It’s Member Rewards time at REI! That means REI members have just received their annual 10% reward on purchases from last year. We look forward to this every year since – if you have a backpacking gear addiction like we do – your reward can add up to big savings on something new.

And if you didn’t get a big reward this year, don’t worry. REI is also offering member coupons for 20% off one full-price item and an extra 20% off one REI Outlet item with coupon code: MEMBER24, as well as some sweet sale prices on a few big-ticket items during their Member Moment event which runs from March 15-25th. 

If you’re not an REI member yet, you can pick up a lifetime membership for $30 and still get to use the 20% off coupon – it pretty much pays for itself with one big purchase.

So without further ado, here are the top 35 ways to save at REI’s Member Moment Event.

Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoes – $96 with Coupon

Merrell’s Moab 3s (men’s / women’s) are high-quality hiking shoes at an affordable price. They are comfortable right out of the box, durable, and much more breathable than many other traditional-style hiking shoes. You won’t need to spend any time breaking these babies in before they’re trail-ready, and many hikers swear by them for their comfy high-volume fit. The Moabs are our top budget pick on our Best Hiking Shoes for Men / Women lists.

Saucony Peregrine 14 – $122 with Coupon

We’ve hiked some of the most challenging trails in the world in Saucony Peregrines (men’s / women’s), and they’re some of our favorites due to their exceptional traction. These shoes are lightweight and breathable thanks to the mesh upper, so your feet stay comfortable while covering serious distance on trail. The Peregrines rank highly on our Best Hiking Shoes for Men / Women and Best Trail Running Shoes for Men / Women lists.

Lowa Renegade Hiking Boots – $204 with Coupon

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid (men’s / women’s) is our top recommendation for hikers who frequently take on tough terrain with a heavy pack. Their unrivaled durability and foot protection will keep you moving confidently no matter what the trail has in store. Boots with this level of support can often feel a little restricting, but the Renegades are very comfortable after a short period of break-in. Check out the Renegades at the very top of our Best Hiking Boots for Men / Women lists.

Chaco Z/1 Classic Sandals – $84 with Coupon

The Chaco Z/1 Classics (men’s / women’s) are our all-time favorite hiking sandals because they have an adjustable fit that can accommodate any foot shape, they’re surprisingly supportive for sandals, and they’re ridiculously durable. The footbeds on the Z/1 Classics are pretty firm, so go with the Z/Clouds (men’s / women’s) if you prefer more cushion. The Z/1 Classics and Clouds are number one on our lists of the Best Hiking Sandals for Men / Women.

REI Skyward Tent – 50% Off for Members

The REI Skyward 4 (also available as a 6-person) is the latest iteration of our longtime favorite camping tent, the Grand Hut. We like the Skyward for its high-quality tent poles/fabrics, spacious interior, and ease of setup. It has near-vertical walls and a 6.5 foot peak height, so you can stand and move around freely. The vestibule off the front is handy, and we like that there’s an awning over the door for drip-free entry. The Skyward is a well-rounded tent with a sweet balance of simplicity and spaciousness which made it our number one pick on our Best Camping Tents list.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 – $423.96 with Coupon

The Copper Spur HV UL2 is one of our all-time favorite backpacking tents. Its ultralight freestanding design enables hikers to pitch almost anywhere, and it doesn’t sacrifice convenience, weather protection, or livability. The UL2 has enough space for two regular-width sleeping pads and some gear, but you could bump up to the Copper Spur UL3 ($463.96 with coupon) if you want enough space to accommodate wide sleeping pads.

REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ – $279.20 with Coupon

The REI Half Dome SL 2+ is already really well priced for its quality – it’s durable, spacious, and easy to set up – but it’s an absolute steal if you use your member coupon on it. The symmetrical freestanding design and very roomy dimensions of the Half Dome make it comfortable and user-friendly for hikers camping in the frontcountry, and the reasonable weight makes it a viable option for backcountry use too. The Half Dome ranks highly on both our Best Camping Tents and Best Backpacking Tents lists.

REI Wonderland 4 – $439.20 with Coupon

REI’s Wonderland Tent comes in a few sizes, but our top pick is the Wonderland 4. This tent has a high ceiling, giant doors, and convenient storage pockets, so it’s very luxurious for frontcountry camping. If you’re in the market for a new family camping tent, this is an awesome way to spend your coupon and dividend. See how it stacks up against the competition on our Best Camping Tents list.

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 – $359.96 with Coupon

Ounce-counting hikers will love the ultralight, semi-freestanding design of the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2. This tent has enough structure to hold up in bad weather, but it’s barely over a pound each for two hikers splitting the weight. The Tiger Wall is a convenient alternative to non-freestanding ultralight tents, as it’s much more intuitive to set up and its double-wall  design keeps condensation to a minimum. The Tiger Wall is our top semi-freestanding tent on our Best Backpacking Tents list.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 40 – $303.20 with Coupon

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 40 is one of our favorite tough-as-nails ultralight backpacks, and we’ve used it for thousands of miles of adventures. The DCF fabric and taped seams on the Southwest make it as close to waterproof as you can get, amazingly lightweight, and incredibly durable. The Southwest holds a place among our top lightweight backpack picks. It’s available in three capacity sizes, though our top recommendations are the 40 L and 55 L.

REI Flash 55 – $159.20 with Coupon

The REI Flash 55 (men’s / women’s) backpack is a budget-friendly option for hikers who want to keep pack weight low. It features a comfortable hipbelt, a supportive back panel, and excellent pockets. One of the more unique features of the Flash is its Packmod system – the straps, top lid, and pockets can be removed and reconfigured into several combinations to suit your needs. The Flash 55 is our number one pick on our list of the Best Backpacking Backpacks.

Osprey Atmos 65 & Aura 65 – $272 with Coupon

If carrying comfort is your top priority for a backpacking pack and you don’t mind carrying some extra weight, the Osprey Atmos 65 (men’s) & Aura 65 (women’s) are great options. The ample padding and beefy suspension on these packs transfer weight to the hips far better than any lightweight pack. The Atmos and Aura are fan favorites in many backpacking circles, and they rank highly on our Best Backpacking Backpacks list.

Osprey Talon 22 & Tempest 20 – $128 with Coupon

The Osprey Talon 22 (men’s) and Tempest 20 (women’s) sit at the top of our Best Hiking Daypacks list because of their exceptional blend of durability, organization, and support. These packs have cushy hip belts, well-padded shoulder straps, and ventilated back panels, so they’re very comfortable for long days on trail.

REI Flash 22 – $47.96 with Coupon

The small, simple REI Flash 22 is one of our go-tos for jaunts around town and short day hikes with a lightweight load. This pack has convenient pockets and – despite its minimal build  – enough structure to feel comfortable during long carries. The affordability and convenience of the Flash 22 earned it a top spot on our list of the Best Hiking Daypacks.

Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Backpack – $160 with Coupon

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35 has everything we look for in a travel pack – streamlined organization, easy-access pockets, a comfortable carry, and unique style. This travel bag is constructed with thick, durable material, making it a capable pack to send through the tough-on-gear bag check process. The Allpa has a removable hipbelt for times when you need to carry a heavier load, and the shoulder straps are nicely padded. The Allpa comes in several sizes, but the 35L size is our top pick on our Best Travel Backpacks list.

REI Magma 15 or Magma 30 – $343.20/$303.20 with Coupon

The REI Magma 15 / Magma 30 sleeping bags have an excellent combination of weight and warmth. If you’re looking for one sleeping bag that works for most of the year, the cozy Magma 15 is an excellent choice. It’s warm enough for shoulder seasons and mild winter conditions, and it can be left open on warm nights for ventilation. Hikers who mostly backpack in the summer will likely prefer the Magma 30 for its lower weight. The Magma 15 and 30 are our top picks on our Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags list.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT – $167.96 with Coupon

Therm-a-Rest’s NeoAir XLite NXT has been our favorite backpacking sleeping pad for many years. It has an unrivaled combination of comfort, warmth, and weight that makes it incredibly hard to beat for backpacking. The Xlite NXT is 3 inches thick, so it’s a bit cushier than many pads with comparable specs. We’ve put this pad through the wringer over thousands of miles on the trail, which is why it’s number one on our list of the Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT – $191.96 with Coupon

The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT is one of the warmest and most durable lightweight sleeping pads on the market. So if you sleep cold or you often backpack in sub-freezing temps, this is our top recommendation. The latest NXT model is warmer, thicker, and even a touch lighter than before. Check out how the XTherm compares to the other best backpacking sleeping pads out there.

Therm-a-rest Compressible Pillow – $25.56 with Coupon

The Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow has become a go-to for us due to its supportive and cushy design. This pillow comes in several sizes, but we prefer the small because it feels luxurious enough for car camping while still being light and packable enough for backpacking. The Therm-a-Rest Compressible is our top choice on our Best Backpacking & Camping Pillows list.

