Costco vs. REI: Who Has Better Prices for Outdoor Equipment?

REI is a major recreation store that sells gear and attire for nearly every outdoor activity: hiking, camping, snowboarding, cycling, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, climbing, running, and traveling. 

As a consumer cooperative, REI is owned by its members. However, unlike Costco, you don't need a membership to shop there. For those that pay the $30 for a lifetime membership, REI will give you 10% back on eligible purchases (paid as an annual "dividend" every March), special discounts and coupons, and a 365-day return window. 

In comparison to REI, Costco is a vastly different store but it also sells some outdoor products. And for those budget-conscious granolas, Costco's low prices on outdoor equipment could help you get outside without hurting your personal finances. To show you how both compare on price, let's look at two popular outdoor products sold at both stores: kayaks and tents. 

Who has cheaper kayaks? 

For a one-person sit-in kayak, Costco has a slightly lower retail price. Here's how the two compare on a Pelican model: 

To be fair, these kayaks are slightly different from each other, but they share many characteristics. They're both 10 feet long, weigh 40 pounds, and come with a Poseidon paddle. The REI kayak comes with a cockpit table, while the Costco model comes with a cartop carrier. 

At face value, the Costco kayak is cheaper. However, if you're an REI member, you'll get 10% back, which is about $43. Even though that money will come to you as a voucher in March, it makes the true price of REI's kayak about $13 cheaper than Costco: $387 versus $400. 

To make things more complicated, the Costco kayak would likely be cheaper if you purchased it online and bought more than one. Buying two will save you $100, whereas buying three would save you $200. If you bought two, you would spend $700, whereas at REI you would spend about $774. 

Who has cheaper tents? 

Neither company sells the same tents as the other. But if we compare similar products based on specifications -- such as the tent's peak height, surface area, and number of people who can fit -- Costco has lower prices. Here's how they compare for a two-person tent:

Even with the 10% REI discount, Costco's model is still cheaper: $40 versus $67.50. Of course, these tents have some differences (the Cedar Ridge tent, for instance, is about four inches taller). But if you're looking for a budget tent, Costco has the lower price for one that fits two people. 

Here's how they compare for a six-person tent: 

Here, the big difference is that the REI tent uses "darkroom technology," which blocks out about 90% of sunlight and could help you sleep in after sunrise. But for a savings of $130, you can buy an affordable six-person tent from Costco -- sunlight and all. 

Which store is better for outdoor equipment?

If you're not concerned about brands or specifications -- in other words, you just want a paddle board that floats or a kayak that doesn't sink -- your local Costco will likely offer a cheaper way to pick up outdoorsy activities. However, for those granolas (and I'm one of you) who want more selection, REI could definitely suit you, even if it means paying a little extra. Even so, I would still compare REI with Costco, as you might be surprised at what you can find in the warehouse.