands-free on your hike. If you're going for a short jaunt where you don't need water or want to be burdened by a backpack, there's no better pick. Promising review: "This thing brings back some 90s nostalgia. Nice lightweight pack to add a bit of ease of access to those day hikes where you don't have side pouches." —JakePrice: $14.83+ (originally $29.95, available in three colors) An REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Backpacking Tent for 30% off that's the perfect budget pick for anyone looking to dip their toe into backpacking this year. It includes a footprint so can keep the bottom of the tent from getting punctured, it has a door on each side for easy entry and exit for all, and like all great backpacking tents, it packs down nice and small so you can carry it with you — that's the assignment, after all! The tent weighs 5 pounds and 7 ounces in mind that when tent specs how many people a tent is for, they mean teh max that can fit in there, so two will be pretty squished in here. When you're backpacking, that can be ideal — you're carrying less weight if you only have the room you need, but don't be surprised if you're sardined! This would also be a super comfortable tent for one hiker and their gear if you want to keep your gear inside with you, though you could also keep you pack under the vestibule or simply out. I've been known to bring along a trash bag to throw my pack in at night in case of rain. Sometimes the cheap, ugly solution is the most effective! review: "This is a very solid and well made tent for two! Very light and easy to set up! The included footprint it a nice touch that makes it even easier to set up. When this says two person, is means a snug two person. When setting this up for the first time, I thought 'woah this is going to be too small', but it worked out and it's actually not bad once you get inside. Definitely do-able for a couple or close friends, but it is tight quarters. We loved this tent paired with two REI Trailmade Sleeping pads and a North Face double sleeping bag. Fit perfectly with a little room to spare at the head and feet. Doors on both sides is a nice touch, and the rain fly is very solid! The roof vent is helpful in the warmth. If you're just getting into tent camping and you're ready for solo or duo adventures, this tent won't do you wrong. Just be prepared to be a little cozy and you'll have a great experience with it!" —KendricPrice: $139.29 (originally $199, available in two colors) A Caddis pop shelter for 25% off to provide you and yours with some much-needed shade anywhere you need it. This would be a life-saver beach camping or desert camping any time of year. Promising review: "I Bought this a year ago and have used it every weekend since. This is by far the best quality canopy I have ever seen, after going through several cheapo-s I decided to step up and I am glad I did. This thing is built for abuse and it really shines. I depend on this thing for my market booth and it has never let me down." —Danger BoyPrice: $187.39 (originally $249.95) A Trail 25 day pack for 30% off that's perfect for toting all of your snacks, layers, first aid supplies, and other essentials on a day hike. Committing to carrying a water bottle in your hands while you trek? Never the move! Promising review: "Great pack for short trips. The bag has plenty of intuitively-placed pockets for storage and ease of access. I used it for a five-day trip to Jeju Island, Korea and it was perfect. I didn't carry it all day but it was fine for a few hours at a time. The color is distinctive without being too loud." —Jack in DCPrice: $69.89 (originally $99.95, available in sizes XS–4X) A Petzl Borea climbing helmet for 25% off because keeping your coconut safe when climbing outside is of the utmost importance! I like this helmet because it's easily adjustable, fairly breathable, even in some serious heat, and it's not super-duper expensive. Promising review: "I just used this on a climbing trip in Vegas, for limestone and red rock and felt safe and secure in it. Four other people had it on the trip, which speaks for itself. I love how easily adjustable it is! My newbie friends didn't have helmets and we shared mine and they were easily able to adjust between climbs. I am petite and have a small head and it fit comfortably. Hit my head a few times on the walls with this helmet on and hardly felt the hits." —eggofchaosPrice: $52.39 (originally $69.95, available in three colors) An REI Co-Op 650 down jacket for up to 30% off to stay cozy and warm weather you're hitting the trail or embarking on errand day in town, which can truly be an adventure all its own. Promising review: "REI brand is one of few that fits my body type, with a smaller torso/arms and wide hips. Fits well, good quality, excellent warmth for a casual mid/outer layer." —HayleePrice: $89.93+ (originally $129, available in women's sizes XS–3X and four discounted colors) A Flexlite Air camp chair for 30% off that makes the perfect luxury item for backpackers who want to sit in a real chair after a long day of trekking or car campers who still like to pack as light as possible. Promising review: "This chair was light and super easy to assemble! It was a nice perk to have during my backpacking trip." —SpartanGirlWendyPrice: $69.89 (originally $99.95, available in three colors) An REI Co-op Trailmade rain jacket for up to 28% off because facing some stink weather is inevitable and it's great to have a go-to jacket to keep you dry. Promising review: "This jacket is legitimately one of the best waterproof and comfortable jackets I have ever worn! Nice product!" —Wayne JPrice: $49.93+ (originally $69.95, available in men's sizes S–XXXL and three discounted colors) A puffy camp blanket for 30% off for keeping you snug as a bug when you're gathered around the campfire or to use as an extra layer in your tent. Always good to have some extra warmth around, especially since it's packable and easy to throw in your car and bring along! Promising review: "I got this for covering a bed during hotel/cabin/yurt trips with my dog. It does add a nice extra layer in addition to being easy to pack and easy to shake out (and even wash, when needed) if the dog bounds onto the bed, as he's allowed at home." —AndyFPrice: $69.93+ (originally $99.95, available in two discounted colors) A four-person Coleman tent for 25% off with a full-fly vestibule so you and your fellow campers can enjoy the great outdoors side-by-side *and* have room for safe gear storage outside of your sweet digs. The tent has a roomy 8x7-foot interior and a 4.6-foot ceiling height. A good rule of thumb for how many folks can fit in a tent is the number of people listed squished all together *or* that number minus one with room to spread out and for gear. In