REI Siesta 20 – $111.20 with Coupon

The REI Siesta 20 (also available as a two-person bag) is one of our go-to sleeping bags for car camping because it’s roomy, durable, and comes in at a great value price. The rectangular hood helps trap in heat on chilly nights, and it can accommodate a full-size bed pillow. Additional convenient features include a built-in stash pocket to keep small items secure and a wraparound zipper that allows you to open the Siesta up like a blanket. The Siesta earns the number one spot on our Best Camping Sleeping Bags list.

Exped Megamat 10 LXW – $207.96 with Coupon

The Exped MegaMat 10 (also available as a double) is one of the most luxurious camping mattresses we’ve ever tested. This mattress is four inches thick, so side-sleepers and rotisserie-sleepers won’t struggle with pressure points or bottoming out. The Megamat self-inflates, so all you need to do is blow a few breaths in to dial in your perfect firmness after its done puffing up  on its own. And when your trip is over, the one-way deflation valve and top-loading stuff sack make packing up quick and easy.

HEST Camp Pillow – $71.20 with Coupon

The HEST Camp Pillow is like having the comfort of home in a compact package that’s easy to transport and clean. It’s the largest pillow on our list of the Best Camping Pillows, and the shredded memory foam fill provides excellent support that doesn’t flatten out. The regular size is plenty big for our needs, but an even larger Standard Pillow is also available. 

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie – $263.20 with Coupon

The warm and well-rounded Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie (men’s / women’s) is an excellent option for folks looking for a daily jacket. Small details, like a soft zipper cover at the chin, an internal chest pocket, and hem adjustments that are accessible from inside the hand pockets, make the Down Sweater comfortable and practical for use around town and for casual hikes. This hoodie is our top pick for everyday wear on our list of the Best Down Jackets.

REI 650 Down Jacket – $103.20 with Coupon

If you’re on a tight budget, the already affordable REI 650 Down Jacket (men’s / women’s) is a good candidate for coupon usage. This jacket isn’t quite as warm or packable as many other puffy jackets due to its low-fill-power down, but it’s still lightweight and suitable for shoulder season backpacking. The 650 Down is our top budget pick on our Best Down Jackets list.

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket – $143.20 with Coupon

The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L (men’s / women’s) is a well-priced, durable, and well-fitting rain jacket. Its laminated 3-layer construction is highly protective in sustained rain, but the jacket still feels light and breathable. Because it’s so versatile and such an awesome value, the Torrentshell is the rain jacket we recommend most for all-around use from our Best Rain Jackets list.

REI Rainier Rain Jacket – $79.96 with Coupon

The REI Rainier Rain Jacket (men’s / women’s) is already a budget-friendly jacket, so it’s quite the deal with the 20% off coupon! We love this jacket because it has all the features we use most (like pit zips and hem/hood adjustments), it’s lightweight, and it comes in a wide array of nice color choices. We also suggest picking up the Full-Zip Rainier Rain Pants (men’s / women’s) to feel like an unstoppable rain-defying machine. The Rainier rain gear can be found on our lists of the Best Rain Jackets and Rain Pants.

Patagonia Better Sweater – $127.20 with Coupon

Patagonia’s Better Sweater (men’s / women’s) is one of our favorite fleeces due to its versatility – it’s stylish enough to wear around town and functional enough to wear as a layer for adventures. The material is comfortable and it holds up incredibly well over time – one of our gear testers has been wearing hers for about a decade now, and it’s still going strong! The Better Sweater is our top pick on our Best Fleece Jackets list.

prAna Stretch Zion II & prAna Halle Hiking Pants – $76 with Coupon

PrAna clothing has a reputation for comfort and durability, and our favorite pants in their lineup – the Stretch Zion IIs for men and the Halle Pants for women – certainly live up to that legacy. Both styles strike an excellent balance between trail-worthy performance and body-flattering fit. We’ve rocked the highly durable Stretch Zions and Halles for years, and both rank highly on our Best Hiking Pants for Men / Women lists.

Outdoor Research Echo Sun Hoodie – $60 with Coupon

The Outdoor Research Echo (men’s / women’s) is our favorite sun shirt because it’s comfortable, light, and the fabric keeps you cool. The lightweight polyester breathes well when you’re working hard on the trail, and it wicks moisture effectively if you work up a sweat. This shirt has a hood and thumbholes to provide full coverage, so you can trek confidently in sunny places knowing you’ll be protected all day. See how the Echo compares to our other favorite sun shirts on our Best Sun Shirts list.

MSR PocketRocket 2 – $39.96 with Coupon

The MSR PocketRocket 2 has been the top pick on our Best Backpacking Stoves list for years because it’s lightweight, compact, durable. The PocketRocket has  excellent simmer control and boils quickly, so it’s a good option for those who like to actually cook a meal in the backcountry as well as hikers who just need to boil water to rehydrate some food.

Jetboil Flash – $103.96 with Coupon

Hikers who mostly use a backpacking stove to boil water for rehydrating freeze-dried meals can’t go wrong with the Jetboil Flash. This stove system consistently produces the fastest boil times when we test it against other stoves. The Flash comes in at a steeper price than many of our other favorite backpacking stoves, but we think it’s worth the cost since it comes with an integrated cookpot.

Yeti Tundra 65 – $280 with Coupon

The Yeti Tundra 65 has made a big name for itself due to its best-in-class insulation and durability. No matter how hard you play, the Tundra is built tough for rugged adventures. It also doesn’t hurt that it comes in a variety of attractive colors. Learn more about why we like the Yeti Tundra on our Best Coolers list.

Camp Chef Everest – $152 with Coupon

The Camp Chef Everest Stove is a must-have for all you creative camp chefs who love whipping up gourmet meals at camp. This thing is seriously powerful – each burner has a heat output that’s over double that of your typical household stove. Needless to say, that’s a lot of fire power, and it makes for quick and convenient boiling and frying. The Everest stove is our top pick on our Best Camping Stoves list.

Black Diamond Pursuit Trekking Poles – $119.96 with Coupon

Black Diamond’s Pursuit trekking poles are some of the lightest all-aluminum, cork-handled trekking poles we’ve ever tested. This means you’re getting the best of all worlds – the comfort of cork, the durability of aluminum, and not much added weight over carbon fiber poles. The Pursuits landed the number one spot on our Best Trekking Poles list.

REI Skyward Chair – $47.96 with Coupon

The REI Skyward from our Best Camping Chairs list is a simple and affordable chair that’s great for sitting around a campfire, at the beach, or just about anywhere. It’s made of a highly breathable mesh with supportive webbing straps, so it’ll help keep you cooler and more comfortable on hot days and it dries quickly if it gets wet in the rain. Though it’s a bit basic, we love it for its comfortable seat height, ease-of-use, and portability.

Outdoor fires have rules. They’re for our safety and the protection of the environment. An average of 7.5 million acres of forest are impacted by wildfires each year. And almost 85% of wildfires are caused by humans.

These statistics and recent wildfire devastations remind us that even us ‘smores lovers need to take campfires very seriously and be totally certain conditions are safe for a fire.

The good news is that most of the fire damage done to our public and private lands can be prevented. With a little extra prep, attentiveness, and care, we can all make a large impact on the future of our natural spaces. In this article, we’ll outline how to safely enjoy a fire outdoors.

And for more info, check out some of our other most popular gear guides:

10 Fire Safety Tips

1. Maybe Don’t Make a Fire

The best way to lessen the impact of campfires on our natural spaces is to just do without them. Sure, fires are fun and warm. But even more fun is having beautiful wildernesses we can all enjoy for years to come. Below this list of tips, we outline our favorite ways to stay cozy at camp without fire.

2. Check The Area’s Current Fire Danger LevelS

Always check with the area’s managing agency to get the most up-to-date information on the fire danger level. To find this info, stop in the nearest forest service station on your way out, consult the county website, or make a call or web visit to the Bureau of Land Management, National Forest Service, state and local parks, and other agencies.

3. Check For Fire Restrictions or Regulations Before You Go

As mentioned above, you should also check whether there are fire regulations for the exact area you’re going to.

This information will be more specific than the general fire danger level for an area, and may include restrictions such as no fires above a certain elevation, no fires within a certain distance of a natural feature, no fires on certain days, etc.

4. Use Established Fire Rings

Established fire rings are the safest places to build a fire. They can be found at most established campgrounds and sometimes even at backcountry sites. Make sure to clear and pack out any trash found in the ring, and remove any natural fuel sources before starting your fire.

For campsites that don’t have a fire ring, select a spot that’s free of dry organic material and make a ring out of rocks to contain your fire and its embers. Make sure you aren’t in a place where rising sparks won’t ignite any needles/leaves. Living, green foliage is still very flammable.

Before you leave, make sure your fire is completely extinguished. Use a lot of water to soak the area (fires can ignite in the soil and through roots). Scatter the rocks you used to preserve the wild look of the area (make sure they are cold and not carrying any embers).

In the frontcountry, fire pans (like an oil change pan) or portable fire pits are safe ways to contain fires.

