REI’s Annual Labor Day Sale Ends Today – Last Chance for Outdoor Gear Deals

REI’s highly anticipated annual Labor Day Sale is drawing to a close today, marking the final opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to secure significant savings on a wide array of high-quality gear. Shoppers can find many items discounted by up to 40 percent, while loyal REI Co-op members benefit from an additional incentive, saving up to 20 percent on any REI Outlet item, making it an opportune moment for smart acquisitions.

The sale showcases attractive price reductions across the company’s well-regarded house brand, known for its balance of performance and value. Beyond REI’s own offerings, the event also features compelling discounts on popular external brands, including Mountain Hardwear, Nemo Equipment, Big Agnes, and Coleman, among others. For those exploring broader options, competitive sales from retailers like Backcountry and Fjällräven, as well as various cottage industry specialists, have also been highlighted. This extensive selection covers essential outdoor categories, from tents and backpacks to sleeping bags, sleeping pads, cookware, and outdoor apparel. To further assist shoppers in making informed decisions, comprehensive outdoor gear guides—such as the Best Tents, Best Sleeping Bags, Best Sleeping Pads, Best Backpacking Tents, Best Merino Wool, and Best Base Layers—are available for consultation.

As of September 7, 2026, the list of available deals has been updated. Several previously featured items that have sold out have been removed, and new offers have been added, specifically expanding options in merino base layers, backpacks, sleeping bags, socks, and rain jackets, ensuring the information remains current and relevant for shoppers.

Deals on Rain Jackets and Outdoor Clothing

With cooler months on the horizon, now is an excellent time to invest in new base layers and mid layers. The sale also presents a prime opportunity to acquire one of the highly recommended rain jackets.

The Arc’teryx Beta AR rain jacket stands out as one of the most robust rain jackets on the market. Constructed with 40D fabric across its main body and reinforced with 80D patches in high-wear areas, it boasts a Gore-Tex Pro 3L membrane for superior waterproofing. This jacket has consistently proven reliable in rigorous testing, notably resisting wetting out, a common issue with other Gore-Tex models. Its pit zips offer exceptional ventilation, a critical feature for active users. While its weight of 1 pound, 0.3 ounces makes it not the lightest option, its durability at this weight is unparalleled. Currently, only the men’s version of this jacket is available on sale.

Another noteworthy option is the 2024 version of the REI Co-op Traverse Rain Jacket. This model has also demonstrated reliability and waterproof performance in testing. Its construction features taped seams and welded components, effectively sealing out wind and moisture. The side zip vents, extending from the hem to the bicep, provide substantial ventilation during movement and convenient access to pockets in mid layers. This specific deal is for the men’s version only.

Patagonia’s classic Torrentshell Rain Jacket is offered at half price, a significant saving for those whose needs align with the available color and women’s sizing. The Torrentshell features a two-way adjustable hood and Velcro cuffs, providing a snug seal against rain. While it is noted for being on the noisier side due to its nylon material, the substantial discount makes this a minor consideration for many.

For budget-conscious shoppers, the REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket is consistently recognized as a top pick among affordable rain jackets. This particular sale presents the lowest price observed for this jacket in five years. Unlike many rain jackets in its price range, the Rainier incorporates high-quality three-layer, seam-taped, laminate waterproofing that is non-fluorinated, meaning it is PFAS-free. It also includes features rarely found in budget options, such as pit zips for venting, a weatherproof center zip, and an adjustable, stowable hood.

The REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie offers an excellent alternative to traditional sunscreen for sun protection. While not a primary choice for all, it effectively shields against the sun without causing excessive stuffiness, particularly suited for high-altitude sun exposure rather than humid climates.

For lightweight insulation, the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 Down Hoodie is highly recommended as a top choice for a backpacking puffer jacket. Weighing a mere 10.7 ounces for a men’s medium, it packs down to an exceptionally small size, fitting into its own pocket. Its 1,000-fill-power goose down provides an outstanding warmth-to-weight ratio. However, availability is currently limited in terms of colors and sizes.

Darn Tough produces some of the most favored merino wool socks, and the Light Hiker Quarter Lightweight Hiking Socks are an excellent choice for any trip. Priced at $16, these are ideal for individuals who prefer lightweight trail runners or minimal shoes. Most Darn Tough socks contain approximately 60 percent merino wool, with the remainder being nylon. While the nylon blend may require washing after about two days of wear, their durability is well-regarded.

The Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Quarter-Zip Top is the quarter-zip variant of a highly rated midweight base layer. It is described as perfect for chilly spring and fall mornings, offering comfort with a looser fit, which is a key consideration for layering. Its heavy-duty, long-lasting seams are designed to prevent rubbing and are positioned off the shoulder for enhanced comfort when wearing a backpack.

For warmth in cold conditions, the Turtle Fur Original Fleece Neck Warmer is a highly recommended item. It is praised for its softness, comfortable fit (not overly tight), and odor resistance, making it a winter staple and a lighter superfine version suitable for summer hiking at elevation for sun protection.

Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight Crew Baselayer is recognized as a favorite synthetic base layer. Made from 100 percent recycled Capilene polyester, a proprietary Patagonia fabric distinct from polypropylene, these super soft and stretchy undergarments perform comparably to wool in terms of comfort, lightness, and quick-drying properties. The current sale offers this version, though sizes are very limited as it has been succeeded by an updated model undergoing testing.

An excellent value, especially when on sale, is the REI Co-op Merino 185 Base Layer Half-Zip Top. This item is an REI Outlet deal due to being discontinued, offering an extra 20% off with the code LABORDAY26. REI’s 100 percent merino base layers are known for their quality and affordability. The half-zip provides additional ventilation, and the regular long-sleeve top and base layer bottoms are also on sale for $30 each.

The Fjällräven Vidda Pro Trousers are noted for their distinctive outdoor appeal, including a hatchet loop. These trousers are made from Fjällräven’s G-1000 fabric, a durable blend of 65 percent recycled polyester and 35 percent cotton. They feature numerous pockets, ventilation zippers, and reinforced knees with openings for pads, providing both utility and ruggedness for outdoor activities.

Deals on Tents

For backpackers on a budget, the REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Tent is highlighted as the best value two-person backpacking tent. It has proven sturdy and quick to set up on numerous trips, comfortably accommodating two people and their gear. A notable inclusion is a footprint, which, while not always used by all, is a useful addition for protecting the tent floor against sharp terrain.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Bikepack Tent is a top recommendation among freestanding ultralight tents. This specific bike-packing model features shorter pole segments for easier transport on a bicycle, and its subdued colors are also preferred. It is lauded as a high-quality, well-designed tent that is lightweight, simple to erect, and offers sufficient interior space for backcountry living. The "awning" design, achievable with trekking poles or sticks, is an added functional benefit.

Nemo Dragonfly Tents are praised for offering generous space relative to their weight. They incorporate ample mesh at the top, ensuring good ventilation on warm summer nights and allowing for stargazing when conditions permit. The tents utilize Osmo fabric, a blend of nylon and polyester engineered to absorb less water than conventional nylon rainflies.

While not inexpensive, MSR Groundhog Tent Stakes are considered an essential upgrade for any backpacking tent. Their exceptional strength means they are highly resistant to bending or pulling out. Despite their robustness, they remain lightweight. A practical suggestion is to carry a varied set of stakes—including Groundhogs, carbon fiber pegs, and shepherd hooks—to adapt to diverse terrains.

For car camping, the REI Co-op Base Camp 6 Tent is a top-rated choice. Its traditional dome design, featuring two crossed poles and two side poles, provides excellent stability in windy conditions. The floor is constructed from durable 150-denier polyester, showing no signs of abrasion even after extensive use on rough Western terrain. The interior offers numerous storage pockets, and the double doors double as large vents, with expansive windows designed to capture any breeze on hot nights.

The Marmot Halo 4-Person Tent is identified as the best all-weather family tent. Its low-profile design enhances wind resistance, while steep sidewalls maximize internal volume. A nearly full-length rain fly contributes to its performance as a reliable shelter in storms. The unique "Halo" name derives from its pole design, where side poles connect midway up the tent body rather than at the ground. The only drawback of the 4-person model is the inability to stand upright inside. For more headroom, the six-person version, which boasts a 76-inch peak height, is also available on sale.

Deals on Hiking Boots and Shoes

The Xero Shoes Z-Trail Sandals, a favorite barefoot sandal, are currently offered at a 25 percent discount. These are described as the barefoot equivalent of Chaco sandals, providing flexibility and natural foot movement. With 10 mm of cushioning, they serve as a good starting point for individuals transitioning to barefoot shoes. The more minimalist Z-Trek sandals are also on sale.

