Wired's gear reviewer tested REI's 2026 camping and hiking line-up and picked out standout products across tents, sleeping gear, coolers and more, noting that good outdoor kit should be reliable enough to "set and forget" so campers can focus on the activities themselves rather than the equipment.

The recommended picks span a range of budgets and needs:
– REI Co-Op Westward Tent (from £449/6-person £549) – a family-friendly, easy-to-pitch tent sleeping two adults, three children and a dog
– REI Co-Op Westward Dreamer Self-Inflating Bed (from £199) – a budget luxury sleeping pad with an improved valve and repair kit
– REI Co-Op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag (from £149) – a warm option for cooler nights
– REI Co-Op Campwell 30 Sleeping Bag (from £100) – a lighter, milder-weather bag
– Yeti Roadie 60 Wheeled Cooler (£475) – a premium, high-capacity cooler
– REI Co-Op Sahara Shade Hoodie (£60) – lightweight sun protection
– Goal Zero Yeti 1500 Portable Power Station (£1,500) – a high-output power supply for extended trips
– Co-Op Cycles Rev 24 Kids Mountain Bike (£499) – a durable bike aimed at younger riders