Sleep well, eat well, camp well with these top picks from REI
Camping essentials from REI. (Photo: REI)
Published June 3, 2026 07:35AM
The best way to feel grounded? Sleeping on the ground. No wonder camping has been an American rite of passage for generations. A camping trip is one of the most immersive ways to connect with nature and each other, and getting out there is easier than you think.
Camping is allowed on all kinds of public lands, like national and state forests, national parks, Bureau of Land Management land, and wilderness areas, in addition to protected parks and developed campgrounds. So whether you covet a remote site far from home or a quick escape to a nearby campground, it’s easy to find the right location. Wherever you go, the key is to pack the right gear to make camping easy so you can focus on what matters—where you are and who you’re with. Get started with these essentials from REI.
REI Co-op Westward 4 and 6 Tents
There are at least three factors that define the ideal camp tent: plenty of space, reliable weather protection, and ease of setup. These shelters nail the trifecta, and the choice of four- or six-person capacity makes it easy to escape with family and friends. Two doors and maximum headroom (more than 6 feet for the Westward 6) boost livability.
Best For: Families and groups
Pros: Spacious; easy to pitch; large vestibule (that turns into an awning with extra poles in the Westward 6)
NEMO Stargaze Evo-X Folding Reclining Camp Chair
Turn any campsite into a cabin porch with the rocking comfort of the Stargaze Evo-X. This hammock-like chair folds up for easy packing and unfurls in a flash for the ultimate fireside hangout. The swinging action auto-adjusts for the perfect angle, and the chair includes welcome details like a headrest and cupholders.
Best for: Comfort-obsessed campers
Pros: Auto-reclining; enhanced cushioning; steel frame for durability and strength
REI Co-op Kindercamp Kids’ Sleeping Gear
Rule number one when taking young kids camping? Make sure they sleep well—so you can too. This pad/bag combo does the trick, with a self-inflating pad (separate valves are easy for kids to use) and a 40-degree bag that comes in fun colors and graphics. Bonus: Having their own gear they can set up themselves helps kids feel independent on their outdoor adventures.
Best for: All outdoor-loving kids
Pros: Great value; pad’s 4.5 R-value is plenty warm; bag’s synthetic fill is moisture resistant and its rectangular shape is roomy for restless kids
REI Co-op Westward Chair
Sturdy, spacious, packable: This is a classic camp chair done right. Its oversized seat is extra comfy and wooden armrests add a touch of class. Plus, it’s easy to carry thanks to integrated backpack straps. After a long day on the trail, road, or river, this is how to take a load off.
Best for: Anyone looking for more room in a camp chair.
Pros: Roomy seat with durable steel frame; mesh bottle holder; recycled fabric with water-repellent coating
YETI Roadie Cooler
Get YETI’s legendary durability and insulation in a hard-sided cooler that’s easy to transport—carry it or wheel it (depending on model; bigger sizes have wheels). Whether you’re packing a few drinks and snacks for a deluxe picnic or stocking up for a weekend adventure, there’s a size for you. Secure closures are easy to use.
Best for: No-compromise food and drink storage
Pros: Superior insulation; secure yet simple closure; easy to transport via strap or wheels (depending on model size)
REI Co-op Westward Dreamer Self-Inflating Bed
This is as close as it gets to bringing your bed from home. It combines air and plush foam to deliver four inches of deluxe cushion between you and the ground. And with an R-value of 6.7 (about as high as you’ll find), it’s suited for the coldest campouts. Bonus: The single comes in two widths (25 and 30 inches), both of which are wider than standard.
Best for: Extra sleeping comfort and insulation
Pros: High R-value suited for extreme cold; thick foam and air cushion; durable polyester fabric
REI Co-op Campwell Sleeping Gear
With the Campwell folding cot, self-inflating sleeping pad, and 30-degree F sleeping bag, you get a trifecta of camp comfort. The plush, 2.5-inch-thick pad connects to the cot for a soft yet sturdy sleeping platform, while the versatile 30-degree bag provides three-season warmth.
Best for: Anyone who wants an instant camp bed
Pros: All-in-one kit for easy setup; pad connects with cot for added security; sleeping bag unzips to become a quilt; cot folds for easy packing
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 25 million members who expect and love the best quality gear and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op’s many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.
