Updated 06/27/2026

REI offers a wide variety of their own brand of backpacking gear. These are the high-quality REI items I regularly use and recommend for lightweight backpacking trips.

REI Magma 30 Down Trail Quilt

REI’s Magma Down Quilt offers inclusive sizing for various body types and sleeping preferences at a good price point. I’m using a medium wide and cinch the toggles on the straps together to close it up like a sleeping bag. Overall, I find that this quilt is very well made and warmer than the 30 degree rating.

To learn more, see my review of the Magma Quilt

REI Flash 55 Backpack

The REI Flash 55 is a budget-friendly backpack that manages to be both lightweight and feature-rich, with multiple size options and an adjustable torso length for a more customized fit. At just 2 lbs. 12 oz, the Flash 55 falls into the category of lightweight backpacks. If you are looking to reduce your overall backpack weight, this pack has features that make it stand out amongst similar backpacks.

To learn more, see my review of the Flash 55 Backpack

View at REI - Women's    View at REI - Men's

REI Flash Air 1 tent

The REI Flash Air 1 tent is a good option for those looking for a lightweight one-person tent that doesn’t break the bank. I used it this year on several backpacking trips and found that it’s more spacious than most – allowing me to store my backpack and other gear inside the tent while using a full length sleeping pad. The vestibule is extra large as well.

To learn more, see my review of the Flash Air 1 Tent

REI Traverse 60 Pack

While comfort is my top priority when choosing a backpack, I also value thoughtful features that improve trail usability — and the REI Co-op Traverse 60 delivers on both. One of its standout features is the dual side pocket design: each side of the pack has a forward-facing water bottle pocket and large, stretchy outer pockets. On a recent backpacking trip, I stashed my tent on one side and my tent poles plus backpacking chair in the other. While this pack includes straps for attaching gear to the bottom of the pack, I prefer using the side pockets to keep the load more streamlined.

See my review of the REI Traverse 60 Backpack

Gear Reviews: My goal is to share clear, unbiased information about outdoor gear. I am not sponsored by any gear companies and I don’t accept paid posts or links. I regularly receive products from brands for review, with no expectation of a positive review and no compensation for my opinions. As an independent gear reviewer, I only review items I’ve personally used on multiple trips and that I believe are high-quality and worth recommending.

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