Ultimate Guide to REI Rentals: W/ Costs, Tips, and Deals!

In 2019, REI increased the number of stores offering rentals from five to 125.  

This new REI Rentals initiative was spurred by the company's commitment to the environment and the outdoor community.

While it may seem counter-intuitive in capitalistic USA, REI believes many people buy equipment that they do not need which ultimately ends up in landfills unnecessarily.

REI Rental Prices - Cost - Rates

We have included in our charts the price to purchase the rental equipment you are renting to give you an idea of how good the rates are. 

In fact, most gear weekly rental rates are 4 to 10 times the actual cost to purchase the equipment brand new. 

That means that it is a better deal to rent if you are not planning on using the gear for more than 28 to 70 days. 

Let’s be honest, I have a top of the line Nemo Dragonfly 1 person backpacking tent sitting in my garage that has spent a total of 4 nights camping in the past two years. 

I could have saved that $350 and rented a Quarter Dome for seven nights with less than $50 dollars. 

Todd, an REI Rental Associate in San Diego, said that one employee benefit is that they get to rent everything for free, so they are always adding the best equipment to the rental section.   

REI rentals rates tend to increase or decrease proportionately with the cost of the gear. 

However, they appear to have subsidized the rental prices for kids rental gear and equipment, making kids outdoor equipment rentals very inexpensive.

REI Camping and Hiking Gear Rentals

REI Camping Gear Rental

If you're planning a camping trip but don't have your own gear, renting camping equipment from REI can be a great option. However, with so many rental options available, it can be challenging to know what to look for when choosing the right gear for your needs. In this article, we'll discuss what you should consider when renting camping gear at REI, including whether to upgrade to premium gear and what type of gear to rent at a minimum if you're a first-time camper.

When renting camping gear at REI, one of the first things to consider is whether to upgrade to premium gear or stick with standard gear. Standard gear is perfect if you're on a tight budget or don't require high-end equipment. The standard gear is functional and reliable, but it may not be as durable or as comfortable as premium gear. On the other hand, if you want to invest in top-of-the-line equipment for a more comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, premium gear is the way to go. Premium gear is designed to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions and provide maximum comfort, making it ideal for serious campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

When renting camping gear at REI for the first time, it can be overwhelming to know what to rent at a minimum. Here are some essential items to consider:

1. Tent: A tent is an essential item for any camping trip. REI offers a variety of tent sizes and styles, from ultralight backpacking tents to family-sized tents that can accommodate up to eight people.

2. Sleeping Bag: A good sleeping bag is crucial for a comfortable night's sleep. REI offers a range of sleeping bags suitable for different climates and temperatures, from warm-weather bags to cold-weather bags that can withstand freezing temperatures.

3. Sleeping Pad: A sleeping pad is essential for providing insulation and cushioning between your body and the ground. REI has a variety of sleeping pads, including foam pads, self-inflating pads, and air pads.

4. Cooking Gear: If you plan to cook meals while camping, you'll need some cooking gear. REI offers a range of cooking equipment, from camping stoves to cookware and utensils.

5. Lighting: Having a reliable source of light is essential when camping. REI offers a variety of lighting options, including lanterns, headlamps, and flashlights.

REI Backpacking And Camping Kit Rental 

In conclusion, renting camping gear from REI is a great option if you don't have your own gear or don't want to invest in expensive equipment. Whether you choose standard or premium gear, be sure to consider your needs and the conditions you'll encounter. If you're renting camping gear for the first time, be sure to rent a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, cooking gear, and lighting for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

Don't miss out on the REI Co-op Magna 15 degree sleeping bag deal that can be rented for a week at the low price of $52... for a bag that will cost you $399.00 brand new. 

Be sure to fill up and check your sleeping pads before going on your trip, a leaky pad can ruin any chance of a good night’s sleep.

REI Tent Rental

REI tent rental cost is pretty inexpensive considering the cost of the tents rented. 

Starting at $20 and $4 each additional night you can rent the REI Co-op Quarter Dome 1 person tent which is not a bad deal considering it would cost you $299 to buy it new.  

If you are looking to rent a tent then you'll have a wide selection of tents for 1 person backpacking up to 6 person camping tents.

