A Travel Writer’s 11 Best REI Gifts Under $100

As someone who spends a lot of time playing outside, I am an avid REI shopper. A good chunk of my wardrobe came from the Co-op, from the Patagonia Better Sweaters I wear weekly to the binoculars I’ve used to log some very important inaugural bird sightings. Come to think of it, the gear I’ve accumulated from REI has accompanied me on many life-altering adventures, from international travels to climbing trips to my first-ever ski run last winter.

Right now, REI has dozens of gifts for the active and outdoorsy people on your list, and they’re surprisingly affordable. Here are my top picks from the website’s under-$100 gift section, from fan-favorite Vuori joggers to the viral Stanley Quencher tumbler. 

Teva ReEmber Terrain Slip-ons

In addition to its signature strappy adventure sandals, Teva makes a darn good outdoor slipper. This is the backless version of the all-gender ReEmber, which has a quilted upper and recycled polyester collar that feels like real wool. Of the more than 150 reviewers who gave the slippers a perfect rating on REI, one affectionately deemed them “rootin-tootin, fan-freaking-tastic, comfy cozy clodhoppers,” and what more would you need to know?

Vuori Women’s Performance Joggers

Hundreds of REI customers recommend these silky-soft Vuori joggers, and they are also a favorite travel pant among Travel + Leisure editors. According to REI reviews, they “feel like butter” or like a “magical fabric” from “Narnia.” One shopper said that even after wearing the sweats for two years, they hardly look used at all. Another plus: they reportedly don’t sag or stretch like some other stretchy travel pants, so you’ll still look put-together rocking them as part of your airport outfit for a flight.

Fjallraven Kanken Hip Pack

I don’t travel without my Fjallraven hip pack, as a rule. It keeps my things close and safe when I’m in an area known for pickpocketing, and it’s proven to be insanely durable even when confronted with heavy loads and spills. Plus, it’s pretty stylish — fellow fans say it’s great for short hikes, any kind of travel, and just plain everyday wear.

REI Co-op Men’s Trailsmith Fleece Jacket

For me, this lightweight fleece jacket has been a fall hiking staple (I have the women’s version) and, now, a warm winter layer under heavier coats. It’s an REI tried and true, updated from the 1992 catalog (peep the retro label) with more sustainable recycled materials. For a limited time, the $90 jacket is on sale for $63.

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler 40-ounce

Making its list of holiday Co-op favorites, REI spotlights the classic (and viral) 40-ounce Stanley Quencher in 24 colors including trendy citron and wintry “frost” white. Hydration is crucial for any outdoor activity, so you can’t go wrong with the gift of a trendy water vessel that will help loved ones ditch for $45.

REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack

The Flash 22 is a solid day pack with a reservoir sleeve for your water bladder and drawcords for strapping in hiking poles. Because it measures 19 x 11 x 8 inches, it also works as a carry-on. Long trips are made more comfortable with padded mesh on the back and shoulder straps, and the waterproof material eases any anxiety you might have about its contents getting wet in the rain.

Patagonia Better Sweater Gloves

Every winter, I look forward to reuniting with my Patagonia Better Sweaters — some of the warmest items of clothing I have ever owned, no joke. The polyester fleece material has gotten me through frigid nights of camping, so I have full faith in these fingerless gloves made of the same stuff. The flip top is especially helpful for times when you need to get on your phone or tie a shoe.

Kühl Women’s Sienna Sweater

For a sweater that’s both pretty and built for performance, $89 isn’t a bad price. This cute Kühl turtleneck has rave reviews mentioning softness, warmth, and that it’s lasted people years. It’s “amazingly warm yet not too bulky for layering,” one wrote. Another said they have it in three colors and plan to buy another one every year, it’s that good.

Nocs Provisions 8×25 Waterproof Binoculars

These are my go-to adventure binoculars because they’re lighter than conventional binos, have an indestructible rubber housing, and can handle some splashing from rain or kayaking. They’re easy to pack in my carry-on or keep in the little handlebar bag of my bicycle. If someone on your list likes to get an up-close look at nature, these make a fail-proof gift.

Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Travel Blanket

The ultimate luxury gift for a frequent camper, this synthetic down quilted blanket by Rumpl packs into a water bottle-sized stuff sack that weighs just 11 ounces. You can use it outside or on a plane — it’s compact enough to fit in a carry-on — then throw it in the washer when you get back home.

ENO SlackWire Slackline Kit

A fun gift for the friend who’s always picking up a new hobby, this slackline kit is on sale from $75 to $56. Reviews call it a great kit for beginners and “REI’s most convenient slack package.” It comes with a 50-foot nylon slackline, ratchet, and carrying case. They won’t need a single other thing to set it up in the backyard right after opening it.

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