this case, if you plan on using the vestibule for gear, you probably *can* fit four people. The more the merrier! Price: $142.39 (originally $189.95) A Hyperlite 55-liter Southwest pack for 15% off that weighs in at just two pounds — pretty compelling, especially if you're working hard to cut weight in your setup elsewhere. Its main mesh pocket will help you access snacks and extra layers, as well as dry any wet clothing, and its nearly waterproof construction is just the cherry on top. While you shouldn't expect the same comfort and bells and whistles as you might in a cushier (and heavier) pack, folks with ultralight setups swear by this bag for thru-hikes. I'm on the cusp of being ultralight, so I haven't quite taken the plunge and gotten it, but if (read: when, sorry, I love gear) I splurge on an ultralight pack, it'll be this one. Since I've mostly backpacked around the Appalachian Trail — known for nonstop rain — the near-waterproof body seems too good to be true. What does nearly waterproof mean exactly? It's made of waterproof material, and its seams are taped, rendering it mostly waterproof, but Hyperlite knows better than to promise these things. It's always smart to double up on waterproofing on important items just in review: "Used this pack for my 2024 Appalachian Trail thru-hike. Held everything really well, had no issues whatsoever. As a matter of fact, after 2200 miles it's still going strong!" —RogerH289"I got the black version, 55L, and it worked great for the PCT. After 2,000 miles, there was some wear on the bottom where the struts rub on the bottom of the pack, but mostly cosmetic and nothing major. I didn't have back issues or shoulder pain, which I've experienced with other packs in the past. The 55L provided enough space. For sections of the hike where I carried a bear can, I just strapped it to the top of the pack and didn't have any issues. Whole thing felt solidly built and would buy again if I needed another." —JackPrice: $322+ (originally $379, available in two colors) So get out there, shop the REI Fourth of July Sale, score up to 50% off all kinds of sweet gear, then immediately get off the computer and go play outside! And don't forget that REI Co-Op Members get to take 20% off a splurge-worthy Yeti item. Huge scores all around! You have until July 7 to take advantage of these stellar deals!


Buzz Feed
31-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
33 Affordable Camping Essentials From REI
A four-function whistle that's a compass, magnifying glass, thermometer, and, of course, emergency whistle all in one handy-dandy little tool. Perfect to clip onto your pack just in case. Promising review: "Good multitool I like to have on my daypack. Clipped onto my sternum strap for easy access. Very lightweight." —Luis MPrice: $6.50 A Cotopaxi bucket hat to keep that beautiful face of yours shielded from the sun, especially on hikes or at campsites where you're especially exposed. I never thought I was a Big Hat then I started camping in the desert! Now, it's rare to see me without one when I'm outside, and boy, am I happy about it. Price: $40 (available in five colors) A four-person Coleman tent with a full-fly vestibule so you and your besties can enjoy the great outdoors side-by-side *and* have room for safe gear storage outside of your sweet digs. The tent has a roomy 8x7-foot interior and a 4.6-foot ceiling height. A good rule of thumb for how many folks can fit in a tent is the number of people listed squished all together *or* that number minus one with room to spread out and for gear. In this case, if you plan on using the vestibule for gear, you probably *can* fit four people. The more the merrier! Yes, the price is above $100, but rest assured, this is about as low of a price point as you can find for a tent that will actually keep you shielded from the elements! But take good care of it and it'll give you years of enjoyment. And hey, campsites are (usually) pretty inexpensive, too!Price: $189.95 A Kelty Catena 30 Sleeping Bag if you're building out your car-camping kit and want an affordable (under $50!) option that doesn't skimp on cozy. The 30-degree rating makes it suitable for three-season camping and its roomy rectangle sleep makes sure you can stttrrreeeetttch out to get comfortable, just the way you like. Promising review: "Super warm, affordable sleeping bag! I was skeptical because of the price, but now I regret not getting it sooner! Definitely a new staple in my camping setup." —EnigmaPrice: $49.95 (available in two colors) An REI Co-Op Sahara Shade Hoodie to keep your skin protected without having to get all kinds of greasy. UPF 50+ protection keeps your arms happy and the hood means you can cover up that neck, too, especially when you tuck it under or over a hat or helmet. Promising review: "I LOVE this hoodie! I burn quite easily, and I can't believe I've gone this long without a long-sleeved UV shirt. I love the thumb holes. It fits true to size. I wore it for a four-day trip to Miami, in and out of the ocean, hiking in the Everglades, and out to eat for dinner. It works for everything!" —SarahPrice: $49.95 (available in women's sizes XS–XL and 1X–3X in six colors and men's sizes XS–XXXL, including some tall sizes, in six colors) An under-$20 Black Diamond headlamp so you can light your path hands-free at camp and bring *just in case* on long hikes. It even has dimming and strobe settings. Huzzah! The headlamp requires 3 AAA review: "I needed a new headlamp as my other just wore out. I looked at the super expensive ultra-bright ones but took a chance on this good one as it was more reasonably priced. I'm glad I chanced it. This headlamp is comfortable, durable, and very bright. This is exactly what I was hoping for. I've never been disappointed by Black Diamond." —P HyattPrice: $19.95 (available in three colors) A portable outdoor bidet — you heard me right — to get that tush of yours squeaky clean even if the nearest bathroom is miles and miles away. Just fill the chamber with water, squeeze it, and you're good to go. Promising review: "I've been using a peri-bottle I once got at the hospital, but this thing is a seriously great upgrade. I bought it to go on a trip that requires wag bags and I didn't want to backpack out a bunch of used TP. The bulb and spout direct a cleansing stream of water right where you want it. After six days of using this and a Kula Cloth to pat dry, I was fresh as a daisy, as they say. Everyone who was on the trip wants one now." —Amy BPrice: $14.95 An 18-liter folding cooler so you can keep your car camping dinner and breakfast items nice and chilly overnight. Going to bed after a hot meal and a cold drink and waking up to a cold glass of OJ all in the middle of the woods is one of the great joys in life. Price: $34.95 (available in three colors) A mini multi-towel you'll find basically endless uses for while you're out on the trail. Trust me. And after you're done using it as a sweat rag, for cleaning your dishes, or drying your hands it folds up super tiny in its stuff sack ready to get machine washed when you get home. Promising review: "Great sweat towel. I clip this on the strap of my backpack. Lightweight and easy to carry. If you get a little sweaty, just pull it out. After wiping the sweat off my face, it just hangs and the breeze dries it off, ready for the next time." —LeePrice: $9.95 (available in three colors) An iconic Nemo Chipper seat pad so you can join the veritable army of outdoor enthusiasts who swear by this simple and elegant little "chair." Use it to keep your bum clean while you take a rest, give yourself a little more padding wherever you need it when you sleep, as a list goes on and on. Plus it's made out of reclaimed and remolded foam scraps, hence the funky, cool colors. Promising review: "This is a luxury item but the kind you can easily justify because of its compact size, lightweight, and versatility. I'll throw it in both a backpacking pack and a day pack. I've used it under my sleeping pad to add a little more padding under my hips, to make a picnic bench cleaner and softer, to sit on in a parking lot while changing shoes, to widen the top of my hammock so it's not closing in on my head, and of course just to sit on when taking a break. I rest my pack against a tree and use it and the Chipper to make a nice recliner in the woods." —GorillaJasonPrice: $19.95 A wide-mouth Nalgene because once you make the switch to this lightweight, affordable bottle it's hard to go back to bulky metal ones, especially for outdoor adventures. My love for Nalgenes is well-documented. They're everything you need and nothing you don't, and indestructible to boot. Promising review: "These things are practically indestructible (cap attachment excluded, but I have a solution for this). I have to repurchase these because I lose them, not because they break. I've tried knock-off brands and have experienced them breaking in some bad places — a few miles into a hike, etc. My Nalgene? Rolled off a cliff ledge and was still intact when I hiked down to get it. I recently purchased a stainless steel ring separately that fits on the Nalgene with a carabiner loop. This should hopefully fix the reason I lose them: I clip it to my bag by its lid, and after a few years, the lid strap breaks, no longer able to do this, *then* I leave it places. I will purchase these again and again! Love this purple color!" —NNYOutdoorsPrice: $17 (available in four colors) A Patagonia hip pack so if you venture out from camp for a day hike short enough that all you really need is your phone and a snack bar, you don't need to bring a whole pack if you don't want to. There's something to be said for staying lightweight! It's also just a cute bag to use in town in your regular life, not gonna lie. Promising review: "This hip bag is so cute! It reminds me of an upgraded version of the black hole hip pack that Patagonia makes. The waist strap is longer — finally, Patagonia made the strap longer! I got the luminous pink one. It's a beautiful bright pink color. There are other color options, too, which are nice. It has a small key clip in the small zipper section, packs into itself, and the fabric is such that you can fit a lot into this tiny pack. I plan to use it for short walks with the dog, small day hikes or running errands. It can fit a phone, small wallet, lip balm, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and tissue. Shipping was fast, too. Thanks, REI." —CaitlynPrice: $35 (available in six colors) A Black Diamond Momentum Harness Package for any new climbers looking to get an amazing deal on all the gear they need to get started. It comes with a harness, ATC belay device, locking carabiner, chalk bag, and chalk, all for $100. Woohoo! Your mother would be proud you got such a score, but mayyyybe don't tell her you're super into dangling off cliffs yet. $$$ can be a real barrier to entry for starting to climb since you need some gear to get started, but I really do think this is a sweet deal! Just nab some shoes and you're good to go for literal YEARS. One and done until the gear gives out, which should be a long while when you're buying from a trusted brand like Black review: "A great all-around harness! I've been using it for about three months now for several outdoor all-day climbing trips and at the gym three to four times a week. It's been comfortable for everything from rappelling to crack climbing. It's easy to fit in my bicycle bag and can tuck nicely into any of my backpack pockets. The gear loops are well-designed, and the placement was clearly thought through. The right side loops are great for my chalk bag and anchor kit, as they are easy to access! My left-side gear loops work great for carrying quickdraws, ATCs, or anything else I need! Great harness for climbers of every level while sport climbing. I would love to see a bit more adjustability in the leg loops, but other than that, wayyy better than the gym rentals I had been using before!" —AndyPrice: $99.95 (available in men's sizes XS–XXL and women's sizes XS–XL) A camp spork so you're ready for scoopin', stabbin', and eating an all-around delicious backcountry meal. Promising review: "I bought two of these, one for each of my kids, for a backpacking trip we took together. They loved the novelty of this spork and how light it was in their pack. I had one of these 15–20 years ago, and it was one of my favorite pieces of equipment. My kids are hard on gear, and I can tell that these are going to hold up well. They clean easily with soap and a little brush, and the tines are wide enough apart that you can get any "stuck in there" food out easily. I do regret getting the dark blue as it would be hard to see if you dropped it. The pale teal one was easier to spot." —Kristy SutinPrice: $4.95 (available in three colors) A small medical kit because it's a good idea to have first aid supplies on hand when you're out in the wilderness, full stop. This one has everything you need and is quite well-organized, which is actually very important in a real emergency. This kit always comes with me on most longer hikes and definitely on all backpacking trips. It's small, light, and completely unobtrusive! It has many different kinds of bandages, a splinter and tick remover, bug bite relief wipes, aspirin, and more!Promising review: "It is exactly what I was looking for. It has everything expected. It is properly sized for backpacking or moto-camping with my dog." —Josh LPrice: $29.95 (available in three styles) A Nathan QuickSqueeze Plus Insulated Handheld Water Bottle