With warm weather on the way, now is the perfect time to prepare for spring backpacking adventures. That means dusting off the trail shoes, making lists of must-hike routes, and examining that tent seam you promised to fix last fall.

As you take inventory of your backcountry kit, you can count on REI to fill in the gaps and ensure you’re well-equipped for the season ahead. Here are some of the spring picks the GearJunkie crew has been eyeing.

REI Member Benefits

REI rewards its loyal customers with exclusive deals, early access to limited-edition items, and expert advice from its staff of passionate outdoor enthusiasts. Here’s a look at the best perks that come with an REI Co-Op membership:

• 10% back annually on eligible purchases
• 5% additional rewards for purchases made with the REI Co-op Mastercard (see full terms and conditions)
• Free U.S. standard shipping with no minimum purchase requirement
• Discounts on REI classes and events
• 20% savings on bike and snow shop services
• Up to 33% savings on gear rentals
• Access to Re/Supply to shop and trade in used gear

Plus, from April 25 through May 4, REI Co-op members receive a $20 digital bonus card when they purchase an REI gift card of $100 or more.

If you’re not already a member, you can sign up now and enjoy the bonus offer.

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Backpacking Gear From REI

REI Co-op Traverse Modular Bear Canister: $80

Keep your supplies safe from bears without sacrificing precious space in your backpack using the REI Co-op Traverse modular bear canister. This multi-configuration design has nesting containers so you can create a small or large version of the bear canister based on your needs.

Use the larger 11.25L configuration for weeklong trips. Then, scale the canister down as you use up your food cache. Or start shorter trips with the smaller 6.75L configuration. The canister’s unique two-step closure keeps curious bears out while providing easy access to humans without any tools. See GearJunkie’s full review for more details.

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Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0L Water Filter Bottle: $50

Count on clean water wherever the trail takes you with the Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0 L water filter. This reliable, two-stage filter purifies up to 2 L of water per minute. The tested BeFree EZ Clean Membrane allows for effortless filter cleaning on the go without any additional tools — simply shake or swish the water to remove debris.

When not in use, the flexible bottle weighs just 2.7 ounces and packs down to a minimal size to fit in a pocket or can be attached to your backpack using the integrated handle and a carabiner.

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REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair: $100

At just 1 pound, the REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair is a no-brainer for comfortable backcountry camping. This new design is modeled after the beloved Flexlite Chair but comes in a lighter, more compact design thanks to optimizations in the hubs and seat.

The four-leg aluminum frame has a shock-corded hub-and-pole design for quick and easy setup. A sturdy ripstop nylon seat supports up to 250 pounds. All components pack down into the included carry bag.

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MSR Switch Stove System: $140

For an all-in-one backcountry cooking solution, try the MSR Switch Stove System. Boil water in 2.5 minutes using the integrated 1L aluminum pot, which has a unique hemispherical bottom for quick and even heating. Larger groups can swap in other cookware (not included) using multi-pot mode for more elaborate meals.

A pressure regulator offers improved flame control and optimizes fuel efficiency in cold conditions at high altitudes. The complete system weighs just 13.8 ounces, and all stove components, plus a 4-ounce fuel canister, pack inside the pot.

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Backpacking Sleep Solutions From REI

Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft Sleeping Pad: Starting at $240

Named the “most comfortable backpacking sleeping pad” by GearJunkie testers, the Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft Sleeping Pad lets you bring car camping comfort into the backcountry. This ultralight pad packs a whole lot of comfort into a small, highly portable package about the size of a 1L water bottle.

The 3D construction brings the pad thickness to 4.6 inches. And, a broad, taper-free shape and vertical sidewall maximize the sleeping surface by 20% so even the most restless sleepers won’t fall off.

For added comfort, stretch-knit fabric reduces pressure points, and the two-layer ContourCore Matrix offers all-season insulation with a 4.7 R-value. A TwinLock Valve system allows for fast inflation and precise firmness control, making setup and packing a breeze. It’s available in long, wide, and regular models. See GearJunkie’s full review for more details.

