Top 20 Must-Have Hiking and Outdoor Gear from REI's Anniversary Sale

When gearing up for hiking or outdoor adventures, having the right equipment can make all the difference. REI’s Anniversary Sale offers an excellent opportunity to upgrade your gear without breaking the bank. From durable backpacks to reliable footwear, this sale features top-quality items that combine functionality and comfort. Here are the top 20 hiking and outdoor essentials from REI’s Anniversary Sale that I personally own and have used for years that I recommend! I've been a Co-Op member for a long time and have used gear I've purchased from REI for many years!

All of the items I recommend I've personally purchased with my own money! The links below do contain affiliate commissions where I earn a small percentage with no extra cost to you! Affiliate commissions help me continue to make educational and informational content about trails, adventures, and public lands!

Backpacking in Wyoming with my Osprey bag, Oboz Bridger boots, black diamond trekking poles, headlamp, and jetboil!

1. Eno Doublenest Hammock

I've owned my Eno Hammock for over six years and have taken it on adventures all over the Western U.S. and Canadian Rockies! It fits me and my husband and our 65 lb goldendoodle. The print patterns are also so cute!

2. Oboz Bridger Waterproof Hiking Boots

I've owned six pairs of the Oboz Bridgers over the past ten years and have used these boots to backpack all over the rockies, cascades, and in the Alps in Europe! I have the brown, grey, and red colors and they're amazing for muddy trails and backpacking trips!

3. Teva Original Sandals

These are a backpacking must-have for camp shoes. They're lightweight and I usually just strap them to the back of my backpacking bag or in one of my side pockets. I also use them for water adventures and I've owned multiple pairs over the years!

4. Nemo Disco 15 Sleeping Bag

I spent a long time finding the right sleeping bag and four years ago I got the Nemo Disco 15 and I have been insanely happy with this sleeping bag! It's super comfy, keeps me warm when backpacking, and it packs down great for backpacking. I've taken it to Wyoming, Montana, Washington, Idaho, and even into the Grand Canyon! It's been such a great purchase.

5. Black Diamond Headlamp

This is a must-have in my bag since I do so many sunset hikes! I love this headlamp and it's really bright which is great for looking out for animals!

6. Sea to Summit Ultralight Air Sleeping Pad

One of my goals a few years ago was to invest in light backpacking gear and this was the sleeping pad I chose. I've been really happy with it, have had no issues, and I truly do sleep really well with it! I slept in until 9:00 a.m. one day when backpacking so I know it's comfy since the sun came up at 5:00!

7. BearVault BV450

I backpack a lot in grizzly country so a bear cannister is a necessity! I like the size of this one and have used it a ton.

8. Osprey Aura AG Pack

This is the backpacking bag Osprey replaced the bag I have with (they no longer sell the bag I have), but I swear by Osprey bags (I have two backpacking bags, seven hiking packs) so trust me, I have owned a LOT of their bags. That being said, I always recommend going in to the store and trying on your pack!

9. REI Sahara Shade Hoodie

I have five of these and have used them backpacking for years. I also use them to paddle and cannot recommend them enough as great sunshirts!

10. Black Diamond Trekking Poles

I swear by my black diamond trekking poles. These fold down to be super packable and are also lightweight. Great for backpacking!

11. Nomadix Ultralight Towel

I take this towel on backpacking trips because I tend to backpack near lakes and jump in and swim in them! It's great to have for drying off and packs well in my bag.

12. Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes

I hate feeling dirty when backpacking so I use these wipes to keep feeling clean and fresh on multi-day trips.

Camping over Lake Powell with my Rumpl

13. Rumpl Blanket

I have three Rumpl blankets and the dogs and I love using them on cozy car camping or sunset adventures!

14. Jetboil

A compact and efficient stove that boils water quickly, perfect for cooking meals on the trail.

15. REI Rainier Rain Jacket

I have two of these jackets and love them! I've hiked in torrential downpours in the PNW in these and they have kept me dry!

16. Garmin In Reach

A handheld GPS device with satellite communication, ideal for remote areas without cell service.

17. Kula Cloth

An essential for ladies on the trail! No more need for TP!

18. Black Diamond Half Dome Helmet

II use this helmet for rappelling and via ferrata adventures! I've packed it to Europe and it packs great and makes me feel safe knowing I have a helmet I trust.

19. Darn Tough Socks

I only use Darn Tough socks because they are the only socks I have ever used that prevent blisters!

20. Vuori Halo Performance Short

I have worn the Vuori shorts for a few years now and really like them for backpacking and summer hikes! Super comfy and also dry quickly.

My black diamond helmet, Oboz Bridgers, darn tough socks, kula cloth, Sahara shade hoodie, and Garmin in reach all were key pieces of gear I wore while hut-to-hut trekking in the Dolomites.

Choosing the Right Gear for Your Adventure

Selecting gear depends on the type of hiking or outdoor activity you plan. For day hikes, lightweight packs and breathable clothing are key. For overnight trips, prioritize sleeping gear and cooking equipment that balance weight and comfort. Waterproof footwear and jackets are essential for wet conditions, while navigation tools increase safety in unfamiliar terrain.

Take Advantage of REI’s Anniversary Sale

REI’s Anniversary Sale offers significant discounts on these top-rated items, making it easier to invest in quality gear. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, upgrading your equipment can improve your outdoor experience and safety.