REI Co-Op: Should You Join The Outdoor Tribe?
REI- short for Recreational Equipment Inc- has over 180 stores in the US. Founded in 1938 by 23 Seattle-based climber friends, this outdoor retailer offers everything from tank tops to tents, sneakers to snowshoes, and bikinis to bicycles (though we’d advise against pairing those last two).
Beyond its extensive product selection, REI is well known for its commitment to giving back, donating to nonprofits through the REI Cooperative Action Fund. That’s admirable and all, but here at Rewarded or Robbed, we’re a bit selfish and focus on ‘What do we get back from the rewards program?’ Let’s break it down and see if the membership is worth it.
Image Credit: Shutterstock
How it works:
The REI Co-op Membership is a paid program with the slogan: “Member-made to power life outside.” A one-time fee of $30 grants you a lifetime membership—no pesky auto-renewals. Already a good start!
However, there’s one fine-print detail to note: To remain an active member, you must spend at least $10 per year. Otherwise, you may need to pay the fee again.
REI also donates $5 of your $30 fee to the REI Cooperative Action Fund, so you’re doing some good while getting rewarded.)
Here’s what you get:
10% back on eligible purchases, awarded annually in March
Generous return policy: One full year, with few exceptions
Free shipping (no minimum purchase)
Re/Supply: Buy and trade in used gear
20% off bike and snow shop services
33% off gear rentals
Exclusive member offers: Coupons, discounts on classes, and special events
This is a strong benefits package with specific discounts, which we love. Unlike many vague retail programs (looking at you, H&M), REI lays out the exact savings you’ll receive.
(They also offer an REI Mastercard, which earns an extra 5% back on REI purchases and 1.5% back on other purchases. However, this review focuses on the non-cardholder benefits.)
Image Credit: REI.com
How you Redeem:
Your 10% back is calculated on eligible purchases from the previous year and awarded in March. For example, if you spend $500 in 2025, you’ll receive $50 in rewards in March 2026.
Rewards are valid for nearly two years. For instance, 2023 rewards were issued in March 2024 and don’t expire until January 3, 2026.
You can track rewards in your online account and use them in-store, online, on the REI app, or even toward REI Adventure Travel trips.
Is it worth it?
Strictly looking at the 10% cash back, the math is simple: If you’ll spend at least $300 over your lifetime at REI, the membership pays for itself.
And let’s be honest, outdoor air might be free but the gear to enjoy it takes bucks. Spending $300 at REI is easy, whether in one shopping spree or over time. Plus, most retail programs only offer 1-5% back, making REI’s 10% return rate incredibly strong. Since the membership is a one-time fee, you only need to justify it once.
For avid outdoor enthusiasts, this program is a no-brainer. The rental and repair discounts alone can save you hundreds.
For casual shoppers, it’s still a solid deal. REI carries hundreds of brands, and their 10% reward rate likely beats most individual brand loyalty programs. So, even if you’re just buying sneakers, workout gear, or travel accessories, it’s worth considering.
🕵️♂️ THE Fine Print
This do-good brand has some feel-good fine print and a few drawbacks.
✓ Reward expiration: You typically have a little less than 2 years to use a reward.
✓ Reward usage: Can be used at REI stores, online, REI outlets, and REI Adventure travel.
✓ Rewards stacking: Annual rewards can typically be used with other promotions.
☒ Reward timing: Getting rewards paid out 1x a year is not ideal.
☒ Earning exclusions: REI Outlet items, sale and clearance items gift cards, adventure travel and classes do not count towards 10% earnings but this is typical in retail.
☒ Activity: You must spend $10 a year to keep your membership active.
OUR VERDICT:
Paid membership programs have a high bar to clear in terms of value, but REI Co-op Membership holds up better than a sturdy tent.
✅ The 10% back is strong, and it’s only a one-time $30 fee for a lifetime membership. ✅ Additional perks, like free shipping, rental discounts, and repair services, make this better than most retail programs. ✅ The nearly two-year redemption window is generous.
The only drawbacks? You have to spend $10 per year to keep the membership active, and rewards are only issued annually rather than on a rolling basis. But if that’s a deal-breaker, this probably isn’t the right program (or store) for you anyway.
Rewarded or Robbed?
⭐ Rewarded!
Leave us a comment! Do you agree or disagree? Any further tips about REI Co-op Membership?