with a phone pocket and adjustable strap so hydration is always at your fingertips on trail runs. Promising review: "Perfect size for an hourlong run! Holds car keys, credit cards, and a gel or two, and is super easy to hold." —MCTPrice: $35 A pair of collapsible trekking poles for aiding your climbing (and making you look super legit). Yes, they help you get up the mountain, but we're not talking enough about how useful they are for getting down. Step with certainty and do your knees a favor by getting yourself a reliable pair! You don't want to skimp on quality with a piece of gear you're putting your weight on, uhhhhh next to a cliff edge. Under-$100 is a nice little price point for a high-quality set that's much cheaper than the alternatives while still making sure they're going to be safe and last you a long while. Promising review: "For the price, these are excellent trekking poles. I've brought them on day hikes and multi-day camping trips which prop my tent up. They're significantly cheaper than carbon and weigh nearly the same. If you're getting into hiking and aren't sure what to get, go for these, they're the best all-around introduction to trekking poles." —EKTPrice: $79.95 A self-inflating sleeping pad so you don't have to huff and puff into your pad after hiking all day and setting up your campsite. I recommend this pad for car campers or backpackers looking to get their feet wet and start to build out a kit. It's not the lightest, *but* at under $100 it's a great deal for the quality and on the low end of the price spectrum of what the typical backpacking pad costs. Promising review: "I love this pad so much. It keeps me warm in the winter, is the most comfortable pad I've ever slept on, and the material doesn't stick to you. 10/10 recommend. I love it so much I just deal with the weight and take it on my backpacking trips too." —HarryAHPrice: $84.95 (available in short, regular, regular wide, and long wide sizes) An ultra-classic enamel camp mug because sometimes doing the cartoon version of camping is the best. Look at this thing! It's The Camping Mug dreams are made of. Promising review: "Very nice. Used this for drinking tea while camping, and it worked great. Looks good too." —RemiPrice: $4.95 A pair of Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Socks that are a little bit of moolah up front but last forever and famously come with a lifetime guarantee — they're THAT confident they'll serve you well. I finally got my first pair of Darn Toughs this year, and I LOVE THEM! The heels and toes are perfectly cushioned, the merino wool blend isn't scratchy at all, and they're, tough! Look at me walkin' around on that campground gravel! Hot tip for my hiking girlies with muscular calves: My life changed the day I started just ordering socks in men's sizes! I'm a shoe size 8.5 and find that a men's M in these socks sits great. Not too big in the foot while leaving ample room for my legs as I FLEX UP THAT MOUNTAIN, BABYYYYYYY! Promising review: "Amazingly comfy and durable! These socks are like walking on clouds in comparison to cheaper options. The price, I feel, is justified not only by how comfy they are but the lifetime warranty as well. Just don't lose them!" —JakePrice: $26 (available in men's sizes M–XXL in seven colors and in women's sizes S–L in eight colors) An REI base layer because layering is the name of the game when it comes to getting dressed for the outdoors. These make the perfect under-jacket short for cold hikes or a perfect PJ top, even on cool summer nights. But regardless, it'll help you retain some heat without feeling scratchy. Thanks, flat-seam construction. Promising review: "I was looking for some base layers for running and hiking, and this has been perfect! It's comfortable, fits true to size, and wicks moisture nicely. Would definitely recommend!" —jsearlPrice: $54.95 for women's (available in sizes XS–3X and five colors) and $54.95 for men's (available in sizes XS–XXXL, including some tall sizes, and five colors) A cute little camp table so you have a place to rest your drinks, play cards, you name it! You'll never be mad to have a spare surface around that's not uhhhh the cold, hard ground (no offense to the cold, hard ground). Promising review: "We had one of these tables, liked it so much, we bought a second. Extend the legs, then flip it out to set up. Takes 15 seconds. It's very stable and great for a side table or a table for two. Very nice quality." —Camp4smorePrice: $43 A Traverse 60 backpacking pack so you can finally take that backpacking trip you've always dreamed of. Experiencing nature night after night is such a unique and beautiful experience, and this pack will help you do it. It should be just the right size for a medium-length trip, so you can really get a taste for the trail. Boy, oh boy, can backpacking packs be expensive, but under-$300 is a great place to end up with your first. It really is an essential piece of gear since it's what allows you If a pack rubs you the wrong way (literally) it can be a real trip ruiner, so investing in one that's comfortable to wear and fits everything you need without tipping over into too big territory is the first gear decision every backpacker needs to make. Promising review: "I was hoping for a smaller pack, but after trying out four packs with 40 lbs, this pack checked the most boxes for me. I love the front access zipper to the main compartment. The two-way water bottle pouches on both sides that I can actually reach are great. The waist belt pockets open and close easily compared to other packs I've used. It's pretty comfortable even after many miles with lots of weight. So far, I dig it." —Quig in the PNWPrice: $249 (available in men's sizes S–3XL and two colors and in women's sizes XS–3X and two colors) A pair of La Sportiva Tarantulace Climbing Shoes for anyone who's ready to make the leap from rental gym shoes to a pair of their own. Tackle gym climbs or head out on outdoor climbing adventures with confidence that your feet are gonna stick, stick, stick. Leather uppers will form to your foot in no time, and at under $100 they're a great deal for a technical shoe from one of the most trusted climbing brands around. If you've been bitten by the climbing bug, getting your very own pair of shoes is an exciting next step! They're definitely not a cheap piece of gear, but under $100 is REALLY the sweet spot for getting a shoe that will actually help you improve your footwork without it being a total $$ hemorrhage. And hey, it means you can finally stop paying for shoe rentals!These lace-up Sportivas should be the perfect beginner pair: Not too arched and comfortable for long-term wear while still giving you a nice edge to get onto teeny-tiny edges with confidence. Remember that climbing shoes