5. Clear Debris Away From Your Fire Ring

Before starting your fire, do a quick sweep around the perimeter to clear leaves, twigs, and other natural fuel sources away from your fire. Cal Fire recommends clearing out an area 10 feet in diameter for your fire.

6. Keep Your Fire Small

Everyone loves the allure of a roaring fire, but it’s not necessary or worth the risk to the land. Smaller fires still produce an enjoyable amount of heat and light, and they’re much easier to burn to ash and fully extinguish when you’re done.

7. Don’t leave your fire unattended

It may be tempting to leave a fire smoldering while you step away for a few hours to hike so that it’s easier to get it going again when you return. But you shouldn’t ever leave your fire unattended. Winds can quickly change and carry little embers a great distance.

8. Extinguish fires completely using water

Make sure you always completely extinguish your fire with water before going to sleep or leaving your site. We use a large water jug in the frontcountry or a lightweight water pouch in the backcountry for extinguishing fires. Using sand or dirt isn’t nearly as effective at completely dousing a fire, so it’s not advisable to use it for putting out your flame. The Leave No Trace organization says you should “burn all wood to white ash, grind small coals to ash, thoroughly soak with water, and scatter the remains over a large area away from camp. Ashes may have to be packed out in river corridors.”

9. Keep extra water close by in case BURNING debris escapes from your fire

It happens sometimes – your wood pops and sends sparks flying or a rogue gust of wind carries some burning ash away. Pay close attention to what your fire is doing at all times, and be ready with extra water to extinguish anything that escapes from your fire ring. Even tiny little embers can start devastating fires. We usually keep a large water jug with us in the frontcountry and a 

10. Be attentive with stoves / lanterns

The risk of starting a fire from a gas lantern or stove is pretty low, but it’s still good to handle these items with care, since they’re sources of flame.

Extra precautions should be used with alcohol stoves since they burn quickly and hot, and they produce invisible flames. We generally recommend avoiding alcohol stoves because we don’t think their weight savings is worth the risk they come with.

Other Fire Tips

Firewood

The type and size of wood you choose is important, as well as where it comes from. Below are some tips to keep in mind.

• Never bring any wood from home – Only start fires with wood that is purchased or gathered(if permitted) from the area you’ll be enjoying your fire in. Wood from elsewhere can introduce pests or invasive flora to an area.
• Size – If you’ll be gathering wood, only collect branches and twigs that are about the size of an adult wrist in diameter. Wood of this size will burn quicker, so you don’t have half burnt smoldering logs to contend with. If you’re bringing logs that you’ve purchased, start with a couple of pieces and only add more once those have almost completely burned down.
• Leave standing deadwood– Do not pull branches or twigs off of standing deadwood. Dead trees provide shelter and nesting sights for animals and sensitive flora can grow there.
• Do not chop down live treesor branches – Only gather fallen twigs and branches from the ground. Chopping live trees and branches can disrupt wildlife habitats and spoil the wild look of natural spaces. Green wood doesn’t burn well anyway, is hard to split, and produces more smoke.
• Scatter unused wood – It’s a nice thought to leave unused wood you’ve gathered for the next person, but it’s much better for the natural space if you scatter what you didn’t burn. This will preserve the natural look of the space and will be less disruptive to wildlife.

Fire & Smoke maps

 If you’re planning to recreate in an area that may be impacted by active fires, consult a fire and smoke map to evaluate whether it’s safe to do so.

Be prepared to pivot to another adventure plan if air quality is unhealthy or there is a risk of a fire spreading to the area you want to visit. Road closures can also be impacted by wildfires.

Leave No Trace

Many of the tips we outline in this article were learned from studying and practicing the Leave No Trace Principles. We encourage everyone to become familiar with all of these guidelines before heading out into the wilderness.

Alternatives to fires

It can be a bummer to find out that the place you’ve picked to camp in doesn’t allow fires. But there are plenty of other things you can do to keep warm or create a nice ambience. Here are some of favorite ways create a cozy camp without fires:

• Camp blankets
• Quilts
• Cozy socks
• Lanterns / Solar lights / String lights

Starting fires in harsh conditions

Fire is one of the most important tools for safety. If you’re caught out in a storm without adequate gear for protection, it could save you from exposure.

It’s tricky to get a fire going in wet conditions, but not impossible. We put together this video to help you learn how to build a fire in wet conditions, and we also reiterate several fire safety tips.

Temperatures are dropping and so are the prices on cold weather gear at REI. The Holiday Warm Up Sale is on from December 8-18th, and it includes big discounts on some of our favorite winter clothing as well as awesome gifts for the outdoorsy folks in your life.

We scoured the sale to find the deals you won’t want to miss at this year’s sale.

REI Magma 850 Hoodie – 30% Off

The unbeatable warmth-to-weight ratio of REI’s Magma 850 Hoodie (men’s / women’s) lands it a top spot on our list of the Best Down Jackets. This jacket is stylish, well-priced, and it conveniently packs down into its own pocket. This is one of the absolute best deals in the sale, and you shouldn’t pass it up if you’re in the market for a new puffy coat.

REI Stormhenge Down Jacket – 30% Off

The REI Stormhenge (men’s / women’s) is a unique down coat/rain jacket hybrid that will keep you warm and protected from the elements on wet, chilly days. It’s a bit heavy for technical use and backpacking, but we love this jacket for everyday wear, day hikes, and car camping. The Stormhenge is our top pick for warmth and waterproofing on our lists of the Best Down Jackets and Best Winter Coats for Men and Women.

REI 650 Down Jacket – 30% Off

If you’re on a tight budget, the already affordable REI 650 Down Jacket (men’s / women’s) is a steal at this sale price. It’s made with lower-fill-power down, so it’s not quite as warm and packable as more expensive jackets, but it’s still lightweight and suitable for shoulder season backpacking. The 650 Down is our top budget pick on our Best Down Jackets list.

REI XeroDry GTX Rain Jacket & Pants – 40% Off

The REI XeroDry GTX Rain Jacket (men’s / women’s) is a solid budget-buy that doesn’t skimp on quality. It has a roomier fit than many other rain jackets, so it easily accommodates insulation layers underneath. The XeroDry Pants (men’s / women’s) are also a good alternative to spendier options if you need a complete set of rain gear. The XeroDry Jacket and Pants are some of the best value options on our lists of the Best Rain Jackets and Rain Pants.

All REI Brand Base Layers – 30% Off

We’ve used tops and bottoms from REI to keep us toasty on backpacking trips for years. The Midweight Top (men’s / women’s) and Base Layer Bottoms (men’s / women’s) are our favorites because they’re warm enough for active days in the winter yet breathable enough for casual hikes in the shoulder seasons. For more info on creating an effective backpacking clothing system, visit our Best Base Layers and Hiking Clothing 101 posts.

Smartwool Base Layers – 30% Off

Several Smartwool items earn high marks on our list of the Best Base Layers for their quality, comfort, and warmth. The Classic All-Season (men’s / women’s) is a versatile layer for shoulder seasons that’s odor-resistant and moisture well. Those looking for more warmth should look at the Classic Thermal (men’s / women’s). This beefed up layer is perfect for winter when you really need a blend of insulation and breathability.

Merrell Thermo Chill Boots – 25% Off

Merrell’s Thermo Chill Mid Boots (men’s / women’s) are some of our favorites for cold-weather hikes on muddy or snowy terrain. They have firm support in the midsole for supporting heavy loads of winter backpacking gear, but they’re lightweight overall which means less strain on your joints. The synthetic fleece lining keeps your feet warm but also helps wick sweat away to keep them dry. Learn more about the boots on our lists of the Best Winter Boots for Men and Women.

All REI Brand Gloves – 40% Off

REI gloves are an excellent value if you’re looking for quality without breaking the bank. The touchscreen-friendly Fleece Gloves (men’s / women’s) are warm yet breathable, so they’re a practical option for everyday wear in fall and winter. We also love the ultralight Minimalist GTX Mittens which comfortably slip over gloves to add extra warmth and waterproofing in chilly weather, or you can use them by themselves as rain mitts in warmer months. Get more info on our list of the Best Winter Gloves.

Balega Hidden Comfort Socks – 25% Off

Balega Hidden Comfort Socks are some of our favorite no-shows because they have cushy tabs at the ankle that keep them from sliding down. The plush padding across the entire sole makes them great for hiking in rocky areas or for running, and they’re an excellent affordable choice for those looking for low-cut socks for everyday use. See how they compare to other socks on our list of the Best Hiking Socks.

Buff Headwear – 25% Off

We almost always bring a Buff on our cold-weather adventures because it can be used for warmth, sun protection, or as a rag. Buffs come in a wide variety of colors and styles, but are favorites are the Lightweight Merino Buff for warmth and the Coolnet UV Buff for hikes with a lot of sun exposure.

REI Flash 22 – 30% Off

The small, simple REI Flash 22 is one of our go-tos for short day hikes with a lightweight load. The Flash has convenient pockets and enough structure to feel comfortable during long carries. The affordability and minimal, yet effective design of the Flash 22 earned it a top spot on our list of the Best Hiking Daypacks. This pack also comes in a smaller Flash 18 model that’s also on sale, but we prefer the Flash 22 because of its water bottle and top lid pockets.