All of the tents for rent are REI brand tents including their Quarter Dome, Half Dome, Kingdom, and Base Camp models. 

If you REI Rent Tent instead of buying a tent is a good way to find out which tent would work best for you. 

REI Tent Rental (Backpacking) 

When renting a tent at REI, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you'll need to decide between a backpacking tent or a car camping tent. Backpacking tents are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them ideal for hiking and camping in remote locations. On the other hand, car camping tents tend to be larger and more spacious, making them a better choice for campgrounds or areas with easy vehicle access. REI tent rental offers both types of tents, so be sure to choose the appropriate one for your needs.

Once you've decided on the type of tent you need, you'll need to choose between standard and premium REI tent rental options. Standard tents are more budget-friendly and suitable for most camping trips, while premium tents are typically more expensive but offer more features, such as increased weather resistance, additional ventilation, and extra space. If you're camping in a location with unpredictable weather or want the best possible camping experience, upgrading to premium REI tent rental may be worth the extra cost.

If you're renting a tent from REI for the first time, you'll need to rent a minimum of a tent and a sleeping bag. You may also want to consider renting a sleeping pad for added comfort and insulation. When choosing a tent, be sure to consider the size and weight of the tent, as well as its features and level of weather resistance.

In conclusion, renting a tent from REI tent rental is a great option if you don't have your own gear or don't want to invest in expensive equipment. Whether you choose standard or premium REI tent rental, be sure to consider your needs and experience level. If you're renting a tent for the first time from REI tent rental, be sure to choose the appropriate backpacking or car camping tent, and rent a sleeping bag and sleeping pad for added comfort. With these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable camping experience.

REI Tent Rental (Car Camping) 

Bear Canister Rental REI

Probably because we all head to the local mountains where there are plenty of bears.

Most REI's offer the BearVault BV500 for rent at a reasonable $5 the first night and $2 each additional day.

That seems like a reasonable price to keep bears from sniffing around your campsite.

Hey bear... hey beaR... Hey Bear..HEY BEAR!

Camp Kitchen Rentals 

Stove Rental 

REI Sleeping Bag Rentals (Adult)

REI Down Sleeping Bag Rental (Adult) 

* Not available in California due to government regulations.

Synthetic Sleeping Bag RentalS REI

Youth Sleeping Bag Rental REI

Sleeping Comfort Rental 

Illumination Rentals 

REI Backpacking and Camping Chair Rental 

Camp Water Rentals

REI Hiking Gear Rentals

REI Backpack Rental

Why buy a backpack when you can rent an awesome one for a fraction of the price! 

All of the REI Backpack rentals are going to be from their very own brands, including the Traverse, Flash, Tarn, and Trail styles. 

They offer packs anywhere from 70 liters to the Trail 40 liter day pack for pretty unbelievable prices. 

You can rent an adult premium lightweight backpacking pack over an entire week for a total of $48 or buy it brand new for $199.00

Hiking Pole Rental REI

Climbing Gear REI Rentals

Mountaineering Gear Rentals REI

REI Climbing Gear For Rent

REI Cycling Gear Rentals

REI Cycling has come a long way and they now offer their own brand of Full Suspension Mountain Bikes, Hardtail Mountain Bikes, Hybrid Bikes, and Kids Bikes. 

Renting a bike from REI is the perfect way to explore new terrain, get a workout in, or just have some fun outdoors. Whether you're an experienced rider or a beginner, REI bike rentals offer a range of options to suit your needs. And let me tell you, it's absolutely worth it to upgrade to premium gear if you're a serious cyclist looking for top-of-the-line equipment. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

If you're going for the first time, don't be intimidated by all the options. Just stick to the basics: a good-quality bike, a helmet, and a lock. REI bike rentals have a variety of bikes to choose from, so make sure to select the right one for your intended use. If you're planning on hitting the trails, a mountain bike would be the way to go. If you're looking to cruise around town, a hybrid or road bike would be a better choice.

But let me tell you, once you get started, you won't want to stop. Renting a bike from REI is the perfect opportunity to explore new trails and experience the beauty of nature up close. The thrill of pedaling up a steep hill and then coasting down the other side is a feeling like no other. It's a great workout for your body and mind, and it's an experience that you'll never forget.