should ideally fit pretty snugly, and the leather will stretch with time. Promising review: "These were my first pair of climbing shoes, and I absolutely love them! No pun intended, but they left big shoes to fill. I'm currently breaking in a pair of more aggressive La Sportiva and find myself reverting back to these to send the harder climbs. For an entry-level shoe, these are just great. The laces can be a little bit cumbersome, but not a huge dealbreaker. As these were my first climbing shoes, I actually bought them true to size and found that they worked well for me, even on tricky routes where you have to really trust your feet. These are good." —Cnst730Price: $89 (available in women's EU sizes 34–42 and men's EU sizes 38–47.5) Some salted caramel latte-flavored energy gel to give you a nice little boost of energy just when you need it! Mmmmm tasty. Price: $1.95 A pair of Tifosi sunglasses if "sleek" is your trail name. Apparently, it's mine since these are actually the sunglasses I wear for all of my outdoor activities. From backpacking to white water rafting and climbing, they've gone everywhere with me for almost a year, and boy oh boy, have they saved my eyeballs from some glare. Promising review: "I purchased the black polarized version. I like that you can rest the frames on a hat rather than directly on your ears. I use these often when golfing — they don't slip or bounce when you swing. Very comfortable and stylish." —AnonymousPrice: $34.95+ (available in three colors and polarized or non-polarized lenses) A Stanley 14-Piece Wildfare bowl prep and cook set that has everything you need to prep, cook, and eat simple campground meals. Stanley may have recently gotten popular for their big ol' cups, but never forget they started in the rugged, reliable camp gear game. The kit comes with a 1.5-liter saucepan with a fold-and-lock handle, a lid with vent and strain holes, cutting boards, removable trivets, two bowls, two two-piece sporks, and a two-piece spatula. And it's all dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is super easy once you get home from your adventure. Price: $45 A Rumpl Camp Pillow if you refuse to go even one night without a snuggly pillow but don't want to sacrifice your home pillow to the wilderness gods. I *love* this pillow for its double-sided fabric (one cooling, one soft), perfectly plush feel, and ability to fold in half into this little stuff sack. I thought I was done with outdoor pillows for good until this one from Rumpl walked into my life. Wanting something outdoor-specific but disappointed by inflatable models, my backpacking brain transitioned me fully to just using my clothes bag, even when car camping! But thank goodness I've finally found an outdoor pillow I dig so I can get a good night's sleep when on trips with a little more gear! It really is so plush and comfy, and at the end of the day, that's all I really want from a pillow! I use the fleece side because I tend to sleep cold, but it's nice to know the cooling side is around for the next time I'm on a humid trip. Is the pillowcase machine-washable? You bet! That's the Rumpl $49 A Kula Cloth, aka the most amazing reusable pee rag money can buy. It has a waterproof external layer (that's the pretty printed one), an antimicrobial ~wiping~ side, and snaps that keep the cloth closed when you're not using it. If you're tired of doing a weird pee dance or straight-up damp underwear after going in the woods, here is the long-awaited solution! If you didn't know, now you know. Yeah, the Kula Cloth is life changing if peeing in the woods gets you down. It's also super useful for general travel if you're traveling anywhere with an unreliable TP situation. There's also a little loop on the corner so you can just carabiner it to the outside of your pack if you're backpacking. Ya know how people who drive Jeeps nod at each other on the road. People with Kula Cloths on their packs nod to each other on the trail. It's a thing. Promising review: "I've had one for years now and it has been such a game changer from backpacking, camping, or just hiking. We take them everywhere outdoors, and I consider this one of the best outdoor inventions ever. If you don't want wet panties or have to be packing toilet paper into a baggie to pack out, this is the ticket! I wouldn't be without one outdoors!" —outdrgrlPrice: $20 (available in seven patterns) An REI Co-op Flash 22 pack so you have a simple, well-designed daypack ready to go if you want to go on hikes from camp. It's on the budget-friendly side of high-quality gear, and it's money well spent. REI brand gear tends to really hold up, so get ready to reach for this bag for years and years to come. Promising review: "Took this down to the Smoky Mountains last week, and it was great! It is well-made, has lots of pockets, and is super lightweight. It even has a built-in whistle! Highly recommend." —LesleyPrice: $59.95 (available in four colors) A Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil roll-top dry sack because keeping your camp clothes and electronics dry is absolutely essential for any fun, safe camping trip. My love for these lightweight waterproof bags can't be stifled. On my camping trips, I always bring two of these bags that each work double time. One serves as my clothes bag, and the other is my food bag since it's easy to hang as a bear bag as well. Sometimes I bring another for my electronics, but sometimes they just go in with my clothes. But enough of my packing specifics — the point is, they're incredibly reliable, actually waterproof, and being able to pack them down nice and small as you take things out of them is amazing out in the wilderness and for storing at home. Promising review: "Bought this last minute for a three-day backpacking trip (3L size) to stuff my day food in the outside mesh pocket of my pack, so I wouldn't have to go inside my pack to find my food while on the trail. It's a great size for various items and fits easily in the outside pocket. Stayed dry during the rain, it is easy to fold over and keep secure. Love this little bag. Might get more for other items." —JenniPrice: $22.95+ (available in six sizes and four colors). A reflective vest to make sure drivers see you in the dark when you're running super early or late at night. This vest isn't restrictive and is very adjustable, so throwing it on under whatever layers you have, depending on the season, won't be a problem. Promising review: "I feel much safer riding after dark now that I have this. The reflective bands are really bright. It is easy to adjust its size so I can wear it over a heavy or light jacket (or no jacket at all) depending on the temperature." —GeorgePrice: $35 A pack of Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes so you can freshen up a little bit between showers, much to the satisfaction of your campmates' noses. These specific wipes never dry out my skin, and the resealable packaging really does stay closed in my experience, keeping the remaining wipes moist and ready to use whenever you need 'em. I looooove these wipes, and you'll usually find at least a few in my backpacking and camping setup!Promising review: "I couldn't have gone without these, five days with no running water (or baths) and these got pine tar off super easily AND helped keep the BO to a minimum. 10/10 would bring again." —kbhobbyhikerPrice: $5.95+ (available in two sizes)