Rumpl National Park Puffy Blankets – 25% Off

The Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket is a cozy, down-filled comforter that’s made for the outdoors. It’s highly resistant to moisture and dirt, so it easily sheds spills, debris, or pet hair with a quick shake. All of the Original Puffy Blankets with a National Park print are on sale right now, so you can rep your favorite outdoor spaces while staying cozy. The Original Puffy is our top pick on our Best Camping Blankets list because it’s a great value and it’s exceptionally warm.

Sea to Summit Cooking Gear – 30% Off

One of our favorite cooksets from Sea to Summit is the Alpha Set 2.1. It’s small and lightweight, so it makes packing for trips and storing it at home very easy. The Alpha set includes two insulated mugs and two bowls, as well as a 1.9L pot that the cups and bowls nest in. The Alpha Set ranks highly on our list of the Best Camping Cookware. And if you’re looking for a good stocking stuffer for the avid backpacker in your life, the Sea to Summit Alpha Light Long Spoon is always a hit.

Sea to Summit Telos TR2 – 20% Off

The Sea to Summit Telos TR2 is an innovative tent with a lot of unique features. It has more headroom than any 2-person backpacking tent in its weight class, so it feels a lot more livable than many others. Creature comforts, like the light-dispersing Lightbar and adaptable ventilation, provide luxurious and practically condensation-free nights in the backcountry. See all the things we love about the Telos on our Best Backpacking Tents list.

S2S Ultralight & Etherlight Pads – 30% off

The Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated pad is one of the best value buys on our Best Sleeping Pads list. This pad is designed with “air sprung cells” that do a surprisingly good job of mimicking the feel of a normal mattress without being bulky. Because this pad is a little thinner than many others, it works best for back-sleepers. Side-sleepers will be more comfortable on the Sea to Summit’s Etherlight Insulated XT pad since it’s 2 in. thicker than the Ultralight.

S2S Spark & Flame Sleeping Bags – 30% Off

The Sea to Summit’s Spark 18 and Flame 15 are exceptionally warm for the weight thanks to their full-length draft tubes, down collars on the hood and neck, and box baffles that eliminate cold spots. These sleeping bags are more expensive than many others on our list of the Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags, but they’re also among the lightest and most packable. If you’re in the market for an ultralight sleeping bag, this is a deal you won’t want to pass up.

Platypus Gravityworks Water Filter – 25% Off

The convenience of the Platypus GravityWorks is tough to beat – especially for groups – since it allows you to filter four liters of water at a time. To use this filter, you simply fill up the “dirty” water bag, hang it above the “clean” bag, and let gravity do its thing. No tedious pumping or squeezing required. See how the Gravityworks compares to other water filters on our Best Water Filters list.

Platypus QuickDraw Filter – 25% Off

The Platypus QuickDraw MicroFilter is one of the most durable squeeze filters on the market, so it’s a great choice for thru-hikers or anyone who’s tough on gear. The reservoir that comes with the QuickDraw is sturdier than other filter bags, doesn’t impart any flavor to your water, and it has a convenient handle to make scooping water easy. Its tough build, fast flow rate, and premium reservoir earned it a spot on our list of the Best Water Filters.

Adventure Medical Kits – 25% Off

The AMK Ultralight/Watertight .7 is one of the most popular first aid kits among backpackers because it’ll keep you prepared for most minor incidents on trail, but it’s very light. This kit has pretty much everything we’d put in a DIY kit, but without the expense or work of buying all the supplies individually. AMK kits make great gifts for hikers, and they’re also featured on our list of the Best First Aid Kits.

Up to 50% off Clearance

Wanna save even bigger? Past season items are going on clearance to make way for new releases, and that means you can score awesome gear at unbeatable prices. If you don’t mind being a little behind on the latest fashion trends and gear updates, this is the perfect time to grab some big ticket items – like footwear and tents – at a deep discount.

REI shuts its doors every year on Black Friday and encourages members and employees to #optoutside. Whether that means heading out for a family camping trip, hitting the trail for a day hike, or tackling that trail run you’ve been thinking about, REI will help you get outdoors and do what you love with their

And with the holiday season just around the corner, this is also a great time to get a head start on holiday shopping. With deep discounts on hundreds of items, you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list.

On top of all the great deals, REI Members get lifetime membership for $30 and still get to use the 20% off coupon.

We scoured the sale and put together this list of the deals we’re most excited about. Trust us, you won’t want to miss this one!

Salomon x Ultra Hiking Boots – 25% Off

Salomon makes some of our favorite hiking footwear, and their popular X Ultra 4 shoes (women’s) are among the best in the lineup. They’re lightweight, comfy, and exceptionally durable without the need to go through a long break-in period. The X Ultra line has ranked highly on our lists of the Best Hiking Boots for Men / Women and Best Hiking Shoes for Men / Women for years.

Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots – 25% Off

The Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots (women’s) are one of the best options from our list of the Best Hiking Boots for Men / Women for hikers wanting burly ankle support. The durable materials, aggressive traction, and supportive design will keep you moving confidently on the most rugged terrain. And though these boots are on the heavier side, they feel more nimble than many other heavy-duty boots thanks to their comfortable design.

Salomon XA Pro Hiking Shoes – 25% Off

The Salomon XA Pro 3D V9s (men’s / women’s) excel on trails with tricky terrain thanks to their stable, supportive build and excellent traction. Because they’re lighter than many traditional hiking shoes but burlier than the trail runners on our lists of the Best Hiking Shoes for Men / Women, the XA Pros are an ideal balance of durability and all-day comfort. These shoes are a top pick for day hikers wanting a good value option that will last for multiple seasons.

Salomon Sense Ridge GTX Trail Runners – 25% Off

If you’re looking for one running shoe that can do it all, the Salomon Sense Ride 5 ( women’s) is a great choice. These shoes have excellent cushioning for road running when you need the extra shock absorption, and their flexibility and traction make them exceptionally responsive over variable terrain when running on trails. Learn more about these shoes on our lists of the Best Trail Running Shoes for Men / Women.

Salomon Speedcross Runners – 25% Off

If you’re the type that frequently tackles tricky terrain with lots of mud or sand, the Salomon Speedcross 6 (women’s) may be your new best friend. This shoe has deep lugs that provide awesome traction in mud, sand, snow, and other soft surfaces. The tall stack height and aggressive build can be overkill for groomed trails and uneven mountain terrain, but you can’t go wrong with the Speedcross if you’re looking for a specialist shoe for soft terrain. Get more details on our lists of the Best Trail Running Shoes for Men / Women.

Kahtoola Traction Devices – 20% Off

Winter is coming! Whether you need traction devices for hiking, commuting, or for just taking the trash can down the driveway, Kahtoola has you covered. Their NANOspikes are perfect for icy days around town. Learn more about each of these on our list of the Best Traction Devices.

Get excited REI members – it’s coupon time! This weekend only (September 23-24th) REI members can get 20% off one full-price item using coupon code: SEPT23. Oh yeah, and if you’re not an REI member yet, don’t fret! You can pick up a lifetime membership for $30 and still get to use the 20% off coupon. Plus you’ll get to enjoy all the benefits of being a member, and receive a bonus card worth $30 toward a future REI purchase. Here’s how it works:

• Thru Sept 28, 2023, make a $50 purchase at REI
• And add a lifetime membership for a one-time $30 fee to your cart
• Then a bonus card will be emailed for use on a future purchase
  

Benefits of REI Membership

You can pick up a lifetime membership for $30 and still get to use the 20% off coupon. So, your lifetime membership will pretty much pay for itself with one big purchase. Here are some of the reasons all of us here at DuskHiker have been REI members for years:

• Knowledgeable & friendly staff – We always have an awesome experience with the sales and customer service staff. They’re friendly and helpful, and they really know their stuff!
• Save money – There are so many benefits to membership, but some of our favorites are access to 20% off coupons a few times a year, 10% dividend back on full-price purchases, access to the used gear Garage Sale, and discounts on REI Adventures and in-store classes.
• REI brand products are a great value – We generally find that REI brand products strike a great balance between quality and cost. The Magma line of sleeping bags and the Half Dome line of tents are some of our favorite products from their wide range of offerings.
• REI has an excellent return policy – Customer service reigns supreme here. REI gives you 365 days to return or exchange items and we love the ability to buy online and return in store.
• REI is getting into the ultralight game – We’re pretty stoked to see REI jumping into the ultralight arena. They’re now stocking their shelves with UL retailers, such as Hyperlite Mountain Gear, as well as upgrading many of their REI brand product lines to focus on fast and light gear.

Not Sure What to Use Your Coupon On?

Below are some of our favorite big-ticket items from our DuskHiker Gear Guides that would be great ways to use your 20% coupon.