So what are you waiting for? Head over to REI and rent a bike today! Trust me, you won't regret it. And who knows, you may just discover a new passion that will keep you pedaling for years to come.

REI Co-op Cycles brands reviews show are available for beginners, like the DRT 1.0 bikes to the hardcore premium Mountain Bikes like the DRT 3.2 with full suspension. 

Renting an REI Cycle costs a bit more than camping and hiking gear because some of the bikes cost as much as $2,700 but you could try it out for a week for $317. 

Recreation Equipment Inc. Paddling Gear Rentals

REI stores near water sources offer paddling gear rentals that include Kayaks, Canoes, Paddle Boards, and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs).

Personal Flotation Device aka Life Vest Rentals 

REI Kayak Rentals Near Me 

I bet you didn't even know that there was such a thing as REI Kayak Rentals! 

What we love about the REI canoe & kayak rental services are the high quality kayaks available for rental. There are over 200 REI Stores in the US and if there is a body of water nearby then that local REI will ofer kayak rentals. 

This means that REI can advertise 'Kayak Rentals Near Me' and offer you a much higher quality Kayak then the ones they rent near the lake or river from the side of the road. 

Those roadside Kayak Rental places suck! You know it, half the time the inflatable kayak has a slow leak or one of the paddles is flimsy and breaks. 

Plus if you are looking for 'kayaking rentals near me' on the internet, you want a good deal. REI offers Kayak Rentals for as low as $40 a night! Roadside places start at $75 and some charge as much as $150 a day without paddles and vests. 

So if you are looking for a 'kayak rental near me', you should reserve a REI Kayak rental online by clicking the button below. 

REI Canoe Rentals Near Me

Canoes are great for meandering rivers and calm lakes to enjoy a day or outdooring or fishing. 

Buying an REI canoe is a commitment as they do not offer any inflatable or less expensive entry level canoes. 

Consider renting a canoe from REI before taking the big plunge and buying your very own. 

REI Paddle Board Rentals Near Me

REI Paddle Boards come with your option of two hull styles, planing or displacement which each have their own advantages. (Learn more) 

You then have to choose between a hard-shell or solid hull or an inflatable hull. The choice really isn't very difficult, if you have the space and ability to transport a hardshell or solid hull paddle board, then choose this one.

If not, the inflatable paddle boards work pretty well and they will fit nicely in a storage bag in your closet when you are done at the end of the day.

But, don't fool yourself, the REI hardshell paddle boards area much better and enjoyable experience. We suggest you try renting each before making your final decision.

REI Snow Gear Rentals - Including Snowshoe Rental

When your first general manager is literally the 'OG' of Mount Everest it is no surprise that the REI snow gear rentals selection is pretty extensive. 

REI rentals department has partnered with MSR and Rossignol to provide most of the snowshoes, skis, boots, and poles. 

Don't hesitate to bring your kids along on your next snow adventure because renting kids snow equipment is cheap. 

Keep in mind that getting a reservation way ahead of your expected use time is highly recommended with limited quantities in stock at each store location.

Snow Accessories For Rent

Snow Emergency Rentals

REI Snowshoe Rental

REI snow shoe rentals are probably one of the most frequented rented items across the US. 

People want to know, 'How much does it cost to rent snowshoes at REI?'

I find it a bit strange that so many people look to REI snow shoe rentals since the cost to buy them is pretty inexpensive. 

For whatever reason REI snowshoes rental cost is around $50 a week when you could buy the same MSR Evo Snowshoes for $139.95. 

Typically, we see the REI Rental prices for one week are around 4 to 10 times the actual cost of the product, but not with REI snowshoe rental prices. 

REI Ski Rental

Whether you are looking for standard snowboards, splitboards, downhill skis, classic cross-country, skate, or backcountry skis, REI Ski Rental has you covered. 

How much does it cost to rent skis from REI?

The cost to rent Ski's from REI is pretty inexpensive with downhill skis starting at $24 the first night as compared to your nearest ski slope, it's about half the price. 