Buzz Feed
25-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
28 Affordable Pieces Of Outdoor Gear From REI For Your Next Adventure
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. Because setting out on your next adventure shouldn't cost an arm and a leg. 1. A four-person Coleman tent with a full-fly vestibule so you and your besties can enjoy the great outdoors side-by-side *and* have room for safe gear storage outside of your sweet digs. REI The tent has a roomy 8x7-foot interior and a 4.6-foot ceiling height. A good rule of thumb for how many folks can fit in a tent is the number of people listed squished all together *or* that number minus one with room to spread out and for gear. In this case, if you plan on using the vestibule for gear, you probably *can* fit four people. The more the merrier! Yes, the price is above $100, but rest assured this is about as low of a price point you can find for a tent that will actually keep you shielded from the elements! But take good care of it and it'll give you years of enjoyment. And hey, campsites are (usually) pretty inexpensive, too! 2. An REI Co-Op Sahara Shade Hoodie to keep your skin protected without having to get all kinds of greasy. UPF 50+ protection keeps your arms happy and the hood means you can cover up that neck, too, especially when you tuck it under or over a hat or helmet. REI Promising review:"I LOVE this hoodie! I burn quite easily, and I can't believe I've gone this long without a long-sleeved UV shirt. I love the thumbholes. It fits true to size. I wore it for a four-day trip to Miami, in and out of the ocean, hiking in the Everglades, and out to eat for dinner. It works for everything!" — Sarah 3. A Kelty Catena 30 Sleeping Bag if you're building out your car-camping kit and want an affordable (under $50!) option that doesn't skimp on cozy. The 30-degree rating makes it suitable for three-season camping and its roomy rectangle sleep makes sure you can stttrrreeeetttch out to get comfortable, just the way you like. 4. An under-$20 Black Diamond headlamp so you can light your path hands-free at camp and to bring *just in case* on long hikes. It even has dimming and strobe settings. Huzzah! REI The headlamp requires 3 AAA batteries. Promising review:"I needed a new headlamp as my other just wore out. I looked at the super expensive ultra-bright ones, but took a chance on this good one as it was more reasonably priced. I'm glad I chanced it. This headlamp is comfortable, durable, and very bright. This is exactly what I was hoping for. I've never been disappointed by Black Diamond." — P Hyatt 5. A wide-mouth Nalgene because once you make the switch to this lightweight, affordable bottle it's hard to go back to bulky metal ones, especially for outdoor adventures. My love for Nalgenes is well-documented. They're everything you need and nothing you don't, and indestructible to boot. REI Promising review:"These things are practically indestructible (cap attachment excluded, but I have a solution for this). I have to repurchase these because I lose them, not because they break. I've tried knock-off brands and have experienced them breaking in some bad places — a few miles into a hike, etc. My Nalgene? Rolled off a cliff ledge and was still intact when I hiked down to get it. I recently purchased a stainless steel ring separately that fits on the Nalgene with a carabiner loop. This should hopefully fix the reason I lose them: I clip it to my bag by its lid, after a few years, the lid strap breaks, no longer able to do this, *then* I leave it places. I will purchase these again and again! Love this purple color!" — NNYOutdoors 6. A Black Diamond Momentum Harness Package for any new climbers looking to get an amazing deal on all the gear they need to get started. It comes with a harness, ATC belay device, locking carabiner, chalk bag, and chalk, all for $100. Woohoo! Your mother would be proud you get such a score, but mayyyybe don't tell her you're super into dangling off cliffs yet. REI $$$ can be a real barrier to entry for starting to climb since you need some gear to get started, but I really do think this is a sweet deal! Just nab some shoes and you're good to go for literal YEARS. One and done until the gear gives out, which should be a long while when you're buying from a trusted brand like Black Diamond. Promising review:"A great all-around harness! I've been using it for about three months now for several outdoor all-day climbing trips and at the gym three to four times a week. It's been comfortable for everything from rappelling to crack climbing. It's easy to fit in my bicycle bag and can tuck nicely into any of my backpack pockets. The gear loops are well designed, and the placement was clearly thought through. The right side loops are great for my chalk bag and anchor kit, as they are easy to access! My left side gear loops work great for carrying quickdraws, ATCs, or anything else I need! Great harness for climbers of every level while sport climbing. I would love to see a bit more adjustability in the leg loops, but other than that, wayyy better than the gym rentals I had been using before!" — Andy 7. A camp spork so you're ready for scoopin', stabbin', and eating an all-around delicious backcountry meal. REI Promising review:"I bought two of these, one for each of my kids, for a backpacking trip we took together. They loved the novelty of this spork and how light it is in their pack. I had one of these 15–20 years ago, and it was one of my favorite pieces of equipment. My kids are hard on gear, and I can tell that these are going to hold up well. They clean easily with soap and a little brush, and the tines are wide enough apart that you can get any "stuck in there" food out easily. I do regret getting the dark blue as it would be hard to see if you dropped it. The pale teal one was easier to spot." — Kristy Sutin 8. A small medical kit because it's a good idea to have first aid supplies on hand when you're out in the wilderness, full stop. This one has everything you need and is quite well-organized, which is actually very important in a real emergency. REI This kit always comes with me on most longer