UL3

The UL3 are some of Big Agnes’ best-sellers, and they’re among our all-time favorite backpacking tents. The ultralight freestanding design of the Copper Spur enables hikers to pitch almost anywhere, and it doesn’t sacrifice convenience, weather protection, or livability. The UL2 has enough space for two regular-width sleeping pads and some gear, while the UL3 is roomy enough for two wide pads and keeping all of your gear inside.

XTherm NXT

It’s no secret that we love the NeoAir line of sleeping pads from Therm-a-Rest. You can usually find us snoozing on the XTherm NXT for winter excursions when we need the most insulation. These pads make up the top 3 on our Best Sleeping Pads guide.

Altra Lone Peak 7 Trail Runners

Altra Lone Peaks have long been the flagship shoe of lightweight hikers due to their low weight, grippy outsole, and roomy fit. The 7th iteration of the LPs (men’s / women’s) just might be our favorite – they’re more durable, and they provide the ideal amount of space in the toebox. The Lone Peaks landed the number 1 spots on our Best Hiking Shoes for Men / Women and Best Trail Running Shoes for Men / Women lists. 

Lowa Renegade Hiking Boots

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid (women’s) is a wildly popular boot that offers nearly unmatched durability and foot protection for hikers who regularly tackle tough terrain with a heavier load. We often find that boots with this level of support can feel a bit restrictive, but after a short break-in period the Renegades are very comfortable. Check out the Renegades at the very top of our Best Hiking Boots for Men / Women lists.

REI Flash 22

We often find that a small, simple pack like the REI Flash 22 is all we really need for short day hikes with a lightweight load. The Flash series has been a hiking staple for many years because it’s affordable, has convenient pockets, and there’s enough structure to feel comfortable against your back on a day hike. The minimal, yet effective design of the Flash 22 earned it a top spot on our list of the Best Hiking Daypacks. This pack also comes in a more affordable Flash 18 model, but we prefer the Flash 22 because of its water bottle and top lid pockets.

REI Flash 55

The REI Flash 55 (men’s / women’s)  backpacking pack is an affordable option for hikers looking to keep their pack weight down. This pack has a comfy hip belt, a supportive foam back panel, and a removable top lid. One of our favorite features of the Flash backpacking packs is what REI refers to as Packmod – the straps and pockets can be reconfigured into a whole bunch of combinations. The Flash 55 is a top pick on our list of the Best Backpacking Backpacks.

PrAna Halle Hiking Pants

PrAna makes a lot of great hiking pants with a reputation for comfort and durability, but our favorites are the Halle Pants for men and women. Both styles strike an excellent balance between trail-worthy performance and body-flattering fit. We’ve rocked the Stretch Zions and Halles for years, and both rank highly on our Best Hiking Pants for Men / Women lists.

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow

The Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow is one of the most comfortable pillows we’ve ever taken backpacking or camping. It feels almost like the pillows we use at home, but it’s smaller and much more portable. It comes in several sizes: small, medium, large, and extra large. We prefer the small size to keep weight and bulk to a minimum for our backpacking trips. The Therm-a-Rest Compressible is a top pick on our Best Backpacking & Camping Pillows List.

Patagonia Torrenshell 3L Rain Jacket

The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L (men’s / women’s) is one of our all-time favorite rain jackets because it’s well-priced, durable, and has a great fit. Its laminated triple-layer construction is highly protective in sustained rain and the jacket still feels lightweight on your body. Because it’s so versatile and such an awesome value, the Torrentshell is the number one rain jacket we recommend for all-around use on our Best Rain Jackets list.

REI Rainer Rain Jacket

The REI Rainier Rain Jacket (men’s / women’s) is already a budget-friendly jacket, so it’s quite the steal with your 20% off coupon! We love it because it has all the bells and whistles (like pit zips and hem/hood adjustments), it’s lightweight, and it comes in a wide array of nice color choices. Pick up the Full-Zip Rainier Rain Pants (men’s / women’s) to complete the look and to feel like an unstoppable rain defying machine. The Rainier rain gear can be found on our lists of the Best Rain Jackets and Rain Pants.

REI Skyward Chair

The REI Skyward from our Best Camping Chairs list is a simple, affordable chair that’s great for sitting around a campfire, at the beach, or just about anywhere. It’s made of a highly breathable mesh with supportive webbing straps, so it’ll help keep you cooler and more comfortable on hot days and dry quickly if it gets wet in the rain. 

REI Skyward Tent

The REI Skyward 4 is the latest iteration of our longtime favorite camping tent, the Grand Hut. We like the Skyward tent for its high-quality tent poles/fabrics, spacious interior, and ease of setup. It has near-vertical walls and a 6.5 foot peak height, so you can stand and move around freely. The vestibule off the front is handy, and we like that there’s an awning over the door for drip-free entry. The Skyward is a well-rounded tent with a sweet balance of simplicity and spaciousness which made it our number one pick on our Best Camping Tents list.

Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter

The Sawyer Squeeze has been a mainstay on our Best Backpacking Water Filters List for years. It’s incredibly lightweight at only 3 oz., very compact, and is quite affordable. While squeezing the bag can become tedious over time, we find the Sawyer Squeeze to be one of the more convenient water filters on the market – no pumping, no wait times.

Black Diamond Pursuit Trekking Poles

Black Diamond’s Pursuit trekking poles are some of the lightest all-aluminum, cork-handled trekking poles we’ve ever tested. This means you’re getting the best of all worlds – the comfort of cork, the durability of aluminum, and not much added weight over carbon fiber poles. The Pursuits landed the number 2 spot on our Best Trekking Poles list.

Helinox Chair Zero

The Helinox Chair Zero is one of the best luxury chair options on the market for backpacking since it gets you up off the ground. If you like to spend extra time resting, relaxing, and taking in the sights and sounds of camp, a full chair – like the Chair Zero – may be well-worth carrying for the comfort it provides. It’s also great for concerts, the beach, and other day trips. The Chair Zero earned a spot on our Best Backpacking Chairs and Best Camping Chairs lists.

MSR Pocket Rocket 2

The MSR Pocket Rocket 2 has been the top pick on our Best Backpacking Stoves list for years. This stove is lightweight, compact, durable, and it has great simmer control. The upgraded Pocket Rocket Deluxe has some extra features, like a push button ignitor and better performance in windy weather. Both are truly excellent backcountry stoves that come in handy kit versions as well.

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2

The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 (men’s / women’s) is everything you need for fast and light adventures, and nothing you don’t. Its exceptional balance of warmth to weight is its key strength, and its sleek, layerable design is also a huge plus. The price is a bit steep, but the Ghost Whisperer is a top-of-the-line down jacket that’s well worth the cost for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors. We named the Ghost Whisperer best ultralight jacket on our list of the Best Down Jackets.

Black Diamond Spot 400-R Headlamp

The Black Diamond Spot 400-R is an incredible value – it costs less, weighs less, and has a longer runtime than a lot of the leading rechargeable headlamp competition. It’s also fully waterproof instead of just water-resistant like most others. And the Spot-R gives you the option to use several different beam types at any brightness you choose between 6 and 400 lumens. Looking at all the features, it’s no wonder the Spot 400-R is our number one pick on our list of the Best Headlamps.

REI Siesta 20 Hooded Sleeping Bag

The two-person bag is one of our go-to sleeping bags for car camping because it’s roomy for sprawling, durable, and comes in at a great value price. The rectangular hood adds extra warmth on chilly nights and holds a full-size bed pillow securely in place. The Siesta is our top pick on our Best Camping Sleeping Bags list.

Camp Chef Everest Camping Stove

The Camp Chef Everest Stove is a must have for all you creative camp cooks who love whipping up gourmet camp meals. This thing is seriously powerful – each burner has a heat output of up to 20,000 BTU. By comparison, household stoves have an average output of 7,000 BTU. Needless to say, that’s a lot of fire power! The Everest also features a convenient igniter button and built in wind blockers to maintain efficiency. The Everest stove is our top pick on our Best Camping Stoves list.

More Information

We hope this guide helps you find the perfect gear for your needs. If you have more questions or a suggestion, we’d love to hear from you! Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on our latest posts then visit our Facebook page and Instagram to join the community conversation. If you found this guide helpful, please share on social media and click the little heart button below to give us a digital high five!

Pros

Ultralight

Durston Gear lists the weight of the X-Mid Pro 2 at 21 ounces with the stuff sack, making the Xmid Pro 2 lighter than many of the 2-person shelters on our list of the Best Ultralight Tents. It’s a fantastic value compared to most on our Best Backpacking Tents. While it no longer ranks on either of those lists – other Durston models have taken the helm since the Pro 2 launched – this is still a solid shelter.

We’ve found that keeping our pack weight down helps us enjoy backpacking adventures more. And one of the items that makes a big impact on your pack weight is your shelter. Using an ultralight tent like the X-Mid Pro 2 will make a huge difference in your comfort when covering long distances or tackling big elevation gains.

Excellent ventilation

One of the biggest things we think the X-Mid Pro 2 gets right over other single-wall shelters is the ventilation. All too often tent makers look to shave ounces by excluding a proper way to hold peak vents open or dropping peak vents altogether. The X-Mid has a peak vent on both vestibules and includes small struts to hold them open. Having these open vents up high will give warm air (like from your breath) a way to escape, ultimately lessening the amount of condensation you experience on the inside.

