REI has the best weekend deals under $50 — here's what I'd shop from Patagonia, LifeStraw and more
Whether you're heading to the beach, hiking the trails or sleeping under the stars, you're gonna want to browse these unbeatable REI deals. We're talking discounts on everything from apparel and accessories to water bottles and camping essentials.
To make things simpler, I've compiled all of my favorite outdoor deals below — and they all happen to be under $50. Keep scrolling to check out these affordable REI deals before they disappear!
This is the perfect addition to your camp kitchen! The 4-piece set include 1 bowl/container, 1 lid/plate, 1 ECO utility spork and a reusable tether, making it ideal when you're enjoying a meal in the great outdoors.
Stance socks are described as really comfy by users online, and these beautiful ones are no different. They're reinforced in the heels and the toes to prevent rubbing, and are made from combed cotton so they're uber soft.
Keep key essentials close at hand with the REI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack. It features two liters of storage with one main zippered compartment, a smaller front zippered compartment and a secret stash pocket around the back. Constructed of ripstop nylon, the exterior is treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to ensure all your valuables stay dry.
Quality headlamps aren't just for camping, they also make a great addition to any emergency kit. You can also use it for chores around the house where extra illumination is warranted. Best of all, this one is rechargeable, so you don't need a zillion packs of batteries to power it.
The HydroFlask 32 oz size with a straw is on sale for $11 right now, at just $23. It's discounted in dusky pink (pictured) and gray, but I love this pink shade. It's got a secure lid, so you don't need to worry about it spilling when you're out and about.
Need a go-to tee for your summer hikes? This Columbia T-shirt not only shields you from the sun, but it also wicks away sweat and offers some stretch for easy mobility. It's available in 4 different colors and patterns.
There's three colors sporting this discount, but I'm a personal fan of this stylish grey (called Asphalt Heather on the site) for its timeless look. With microventilated fabric, this tee is perfect for running, workouts and hitting the trails.
If you want to wear the Patagonia logo proudly, this is the hat for you. This close-fitting, low-crown trucker hat has an organic cotton front, a recycled polyester mesh back and an adjustable snap closure.
Looking for a leakproof water bottle that will actually filter your water? For just $29, this LifeStraw water bottle will improve water taste by protecting against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, chlorine, organic chemical matter, sand and cloudiness.
This long-sleeve running tee is a popular pick from REI and while 9 colors are still full price, this teal fit is sporting a 31% discount. Using SwiftTex fabric to keep you cool, dry and unencumbered, it's an excellent pick for long runs especially on those cooler nights.
Being sunburnt is never cool, but you know what is? This North Face brimmer hat. It features a sweat-wicking interior, an adjustable shock cord chin strap and UPF 40 sun protection.
Need a new hat for the trails? The Arc'teryx Bird Word trucker hat is made with breathable mesh panels and a soft, quick-drying headband that will keep your head feeling airy and dry. It will get the job done on the toughest of routes.
The name of these shorts says it all! The Wander Shorts allow you to stay cool, comfortable and dry while exploring thanks to their sweat-wicking and water-repellent properties. They're also built with added stretch and tons of performance features.
If you're spending a night under the stars, this blanket is exactly what you need. You can lay it down on your campsite, bring it along for picnics and even use it a source of warmth while you sleep. It's also water-repellant so you'll stay nice and dry in the great outdoors.
It's like Patagonia knows the exact features you want from a hip pack and they've put it into this one. Stuffable into its own pocket when you want to store it away, it features an adjustable strap and double pockets for bigger and smaller valuables. If you're after a waist fit or slung over the body, this will do both — all while sporting a trendy colorway.
Need a new swimsuit? This one-piece is a no-brainer. Whether you're heading in the lake, ocean or pool, you'll love wearing this quick-drying, chlorine resistant suit that features UPF 50+ protection. It's also fully lined and has an adjustable back slider.
Whether you're running on the track or running errands, The North Face Sunriser Shorts will keep you comfy. They feature a secure-zip pocket on the center-back of the waistband, as well as moisture-managing technology to keep you dry.
This versatile sweatshirt is ready for anything — pair it with shorts and head to the gym, throw on some joggers and wear it on the trails or even sport it with a pair of jeans around town. It's super comfortable and works as a great top layer on a cool day.
For a pop of personality, these Tevas are a standout style for summer. Quick-dry webbing is paired with molded EVA midsoles for a comfortable fit on land and water. Better yet, they're 24% off right now.
These best-selling shorts are designed to give you just enough coverage without weighing you down. The adjustable fit has an infinity drawstring for added security, a soft, stretch liner that won't ride up or bunch and three hidden pockets to hold your valuables. In short, they're the perfect companion for distraction-free jogs.
