REI's Early Holiday Sale: Gear Up for Outdoor Adventures with Black Friday Deals

For the past decade, REI has made a bold retail statement by closing its doors on Black Friday, encouraging customers to #OptOutside and enjoy the natural world. However, as a for-profit cooperative, the company has developed an innovative solution: hosting its major holiday sale weeks before the traditional Black Friday rush. This year's REI Holiday Sale runs from November 14 to 24, offering outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to gear up for next year's adventures while supporting the retailer's commitment to outdoor experiences over consumerism.

REI's Holiday Sale Strategy

REI's approach to the holiday shopping season represents a unique balance between business needs and corporate values. By moving their major sale event to mid-November, the company maintains its commitment to the #OptOutside movement while still providing customers with significant savings on outdoor gear. The sale includes two member-exclusive coupons: 20% off any regular-priced item and 20% off any REI Outlet item using the code HOLIDAY2025. This strategic timing allows outdoor enthusiasts to purchase equipment for winter activities and prepare for spring adventures without conflicting with REI's Black Friday closure.

Featured Gear Deals

Backpacks and Carrying Solutions

The REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack is available for $41, representing a $19 savings on what many consider the best-value daypack on the market. This lightweight, minimalist pack handles loads up to 15 pounds comfortably and features large side stash pockets capable of holding Nalgene bottles or rain jackets. For those seeking ultralight options, the Flash 18 Pack offers a stripped-down design at $28, while the more substantial Trail 25 Pack provides better padding and organization at $56.

Tents and Shelter Systems

Shelter options include significant discounts across multiple brands. The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 2 Tent, a favorite among backpackers, is available for $375 at Public Lands, representing $175 in savings. This lightweight freestanding tent combines easy setup with backcountry livability. For solo adventurers, Six Moon Designs' Lunar Solo Backpacking Tent offers an ultralight single-wall solution at $195, while Sea to Summit's Telos TR2 Plus provides storm-proof performance for $364.

Sleeping Systems and Comfort

Sleeping arrangements receive substantial discounts during the sale. The REI Co-op Magma 15 Sleeping Bag offers 850-fill-power down insulation comfort-rated to 21 degrees Fahrenheit for $279. For those preferring quilt systems, the REI Co-op Magma 30 Down Trail Quilt provides versatile temperature management at $230. The Zenbivy Light Bed Convertible Quilt system, which combines a quilt with a full sheet for home-like sleeping comfort, is available for $300.

Outdoor Apparel and Footwear

The sale includes comprehensive discounts on outdoor clothing suitable for various conditions. The REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket provides an affordable three-season puffer option at $90, while the more technical REI Co-op Magma 850 Down Hoodie offers superior warmth with 850-fill-power goose down for $181. For base layers, Smartwool's Classic Thermal Merino Crew provides 250-gsm merino wool insulation for $86, and Icebreaker's 200 Oasis Long-sleeve offers mid-weight protection for $79.

Adventure Technology and Accessories

Outdoor technology receives notable discounts, with the Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite messenger available for $250 and the Garmin Instinct 3 Solar watch offering solar charging capabilities for $300. The GoPro Hero 13 Black, featuring an interchangeable lens system for versatile adventure recording, is priced at $320. For navigation assistance, Nikon's Monarch M5 8 x 42 Binoculars provide phase coatings and ED glass for superior optical performance at $280.

Strategic Shopping Approach

REI's early holiday sale timing allows outdoor enthusiasts to avoid the Black Friday crowds while still accessing significant savings. The company's house-brand gear represents particularly strong values, with REI Co-op products often offering 90% of premium brand performance at 70% of the cost. Members receive additional benefits through the exclusive coupons, making membership particularly valuable during the sale period. The coordinated approach across REI's physical stores, online platform, and outlet section ensures comprehensive access to discounted outdoor equipment.

Conclusion

REI's early holiday sale provides a thoughtful alternative to traditional Black Friday shopping, aligning with the company's values while delivering substantial savings to outdoor enthusiasts. The comprehensive discounts across categories—from backpacks and tents to apparel and technology—enable adventurers to equip themselves for future excursions at reduced prices. By shopping during this November 14-24 window, customers can support REI's #OptOutside initiative while securing the gear needed to embrace outdoor experiences throughout the coming year. The member-exclusive coupons further enhance the value proposition, making this sale period an optimal time for serious outdoor equipment investments.