The Xero Shoes Prio Shoes are lauded as the best all-around barefoot shoe, reimagining the classic sneaker for barefoot enthusiasts. They offer a wide toe box for natural toe splay, a snug heel cup, and excellent ground feel, providing enough sensory feedback without discomfort from sharp stones.

Altra’s Lone Peak 7 Trail-Running Shoes have earned a reputation among thru-hikers for their reliability. Introduced in 2011, they quickly garnered a cult following. These shoes are lightweight (11.5 ounces) and have proven very comfortable in testing. Their reinforced toe and heel provide excellent protection on rugged, rocky trails, and despite increased padding in recent versions, they maintain a zero-drop design.

The Keen Targhee Apex Waterproof Hiking Shoes are noted for achieving an aesthetically pleasing design, a departure from previous Targhee models, while maintaining their iconic trail-running Gorpcore look. At 0.75 pounds per shoe, they are lightweight yet durable, and their generous footbed allows for comfortable foot splay during long days on the trail.

The La Sportiva Prodigio Trail-Running Shoes combine the agility of trail runners with the protective qualities of boots, offering surprising versatility on challenging terrain. They are ranked among the best light hiking boots. While the fit is somewhat snug, akin to La Sportiva climbing shoes, the generous footbed width ensures comfort even for wider feet. Weighing 1.65 pounds for the pair, they are not excessively bulky.

Camping Gear Deals

The Kelty Low-Love Seat Camp Chair offers a remarkably cozy experience for gathering around a campfire. Although large, heavy, and somewhat cumbersome to fold and carry, it is considered an unparalleled option for relaxing outdoors with loved ones, provided vehicle space allows.

The REI Co-op Camp Chair is presented as a budget-friendly option, providing comfort despite a slight side-to-side wobble when moving. Its affordability, being less than half the price of comparable competitors, makes it a good value.

For efficient packing, the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Compression Dry Sack is an invaluable tool. It effectively compresses soft items like sleeping bags and clothing, including puffer jackets, fleece, and merino wool, to approximately half their original size, making it easier to fit gear into smaller backpacks.

Deal on Packs and Bags

The Fjällräven High Coast Rolltop 26 Pack is highly recommended as a waterproof daypack. With a 26-liter capacity, it is ideally sized for day hikes, accommodating personal gear and additional family essentials. Constructed from waterproof 400D polyamide with seam-taped and rolltop closures, it offers full waterproofing. The pack also features stretchy mesh side pockets for water bottles and snacks, and a zippered side pocket within one of these (though not waterproof itself) for small items like wallets and keys.

The Mountainsmith Tour Lumbar Pack is a long-standing and versatile favorite. It can be worn as a lumbar pack for activities like cycling, a shoulder bag for urban use, or even strapped to bike handlebars or the exterior of larger backpacks for extra storage. As an REI Outlet deal, members can receive an additional 20% off with the code LABORDAY26.

A perennial WIRED favorite, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L is celebrated for its chic, understated design and exceptional adaptability. It seamlessly transitions from outdoor adventures to office commutes and social outings. Its thoughtful design details, such as quick-release loops on the arm straps for easy access to contents while on the go, contribute to its practical excellence.

Nemo’s Resolve 15L Daypack is recognized as a functional small daypack. It uses Cero fabric, which is solution-dyed to minimize water waste, and its cushioning is similarly eco-conscious. Instead of traditional straps, it employs a system of bungees and pull-tabs, designed for easier repair and extended lifespan. Despite being technically frameless, it provides a structured feel and is relatively lightweight at just over two pounds, offering notable comfort.

The REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled Duffel is a durable, water-resistant, and spacious bag perfect for transporting a large volume of gear. It is particularly favored for air travel, striking a good balance between robust construction and practical pockets without becoming excessively heavy. Its strap system is ingeniously customizable, allowing it to be converted into a backpack.

The REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack represents excellent value among daypacks, particularly when on sale (for patterned colors). Despite its lightweight straps and minimal padding, it offers surprising comfort, handling loads up to 15 pounds without undue shoulder strain. Its side stash pockets are notably large, capable of holding a Nalgene bottle or a rain jacket.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel is renowned for its exceptional durability, with some WIRED staffers owning models that have lasted 25 years, earning it a spot in the "Buy It for Life" guide. This 62-liter bag is spacious, capable of accommodating extensive gear, and its distinctive design makes it easily identifiable on luggage carousels. The current version is made from phthalate-free, recycled PVC and recycled nylon, treated with a non-PFC water-repellent (DWR) finish.

Sleeping Bag and Sleeping Pad Deals

The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 Sleeping Bag is acclaimed as the favorite backpacking sleeping bag, offering an optimal warmth-to-weight ratio, compact packability, and affordability. After extensive use in temperatures ranging from 28 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, it proved versatile; while warm in higher temperatures, it could be unzipped and used as a blanket.

REI’s Magma line of down gear consistently delivers excellent value. The Magma 15 Sleeping Bag is an affordable option perfectly suited for shoulder-season trips, where temperatures may drop unexpectedly (with a comfort rating of 21 degrees Fahrenheit). Available in three lengths and widths, it allows for a personalized fit. Its 850-fill-power Bluesign-approved goose down packs down compactly. For warmer conditions, the Magma 30, ideal as a summer sleeping bag, is also on sale for $262 ($87 off).

The Nemo Disco 30 Sleeping Bag features a spoon-shaped design specifically tailored for side sleepers, offering extra room in the elbows and knees to facilitate movement without feeling constricted. Rated for temperatures down to 30 degrees Fahrenheit, it also includes zippered gills to prevent overheating in warmer conditions.

The REI Co-op Magma 30 Down Trail Quilt is recognized as the best budget ultralight quilt, offering substantial value. While slightly heavier due to its 850-fill-power down, at 24 ounces for the long, wide version, it remains competitive for its weight class. Although its sleep pad attachment straps are not as refined as those on premium models, it effectively seals out drafts and provides comparable warmth. A zippered foot box with a drawstring is an additional feature for colder nights.

Nemo’s Pulse 30 Down Quilt features RDS-certified, gold-infused 1,000-fill-power ExpeDRY down, designed to repel moisture from tent condensation and reportedly dry faster than conventional down. Its Karo Step baffle stitching ensures even distribution of down, and at 12 ounces for the regular size, it is remarkably lightweight.

The Zenbivy Light Bed 25-Degree Sleeping System utilizes an innovative sheet and quilt combination, offering an exceptional backcountry sleep experience. The 25-degree Fahrenheit large version weighs 1 pound, 12 ounces (793 grams), with an even lighter Ultralight Quilt available. The Light Quilt is considered to offer better value, especially at its sale price, providing a comprehensive solution for comfortable backpacking sleep.

The Sea to Summit Spark 18F Sleeping Bag is lauded as the best ultralight sleeping bag. For those requiring the warmth of a mummy bag on colder nights, this is a top performer, also boasting the smallest pack size within its temperature range. Its PFC-free, 850+ hydrophobic down fill, combined with smooth, snag-free zippers, ensures warmth down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit without discomfort.

For car camping, the REI Co-op Siesta 20 Sleeping Bag is a preferred choice. It offers ample warmth and affordability. Its rectangular cut provides a roomier and more comfortable sleeping experience than traditional mummy bags, and its 20-degree-Fahrenheit rating makes it suitable for three-season use. Unlike most rectangular bags, it includes a hood for added warmth on cold nights.

The REI Co-op Kindercamp 30 Sleeping Bag is an excellent option for young children who are not yet tall enough for adult sleeping bags (typically around 4 feet). Its smaller cut helps children retain warmth more effectively by reducing the volume of air they need to heat.

The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad is unparalleled in comfort, revitalizing the backpacking experience by ensuring a quality night’s sleep. Its plush and comfortable design, especially when not overinflated, provides exceptional cushioning. The R-4.8 insulation offers warmth down to freezing temperatures, and it can be paired with a closed-cell foam pad for colder conditions.

The Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite Sol Sleeping Pad is incredibly lightweight, at just 10 ounces for the small size, and folds compactly to attach to any pack. It significantly enhances the backpacking experience. Beyond its use as a sleeping pad, it serves multiple purposes as a chair, padding for naps, a table, or extra insulation on cold nights, making it a highly versatile piece of gear.

