REI Travel Review: Can Adventurers Get It All?

While REI might look at first glance to be a simple outdoor gear store, the truth is that it’s so much more.

With classes and events, a thriving community, and outdoor equipment all bundled into a one-stop shop, REI is a unique gem for travelers of all kinds! 

If you like:

• Ultra-easy, hassle-free return policies on outdoor gear
• Guided trips and adventure travel
• Tons of unique membership perks 
• Being part of a community of like-minded adventurers

… then I recommend you give REI a look. 

In this review, let’s dive in and discover what REI is, why its products and travel services are so popular, and whether its lifetime membership program is worth it.

What is REI Travel?

Founded in Seattle in 1938, REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) has grown into a major retailer of outdoor gear, clothing, and equipment with outlets in over 39 states.

REI also offers outdoor experiences through its travel branch, REI Adventures. From guided hikes to camping trips to rock climbing classes, REI’s experienced and knowledgeable guides are ready to take you on the adventure of a lifetime.

If you become an REI member, you’ll join a group of like-minded individuals who love to hike, camp, climb, bike, and do just about any other outdoor activity you can name. Members get access to exclusive deals, events, and even a share of the company's profits. More on this in a little bit!

Finally, there’s REI's commitment to sustainability. The company is always looking for ways to reduce its environmental impact and encourage its customers to do the same. So when you shop at REI or go on one of their adventures, you can feel good about doing it in a way that's responsible and eco-friendly!

REI Adventures: How to Book a Travel Tour With REI

REI-dy or not, here we go! Ahem, sorry.

In all seriousness though, a guided tour with REI Adventures is a simple, smooth, and overall delightful experience. From backpacking in the Great Smoky Mountains to an exciting weekend cycling in Death Valley, REI Adventure trips offer a fun, safe, and stress-free group experience. 

There are even specialty variations of some trips available, like the highly-rated all-women tours and the under-35 trips for young adventurers on a budget.

With more than 250 trips to choose from, you’re sure to find one that matches your group’s experience and activity levels. 

Prices range from $750 to over $10,000 per person, depending on the destination. But keep in mind this covers things like meals, park fees, camping and cooking equipment, some transportation, and of course, professional guidance. Also, members get access to sweet discounts.

Booking is super easy from the REI Adventures website. I recommend booking at least six months in advance as places tend to go quickly. After signing up and submitting a deposit, you’ll get access to a portal where you can see a checklist of everything you’ll need for the trip.

You’ll also fill out a few forms on your fitness and medical history, as well as have the chance to purchase travel insurance.

Closer to the trip, you’ll receive an itinerary and key contact info for your group.

So what’s this membership thing I keep hinting about? 

What People Are Saying About REI’s Membership Program

The first thing you’ll probably notice when shopping with REI Travel is the many perks and benefits extended to members. So, is an REI membership worth it? 

For a one-time payment of $30, you officially become a member of the co-op. As such, you get benefits including:

• An average 10% return on purchases made as an annual dividend
• Access to member-only deals and discounts (sometimes over 50% off on gear and equipment!)
• Discounted REI Adventures trips
• Extended windows on product returns

If you’re planning on taking a REI trip or doing some shopping anytime soon, membership is almost definitely worth it. Just purchasing $300-worth of equipment will immediately pay for it! Not to mention the massive savings you’ll get from the discounts. 

A membership also widens your return window should any of the products not live up to your expectations. 

What Is REI’s Return Policy?

It happens. Sometimes those snowshoes don’t quite fit right, or maybe that tent you ordered fell apart on the first night. So it’s nice knowing REI is reasonable when it comes to their returns, especially given that the company’s high-quality gear is a little pricier than most of the competition.

For most purchases, members have a full year to return them, and non-members have about three months.

With REI’s satisfaction guarantee and flexibility on returns, you can rest assured that your purchases are covered if for whatever reason you don’t love them. This coverage applies even if you end up using the gear.

Is REI Travel Worth It?

Overall, my answer would be a resounding “Yes!” 

REI is committed to its craft, and it shows. With quality goods, a commitment to customer satisfaction, and a razor-sharp focus on community and sustainability, REI’s stores are a great place to find equipment before embarking out into the great outdoors.

REI Adventures also combine beautiful destinations, experienced guides, and the chance to meet fellow travelers in one, unforgettable experience. 

The $30 lifetime membership will easily pay for itself through the annual dividends you get back from your purchases, not to mention the bajillions of discounts it unlocks. 

For me, knowing that I’m supporting and supported by a company that truly holds onto the values it talks about justifies the price tag of its products and services.

Our Rating: 4.6/5

Pros:

• Community-focused
• Flexible return policy
• High-quality goods
• Stress-free guided adventures
• Membership offers incredible value

Cons:

• Products are a bit pricey
• Non-members may not get as much value

Take Away Travel Stress With the Help of Pilot!

Hiking, biking, skiing, or camping—wherever your next adventure might take you, it’s important to stay organized and plan well. That’s where Pilot comes in!