Whether you're breaking a sweat at the gym or on the trails, this light and airy t-shirt will be your best friend. It has an antimicrobial treatment to resist odor and keep you smelling fresh.
Not sure if you want to wear pants or shorts on your next hike? No problem! These versatile pants offer style, comfort — and removable legs. You can take them from hiking pants to shorts in just second thanks removable zip off legs. They're also quick drying and stretchy.
Get ready to run speed, freedom and performance when wearing these shorts. From the gym to the trails, you can feel confident that the shorts will keep up. They feature abrasion-resistant fabric and have excellent stretch for comfort.
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27 Things For Anyone Who Loves Camping
An REI Wonderland 4 tent because the best part of camping is that it's basically an excuse to have an outdoor sleepover with your besties, and this beaut is as spacious as can be! The tent is suited for three-season use and has a 69.4-square-foot interior. You can get the footprint for this tent here. A good rule of thumb is that a tent can fit the amount of people it lists (in this case four) like sardines or one less person with elbow room and room for gear. The tent has two doors for easy access and ventilation, strategic color-coding to make setup simple, interior mesh pockets, and a carrying case with a handle. Promising review: "Best tent ever!!!! Tall enough that I can stand inside, but not too tall that I can't set it up. It's easy to set up and take off without help (just me), and yet it's big enough that it feels like a palace inside. Plenty of pockets inside and little hooks for lights and whatever. You can close up all the windows and rainfly or leave it completely open with just the screen and enjoy the view from your sleeping bag. Even the lines and shapes that it forms when you are inside are beautiful! It's on the heavy side, but because I only car camp I don't care. I'm in love with this tent and it works so well and it's so amazing that it makes me want to go camping even more!" —LuciaGet it from REI for $429. Or a Nemo Hornet Elite Osmo one-person, three-season backpacking tent if you're itching to get out for some solo multi-day trips — a personal fave way to experience the outdoors! This puppy is freestanding (aka can be set up with its included poles), super light at just over 2 pounds, and is the perfect size to tuck away into your pack virtually unnoticed until nightfall. This is low-key my favorite tent. Okay, high-key! I bring it along even if I'm car camping. The more I get to know this tent, the more I love it. Going on two years with it by my side, it's my go-to for basically every trip from meandering backpacking in Appalachia, to nights out in the desert, to car camping-slash-surf trips to the beach (peek my really COOL wetsuit hand tan above). It's semi-freestanding, meaning it has poles for the main structure but should be staked out to reach its max capacity (though as you can somewhat see above, sometimes I just wing it and let it be "freestanding," letting my wide sleeping pad fill out the floor. The rain fly (not pictured but included) does need to be staked out, but even the stakes are ultralight. That's right. This entire tent weighs in at just 1 pound and 7 ounces. I know! It's incredible. And I really don't feel like I'm missing out on any features. There's a few great interior mesh pockets where I put my phone, headphones, and headlamp, a nice vestibule when I put the rain fly up, and it all packs down SUPER small. I mean, just look at that stuff sack. That's literally the entire tent. Nothing short of miraculous! The tent has plenty of room for little old me, and ultimately, that's all I really need the tent to hold! I occasionally sleep with my pack at my feet (I'm 5'6" and have found that it can settle down there without me having to sleep with my feet on top of it), but most of the time I let the vestibule do its thing and enjoy having the tent to myself. This tent has kept me dry and warm through a few years of adventures, and I look forward to putting even more miles and nights on this thing over the years. Worth the splurge, especially if you're an ounce-counter who would rather not go totally least not can get the official footprint here, but tbh I just cut a cheap blue tarp to size and find that that works great. On my last trip, I even got brave and put it up without a footprint, and it fared just fine. Probably not advised, but the more you know! The tent is also available in totally freestanding version called the $579.95 A lantern-and-fan hybrid that's as close as you're gonna get to sweet, sweet AC in the woods. I cannot help but stan a mini ceiling fan gadget, it's just so cute and helpful. Promising reviews: "I went camping this week, and I just hate when it's sooooo darn hot in the tent, and of course there's no place to put a fan AND a light. This one worked perfectly. It hung by its built-in hook to the top of the tent, the light was just right, and the fan was quiet and effective for a two-person tent. Happy I bought it." —Kevin Gaither"This is a lifesaver. I bought it for camping, but really, I keep it in my car year-round. It's an extraordinary car light; the hook allows you to hang it under your hood if, for any reason, you need to pull over at night (which I did). The fan is tiny but mighty and a great accessory to a great light. Doesn't eat up its own battery while not in use, which is a blessing. Accidentally left its fan for a while without noticing, and it's still good as gold." —CloudGet it from Amazon for $18.89. A