For ultimate comfort in tent camping, the Exped MegaMat 10 Sleeping Pad is recommended. This 4-inch-thick pad provides a luxurious sleep experience, feeling remarkably similar to a home mattress. Its firm yet soft support, thanks to internal closed-cell foam, effectively relieves pressure points.

Camp Stove and Water Filter Deals

The MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Stove is the top choice for a backpacking stove. Its larger burner area distributes flame more widely, leading to faster boil times and improved fuel efficiency, particularly with larger pots. It also performs better in windy conditions than smaller burners, thanks to a small curved lip around the burner that shields the flame base. This design element also aids in maintaining a simmer for more sophisticated cooking.

Jetboil’s Stash Cooking System is the lightest all-in-one cooking system available, excelling in rapid water boiling. Its heat diffuser design accelerates boil times (Jetboil claims 2.5 minutes, achievable indoors in still air), but its primary appeal lies in its compact packability and user-friendly design.

The Jetboil Flash Cooking System, a larger all-in-one system, features a 1-liter pot integrated with a burner, offering an easy-to-use solution. While the more compact Stash is preferred by some, the Flash remains a popular choice for cooking for two or for those primarily using dehydrated meals.

The MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove is a lighter alternative to the Deluxe model, weighing 2.6 ounces compared to the Deluxe’s 2.9 ounces. It still features wide arms capable of supporting most one- or two-person pots. Simple to operate, even with gloves, and efficient, it boiled 1 liter of water in 3 minutes, 47 seconds at 947-foot elevation in testing. It can achieve a simmer, though its small flame radius limits extensive cooking.

MSR’s WhisperLite Universal Stove is part of the highly popular and durable WhisperLite series, known for lasting decades. The Universal model is exceptionally versatile, capable of using a wide range of fuels including white gas, kerosene, unleaded gasoline, and isobutane-propane canisters, making it the most flexible option for long trips where fuel availability varies. Its main drawback is that it can be more fiddly to operate compared to simpler stoves like the Jetboil.

The GSI Outdoors Selkirk 540 Camp Stove is noted as the most compact two-burner stove tested, making it ideal for situations where space is limited, such as canoeing or small car camping. Its large burners can achieve a simmer with practice, though its windscreen is considered less effective. A Basecamp version with fitted pots is also on sale for $300 ($100 off).

The Coleman Classic Propane Stove is a ubiquitous presence at campgrounds for its reliability and sturdy table-top design. While not the most powerful and lacking features like push-button ignition, it consistently performs well, capable of holding a low flame for simmering soups or cooking scrambled eggs without browning. Its durability is also a significant advantage for infrequent use.

The MSR GravityWorks 10L Water Filter System is an essential item for group backpacking. It allows users to scoop up 10 liters of dirty water, attach a hose, connect a water bottle, and filter water passively. The filter effectively removes common protozoa and bacteria, providing a solid flow rate of 1.5 liters per minute when clean.

The MSR Guardian Purifier is recommended for trips involving potentially sketchy water sources, as it filters down to 0.02 microns, capable of removing viruses. While heavy at 22 ounces and potentially overkill for domestic trips, it is an excellent choice for international adventures. Its self-cleaning design simplifies field maintenance, and it conveniently screws directly onto Nalgene bottles. As a pump filter, it offers rapid purification, producing several liters in minimal time. A gravity-fed version is also on sale at Backcountry for $232 ($78 off).

Deals on Action Cameras and Gadgets

For capturing outdoor adventures, the Insta360 X5 360 Camera remains a strong contender, especially at its sale price, despite the imminent launch of the X6 model. Its twin 1/1.28-inch sensors record 8K video, allowing users to reframe footage into nearly 4K rectangular clips suitable for mixing with phone-shot video. It boasts impressive dynamic range and excellent battery life.

The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Action Camera is highly rated for vlogging, featuring a lens and sensor co-engineered with Leica. It records 8K video at up to 30 frames per second (fps) and delivers impressive color rendition even on default settings. While an Ace Pro 3 is likely on the horizon, the current model still offers a good deal.

While smartphones offer some similar functionalities, a dedicated satellite messenger is recommended for enhanced safety. Garmin’s new inReach Mini 3 Plus Satellite Communicator now incorporates phone-like features such as voice messaging, alongside its robust emergency capabilities and reliable worldwide service. This device maintains a compact size, solid construction, and excellent battery life. A non-Plus version, lacking a speaker and microphone, is also on sale.