Is an REI Membership Worth It?

Q: What does an REI Membership cost?

The REI Membership costs a one-time $30 fee that grants lifetime membership and access to member benefits like rewards, free shipping, and discounts.

Q: How do I earn the 10% REI Member Reward?

Members typically earn a 10% reward on eligible full-price purchases during the year; the reward is issued as a credit that becomes spendable the following March, subject to terms.

Q: Can I shop at REI without a membership?

Yes. You can shop at REI without a membership, but non-members miss out on the 10% rewards, member-only deals, free shipping, and access to Re/Supply.

Q: Are there discounts on services for REI members?

Yes. Members get discounts on services such as 20% off bike and snow shop maintenance and reduced prices for many classes and events.

Q: Is the REI Membership worth it if I rarely shop there?

If you rarely shop at REI, the membership might not pay for itself. It’s most valuable for frequent shoppers or those who use classes, services, and the Re/Supply marketplace.

Published by

Clara

May 4

Is spending $30 on an REI membership truly worthwhile? If you shop there more than once a year, the likely answer is “yes.”

REI Co-op stocks nearly every piece of outdoor equipment you could imagine, except for fishing rods and hunting firearms. That merchandise comes with a one-year return window, complimentary shipping and a 10% rewards credit — but only for members. For people who love the outdoors, the membership can repay itself quickly.

Here’s a look at whether an REI Co-op membership makes sense for you.

What Is an REI Membership?

Members are what make REI a true co-op. REI operates as a consumer cooperative, meaning members have a voice in how the organization is run — and receive a slice of its profits. Purchasing the $30 membership enrolls you in the co-op.

The membership brings several benefits. You receive a 10% reward on REI purchases, exclusive member-only deals and entry to a used gear marketplace, among other perks. “It helps members save time and money, so they can get outside more often,” said Clay Walton-House, Vice President of Co-op Membership at REI.

It’s not purely financial. Members also back REI’s advocacy initiatives, with $5 from each membership fee directed to the REI Cooperative Action Fund. Members can even participate in governance decisions occasionally. In May 2025, REI members voted to reject the company’s selected board nominees.

To be clear, membership isn’t required to shop at REI. You’ll simply miss out on those attractive extras.

Tip: REI memberships are good for life. You might already be a member and not remember.

How Much Does the Membership Cost?

As of June 2025, the membership fee is $30. “That one-time $30 payment covers your membership for life,” Walton-House said.

Tip: Watch for promotions that improve the value. Through September 1, 2025, if you make a $50 purchase and add a $30 membership to your checkout, you’ll receive a $30 bonus card.

Key Financial Benefits of a Membership

What do you get for your $30 REI membership? Below is a non-exhaustive rundown.

REI Member Reward. Members typically receive 10% back on eligible purchases at year-end. Before you get too excited, check the fine print. The 10% is “typical but not guaranteed.” Rewards apply to full-price items at REI — not used, outlet or clearance gear — and the credit becomes spendable in March for purchases made the prior year.
REI Re/Supply. Only members can use the Re/Supply used gear marketplace. Trade in worn skis for store credit or find pre-loved hiking boots at a bargain. Walton-House says REI handles any needed repairs. “You can trust these products still have useful life left, which is different than buying items on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.”
Free Shipping. Ordering a single bottle of Permethrin from REI.com? Shipping is $7.99 unless you’re a member — then it ships for free.
Class Discounts. REI offers instructional classes — members pay less. A Beginner’s Camping Workshop at the Alpharetta REI cost $45 for the public but only $15 for members.
Maintenance Discounts. Members receive 20% off bike and snow shop services.
Longer Return Window. While REI no longer offers a lifetime guarantee, members typically enjoy a one-year return period versus 90 days for non-members, with some exceptions.

Is an REI Membership Worth It for You?

Those benefits sound appealing, but do they justify $30?

The membership could be worthwhile if…

You expect to recoup the fee. “Many members find they get back $30 in savings on their first or second purchase,” Walton-House noted. That might be due to a limited-time promotion or a larger purchase. A single Yeti cooler, for example, could generate $30 or more in rewards.
You want to join the REI community. REI stores do more than sell gear — they service equipment and host classes. If you plan to be a frequent visitor, the membership likely pays off.
You buy high-quality gear. REI offers budget-friendly private-label items, premium top-tier products and everything between. If you’re committed to outdoor pursuits and will invest in high-end gear, earning 10% back on those purchases makes sense.

Conversely, membership might not suit you if:

There’s no REI nearby. If you don’t live close to an REI, you’ll miss out on classes and service discounts.
You have an excellent independent outdoor shop nearby. If you’re fortunate to have small businesses serving your outdoor needs, you may prefer to support them instead.
You’re a deal seeker. Hunting through Re/Supply, the outlet, or clearance racks won’t earn you rewards.

Final Verdict: Is an REI Membership Worth the Cost?

Our take? If you rarely shop at REI, skip the membership. If you visit REI every so often, go for it — the fee can reimburse itself quickly. If you want the membership but $30 feels steep, wait for a promotion; a well-timed purchase might cover the cost.

Also consider checking out related savings advice like costco sams club membership heres get moneys worth for additional ways to stretch your membership dollars.

Contributor Harper Nolan is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in various outlets.