Is REI Membership Worth It? The Ultimate Guide to Benefits, Savings & Why It Pays for Itself
Is REI Membership worth? Absolutely. For a one-time $30 fee, you’ll get 10% back on purchases, exclusive coupons, discounted rentals, and lifetime perks! All while supporting outdoor conservation. Learn why millions have joined the REI Co-op.
Introduction: Why REI Membership Matters
When it comes to outdoor gear, few names carry as much weight as REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.). Founded in 1938 as a co-op, REI has grown into one of the most trusted outdoor retailers in the world; and they’ve stayed true to their cooperative roots. Today, more than 20 million people have joined as REI Co-op Members, unlocking exclusive discounts, special perks, and a voice in one of the most influential outdoor companies.
But the big question is: Is REI Membership really worth it in 2025? Let’s dive into all the benefits, costs, and hidden advantages so you can decide if joining the co-op is the right move for you.
What Is REI Membership?
REI Membership is a lifetime co-op membership that costs a one-time fee of $30. Once you join, you’re a member for life. Unlike a subscription service, you never pay annually — and the value adds up fast if you shop at REI even a couple times per year.
REI Membership Benefits in 2025
Here’s what you get as a member:
🤑 1. Annual Dividend (10% Back)
- Every spring, members get 10% back on eligible purchases from the previous year.
- Example: Spend $500 at REI, get $50 back.
- Over a few years, this easily covers the cost of membership many times over.
👉 Start earning dividends with REI Membership.
🎟️ 2. Exclusive Member Coupons & Sales
- Extra 20% off coupons during REI Member Sales.
- Early access to big sales events like Anniversary Sale and Labor Day Clearance.
- Member-only pricing on select gear and rentals.
🚲 3. Discounts on Gear Rentals & Shop Services
- Up to 30% off gear rentals (tents, skis, snowshoes, etc.).
- Discounts on bike shop services, ski & snowboard waxing, and outdoor classes.
Perfect for beginners who don’t want to buy everything outright.
🌎 4. Co-op Member Community & Classes
- Discounted REI Outdoor School classes (kayaking, climbing, backpacking, navigation).
- Access to REI Adventures (guided trips around the world).
- Local store events and meetups.
♻️ 5. REI Re/Supply & Sustainability Perks
- Members get special pricing on REI Re/Supply (used gear marketplace).
- Your membership helps fund REI’s mission: every year, REI invests millions into conservation and outdoor access projects.
💳 6. REI Co-op Mastercard (Optional)
- If you choose, you can apply for the REI Co-op Mastercard.
- Cardmembers earn extra rewards: 5% back on REI purchases, 1.5% everywhere else.
- No annual fee, plus bonuses for new sign-ups.
How Much Does REI Membership Cost?
Just $30, once, for life. That’s it. No renewals, no hidden fees.
Is REI Membership Worth It? (2025 Verdict)
Yes! And here’s why:
- If you spend even $300/year at REI, your 10% dividend ($30) pays for the membership instantly.
- Add in the exclusive sales, coupons, and rental discounts, and you’re saving far more than you spent.
- Plus, you’re supporting a co-op that reinvests in trails, conservation, and the outdoor community.
About REI: The Co-op Difference
REI isn’t simply a retailer! It’s a cooperative. That means members actually have a say in how the company is run. Each year, REI donates millions to protect wild places, expand outdoor access, and fight climate change.
They’re also famous for their #OptOutside campaign, closing their stores on Black Friday to encourage people to get outdoors instead of shopping. Few companies put their values into action the way REI does.
FAQs About REI Membership
Q: Do I have to renew my membership every year?
Nope! It’s a one-time fee of $30 for lifetime access.
Q: Can I share my membership with family?
Each person needs their own membership, but kids under 18 can be added for free.
Q: Do members get free shipping?
Yes- members get free standard shipping on most online orders.
Q: Can I use my REI dividend as cash?
Yes, you can use it toward gear or even cash it out after a certain point each year.
Packing It Out: Join the REI Co-op
At the end of the day, REI Membership is one of the best outdoor investments you can make. For just $30, you get lifetime access to savings, perks, and a co-op that gives back to the wild places we all love.
Whether you’re a casual hiker or a seasoned mountaineer, REI Membership pays for itself — and then some.
👉 Join today and start saving: Become an REI Co-op Member
Is REI Membership Worth It? Compare the Real-World Savings
One lifetime fee, stacks of perks. Here’s how REI Co-op Membership can pay for itself fast—plus quick links to join and shop.
| Benefit | What You Get | Typical Value | Best For | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Core Perk Annual Dividend (10% Back) |
Each spring, get ~10% back on eligible REI purchases from the prior year. | $30–$200+/yr Spend $300 → ~$30 back |
Anyone buying new gear 1–2×/yr | Start Earning |
|
Members-Only Extra 20% Off Coupons |
Exclusive coupons during big events (Anniversary, Member Days, Outlet). | $20–$150/yr Depends on what you snag |
Deal-hunters, seasonal shoppers | See Current Sales |
|
Budget-Friendly REI Re/Supply (Used Gear) |
Member-pricing on high-quality used gear that’s inspected and resold. | 20–60% off MSRP Huge savings on big items |
Value seekers, beginners | Shop Re/Supply |
|
Try Before You Buy Gear Rentals |
Discounted rentals on tents, packs, skis/snowshoes & more. | $15–$80/trip Beats buying for one-offs |
New hikers, visitors, casual users | Reserve Rentals |
|
Maintenance Bike & Ski Shop Services |
Member deals on tunes, waxes, and repairs—keep gear performing longer. | $10–$60/visit | Cyclists, skiers, frequent users | Book a Service |
|
Education Classes & Events |
Discounts on local skills courses: navigation, backpacking, climbing, etc. | $10–$40/class | Beginners leveling up | Find a Class |
|
Convenience Free Standard Shipping* Members |
Free shipping on most orders (*exclusions apply). | $5–$25/order | Online shoppers | Shop Online |
|
Optional REI Co-op Mastercard |
Extra rewards on REI purchases + everyday spend. No annual fee. | Varies Cardholder bonuses change |
Maximizers who pay in full | Learn More |
|
Drops Member-Exclusive Gear |
Early access and members-only colorways on popular items. | FOMO insurance | Collectors & early adopters | Browse New Arrivals |