Rumpl Camp Pillow if you don't want to sacrifice your home pillow to the wilderness gods but still want somewhere soft to lay your head. I *love* this pillow for its double-sided fabric (one cooling, one soft), perfectly plush feel, and ability to fold in half into this little stuff sack. I thought I was done with outdoor pillows for good until this one from Rumpl walked into my life. Wanting something outdoor specific, but disappointed by inflatable models, my backpacking brain transitioned me fully to just using my clothes bag, even when car camping! But thank goodness I've finally found an outdoor pillow I dig, so I can get a good night's sleep when on trips with a little more gear! It really is so plush and comfy, and at the end of the day, that's all I really want from a pillow! I use the fleece side because I tend to sleep cold, but it's nice to know the cooling side is around for the next time I'm on a humid trip. Is the pillowcase machine-washable? You bet! That's the Rumpl it from Amazon for $59.95 (available in two colors) or REI for $59.95 (available in two colors). A Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Ultralight rolltop dry sack because keeping your camp clothes and electronics dry is absolutely essential for any fun, safe camping trip. My love for these lightweight waterproof bags can't be stifled. On my camping trips, I always bring two of these bags that each work double time. One serves as my clothes bag which doubles as a pillow at night when covered by my Buff. The other is my food bag since it's easy to hang as a bear bag as well. Sometimes I bring another for my electronics, but sometimes they just go in with my clothes. But enough of my packing specifics — the point is, they're incredibly reliable, actually waterproof, and being able to pack them down nice and small as you take things out of them is *chef's kiss*. Promising review: "I recently used this on a trip and it was amazing. Packed my down jacket in it as a pillow for the flight, and really love the color, Zinnia Yellow. No losing track of it!" —Darla JGet it from Amazon for $22.95+ (available in six sizes and five colors). A waterproof power bank to keep your phone, headlamp, navigation, and other essential outdoor tech juiced up and ready to go. As much as I love trees, they can't light my path! The power bank has an IPX67 waterproof rating.I've been testing this power bank out on my last few trips and really like it so far! It's really heavy, so I don't recommend it for backpacking, but for car camping, it's A+. I brought it on a beach camping trip and loved knowing that I didn't have to worry about getting it wet or dirty. Peace of mind with keeping tech safe outdoors is underrated! Promising review: "This is a must-have for anyone who needs off-grid charging! I also have the solar charger that is actually impressive,e keeping it charged. A bit expensive but you have to pay more for the quality." —scottGet it from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in three colors). A set of marshmallow (or hot dog!) roasting sticks that telescope all the way out to 34 inches for campfire time. Goodbye, singed knuckle hair! But don't worry, they collapse back to 10 inches for easy storage. A pair of Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Socks that famously come with a lifetime guarantee, because they're that confident they'll serve you well. I finally got my first pair of Darn Toughs this year, and I LOVE THEM! The heels and toes are perfectly cushioned, the merino wool blend isn't scratchy at all, and they're, tough! Look at me walkin' around on that campground gravel! Hot tip for my hiking friends with muscular calves: my life changed the day I started just ordering socks in men's sizes! I'm a shoe size 8.5 and find that a men's M in these socks sits great. Not too big in the foot while leaving ample room for my legs as I FLEX UP THAT MOUNTAIN, BABYYYYYYY! Promising review: "Extremely comfortable socks. They look and feel nice. I have another pair of the same product and they've lasted years. They don't smell after many long days of wearing, making them perfect for camping or backpacking." —dominicGet them from Amazon for $24.95+ for men's sizes (available in sizes S–XXL and nine colors) and $25+ for women's sizes (available in sizes S–L and eight colors). A pack of cleansing wipes so you can freshen up a little bit between showers, much to the satisfaction of your campmates' your own, honestly. Promising review: "Tough and very good. I've used these a couple of times on extended backpacking trips — lightweight and cleans very well. I hate getting into my sleeping bag, dirty. Awesome." —Robb HattemGet a 25-pack from Amazon for $8.89. An REI Co-Op Siesta 20-degree sleeping bag that's oh-so-roomy, oh-so-cozy, and the perfect place for you to snuggle up on car camping trips where you can really make yourself at home. Reviewers especially love that you can separately unzip the bottom for ventilation or even unzip it all the way into a quilt. Where are my "sticks one foot out of the blanket to sleep" friends at? This is the sleeping bag for you. Plus, the polyester shell and lining fabrics have a non-fluorinated durable water repellent to help bead up moisture on the surface so that you stay nice and dry while you enjoy the great review: "I bought this bag for car camping, and it is my favorite bag. So far, one trip (two nights), and it only got down to the high 40s, so I stayed plenty warm. I did bring a flannel sheet, but I didn't really need it for warmth on this trip. The bag is roomy and comfortable. I love that the hood is big enough to accommodate my