Top Deals from the REI Labor Day Sale: Save on Outdoor Gear

Washington DC, United States Aug 28, 2026 ALN: REI's annual Labor Day Sale has come to feel like the end of summer to me. This year’s event kicks off on August 28 and ends on Labor Day, September 7. Many items are up to 40 percent off, and REI Co-op members save up to 20 percent on any REI Outlet item. This sale has become a staple for outdoor enthusiasts, marking a significant opportunity for consumers to stock up on essential gear as they transition from summer adventures to fall excursions.

The Labor Day Sale is particularly notable as it aligns with the changing seasons, prompting many to prepare for both autumn activities and winter sports. As summer winds down, outdoor lovers often look for discounts on camping gear, hiking equipment, and clothing suitable for cooler weather. The timing of this sale allows consumers to take advantage of clearance prices on summer gear while also gearing up for the upcoming fall and winter seasons.

Many of the best REI deals are on gear from the company's house brand. However, shoppers will find attractive discounts on other reputable brands, such as Mountain Hardwear, Nemo Equipment, Big Agnes, and Coleman, among others. These brands are well-regarded in the outdoor community for their commitment to quality and performance, making them popular choices for both casual adventurers and serious outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the REI sale, I’ve also pulled some deals from competing sales at Backcountry and other cottage industry retailers, providing a broader perspective on available discounts.

For those looking to optimize their outdoor experiences, the sale features a wide range of products, including tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, cookware, outdoor apparel, and more. Shoppers are encouraged to check out outdoor gear guides, such as the Best Tents, Best Sleeping Bags, Best Sleeping Pads, Best Backpacking Tents, Best Merino Wool, and Best Base Layers, which provide insights into the best products available in each category.

Featured Deals

• The best-value backpacking tent: REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Tent With Footprint for $198 ($131 off)
• A great ultralight sleeping quilt: REI Co-op Magma 30 Down Trail Quilt for $247 ($82 off)
• The best deal we've seen on a great puffer jacket: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Hoody for $199 ($200 off)
• Our favorite canister stove for backpacking: MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Backpacking Stove for $64 ($21 off)
• A great way to record all your adventures: Insta360 X5 360 Camera for $465 ($85 off)

Deals on Tents

REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Tent With Footprint for $198 ($131 off)

The REI Half Dome 2 is the best budget two-person backpacking tent. I’ve toted it on many backpacking trips and found it plenty sturdy, quick to set up, and capable of fitting two people along with their gear. It even comes with a footprint (which I never bother with, but it's nice to have it if you have to deal with pointy rocks). This tent is particularly appealing for novice campers and seasoned backpackers alike due to its balance of affordability and performance.

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 2 Bikepacking Tent for $488 ($162 off)

The Big Agnes Copper Spur series is our top pick among freestanding ultralight tents. This is the bike-packing model, which features shorter pole segments that are easier to haul on a bike, but I really prefer it for the more subdued colors. The Copper Spur is a high-quality, well-designed tent that's lightweight, easy to set up, and roomy enough to be livable in the backcountry. The “awning” design (with trekking poles or sticks) is a nice extra, providing versatility for different weather conditions and enhancing the overall camping experience.

Nemo Dragonfly Osmo 2P Backpacking Tent for $412 ($138 off)

Nemo's Dragonfly tents are roomy for the weight. There's a generous amount of mesh at the top, which provides some nice ventilation on warm summer nights and is perfect for falling asleep under the stars when the weather permits. The Osmo fabric is a blend of nylon and polyester that absorbs less water than pure nylon rainflies, making it a practical choice for unpredictable weather. This tent is particularly suitable for those who prioritize both weight and comfort while backpacking.

MSR Groundhog Stakes (6-Pack) for $26 ($9 off)

MSR's Groundhog stakes aren't cheap, but they're the best tent upgrade you can make. They're superstrong and durable, ensuring your tent stays secure even in windy conditions. Investing in quality stakes can significantly enhance the stability of your tent, giving you peace of mind during storms or windy nights in the backcountry.

Overall, the REI Labor Day Sale represents a significant opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to invest in high-quality gear at discounted prices. With the summer season coming to a close, many individuals are likely to take advantage of these deals to prepare for upcoming adventures. The discounts available on both essential and luxury items allow consumers to enhance their outdoor experiences without breaking the bank. As outdoor activities continue to rise in popularity, sales like this not only provide savings but also encourage more people to explore the great outdoors, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and outdoor recreation.