hikes and definitely on all backpacking trips. It's small, light, and completely unobtrusive! It has many different kinds of bandages, a splinter and tick remover, bug bite relief wipes, aspirin, and more! Promising review:"It is exactly what I was looking for. It has everything expected. It is properly-sized for backpacking or moto-camping with my dog." — Josh L 9. A Nathan QuickSqueeze Plus Insulated Handheld Water Bottle with a phone pocket and adjustable strap so hydration is always at your fingertips on trail runs. REI Promising review:"Perfect size for an hourlong run! Holds car keys, credit cards, and a gel or two, and is super easy to hold." — MCT Price: $35 10. A pair of collapsible trekking poles for aiding your climbing (and making you look super legit). Yes, they help you get up the mountain, but we're not talking enough about how useful they are for getting down. Step with certainty and do your knees a favor by getting yourself a reliable pair! REI You don't want to skimp on quality with a piece of gear you're putting your weight on, uhhhhh next to a cliff edge. Under-$100 is a nice little price point for a high-quality set that's much cheaper than the alternatives while still making sure they're going to be safe and last you a long while. Promising review:"For the price, these are excellent trekking poles. I've brought them on day hikes and multi-day camping trips in which these prop my tent up. They're significantly cheaper than carbon and weigh nearly the same. If you're getting into hiking and aren't sure what to get, go for these, they're the best all-around introduction to trekking poles." — EKT 11. A self-inflating sleeping pad so you don't have to huff and puff into your pad after hiking all day and setting up your campsite. I recommend this pad for car campers or backpackers looking to get their feet wet and start to build out a kit. It's not the lightest, *but* at under $100 it's a great deal for the quality and on the low end of the price spectrum of what the typical backpacking pad costs. REI Promising review:"I love this pad so much. It keeps me warm in the winter, is the most comfortable pad I've ever slept on, and the material doesn't stick to you. 10/10 recommend. I love it so much I just deal with the weight and take it on my backpacking trips too." — HarryAH 12. An ultra-classic enamel camp mug because sometimes doing the cartoon version of camping is the best. Look at this thing! It's The Camping Mug dreams are made of. 13. A pair of Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Socks that are a little bit of moolah up front but last forever and famously come with a lifetime guarantee — they're THAT confident they'll serve you well. I finally got my first pair of Darn Toughs this year, and I LOVE THEM! The heels and toes are perfectly cushioned, the merino wool blend isn't scratchy at all, and they're, tough! Look at me walkin' around on that campground gravel! Hot tip for my hiking girlies with muscular calves: My life changed the day I started just ordering socks in men's sizes! I'm a shoe size 8.5 and find that a men's M in these socks sits great. Not too big in the foot while leaving ample room for my legs as I FLEX UP THAT MOUNTAIN, BABYYYYYYY! Promising review:"Amazingly comfy and durable! These socks are like walking on clouds in comparison to cheaper options. The price I feel is justified not only by how comfy they are but the lifetime warranty as well. Just don't lose them!" — Jake 14. A basic REI base layer because layering is the name of the game when it comes to getting dressed for the outdoors. These make the perfect under-jacket short for cold hikes or a perfect PJ top, even on cool summer nights. But regardless, it'll help you retain some heat without feeling scratchy. Thanks, flat-seam construction. REI Promising review:"I was looking for some base layers for running and hiking, and this has been perfect! It's comfortable, fits true to size, and wicks moisture nicely. Would definitely recommend!" — jsearl 15. A cute little camp table so you have a place to rest your drinks, play cards, you name it! You'll never be mad to have a spare surface around that's not uhhhh the cold, hard ground (no offense to the cold, hard ground). REI Promising review:"We had one of these tables, liked it so much, we bought a second. Extend the legs, then flip it out to set up. Takes 15 seconds. It's very stable and great for a side table or a table for two. Very nice quality." — Camp4smore 16. A pair of La Sportiva Tarantulace Climbing Shoes for anyone who's ready to make the leap from rental gym shoes to a pair of their own. Tackle gym climbs or head out on outdoor climbing adventures with confidence that your feet are gonna stick, stick, stick. Leather uppers will form to your foot in no time, and at under $100 they're a great deal for a technical shoe from one of the most trusted climbing brands around. REI If you've been bitten by the climbing bug, getting your very own pair of shoes is an exciting next step! They're definitely not a cheap piece of gear, but under $100 is REALLY the sweet spot for getting a shoe that will actually help you improve your footwork without it being a total $$ hemorrhage. And hey, it means you can finally stop paying for shoe rentals! These lace-up Sportivas should be the perfect beginner pair: Not too arched and comfortable for long-term wear while still giving you a nice edge to get onto teeny-tiny edges with confidence. Remember that climbing shoes should ideally fit pretty snug, and the leather will stretch with time. Promising review:"These were my first pair of climbing shoes, and I absolutely love them! No pun intended, but they left big shoes to fill. I'm currently breaking in a pair of more aggressive La Sportiva and find myself reverting back to these to send the harder climbs. For an entry-level shoe, these are just great. The laces can be a little bit cumbersome, but not a huge dealbreaker. As these were my first climbing shoes, I actually bought them true to size and find that they worked well for me, even on tricky routes where you have to really trust your feet. These are good." — Cnst730 17. Some salted caramel latte flavored energy gel to give you a nice little boost of energy just when you need it! Mmmmm tasty. REI 18. A pair of Tifosi sunglasses if "sleek" is your trail name. Apparently it's mine since these are actually the sunglasses I wear for all of my outdoor activities. From backpacking to white water rafting and climbing, they've gone everywhere with me for almost a year, and boy oh boy, have they saved my eyeballs from some glare. Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed Promising review:"I purchased the black polarized version. I like that you can rest the frames on a hat rather than directly on your ears. I use these often when golfing — they don't slip or bounce when you swing. Very comfortable and stylish." — Anonymous 19. A Smartwool Merino 250 Reversible Headband to keep those ears nice and toasty on early morning and late night runs. I always forget how incredibly painful it is when my ears get cold, especially when wind is involved, so do as I say and not as I do. REI 20. A classic Coleman two-burner camping stove perfect for whipping up a full meal in the great outdoors. With two burners, a windshield, and heat control, you're gonna be the head chef of the wilderness, and everyone will be so glad to have a hot meal in their bellies before snuggling up for the night. REI Promising review:"We love our Coleman stove! This is the best car camping stove we have. I am mostly a backpacker, but car camping has become more frequent as of late, so I decided to get a double-burner stove for those camping trips with friends and family! Works great and is perfect for putting stickers on the back of all our adventures." — roseferg 21. A Rumpl Camp Pillow if you refuse to go even one night without a snuggly pillow but don't want to sacrifice your home pillow to the wilderness gods. I *love* this pillow for its double-sided fabric (one cooling, one soft), perfectly plush feel, and ability to fold in half into this little stuff sack. I thought I was done with outdoor pillows for good until this one from Rumpl walked into my life. Wanting something outdoor-specific but disappointed by inflatable models, my backpacking brain transitioned me fully to just using my clothes bag, even when car camping! But thank goodness I've finally found an outdoor pillow I dig so I can get a good night's sleep when on trips with a little more gear! It really is so plush and comfy, and at the end of the day, that's all I really want from a pillow! I use the fleece side because I tend to sleep cold, but it's nice to know the cooling side is around for the next time I'm on a humid trip. Is the pillowcase machine-washable? You bet! That's the Rumpl way. 22. A Stanley 14-Piece Wildfare bowl prep and cook set that has everything you need to prep, cook, and eat simple campground meals. Stanley may have recently gotten popular for their big ol' cups, but never forget they started in the rugged, reliable camp gear game. REI The kit comes with a 1.5-liter saucepan with a fold-and-lock handle, a lid with vent and strain holes, cutting boards, removable trivets, two bowls, two two-piece sporks, and a two-piece spatula. And it's all dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is super easy once you get home from your adventure. 24. An REI Co-op Flash 22 pack so you have a simple, well-designed daypack ready to go if you want to go on hikes from camp. It's on the budget-friendly side of high-quality gear, coming in at $60, and it's money well spent. REI brand gear tends to really hold up, so get ready to reach for this bag for years and years to come. REI Promising review:"Took this down to the Smoky Mountains last week, and it was great! It is well-made, has lots of pockets, and is super lightweight. It even has a built-in whistle! Highly recommend." — Lesley Price: $59.95 (available in four colors) 25. A BioLite AspenGlow mini lantern that packs a whole lotta light into a teeny-tiny package. With a diameter of just three inches, it's a breeze to pop into any bag, and an integrated bungee makes it easy to hang almost anywhere. It's USB rechargeable and can run for 40 hours on its lowest setting, though it'll be hard to resist playing with the "party" setting, which cycles through its multicolor modes. Fun! REI This little lantern RULES. I'm just a huge fan of BioLite generally, but have been really impressed by how bright and reliable this little guy is. And at the end of the day, those are the two things you really want a lantern to be! The little bungee on the back really is useful for putting it up in your tent or somewhere unconventional, and the dimmer just rules. Promising review:"Ordered this to have a light in our tent. It's small and compact — perfect for car camping. Also rechargeable. I also like that the lights can change color." — MLS Price: $39.95 (available in two colors) 26. A Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil roll-top dry sack because keeping your camp clothes and electronics dry is absolutely essential for any fun, safe camping trip. My love for these lightweight waterproof bags can't be stifled. Rachel Dunkel / BuzzFeed On my camping trips, I always bring two of these bags that each work double time. One serves as my clothes bag, and the other is my food bag, since it's easy to hang as a bear bag as well. Sometimes I bring another for my electronics, but sometimes they just go in with my clothes. But enough of my packing specifics — the point is, they're incredibly reliable, actually waterproof, and being able to pack them down nice and small as you take things out of them is amazing out in the wilderness and for storing at home. Promising review:"Bought this last minute for a three-day backpacking trip (3L size) to stuff my day food in the outside mesh pocket of my pack, so I wouldn't have to go inside my pack to find my food while on the trail. It's a great size for various items and fits easily in the outside pocket. Stayed dry during the rain, easy to fold over, and keep secure. Love this little bag. Might get more for other items." — Jenni Price: $22.95+ (available in six sizes and four colors). 27. A reflective vest to make sure drivers see you in the dark when you're running super early or late at night. This vest isn't restrictive and is very adjustable, so throwing it on under whatever layers you have depending on the season won't be a problem. REI Promising review:"I feel much safer riding after dark now that I have this. The reflective bands are really bright. It is easy to adjust its size so I can wear it over a heavy or light jacket (or no jacket at all) depending on the temperature." — George Price: $35 28. A pack of Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes so you can freshen up a little bit between showers, much to the satisfaction of your campmates' noses. These specific wipes never dry out my skin, and the resealable packaging really does stay closed in my experience, keeping the remaining wipes moist and ready to use whenever you need 'em. REI I looooove these wipes, and you'll usually find at least a few in my backpacking and camping setup! Promising review:"I couldn't have gone without these, five days with no running water (or baths) and these got pine tar off super easily AND helped keep the BO to a minimum. 10/10 would bring again." — kbhobbyhiker Price: $5.95+ (available in two sizes) The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.