pillow and I can turn easily in the bag. I also appreciate that in warmer weather, I can unzip the bottom of the bag to put a leg out (didn't need to on this trip). I usually sleep hot, but this bag did not feel confining like a mummy bag. Would recommend!" —StedmanbGet it from REI for $149 (available in medium, medium wide, long, and long wide sizes). Or a Nemo Disco 30 Endless Promise down sleeping bag to help you dial in your sleep system while out backpacking and get the best night of sleep you can. Its unique "spoon" shape is ideal for side sleepers while still shaving off pack weight compared to traditional rectangular bags, and 650-fill-power hydrophobic down keeps you warm without getting stuffy (vents help with that, too). The sleeping bag's hood and footbox are treated with waterproofing in case of any condensation against your tent walls, has a draft collar to keep the cold from getting in, and its shell is made of 100% recycled ripstop polyester. Promising review: "I've used this bag for a while now, and it's the best I've ever used. From the backcountry lakes of Wyoming's Wind River Range to riverside fields along rivers in New Hampshire, it has come everywhere with me. As a taller person with broad shoulders, the long version fits me PERFECTLY. I'm also someone who gets pretty hot while sleeping, so the venting features have been a game changer. Not only is it comfortable and functional, but it's also made from recycled materials and can be easily repaired. If I could give this product more stars, I would!" —DomGet it from REI for $269.95+ in both men's and women's models (available in regular and long lengths). *OR* an Outdoor Vitals down topquilt if you hate feeling constrained by traditional sleeping bags — I know I do! I'd heard that quilts were better for wriggly side sleepers, summer campers, and folks who want to cut weight in their backpacking setup. I'm all of those and can confirm, this quilt is a major upgrade. There's no piece of backpacking and camping gear I idealized more than the quilt, and ya know what? I was right! This thing totally changed the way I sleep outdoors. As a side sleeper who tends to twist and turn, mummy bags were always kind of a hassle. The quilt lets me move freely without having to readjust my whole bag. It comes with two removable straps that secure it underneath your sleeping pad to keep it in place and to seal in extra warmth. This is also helped by the collar, which can be pulled nice and snug. As a backpacker, I really appreciate cutting some weight thanks to not having a zipper and the removed underside of the bag, whose down would be compressed and not super warming anyway. This was my first piece of gear from Outdoor Vitals and I feel really impressed with the craftsmanship, even compared to super well-known brands. Highly recommend. Promising review: "I am really thrilled to be continuing my higher-elevation backpacking with this amazing quilt. The loft is astonishing. No drafts, no cold spots, snuggly collar. The OV staff were so responsive and helpful. And the Stormloft is much more affordable than other similar quilts. I am proud to include the OV 0 degree Stormloft Quilt among my cherished backpacking gear." —CanyonGet it from Outdoor Vitals for $294.97+ (available in four temperature ratings and two lengths). A Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system that blows any other system out of the — say it with me — water. Even on car camping trips, it's good to have a backup water purification on-hand just in case. It's adaptable and easy to use in almost any situation. While it comes with a bag that you can fill and squeeze, I prefer to fill a bottle with natural water, screw the filter on top, and drink straight from the bottle. The set comes with one squeeze screw-on water filter, two 32-ounce collapsible pouches, one replaceable pop-up drinking spout, and one syringe filter cleaner. It weighs three ounces. It removes bacteria such as salmonella, cholera, and E. coli as well as protozoa such as giardia and cryptosporidium.I adore this water filter for its ease of use, adaptability, small size, and zero wait time. Just fill the bag, screw on the filter, and roll the bag to squeeze the filtered water into your bottle *or* screw it onto a water bottle and drink straight from the filter. You don't need to wait for it to be done like with water treatment pills or gravity systems, and there's no funky taste — just fresh, clean, crisp water. Game changing. Either way, it's a quick, lightweight system that I completely recommend. Note: if you're immunocompromised, be sure to read all the package instructions to make sure it's safe for review: "This thing is awesome, used it on our 3,500-mile trip stopping at various hiking spots and trails and camping, and having clean drinking water you can trust when on a long trip is vital. This gave me peace of mind that no matter where we filled up, creek or random water spigot, we had clean drinking water. The cleansing tablets are a must for outdoor on-the-go water sources but with this system you don't have to carry a lot of heavy water in your pack to slow you down. A friend of mine used this hiking on the entire Arizona Trail and some of the water he used in it I wouldn't have let a dog drink but he did and this thing worked like a charm and cleaned the water for him to safely drink throughout the desert on his hike. From that point on I was sold." —Combustion WorksGet it from Amazon for $44.79+ (also available in bottle or bladder versions. A four-pack of lightweight collapsible silicone mugs with lids so you don't have to drag around an awkwardly shaped