Stay connected and camp in-style this summer with new products and programs from REI

Camping season is here, and according to REI merchants, the importance of staying connected while camping is a top trend this year. Additionally, the co-op sees increased interest in campers wanting to build a home-away-from-home by bringing additional comforts with them to help customize their camp.

“Campers are seeking to connect on two levels, one is with friends and family in the great outdoors, the other is camping and being able to use their devices when they want,” says Michele Orr, REI general merchandising manager. “Today’s campers may snuggle in their tent to watch a movie at the end of a long day playing outside. We’re stocking solar and portable power to charge your devices as well as tents that pair with media lofts to make this scenario easy.”

Stay Connected

Solar charging is simple, thanks to devices from Goal Zero and others, but REI is also seeing a trend in products with dual-purpose uses, such as the Goal Zero Lighthouse 250 LED Lantern or the BioLite Wood Burning CampStove. Both devices also charge a USB enabled device.

Sharing outdoor experiences is also easy. Campers can capture and share their best outdoor adventures with the GoPro Hero3+ Black Edition Camera Adventure Package. Also, while respecting the next door neighbors, campers can stream and enjoy their favorite tunes with the Goal Zero Rock Out 2 Solar Portable Speaker.

Comfort Camping

The right outdoor gear can help turn any campsite into a comfortable haven with the latest summer selection of group tents, roomy sleeping bags and furniture from brands like Big Agnes, Coleman and REI.

Big Agnes allows campers to customize the campsite, entertain and sleep soundly. The Big House 4 tent gives the family plenty of space for a cozy evening;  they can snuggle soundly in  Encampment or Lulu sleeping bags that offer added wiggle room and warmth; and they can watch a movie from a mobile device by placing it into the optional Entertainment Center Loft that clips into loops included in the tent.

Go ahead, bring the kitchen sink. With REI’s Camp Kitchen, the campsite can be organized to neatly hold a camp sink, coolers and utensils. Coleman’s Triton Series 2-Burner Stove also has a designated space, which makes cooking for a group simple. Additional accessories such as the REI Camp Roll table, Ticla Camp Hero Tarps and REI Hang Time Chair can complete the “living room” area, for a kick-back afternoon of reading, or socializing.

Camping Sweepstakes

Win the contest of a lifetime! REI is celebrating all of the funny little things that go sideways and our member’s clever solutions while camping. Post the best #campingfail moment and win a $10,000 REI shopping spree to outfit the campsite this season. Visit http://www.ellentv.com/page/2014/05/22/rei-send-us-your-campingfail-photo-for-a-chance-to-win-10-000/ through June 23^rd to enter the contest.

A Summer to Remember

There is still time for busy individuals and families to schedule a summer adventure to remember. Explore America’s Classic National Parks and legendary places with REI Adventures, the global leader in guided active travel. Try REI Adventures Signature Camping in Zion and Bryce with the comfort of a fully appointed campsite prepared for each guest. Or choose from more than 40 trips from coast to coast through REI Adventures Weekend Getaways for a shorter adventure that is close to home.

Adventurers can prepare for any trip to the campsite with REI Outdoor School classes, taught in-stores and in local outdoor places by expert instructors. Free summer classes include Camping Basics, Camp Cooking Basics and Festival Camping (in select markets). A full schedule of REI’s beginner- to advanced-level outdoor classes is available at www.rei.com/outdoorschool.

Image courtesy REI