The X-Mid also makes use of the tried-and-true mesh perimeter design. The Duplex perimeter mesh runs more horizontally to the ground, offering a decent amount of mesh at the head and foot that is continuous with the mesh sidewalls (read as: no breaks in the mesh to disrupt airflow). That means this tent sits horizontally to let any condensation drip out – as long as you pitch it properly.

Easy to pack

Silnylon tents, in combination with Dyneema, pack down very small and can be packed down tight into a stuff sack or the bottom of your pack. You have the option to choose a woven or dyneema floor. Woven floors are more durable against abrasion, pack smaller, and are less expensive. Dyneema floors are lighter, waterproof, and do not absorb water, making them faster to dry and quieter – although you’ll pay quite a bit more for it.

While you still shouldn’t use the stuff method of packing with this tent because of the Dyneema canopy – rolling is best to preserve the fabric integrity – we’re impressed with how small it packs down for a tent of this size.

Excellent Wet Weather protection

The shape of the X-Mid Pro 2 doesn’t leave any horizontal areas where rain/snow could pile up. Tents that shed moisture readily are less likely to have bad condensation issues inside when wet weather hits. The shape and vestibule design also keep the doors protected from drips – even when the vestibules are open – which is particularly nice when you have to take a 2 AM bathroom break in the rain. We’ll talk a bit more about the weather benefits of the vestibules later in this review.

Another very handy design feature (that most other UL shelters are decent at, but not quite at the level of the X-Mid Pro 2) is the fact that you can pitch this tent in the rain without getting the interior mesh walls and floor wet. Because you lay the tent out flat in a square with the vestibules zipped up, stake from there, then place the poles through the peak vents, rain never has a chance to enter your living space in the X-Mid Pro 2.

High pockets = less sag

Many tents are constructed with pockets that sit low on the interior wall so they can be easily reached while you’re laying down. While we like the convenience of having small items close at hand, it tends to cause the mesh wall on non-freestanding tents to sag inward. This usually isn’t a big enough gripe to be a dealbreaker, but we definitely appreciate that the higher pockets on the X-Mid Pro 2 don’t encroach on our sleeping area.

Cons

Interior space less convenient

If you’re looking at the X-Mid Pro 2 as a single-person shelter, this point won’t apply to you. We’ve seen many a happy solo hiker living their best life in this model, and we agree that it’s an exceptional tent for one.

But for those who will be sharing this tent with another hiker, it’s not as versatile. This is our biggest gripe with the X-Mid Pro 2 and why it doesn’t always rank the highest. on our lists (including the Pro 2+) for backcountry shelters.

The unique shape of the X-Mid does undeniably provide a lot of headroom, but not where we want it. The interior of this tent is a parallelogram and the poles are offset from one another to create two opposing peaks at either end. This will work well if you want to sleep head-to-foot so that each hiker gets their own end with ample headspace. But that’s not how most people prefer to share a tent, and it’s not how Durston intended the X-Mid to be used.

Sleeping side-by-side, as most hikers do, results in one person having plenty of room to sit up while the other gets a face full of tent wall in the morning. On top of that, the X-Mid is designed so that the person who got the short end of the stick on headroom also sacrifices some convenience when it comes to storage. Their interior pocket is situated at the opposite end of the tent near the other peak.

Are these design choices a dealbreaker? No – the pros still out weight the cons – but after weeks or months on the trail with a partner, it’s impossible not to find issue with.

tough to get perfect pitch

The X-Mid is often praised for its very simple pitch. While the basics of pitching the X-Mid are quite easy – we found getting a taut pitch with no sag or surfaces for water to pool up to be a bit difficult, and takes a meaningful amount of tweaking, adjusting, and time.

To start, lay the tent out flat and stake the corners out in a rectangle. The trouble starts if you don’t stake the corners at almost precisely 90 degrees. You’ll get the trekking poles set only to realize the floor isn’t sitting quite right, the ridgeline is bowed, or a wall is billowing in the wind. You can move the stakes around and improve the pitch, but we find this is often easier said than done. Backcountry campsites hide rocks that impede tent stakes just under the dirt’s surface, and more often the ground isn’t level.

In our experience, A-frame shaped tents are more forgiving when it comes to unideal pitching conditions.

footprint & design makes campsite selection difficult

Non-freestanding tents can pose a challenge when it comes to campsite selection: you need to be able to get stakes in the ground to give the tent structure. This is a potential issue with all non-freestanding tents, not just the X-Mid Pro 2. But where the X-Mid Pro 2 adds an extra layer of difficulty is in its large rectangular footprint.

When looking at its overall dimensions, you’ll see that the X-Mid Pro 2 is a large rectangle. That means you have to find a campsite large enough to accommodate over 55 sq. ft. When you factor in our previous point about the need to pitch the X-Mid with its corners as close to 90° as possible, campsite selection can become a bit challenging.

During testing, we sometimes had to pass up epic campsites because the tent simply wouldn’t fit. We’re not saying this is the only tent that we’ve experienced that with, but we did find it happened more often with the X-Mid.

Expensive

Dyneema shelters always come with a hefty price tag because DCF is an expensive fabric. The X-Mid offers a cheaper floor material as an option (silnylon) that saves some bucks, but it’s still a significant investment.

So why does the X-Mid have a similar price point to tents that are made with more Dyneema? Because the hot-bonding process used on the seams is more costly and time consuming. As we mentioned previously, this process probably won’t make much of a difference to the average user, so we’d rather have the monetary savings from the cheaper material.

You could always get the standard sil-nylon X-Mid 2 for quite a bit less money, but it does weigh almost a pound more (35.4 oz.). That’s still lighter than many tents on our Best Ultralight Tents list , so it could be well worth the monetary savings if you’re willing to carry some extra weight.

Bottom line

The Durston X-Mid Pro 2 is a popular tent in ultralight circles, and we understand why. It’s lightweight, spacious, provides excellent weather protection, and has great ventilation. But for us, the X-Mid Pro 2 misses the mark in a few key areas. We still think it’s a great shelter for solo hikers who want a luxurious amount of space without much weight gain over an ultralight single-person tent, but we’re not quite as keen on this shelter when shared with a partner.

Where we seem to differ in opinion the most from other accounts we’ve read is space. For us, the parallelogram floor shape and the offset poles make the interior awkward to occupy with a partner, as one person will get the short end of the stick when it comes to headroom.

The other key issue is that getting a nice, taut pitch with no sag was harder than we wanted. The large footprint and rectangular shape can also make campsite selection a bit more tedious than with other tents, and we’re not fond of having to struggle with a perfect pitch after a hard day on the trail.

Durston nails many of the details that make for a truly great tent experience, like well-designed vestibules, smart pockets, and outstanding ventilation. But for our two-person adventures, we found that the X-Mid Pro 2 fell a bit short of our high expectations.

For other options that ranked higher, dig into our reviews of the Durston X-Mid Pro 1 and Durston X-Mid Pro 2+, both of which solve some of the issues we had with the regular pro. And, take a look at the other winners on our Best Ultralight Tents Guide and Best Backpacking Tents Guide.

The Strawberry Mountain Wilderness Loop is one of our favorite hikes in Oregon. Out in this Eastern Oregon paradise, you’ll encounter crystal clear lakes, vibrant fields of wildflowers, ample opportunities to view wildlife, and sweeping views of the Blue Mountain Range.

The Strawberries are a little off the beaten path, but we think that makes this trip even more worthwhile. It is a perfect long weekend itinerary.

Quick Facts

• Distance: About 20 miles (varies depending on which side trails you take)
• Days needed: 2-3 days to really experience all this area has to offer
• Type: Loop
• Elevation gain: About 5200 ft., including the side trail to summit Strawberry Mountain
• Best travel time: Summer- early fall (July-October depending on weather)
• Permits: You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency (America the Beautiful) Pass to park at trailheads in the Malheur National Forest
• Difficulty: Challenging

Highlights

• High-elevation lakes with tons of fish
• Sweeping views of the Blue Mountains
• Abundant wildlife (mountain goats, deer, birds, butterflies, etc.)
• Tons of wildflowers (usually July-August)
• Waterfalls
• Relative solitude
• Summiting the highest mountain in the Malheur National Forest
• Well-maintained trail

Lowlights

• Lots of sun exposure
• Some fall risk on narrow trails through scree fields
• Mosquitoes in the spring/summer – especially near the lakes
• Road to the trailhead is a bit sketchy

Best Time to Travel

The best time to visit the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness is in the summer, but depending on when winter weather brings snow, you may be able to access the area in early fall. 

We hiked the trail in late July, which we thought was perfect timing. There weren’t many mosquitoes (except in the evenings near lakes), there were plenty of wildflowers, and the temperatures weren’t too hot during the day nor too cold at night.

Difficulty

Difficulty depends on your experience, physical fitness, pack weight, and weather conditions.