mug around if you're trying to pack nice and light or are headed out backpacking. Promising review: "We bought these a year ago to bring on backpacking and camping/hiking trips and they have worked perfectly for when we want to drink something other than the water in our Nalgenes (Tang, hot chocolate, or coffee). Very lightweight, helpful measurement lines, attached cover to keep it clean when hanging on the outside of your backpack, durable, and easy to clean. Love them!" —M. R. a four-pack from Amazon for $13.49 (available in five color combinations). A pack of waterproof cards if you're worried about — *gasp* — getting bored. That's OK. You can't expect to be thrilled by watching trees move in the breeze after a few days. Now you and your friends can play rummy without worrying that your cards will basically melt in the rain. Promising review: "You are camping and backpacking in the forest for weeks. You and your campmates have nothing left to say. To save your smartphone battery, you don't dare turn it on. You're on your last milliliter of whiskey. What's a person to do. Play cards, of course! These cards worked amazingly well on my backpack/camping trip. These also do well as temporary coasters or when you need to keep something off the dirt. After a couple of days of rain and humid evenings, one expects a simple set of cards to perform and these did indeed." —paititiGet them from Amazon for $6.97. A classic Coleman camp stove perfect for whipping up a full meal in the great outdoors. With two burners, a wind shield, and heat control, you're gonna be the head chef of the wilderness, and everyone will be so glad to have a hot meal in their bellies before snuggling up for the night. Promising review: "Lightweight and easy to set up and use. Sturdy, even temperature, roomy surface. Love everything about it. Easy to clean, too." —LJMGet it from Amazon for $165.01+ (available in two colors). An inflatable lounge chair that will make a sunny outdoor nap feel like the height of luxury. You inflate it just by whipping it in the wind, meaning no pesky hand pumps or electricity needed! Promising review: "I'm not a small person, and I wasn't sure how it would hold me, but this chair is wonderful. I have used it all over! I took it camping, I took it to the beach, and I even sometimes blow it up and use it in my living room while watching TV. The hardest part is getting out of it gracefully!" —LimoncelloGet it from Amazon for $39.98 (available in 21 colors and patterns). A pull-string fire starter because you're probably a little rusty on your Boy Scouts skills and no one in your camp crew is going to give you a badge anyway. Put the sticks down — this'll do all the hard work for you! Promising review: "Genius! Lit immediately and our wood was soaking wet! It's a must-have for all camping/fire-pit events! No more newspapers, boxes, or lighter fluid!" —MceeGet a three-pack from Amazon for $17.99 (also available in packs of 6, 12, and 30). An Aeropress coffee and espresso maker that brews top-notch coffee anywhere boiling water is available. It's also small, durable, and easy to clean, so bringing it to the ends of the Earth with you is a no-brainer, especially when a hot bevy in the morning is considered essential. The set comes with the chamber, plunger, seal, filter cap, funnel, filter holder, scoop, and stirrer. Here's a super informative video on how to use the Aeropress (while camping, even!) made by the coffee smarties at Stumptown. Promising review: "This might make some of the best, fastest coffee I have ever had. I visited my cousin in Alaska and she used one EVERY day for her coffee. I forgot completely about it until it was time to take this camping trip, and I randomly found it on Amazon while searching for camping kettles — I am so glad I did. It is super compact, durable, and easy to use. You can have a real quick cup in 30 seconds, or you can wait a couple of minutes and let the flavors meld, the choice is yours." —Gordon LeonardGet it from Amazon for $39.95+ (available in two sizes and eight colors). A CoolNet UV+ Buff you can wear all sorts of ways in order to keep the sun off your head or neck, cool down, keep your hair back, etc. And for all my Survivor fans out there, yes, this is what they wear on the island! Is that why I got one initially? Yes. Have I been impressed with how useful it is out in the wild? Also yes. You can't say reality TV never taught me anything. A Buff is a simple piece of gear I basically never hit the trail without. I use it for sweat control, sun coverage, and even for keeping myself covered up while changing at crowded campsites sometimes. The possibilities are endless, the material is nice and cooling, and they wash super well when you get back home. Love!Promising review: "In my experience, this 21-inch buff length is a bit excessive for wearing as a bandana or as a face mask, about 17 inches is perfectly adequate for both purposes, and those extra inches are mostly unnoticeable. I wear this on my forehead, and a shorter version of a CoolNet UV+ as a mask to avoid sunburn during mountain excursions above the snow line. It's more reliable than sunscreen. It's breathable enough to use with glasses, without too much fogging, when the temperature is above freezing." —Aleksandr AGet it from Backcountry for $23.95 (available in 10 patterns). A Black Diamond sun hoodie that's a personal fave for sunny hikes and backpacking trips. I've started to take sun protection super seriously, so a long-sleeve UPF 50+ option is a must. And even as the sweatiest person alive who refuses to pack deodorant when backpacking (extra weight? No