The real gem of this program is the REI Cross Country Ski Rental options that include both boots, poles, and skis for classic cross-country, skate, and backcountry skiing.

REI ski rentals can be a great option if you're planning a ski trip but don't have your own gear. However, with so many rental options available, it can be challenging to know what to look for when choosing the right gear for your needs. In this article, we'll discuss what you should consider when renting ski gear at REI, including whether to upgrade to premium gear and what type of gear to rent at a minimum if you're a first-time skier.

When renting ski gear at REI for the first time, REI ski rentals offer a variety of ski and snowboard options for different skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Be sure to choose the appropriate REI ski rentals based on your experience level and the type of skiing you plan to do. If you're on a tight budget or don't require high-end equipment, you may want to stick with standard REI ski rentals. However, if you want to invest in top-of-the-line equipment for a more comfortable and enjoyable skiing experience, upgrading to premium REI ski rentals may be the way to go.

Classic Cross-Country Ski Rental

When renting ski gear at REI for the first time, it can be overwhelming to know what to rent at a minimum. Here are some essential REI ski rentals items to consider:

1. Skis or Snowboard: The most important piece of equipment for skiing or snowboarding is, of course, the skis or snowboard. REI ski rentals offer a variety of ski and snowboard options for different skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Be sure to choose the appropriate REI ski rentals gear based on your experience level and the type of skiing you plan to do.

2. Boots: A good pair of ski or snowboard boots is crucial for comfort and control. REI ski rentals offer a range of boots for different foot shapes and sizes, so be sure to get properly fitted for the best fit and performance.

3. Poles: Ski poles are essential for balance and control while skiing. REI ski rentals offer a variety of ski poles for different skill levels and skiing styles, so be sure to choose the appropriate REI ski rentals poles for your needs.

4. Helmet: A helmet is a must-have item for skiing or snowboarding. REI ski rentals offer a range of helmets for different head sizes and shapes, so be sure to get properly fitted for the best protection.

5. Goggles: Goggles are essential for protecting your eyes from the sun, wind, and snow while skiing or snowboarding. REI ski rentals offer a range of goggles for different light conditions and preferences, so be sure to choose the appropriate REI ski rentals goggles for your needs.

In conclusion, renting ski gear from REI ski rentals is a great option if you don't have your own gear or don't want to invest in expensive equipment. Whether you choose standard or premium REI ski rentals, be sure to consider your needs and experience level. If you're renting ski gear for the first time from REI ski rentals, be sure to rent skis or a snowboard, boots, poles, a helmet, and goggles for a safe and enjoyable skiing or snowboarding experience.

Skate Cross-Country Ski Rental - Adult

Skate Cross-Country Ski Rental - Kids

Backcountry Cross-Country Ski Rental

REI Downhill Ski Rental - Adult

REI Downhill Ski Rental - Kids

REI Snowboard Rental

Splitboard Rental

Car Rack Carrier Rentals

You are probably here looking at bike rack rentals because  you just found out how much they frickin' cost! 

After spending thousands of dollars on bikes and gear, you shouldn't be too surprised that it will probably cost you $500 plus to get a nice 2 bike rack for your vehicle. 

We've reviewed all of your REI bike rack options from hitch racks to roof racks along with what you need to know before you buy. (Learn More)

Rentals Products Coming Soon

REI Rentals has only been around for a little over a year and they intend on adding additional gear and equipment as they work out the kinks. 

One popular item people are always asking for is to rent satellite phone REI or a REI satellite phone rental which should be available once they find a sat phone partner. 

Another area REI customers hope they enter is the renting of more expensive clothing that most people only need for extreme weather and expeditions. 

REI snow clothing rentals would be a major addition for those who don't want to purchase the multiple hundred dollar ski jackets and gloves to stay warm on the slope for one weekend a year. 

Check back often to see the latest REI Rental equipment and gear available.

REI Rental Insurance - For Lost or Damaged Rental Equipment

REI does not offer rental insurance, if you break something or lose it, you will probably be financially responsible. 

However, in some cases, your homeowners insurance, auto insurance, or renters insurance may actually reimburse you depending on the circumstances. Check with your agent!