We would categorize this hike as challenging due to the considerable amount of elevation gain, sections of narrow trail through steep/loose scree slopes, and some difficulty navigating.

We fully believe that the heavier your backpack, the harder your hike will be. See our gear recommendations and tips to set yourself up for a great hike. 

Permits

No permits are needed to hike the Strawberry Mountains Wilderness Loop, but make sure you have a Northwest Forest Pass or an America the Beautiful pass to park at the trailhead.

Getting There

The Strawberry Mountain Wilderness Loop is a bit off the beaten path and is a fairly long drive from any major population center. The drive is beautiful, though, and will take you through the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument if you’re coming from the West.

These directions are for getting to the Strawberry Basin Trailhead, but you could also start from the Roads End Trailhead or High Lake Trailhead (both are on FR-1640, but Google doesn’t recognize them – navigating to High Lake, Oregon, will get you to either trailhead). The road up to Strawberry Basin was rutted, narrow, and steep in sections, but we could make it up and down (very slowly) in our older 2WD dually Sprinter Van. Several small sedans were also up there, so most vehicles would be okay going up this road slowly with careful maneuvering. We do not recommend pulling trailers past the Horse Camp on NF-6001.

• From Portland – From Portland, you’ll have just over five and a half hours of very worthwhile hours to travel. There are a couple of different route options, and – while both are beautiful – we think the route that goes through Prineville is the most scenic and only adds about 15 minutes to the drive time. You’ll take Highway 26 all the way East to Prairie City and then turn right on Bridge St., which becomes Strawberry Rd, and then NF-6001. This road ends at the Strawberry Basin Trailhead.
• From Bend – Coming from Central Oregon’s most populous city, you’ll travel for just over three and a half hours. Head northeast through Prineville, then stay on HWY 26 to Prairie City. Turn right onto Bridge St., and follow it to the end to get to the trailhead.
• From Boise – Boise hikers will have less than three and a half hours to drive to the Strawberries. Take I-84 north to HWY 26 west. When you get to Prairie City, take a left on Bridge St. and follow that road to its southern end at the trailhead.

Maps & Guidebooks

We recommend downloading the Gaia phone app. This app allows you to see your real-time location on the map, which saved us a couple of times on the less-traveled southeastern side of the loop.

If you have an iPhone, Topo Maps+ is another great navigation tool that gives you access to many maps and powerful route-tracking features.

Check out our guide on How to Use Your Phone as GPS Device to get the most out of your smart device.

You can also print, download, or buy maps through the following links:

• Avenza App’s Strawberry Mountain Map
• CalTopo
• Forest Service Topography Maps
• Discover Your Northwest: Strawberry Mountain & Monument Rock Wilderness Map

Regulations

It’s always important to practice Leave No Trace when you go into nature to protect yourself and others, wildlife, and the environment. 

Before you head into the wilderness, you should check the Malheur National Forest—Strawberry Mountain Wilderness page to determine the fire danger in the area. While many backcountry sites have fire rings, we strongly recommend avoiding building fires. If you plan to have a campfire during low fire danger times, read our article, 10 Campfire Safety Tips.

Dogs are allowed on this hike, but we recommend leaving your pup home. The trail is frequently narrow, covered in loose rock/scree, and often has steep drop-offs to one side. Wildlife is also abundant, so if you plan to bring your dog – keep it on a leash to minimize risk to the forest inhabitants and your pooch. Get more advice from our article, 14 Tips for Hiking & Backpacking With a Dog.

Water

Water is easy to access from springs and lakes for the first six miles of this trail (going counterclockwise from Strawberry Basin trailhead). The driest stretch is from about a half mile before the Strawberry Mountain summit trail to High Lake (about 7 miles including the summit). Be sure to stock up before you head up this sun-exposed section. We recommend carrying no less than two liters for this part of the hike. 

After High Lake, you’ll trek a somewhat strenuous three miles before you have access to water again via a short side trail to Slide Lake. It’s also a good idea to carry extra through this steep and exposed section.

Slide Lake is your last major water source before you hike the last 3.5 miles back to the trailhead where you started. This stretch of trail is also pretty exposed and hot. Therefore, it may be slower-going than your usual pace due to extremely narrow and loose scree traverses.

We mostly drank from the abundant springs flowing directly out of the mountains on this trail, so we weren’t overly concerned about unsafe water. If you prefer a filter, check out our top picks in our guides to the best backpacking water filters and best water bottles to find out which hydration system is best for you.

FOOD STORAGE

Bear canisters aren’t required on this trail. However, wildlife is abundant in this wilderness, and storing your food properly is always a good idea. We used Ursacks to keep critters from getting into our goods at night.

Route

There isn’t a ton of information available for this loop, so we put together this little description of directions to help you navigate:

From the Strawberry Basin Trailhead parking area, the trail starts behind the pit toilet and follows well-maintained switchbacks up to Strawberry Lake. On the way up, you’ll encounter intersections with the Slide Lake Trail; keep right at these junctions to start the loop counterclockwise. 

After taking in the sights at the lake, you can go either direction at the fork in the trail you came in on to get around the lake. Turning right to go along the west side of the lake is a .8-mile trek; going left to hug the east bank is .4 miles. There are a ton of campsites in the area. But this lake is only a mile from the trailhead, so you’ll likely encounter other campers, fishers, and SUPers/kayakers here – especially on the weekend.

If you took the west bank trail, turn right when you come to a junction on the south end of the lake to rejoin the Strawberry Basin Trail. If you went on the east side, continue at the junction on the southern end. Continue up the gentle slope to the stunning Strawberry Falls. This is a great spot to fill up on water and have a snack before continuing up into a more sun-exposed trail. 

Shortly after the waterfall, you’ll come to a junction with the Little Strawberry Lake Trail on your left. We highly recommend taking this short diversion to see the beautiful lake surrounded by high cliffs. We saw our first six mountain goats on the trail on the rocky faces above this lake. There are also many good camping opportunities here, but mosquitoes can get pretty bad in the summer.

If you took the side trip to the lake, go out the same way you came in and turn left to continue down the trail. If you didn’t take the side trail, continue forward. From here, you’ll gradually ascend a little over 1,000 ft. over the next three miles. You’ll pass several springs and some good camping opportunities. We decided to camp at the last spring near the remains of a wooden cabin so we would be fresh for the rest of the climb to the top of the highest peak in the Malheur National Forest – Strawberry Mountain. There will likely not be any water for about seven miles after this, so stock up here.

Continuing up the Strawberry Basin Trail, you’ll come to a signed junction pointing to Strawberry Mountain. Turn right to take this trail if you’re going for the peak – we highly recommend summiting this mountain. We saw another mountain goat on the way up, and the views from the top were unreal. It’s only a mile to the summit and a little over 600 feet of elevation gain – which you’ll do most of in the last .3 mile push to the top. If you don’t plan to climb the mountain, continue on the Onion Creek Trail – plenty of beautiful views are ahead.

If you summited, congrats! Return the same way you came up, and turn right where you left the trail to join the Onion Creek Trail. 

The Onion Creek Trail will take you across a wildflower-filled ridge with some burned trees. You’ll travel down what appears to be an old dirt road with stunning views (don’t forget to look behind you to catch one last glimpse of Strawberry Mountain) before joining an actual dirt road near the Road’s End Trailhead. Continue ascending on the dirt road until you reach the High Lake Rim Trailhead.

From here, you’ll descend down to High Lake and your first reliable water in seven miles. On one of the last switchbacks, there’s a spring about 30 ft. or so off trail. We chose to fill up here instead of using the lake. There are good campsites at High Lake, but you’re likely to be sharing the area with other campers and fishers since it’s an easy hike from the trailhead.

When we hiked the trail, the sign pointing you toward your next waypoint (Slide Lake) was down and facing the wrong direction, so be sure to pay close attention here. If you’re using GPS, watch your location for a bit to ensure you’re on the correct trail. You should be ascending gradually on a trail that becomes more and more worn in as you get further from the campsites at High Lake.

Just before the top of the ridge, we saw a group of about 30 mountain goats (some with babies!) grazing here. So keep an eye out in the grassy forest ahead. From here to the end of the trail, you’re likely to see many mountain goat tracks along your path.

Once you crest the ridge, you’ll descend to Slide Lake via a narrow, rocky path. The junction to Slide Lake will be on your right once you’re in the valley. We took this short side trail and camped near the lake for our second night. The views from this lake aren’t as impressive as the others, but it’s still lovely in its own right. Several deer visited our campsite, and we heard fish jumping in the lake all morning. Whether camping here or not, you’ll probably want to hit the small stream across this side trail, as it’s your last reliable water until you get back to the trailhead. A few small springs cross the trail nearby, but we’re unsure if they’re reliable. They were flowing weakly when we came through in late July.

After Slide Lake, you will encounter the sketchiest part of the trail: a faint line that sneaks across a steep scree field with a fall risk and unsure footing. A warning that large portions of this trail are washed out. The views are beautiful, and the challenge was pretty fun. But it’s not something we’d want to do in bad weather.

