REI's used gear section is a physical and online marketplace where members and non-members can buy secondhand outdoor equipment directly from REI

REI operates a used gear program through its retail locations and online platform. The program sells returned items, floor models, and gear donated or traded in by customers. You do not need to be an REI member to browse or purchase, though members receive a dividend on used gear purchases just as they do on new purchases. The inventory changes constantly because stock depends on what customers return or trade in, so what is available today may be gone tomorrow.

Used gear typically costs 20 to 50 percent less than the same item new, depending on condition and how long it has been in stock. REI grades each item by condition — usually "Like New," "Good," or "Fair" — and describes any damage, wear, or missing parts in the listing. You can shop in person at any REI store or online at REI.com under the Used Gear section. Online purchases ship to your home or to a store for pickup.

Key Takeaways

  • REI's used gear comes from customer returns, trade-ins, and donations, so inventory is limited and changes daily.
  • Each item is graded by condition and includes a written description of any damage, wear, or missing components.
  • Prices typically run 20 to 50 percent below the new price for the same model, with deeper discounts on older or heavily used items.
  • REI members earn a dividend on used gear purchases at the same rate as new purchases, though you do not need membership to buy.
  • Used gear comes with REI's standard return policy: 30 days for most items, though some used electronics have shorter windows.

How to find used gear online and in stores

On REI.com, navigate to the Used Gear section from the homepage or search for a specific item type — tent, backpack, sleeping bag, boots — and filter by "Used" to see what is in stock. Each listing shows the condition grade, a photo, the description of any wear or damage, the original retail price, and the current used price. You can sort by price, condition, or newest listings.

In a physical REI store, used gear is typically displayed in a dedicated section near the front or back of the store, though layout varies by location. Staff can tell you what used items are in stock and may be able to check the online inventory for your size or model if the store does not have it on hand. Availability is not may provide — popular items and common sizes sell quickly, sometimes within hours of being priced.

Understanding condition grades and what they mean

REI uses three main condition grades for used gear. Like New means the item shows little to no visible wear, has been used minimally, and functions exactly as intended — typically returned items or floor models used for display. Good means the item has been used but shows only minor wear, scuffs, or fading; all zippers, seams, and components work properly. Fair means the item has visible wear, possible stains or discoloration, and may have minor damage that does not affect function — a tent with a small patch, a backpack with a faded color, or boots with worn soles.

The listing description always specifies what damage or wear exists. Read this carefully before purchasing. If a tent is marked "Fair" with "small tear in rain fly, patched," you know exactly what you are getting. If a backpack is "Good" with "no visible damage," you can expect it to look nearly new. REI does not sell items that are unsafe or non-functional, so even Fair-condition gear is usable for its intended purpose.

Pricing and how much you save

Used gear prices depend on the original retail price, the condition grade, and how long the item has been in stock. A tent that originally cost $300 might be priced at $180 to $220 if it is in Good condition, or $120 to $150 if it is Fair. A backpack originally $200 might be $100 to $140 used. Older models or items that have been in the used section for weeks often drop in price further as REI makes room for new inventory.

The savings are real, but they are not uniform. A Like New item might be only 15 to 20 percent off retail, while a Fair-condition item from an older model year could be 50 percent off or more. Compare the used price to the current retail price of the same model — not the original retail price listed in the used gear description — because newer versions of the same product may be cheaper or more expensive than the used version you are looking at.

REI membership and dividends on used gear

REI membership costs $20 per year and gives you a dividend of 10 percent on most purchases, including used gear. If you spend $100 on used equipment, you earn $10 in REI dividend that you can use toward future purchases. The dividend is paid once a year, usually in April, and is valid for one year from the date issued.

Membership is optional — you can buy used gear without it. However, if you plan to purchase more than $200 in gear over the course of a year, the membership pays for itself through the dividend alone. Many people buy a membership specifically to use the dividend on a large purchase like a tent or backpack, then let the membership lapse if they do not plan to shop again soon.

Return policy and what to do if something is wrong

Used gear purchased from REI can be returned within 30 days of purchase for a full refund, exchange, or store credit, with a few exceptions. Used electronics and some used apparel have shorter return windows — typically 14 days — so check the listing details before you buy. The item must be in the same condition as when you received it; normal use is fine, but if you have damaged it or used it extensively, REI may refuse the return or offer a partial refund.

If you receive an item that does not match the description — for example, a tent with a tear that was not mentioned, or a backpack with a broken zipper — contact REI within the return window with photos and a description. REI will usually process a return or exchange without question in these cases. Keep your receipt and the original packaging if possible, though REI can look up your purchase by card or membership number.

Tips for buying used gear successfully

Check the size and specifications carefully before purchasing online. A backpack listed as 50 liters is different from a 65-liter pack, and a tent designed for two people is not the same as a three-person tent. Read the full description, not just the condition grade. Look at all photos provided and zoom in to see wear patterns or damage up close.

If you are buying online, consider whether you need the item urgently. Used gear ships within the standard timeframe, but once it sells, it is gone — you cannot reserve items. If you see something you want and the price is right, purchase it rather than waiting, because popular items do not stay in stock long. If you are shopping in a store, ask staff whether the item is returnable before you leave the register, so you understand your options if something is not quite right when you get home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return used gear if I just changed my mind?

Yes, you have 30 days to return most used gear for a full refund, exchange, or store credit, even if you straightforward decided you do not want it. The item must be in the same condition as when you received it — normal use is acceptable, but significant damage or heavy use may result in a partial refund or refusal. Check the listing for return details on used electronics or apparel, which may have shorter windows.

Is used gear covered by any warranty?

Used gear is sold as-is and does not include a manufacturer warranty. However, if an item fails due to a defect within 30 days of purchase, you can return it to REI. After 30 days, you would need to contact the manufacturer directly to see if they honor the original warranty, though this varies by brand and product type.

How often does new used gear get added to the inventory?

REI adds used gear to its inventory continuously as customers return items and make trade-ins. New listings appear daily, but the exact timing and quantity depend on returns and donations. There is no set schedule, so checking the used gear section regularly — especially if you are looking for a specific item — increases your chances of finding what you want before it sells out.

Can I sell my own gear to REI?

REI does not buy used gear directly from customers, but many REI stores offer trade-in programs where you can exchange old gear for store credit toward new purchases. Trade-in value depends on the item's condition and current demand. Ask at your local REI store whether they accept trade-ins for the type of gear you want to sell.

Is the used gear price the same online and in stores?

Prices are typically the same online and in stores, but inventory differs. An item available online may not be in your local store, and vice versa. You can check online availability and have items shipped to a store for pickup, or purchase in person if you find something in the store that is not listed online.