thanks), it keeps me dry no matter how many miles I trek. Promising review: "I love these. They fit great and are lightweight. I wear them on hot summer days and never feel like I'm sweating. I have several colors and can't wait to collect more." —Kc it from Black Diamond for $109 (available in sizes XXS–XXL and four colors). A cot and air mattress if sleeping on the hard ground is a hard no for you. Sleeping under the stars is rad, but sleeping in a BED under the stars? Unbeatable. A BioLite AspenGlow mini lantern that packs a whole lotta light into a teeny, tiny package. With a diameter of just three inches, it's a breeze to pop into any bag, and an integrated bungee makes it easy to hang almost anywhere. It's USB rechargeable and can run for 40 hours on its lowest setting, though it'll be hard to resist playing with the "party" setting which cycles through its multicolor modes. Fun! 🤩 🪩 This little lantern RULES. I'm just a huge fan of BioLite generally, but have been really impressed by how bright and reliable this little guy is. And at the end of the day, those are the two things you really want a lantern to be! The little bungee on the back really is useful for putting it up in your tent or somewhere unconventional, and the dimmer is so easy to dial in. Promising review: "Ordered this to have a light in our tent. It's small and compact — perfect for car camping. Also rechargeable. I also like that the lights can change color." —MLSGet it from Amazon for $49.95 (available in two colors) or REI for $49.95 (available in two colors). A pair of Teva sandals if you've been on the hunt for a comfy pair of "camp shoes" to bring along on your next journey. These are shockingly supportive and feel so good after a long day presumably spent in boots. Promising review: "I have been on many camping trips and hikes with these sandals and they are very comfortable. They fit well, and do not rub my feet. They're also super cute! I understand why there are a lot of people who swear by these sandals. I think I joined the cult of Teva and will probably buy another pair at some point." —Alexandria them from Amazon: $60 for women's (available in sizes 5–13 and tons of colors and patterns) and $59.91 for men's (available in sizes 7–15, including some narrow sizes, and tons of colors and patterns). A self-inflating sleeping pad so you don't have to huff and puff into your pad after hiking all day while setting up your campsite. I recommend this pad for car campers or backpackers looking to get their feet wet and start to build out a kit. It's not the lightest, *but* at under $100, it's a great deal for the quality and on the low end of the price spectrum of what a typical fully inflatable backpacking pad costs. Promising review: "I love this pad so much. It keeps me warm in the winter and is the most comfortable pad I've ever slept on. The material doesn't stick to you. 10/10 recommend. I love it so much I just deal with the weight and take it on my backpacking trips too." —HarryAHGet it from REI for $84.95 (available in short, regular, regular wide, and long wide sizes). Or an Exped Ultra 3R Sleeping Pad for a great night's sleep while backpacking, especially if you want a pad you can roll up super-duper small at the end of your car camping trip for easy carrying and storage back home. Inflatable pads are especially beloved for side sleepers (including myself) since your hips are nice and suspended above the ground. ^Look at me lovin' my Exped sleeping pad! I've long been an inflatable sleeping pad convert, but had yet to find my, "Holy moly this is the best," model... until recently when I tried this baby. Other pads I've liked — but not loved — felt too narrow and, because of the kind of insulation they used, were SUPER noisy with every move I made in my sleep. It was like sleeping on a Mylar balloon! But this pad is quiet as can be. Thank goodness! I also opted for the medium wide version, which gives me a little more room to spread out — no more feeling like I'm teetering. That extra room and a 3-inch height keep me super comfy as a side sleeper. The wide version is a little heavier (obviously), but even as a backpacker who can be really picky about base weight, I find the extra ounces totally worth it for getting a better night's sleep. The MW (minimum weight) weight is about one pound and seven ounces. Not too shabby!An R-value of 2.9 makes this perfect for three-season backpacking, but especially warmer months. On a recent camping and surf weekend near Santa Barbara, it kept me perfectly comfortable during the cool summer nights. It was seriously the best night of sleep I've gotten outdoors in quite some time. ILY, Exped! Promising review: "I used it for 500 miles on the AT (Appalachian Trail) last year and plan to use it again this year. I'm going to pair it with a lightweight foam pad to protect it from punctures, which I have had before, and increase the overall R-value. I don't recall noise issues, and the pad was comfortable for a big guy who's a side sleeper. If money and/or comfort are no issue, you can find lighter pads." —MikeGet it from REI for $139.95 (available in medium, medium wide, and long wide sizes). A Yeti Tundra 35 cooler because they really do make some seriously splurge-worthy coolers. This one has an impressive 4.7-star overall rating for its durability and, of course, ability to keep things cold for a wildly long time. Promising review: "This is the best cooler I have ever owned! It's quite expensive but well worth the price. I have used it for beach days and camping many times and I love it!" —GruberGet it from Amazon for $275 (available in eight colors).