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Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent: $550

Lighter, stronger, and more waterproof than ever before, the latest version of the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent seamlessly blends ultralight design and rugged durability. This backpacking tent is made with Big Agnes’s toughest HyperBead fabric for a 50% increase in strength and a 25% increase in water resistance compared to traditional materials, without added chemicals.

The high-volume, freestanding design provides ample space and stability. A dual-door layout and generous vestibules on each side keep everyone’s gear dry. Thoughtful features — like an oversized 3D bin pocket for off-the-floor storage, multiple interior loops to attach accessories and gear lofts (sold separately), reflective guylines, and a TipLok tent buckle for easy setup — make adventures even better.

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REI Co-op Half Dome Tent — 2-Person, 3-Person, and 2+: Starting at $299

The tried and trusted REI Co-op Half Dome tent has been a member favorite for more than 45 years. All three sizes feature an updated extra-strong, shock-corded aluminum pole structure that provides increased shoulder and headroom around the perimeter for more room to relax. 

Color-coded poles and an updated hub design make the setup simple and speedy. Easily enter and exit the tent via two large, vertical, D-shape doors that can be rolled up and secured. Solid sidewalls extend higher than in previous models to offer more privacy, reduce drafts, and better protect against blowing sand.

The mesh canopy balances ventilation and gives you clear views of the night sky when the fly is rolled back to half coverage. On nights when the full fly is necessary, zippered venting ports let you manage airflow and condensation. Available in three sizes, the footprint is included.

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NEMO Disco 15 Endless Promise Down Sleeping Bag — Men’s & Women’s: $300

Stay extra cozy without carrying too much bulk or weight thanks to the NEMO Disco 15 Endless Promise Down Sleeping Bag. With premium 650-fill hydrophobic, PFAS-free, RDS-certified down, this sleeping bag is rated for as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit. A Classic Spoon cut — with generous space at the elbows and knees for easy shifts in position — allows for comfortable side sleeping.

Tailor the warmth with an updated Thermo Gill multistage zipper system that has interior and exterior zippers and a draft-blocking intermediate layer on each Gill. An updated Blanket Fold collar provides similar draft and ventilation options at the top of the bag.

The NEMO Disco 15 Endless Promise Down Sleeping Bag is available in regular and long models for men and women, with left and right zippers. You can zip two Disco sleeping bags with opposing zipper sides together to create a double sleeping bag.

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Backpacking Packs From REI

Deuter Aircontact Core — Men’s 65L & Women’s 60L: $260

Need a pack that can handle everything from a weekend trip to longer treks? The versatile Deuter Aircontact Core offers comfortable trail travel for backpackers and thru-hikers. The pack’s Y-frame, Aircontact back system, trapezoid-shaped lumbar pad, and side compression straps help distribute weight for a more ergonomic carry.

Dial the back length to fit your torso using the VariSlide system. Then, adjust the pivoting ActiveFit shoulder harness to find the correct weight balance. An interior zippered compartment at the bottom of the bag lets you stash your sleeping bag out of the way for easier access to other gear. When you need extra room, the expandable collar on the main compartment provides another 10 L to stash the “nice-to-haves.”

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REI Co-op Traverse 60 — Men’s & Women’s: $249

Designed with fit, comfort, and easy on-the-go access in mind, the REI Co-op Traverse backpack makes it easy to stay organized on the trail. A tubular aluminum frame effectively disperses weight for loads up to 45 pounds. Adjust the side and bottom compression straps to further balance your load.

On the outside, the ventilated air-mesh back panel, padded harness, and hip belt keep you comfortable mile after mile. Inside, the sleeping bag compartment with a removable divider panel offers a variety of packing options. Once you’ve set up camp, convert the removable top lid into a daypack for mini adventures.

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This post is sponsored by REI Co-op.