Maximize Your Savings: REI's Anniversary Sale Delivers Top Deals on Outdoor Gear and Smartwatches

Introduction: The Biggest Sale of the Year Is Here

REI's annual Anniversary Sale is now in full swing, offering the retailer's deepest discounts of the year on a wide range of outdoor essentials and tech gear. Whether you're gearing up for a weekend camping trip, a challenging hike, or a backcountry adventure, this sale is an ideal time to stock up on must-have items like tents, sleeping pads, stoves, water filters, and premium smartwatches. The sale runs through May 25th, and REI members can also enjoy an additional 20% off one full-price item or one REI Outlet item using the promo code ANNIV26. For those who don't yet have a membership, a one-time $30 lifetime fee unlocks this extra discount – a great value ahead of Memorial Day.

To help you navigate the hundreds of deals, we've curated the best offers below. Many of these discounts are also available at competing retailers like Amazon, so you can choose your preferred shopping platform.

Unlock Even More Savings with REI Membership

For just $30, a lifetime REI membership gives you access to exclusive deals, including the annual 20% off coupon during the Anniversary Sale. This year, the code ANNIV26 allows members to take 20% off one regular-priced item or one REI Outlet product. If you plan to buy big-ticket items like a tent or a premium smartwatch, this can lead to substantial savings. Plus, members earn 10% back on most full-price purchases throughout the year.

Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers: Premium Deals for Active Lifestyles

Garmin Fenix 8 – A Multisport Powerhouse

The Garmin Fenix 8 is the ultimate multisport watch for serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. It features a built-in speaker, microphone, and on-device assistant, allowing you to make calls, set timers, and use voice commands directly from your wrist. Elite battery life, dual-frequency GPS, and an array of robust sensors (including a compass, altimeter, and heart-rate monitor) make it perfect for trail running, hiking, swimming, and more. Read our full review.

• Best deal: $749.99 at Amazon (43mm) – was $999.99
• Also available: $849.99 at Walmart (51mm) and $849.99 at REI (47mm)

Amazfit Active 2 – Exceptional Value

The Amazfit Active 2 punches above its weight with a stylish design, comprehensive health tracking (including sleep, stress, and heart rate), built-in GPS, and AI-powered insights. It's an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers who don't want to sacrifice features. The watch is on sale for $84.99 at REI, Best Buy, and Target – a $15 discount from its regular $99.99 price.

Garmin Venu 4 – Tailored for the Everyday Athlete

For those who want advanced wellness tracking without the premium price tag, the Garmin Venu 4 is now $499.99 ($50 off) at REI, Amazon, and Best Buy, matching its lowest price ever. This model is designed for the average athlete and includes features like abnormal heart rate alerts, detailed sleep insights, audio-guided meditation, and a wheelchair mode. New additions include caffeine and alcohol tracking, plus Garmin Coach for personalized workout plans based on your fitness history, sleep quality, and recovery.

Garmin Lily 2 Active – Stylish and Functional

If you prefer a smaller, more fashionable smartwatch, the Garmin Lily 2 Active is a standout. At $249.99 ($50 off) – also an all-time low – this model adds a physical button, built-in GPS, and expanded sports tracking to the standard Lily 2's basic fitness features. Battery life extends up to five days, making it a reliable companion for daily wear and light workouts. Check out our Lily 2 review for more details.

Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor – Precision Tracking

For cyclists, runners, and gym enthusiasts who prioritize accurate heart rate data, the Polar H10 chest strap is a top pick. It's on sale for $94.49 ($10 off) at REI and Amazon. This monitor is compatible with most fitness apps and devices, delivering reliable readings even during intense activities.

Camping and Backcountry Essentials (Additional Deals)

Beyond wearables, the Anniversary Sale includes discounts on camping gear such as tents, sleeping pads, stoves, and water filters. While not all items are listed here, we recommend checking REI's website for savings on brands like MSR, Nemo, and Jetboil. Many of these deals are also reflected at Amazon, so you can compare prices.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Sale

The REI Anniversary Sale is a members-only event until May 25th. To maximize savings:

• Use the 20% coupon: Apply code ANNIV26 at checkout on one full-price or Outlet item.
• Bundle purchases: Combine the coupon with sale prices for deeper discounts.
• Check multiple retailers: Some deals are price-matched or better at Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy.
• Act fast: Popular items like the Fenix 8 and Venu 4 may sell out quickly.

Conclusion

REI's Anniversary Sale offers one of the best opportunities all year to upgrade your outdoor gear and fitness tech at significant savings. From sporty smartwatches to essential camping equipment, the deals are plentiful. With the added 20% off coupon for members, there's no better time to prepare for summer adventures. Don't miss out – the sale ends May 25th.