New York Times
a day ago
- New York Times
30(ish) Wirecutter Picks for Heading Back to School at Any Age
With its padded mesh straps and back panels, this sporty-looking pack makes carrying heavy loads lighter and comfier. It also has the easiest-to-use water-bottle pockets of any bag we've tested, as well as a removable laptop sleeve, but it could use more interior organization. If you're looking for a backpack that will last you for the next few years, we have a few recommendations. For a more sporty look, we recommend the Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L, which is the most ergonomic bag we tested. It provides a padded laptop compartment, a roomy interior, and two side pockets for water bottles. This compact, durable laptop backpack is big on nostalgia and aesthetic appeal. But while its straps are lightly padded — a significant upgrade from the original Kånken — it still isn't ideal for carrying extra-heavy loads. Simplicity is what makes this bag cool, and it comes in a plethora of colors and patterns, whether you're looking to stand out or blend in. Though it has a roomy laptop sleeve, you won't find any fancy protection or organizational features inside this pack. If a chic, simple bag is more your vibe, we recommend the Fjällräven Kånken Laptop or the Herschel Classic Backpack XL. Both have a laptop sleeve, and both lack some of the internal organization that other backpacks offer. However, both offer distinct, classic designs that come in a wide-range of colors for a little flair. A sleek design and utilitarian features (such as a luggage pass-through and magnetic top closure) make this sophisticated laptop carrier feel pricier than it is. But unlike our other picks, it isn't backed by a warranty. As sensible as it is stylish, this durable polyester pack has plenty of storage options, though there's only one outer side pocket, which is too small for larger water bottles. Be aware that the popularity of this pack has made it prone to frequent stock issues. For a stylish backpack with more internal organization, we recommend Everlane's The ReNew Transit Backpack or the Eastpak Padded Double. Both have laptop compartments, great internal organization features, and comfortable straps. This cute, two-tiered bento box is ideal for multi-part lunches, and it comes in a variety of appealing colors. It isn't leakproof, but we think that's okay for the types of foods you're likely to use it for. Buy from Amazon (price varies by color) For a bento-box lunch, we recommend the Takenaka Bento Bite Dual, which is ideal for multi-part lunches and is easy to clean. It isn't perfectly leakproof, but it is easy to clean and capable of carrying a hearty meal. For a smaller bento box, consider the Bentgo MicroSteel Lunch Box, which we also recommend in our guide to lunch boxes. This uncomplicated lunch bag comes in six charming prints and does a great job of keeping food cool. Its soft, flexible sides help it fit in most backpacks, but it may not protect your lunch from getting squashed. $38 from Urban Outfitters Some smaller coolers make great lunch boxes. We think this Carhartt lunch box also makes a great cooler. But it's the biggest of our picks and may seem unwieldy to some people. A classic insulated lunch box might be your preference, and in that case, we have a few options. For something simple, stylish, and flexible, we like the Baggu Puffy Lunch Bag, which comes in a variety of charming prints. It's an ideal size that can accommodate most bento boxes or other container types, but since its walls are soft, it may smush unprotected soft foods. We also like the Carhartt Insulated 12 Can Two Compartment Lunch Cooler. This extra-roomy model can fit a hearty meal and then some, and though it can be a little unwieldy to carry, it's perfect for loading up on food, drinks, and snacks if you're spending all day on campus. This budget digital alarm clock does so much for so little. It has the largest numerical display of the clocks we tested, plus two USB ports and easy-to-use tactile controls that take the guesswork out of changing settings. With high school starting earlier in the day than middle school, your new wake-up time may not come naturally yet. To aid with early mornings, make an affordable alarm clock like the DreamSky Compact Digital Alarm Clock your bestie. It has a big display, two USB ports to help charge your tech overnight, and easy-to-use, tactile controls. This large, versatile notebook has sturdy twin spiral rings, premium paper, and perforated pages. This simple journal-style notebook offers all the basics and a better writing experience than the more-popular Moleskine notebooks it mimics. Any old notebook from the store will work perfectly fine, but we think it's okay to treat yourself to high-quality notebooks. You might like the Maruman Mnemosyne N194A Notebook, a soft-covered, spiral-bound notebook with perforated pages that allows you to tear out a sheet for in-class assignments. Or perhaps you'd prefer a hardcover notebook, such as the inexpensive Paperage Hardcover Lined Journal Notebook, which has thick, bright pages that handle a variety of pen types with little to no smudging. This planner offers a seemingly infinite number of customization options, so you can create one that's truly your own. High school and college mean more homework, projects, and tests, likely coupled with a job, a sport, or an extracurricular activity. A customizable planner to keep track of all of that is essential, and we're partial to the Agendio Planner for its customization options. It comes in three sizes and three paper thicknesses, and when you order, you can customize the page layout to make the planner work well for you. You have to make lots of decisions