The Perpetual Tourist

REI is the leading retailer of quality outdoor gear. As the weather turns gradually warmer, outdoor enthusiasts have more and more options (for me, it’s not “summer,” it’s “camping season”). Maybe this is the year that you take up kayaking, or hike the AT, or you’re planning some other great adventure. Either way, you’re going to need gear, and REI has got the best of it.

I like REI not just for their quality merchandise, but also their guarantee. They stand behind their products 100%, so you can return anything you’re not completely satisfied with. Because of the generous return policy, REI sees a lot of returns, but they don’t just put these items back on their shelves. They go into a special stock that REI sells back to members at huge discounts - 30%-80% off nearly new merchandise, and even bigger discounts when the items have some damages. Some larger stores have whole departments dedicated to this discounted merchandise, but most REI stores sell these items at special events called Scratch and Dent Sales, Attic Sales, or Garage Sales, depending on the store.

I talked to an REI employee to get the scoop on these sales. First thing’s first: you have to be an REI member to buy anything at the sale. No biggie — membership is only $20, and you get all sorts of benefits, detailed here. Each individual store is responsible for scheduling its own garage sales, and the schedule is often dictated by the flow of returned merchandise, so check with your local store for details. There are usually about six of these sales per year, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snag great deals. According to my friend on the inside, the best way to find out about the garage sales is to sign up for Gearmail, which is a store-specific newsletter that will notify you of any special promotions and discounts, including the used gear sales.

So here are some insider tips for taking advantage of the garage sales:

1. Arrive early. Usually, lines start forming at the doors about an hour before opening time. Most of the best deals are gone within the first hour or so of the sale, so if you want the deep discounts, set your alarm clock.
2. Line up at the right entrance. Find out which entrance is closest to where the sale will take place, and be sure to get in line there so you can be among the first to set eyes on all the bargains.
3. Keep in mind that used gear sales are the ONLY time all sales are final at REI. Don’t just buy everything that you can afford. Inspect what you’re buying and make sure it’s what you want, because they won’t take it back this time.

Outdoor supplies can be really expensive, especially when you’re looking at the quality merchandise that REI carries. You’ll get your money’s worth even when you pay full price, but before you max out the credit cards, try saving some money in your gear budget so you reallocate those funds for something else — like more trips, more fun, more gear.

One last plug for REI: did you know that the company donates millions of dollars as well as volunteer hours each year toward conservation efforts? Read more about how REI is giving back to nature here.