Not feeling like taking this seciton on? Luckily, there’s an alternative. As of summer 2025, there’s a sign at each end of this section that directs you to the “horse route”, a wider, more manageable trail. To link up with the horse trail hook right before the trail for a more mellow, lower-elevation option.

After you get through the scree field, you only have about a mile left until the junction with the Strawberry Basin Trail. This is where you’ll turn right to head back to the trailhead where you started. Once you’re back on the Strawberry Basin Trail, you’ll descend on nicely graded switchbacks for a mile to the parking area.

Pros

Affordable for the specs & quality

Compared to other backpacking tents with similar specs and quality, the REI Flash 2 is much more affordable. The closest comparison would be the Big Agnes Copper Spur 2. We’ll get into some more spec comparisons a bit later in this review, but probably the most important thing to note is that the Flash 2 costs $150 less yet weighs only 2.2 oz. more.

Ultralight

The Flash 2 may sit a little over the weight cut-off for ultralight if you’re really counting every gram. But at barely over 1.5 lbs. when split between two hikers, we consider this tent to be well within the UL territory. The only two-person tents from our list of the Best Backpacking Tents that beat out the Flash’s weight in any significant way are non-freestanding – like the ZPacks Duplex – or have less usable interior space – like the MSR Freelite 2.

Even for solo hikers looking for a little extra space to sprawl in a two-person tent, the Flash’s full packaged weight (3 lbs. 4.2 oz.) is perfectly reasonable for a shelter.

Roomy interior/excellent headroom

 The Flash 2 feels much roomier than its specs suggest. It has the exact same floor dimensions and peak height as the Big Agnes Copper Spur 2, but the pole structure of the Flash pulls out a lot more headroom where you need it most. 

The Flash has a crosspole at the apex that extends its peak height out to the sidewalls for more headroom in the center of the tent. Additionally, it features an arch pole at the head that pulls the walls away from you and extends the headroom created by the crosspole. This gives more usable interior volume than the single crosspole at the peak of many backpacking tents.

Excellent weather protection

The Flash 2 comes fully seam-sealed and ready to go in rainy weather. The scooped design of the rainfly cuts out a lot of weight without sacrificing weather protection, since the headwall and foot of the tent are waterproof.

The arch pole at the head of the Flash provides a good amount of structure for keeping the tent upright in high winds. There are additional guyout points you can use for extra stability if you’re in for some particularly nasty weather, but you’ll need to tie them on yourself. It’s a simple task, though, and the extra included guylines come with pre-attached tensioners to make life easy.

While we find the Flash to be plenty sturdy for your typical rainstorm or windy night, it’s important to note that this is still a piece of ultralight gear and all tents have their breaking points. As such, it will have its limits and isn’t going to be as bomber as some heavier models, like the REI Half Dome 2.

Good pockets

The pocket setup on the Flash 2 is a little different from most other tents. There are four pockets lining the headwall above where you sleep that keep stored items neatly organized and out of the way. 

While we typically prefer each occupant to have one pocket down low for easy access while laying down, we appreciate that items stored in the pockets of the Flash don’t cause the walls to sag as is common with pockets situated low next to the tent door.

Two doors/vestibules

Most two-person tents nowadays have a dedicated door and vestibule for each occupant, but we still think it’s worth noting. No one wants to be crawling over their tentmate in the wee hours for a late night bathroom break or shuffling over two sets of gear in the vestibule to get inside.

Cons

Thin materials

The 20-denier nylon floor of the Flash is thin enough to see through, and – as is the case with pretty much any piece of ultralight gear – it requires some care to ensure it lasts as long as possible.

In the early stages of testing, we had a pine needle work its way through the floor. There isn’t any major damage to speak of, but it reinforced our view that carrying a bit of Tenacious Tape is a must when using UL gear.

We find that making sure to clear your campsite of as many sticks, rocks, and other pokies as possible will go a long way in helping to keep your tent floor in good shape. But you can always opt to use a footprint with the Flash for extra protection in rugged areas or if you’re particularly hard on gear.

A bit heavier/bulkier than other ultralight tents

We mentioned this earlier in the review, but the Flash 2 isn’t the lightest of ultralight tents. You can go far lighter if you opt for a single-wall Dyneema shelter, but you’ll be losing out on the convenience and condensation mitigation that comes with a double-wall freestanding design. You’ll also pay a considerably larger amount of money.

The Flash 2 also doesn’t pack down quite as small as those lighter weight tents, but overall we find the packed dimensions to be reasonable for storage inside your pack with some good spatial planning. If you’re splitting the load between two hikers, you’ll actually save pack space versus many single-wall tents that can’t be pieced out between two backpacks.

We prefer to have one pocket that sits lower

This is a minor point, but we like the convenience of a pocket that sits near your head when lying down for easily grabbing items – like a headlamp – in the dark. All of the pockets on the Flash sit up high on the headwall and are most conveniently accessed when sitting up.

Bottom Line

With a low weight, convenient freestanding design, and all the details dialed in, the REI Flash 2 is a definite winner for hikers looking to save a considerable amount of money over the leading ultralight competition. The Flash’s unique pole structure provides more room than the average two-person tent for two hikers, and the innovative ventilation system will keep the interior comfy and condensation free on all but the wettest nights. If you’ve drooled over ultralight freestanding tents in the past, but your wallet said no – the Flash 2 is the solution.

Pros

Ultralight

Weighing in at just under two pounds, this pack is very light. Compared to our other favorite packs from our Best Backpacking Backpacks list, the HMG Unbound 40 is in the top three lightest backpacks. It’s beaten out only by the less durable Zpacks Arc Blast and the not as water-resistant Gossamer Gear Gorilla.

Keeping weight to a minimum is important for reducing stress on your body. We like to travel light so we can go further, go faster, and generally be more efficient on trail. Worrying less about the weight on your back usually means enjoying your hike more.

About as close to waterproof as backpacks get

The Unbound is made with Dyneema fabric, which is waterproof. The seams are also taped for even more water-resistance. So why don’t we just call this backpack waterproof? Well, 100% waterproof bags are heavy and made with a rubberized material that’s not practical for backpacking. In practice, it’s VERY tough to make a truly waterproof backpack – think submerging it in a lake – but the Unbound 40 is about as close as it gets for normal backpacks.

This is one of our favorite features of the Unbound 40 because it allows us to hike through rain without worrying about important items – like our sleeping bag and extra clothing – getting drenched. Pairing this backpack with waterproof stuff sacks will give you double protection and peace of mind when the weather is nasty.

Bottom pocket

Following in the very successful footsteps of cottage brands, like Pa’lante Packs and Atom Packs, Hyperlite added a bottom pocket to the Unbound 40. This is a fairly new feature on mainstream backpacks, but we think it’s great, and we expect more companies to start incorporating them.

The bottom pocket has quickly become my favorite feature on ultralight backpacks – to the point where it feels strange for me to use one without this storage option. This pocket can be used to store things like snacks, drink mixes, or gloves for easy access on the go. I’ve even used it to change out of my rain jacket after a downpour without having to stop hiking – very handy on the Colorado Trail where the weather changes constantly.

Innovative front pocket

The front pocket is pretty unique as it has two access points – a standard top entry and then a little shelf pocket at the bottom that can be accessed independently. We use the shelf pocket to hold smaller items we don’t want to have to search too hard for when we need them – like sunscreen and tent stakes.

The fabric is Dyneema stretch mesh – a departure from the Hardline with Dyneema front pocket of the Southwest line and the Dyneema net front pocket of the Windrider series of packs. We have a slight preference for the stretch mesh of the Unbound because it looks more sleek, keeps items more secure, and cuts down on front pocket bulk that can make your load feel unbalanced.

Adaptable

Some components of the Unbound 40 can be removed, so it easily transitions from a full-featured thru-hiking pack to a trimmed down weekend hauler. Removable components include the hipbelt, aluminum frame stay, and compression straps. That said, we don’t recommend removing these items unless your total carry weight will be around 20 lbs.

Cons

(Honestly, we absolutely love this pack & found very few things to put here)

EXPENSIVE

Compared to other packs on our Best Backpacks list, the Unbound is among the most expensive. But when you consider what you’re getting – exceptional durability, ridiculously low weight, and virtual waterproofness – we say the Unbound 40 is well worth the cost for hikers looking to go light without making sacrifices on longevity or convenience.

Minimal padding

The Unbound 40 isn’t going to be as supportive as a heavily padded traditional pack with a suspension system, but it does include some cushion on the hipbelt and shoulder straps. We find this backpack to be most comfortable with a total packed weight of 30 lbs. or less, which can be a bit tough to achieve if your gear isn’t dialed in.

Bottom Line

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 is really giving our longtime favorite, the HMG Southwest 2400 a run for its money. This innovative pack should be at the top of the list for long-distance hikers due to its efficient design, weather protection, and low weight. While it’s a bit expensive, the Unbound 40 is a worthwhile investment for hikers looking for a backpack with an unrivaled balance of durability and weight.