just to do that, though. This comfortable pencil has a replaceable eraser, an incense-cedar barrel, and a smooth, dark core. But it costs over twice as much as most writing pencils, and you can't use it on standardized tests. $35 from Amazon (pack of 12) Perhaps you've graduated from a classic Dixon Ticonderoga #2. In that case, the Palomino Blackwing 602 Pencil is the upgrade for you. It writes beautifully and has a replaceable eraser, which is a nice feature for a student. But you can't use it on standardized tests, so we recommend keeping at least one #2 pencil in your arsenal as you take AP, SAT, and ACT tests. For students comfortable and confident in their writing, the Uni-ball Jetstream RT has been our favorite everyday ballpoint pen for over a decade. The ink dries quickly and almost never smudges, and the pen comes in a wide range of tip sizes and ink colors. This compact E Ink tablet covers all the bases, offering a smooth writing feel, a sophisticated notes app, a built-in Kindle app, and a robust drawing app. The stylus, sold separately, starts at $65. For the techiest students, a digital notebook like the Supernote A6 X2 Nomad might be more your speed. This compact device provides a lot of storage, has a pleasant pen-on-notebook feel that takes some getting used to, and offers robust writing features. This versatile, over-ear pair sounds great, has a long battery life, and offers premium features at a lower price than its competitors. Some controls are a bit sensitive, though. A pair of wireless headphones is an essential item for commuting to school, watching videos for homework, or drowning out noisy study groups at the library. The JBL Tour One M2 pair provides great sound, has long-lasting battery life, and is light and comfortable to wear. It also offers decent adaptive noise-cancellation, which is a nice bonus. The Vivobook S 14 has category-leading battery life, a vivid OLED display, and a fun customizable RGB keyboard, all in a thin-and-light body. At this stage in your academic career, you're likely in need a laptop of some kind for typing up papers, doing research, making presentations, and more. If you prefer a Windows interface, you can't go wrong with the Asus Vivobook S 14 (Q423SA-U5512), which is thin, light, sturdy, and blessed with terrific battery life. If you're interested in — or already part of — the Apple ecosystem, we recommend the Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, M4, 2025), which has a terrific display, an upgraded webcam, and a sleek, slim design. This article was edited by Maxine Builder and Catherine Kast.
CNN
2 days ago
- CNN
Patagonia just updated its Nano Puff Jacket. Here's how it compares to the original
Season after season, the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket continues to be a staple for outdoorsy folk since its 2009 debut. It's made with a warm insulation that easily packs down for travelers. Good news for loyalists: The brand just updated the timeless outdoor gear staple. Designed for hiking, climbing or backpacking, the outer layer brings more of the same that our editors loved from the earlier iteration — like warmth without the weight — but with minor tweaks. Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Jacket Patagonia most notably changed the fit with its reimagined Nano Puff. It offers a streamlined silhouette, along with changes in its trims, while tapping a new, soft liner fabric. The reinvented Nano Puff debuts in nine colors for both men's and women's styles, including classics like black and grey to colorful reds and blues. Much like the original, the Nano Puff Jacket update adopts a lightweight, packable and windproof design. Both feature the brand's 60-g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation and water-repellent finish as well as a drawcord waist, a pair of handwarmer pockets and a hidden inner pocket. The two also pack down into themselves for easy travel when you don't need the extra layer. Combined with its quilted pattern, the latest weaves in a durable, abrasion-resistant thread to help keep its insulation in place. The previous jacket flared slightly at the hip to give more room for layering. This slimmer build opts for a more flattering look that you can still layer under, but without the bulk. It also lengthens the shoulder and gives more elbow room for better mobility. It replaces the recycled polyester with a recycled ripstop polyester that feels softer to the touch. The relaunch brings a welcome update to the classic, which we'll add: retails at $10 less than the OG's retail price. If you prefer a more tailored, flattering fit and enjoy adding the latest to your repertoire ahead of chillier weather, the new Nano Puff is a solid investment. However, it's also worth noting that this latest drop simultaneously brings down the price of the OG to $168, marking a stark $61 difference. Snag the discount if you're looking for a frills-free, reliable option. Either way, you can't go wrong. Patagonia has long been a favorite for its packable, insulated jackets, like the Patagonia Micro Puff. When we pit Patagonia vs. Arc'teryx, it edged out the competition when it came to sustainability. Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Jacket If you'd rather pay less upfront, the OG Nano Puff just got more affordable alongside the new launch. It's 29% off in all nine colors across men's and women's styles. CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors with years of product testing experience, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We consult top experts when relevant to ensure we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Keeping an eye on our favorite brands, we also report on the latest product news.
