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Is the REI Credit Card Worth It?
Introduction
For outdoor enthusiasts and frequent REI shoppers, the REI Co-op Mastercard offers unique benefits, including cashback on REI purchases, rewards, and exclusive discounts. But is it the best outdoor rewards credit card, or are there better options available?
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of the REI credit card, compare it to other outdoor-focused cards, and help you decide if it’s worth adding to your wallet. If you’re looking for the best outdoor gear, check out our Best Camping Gear of 2025 for expert recommendations.
What is the REI Co-op Mastercard?
The REI Co-op Mastercard, issued by Capital One, is a store-branded credit card designed to reward REI members for their purchases.
Key Features:
- 5% cashback on REI purchases (including used gear and experiences).
- 1.5% cashback everywhere else (redeemed as an REI gift card).
- No annual fee (REI membership required).
- Bonus $100 REI gift card after first purchase.
- Exclusive REI member perks (early access to sales, discounts on events).
- Donates to outdoor nonprofits (REI donates to conservation efforts when you use the card).
🔹 Best for: Frequent REI shoppers who want cashback and member perks.
Pros & Cons of the REI Credit Card
Pros:
- 5% cashback at REI – Earn great rewards on outdoor gear.
- No annual fee – REI membership ($30 one-time fee) required.
- Supports conservation efforts – Purchases contribute to environmental initiatives.
- Sign-up bonus – $100 REI gift card after first purchase.
- 1.5% cashback on other purchases – More rewards than some store credit cards.
Cons:
- Rewards limited to REI purchases – No option for cashback in cash or travel rewards.
- Requires REI membership – One-time $30 fee required.
- No special financing offers – Unlike some store cards, it doesn’t offer interest-free payment plans.
- Lower everyday rewards than other travel/outdoor cards.
🔹 Best for savings: If you regularly shop at REI, the 5% cashback adds up over time.
How the REI Credit Card Compares to Other Outdoor & Travel Cards
| Credit Card | Best For | Rewards at Outdoor Stores | Annual Fee | Other Rewards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| REI Co-op Mastercard | REI shoppers | 5% cashback at REI | $0 (REI membership required) | 1.5% cashback elsewhere |
| Capital One Venture Rewards | Outdoor travelers | No specific outdoor rewards | $95 | 2X miles on all purchases |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred | Adventure travelers | No specific outdoor rewards | $95 | 2X on travel, dining, and select categories |
| REI Co-op Mastercard (compared to Amazon Prime Visa) | Outdoor & general shopping | 5% at REI vs. 5% at Amazon | $0 (REI membership required) | Amazon earns 2% at gas stations, REI earns 1.5% everywhere else |
🔹 Best for versatility: General travel cards like Capital One Venture or Chase Sapphire Preferred offer more flexible rewards.
Who Should Get the REI Credit Card?
✅ You shop at REI frequently and want to earn 5% cashback on purchases.
✅ You want a no-annual-fee credit card with solid cashback rewards.
✅ You like supporting outdoor conservation efforts with your purchases.
✅ You don’t mind earning rewards as REI gift cards instead of cash.
❌ You prefer cashback or travel rewards that can be redeemed anywhere.
❌ You rarely shop at REI or don’t want to be tied to one retailer.
❌ You want interest-free financing for big outdoor gear purchases.
🔹 Best for frequent REI shoppers: If you buy outdoor gear often, the rewards can quickly add up.
How Much Can You Earn with the REI Credit Card?
| Annual REI Spending | 5% Cashback Earned |
|---|---|
| $500 | $25 in REI rewards |
| $1,000 | $50 in REI rewards |
| $2,500 | $125 in REI rewards |
| $5,000 | $250 in REI rewards |
🔹 Best for maximizing rewards: If you spend at least $1,000 per year at REI, the cashback can cover the cost of new gear.
Is the REI Credit Card Worth It?
| Factor | Worth It? |
|---|---|
| Frequent REI shoppers | ✅ Yes – Best for regular gear purchases |
| Occasional REI shoppers | ❌ No – Rewards may not add up |
| General cashback & travel rewards | ❌ No – Other cards offer more flexibility |
| REI-exclusive perks & discounts | ✅ Yes – Great for dedicated REI members |
🔹 Best for REI loyalty: If REI is your go-to store for outdoor gear, the 5% cashback is a valuable perk.
Alternatives to the REI Credit Card
1. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- Best for: Outdoor travelers who want miles instead of REI-only rewards.
- 2X miles on all purchases (redeemable for flights, hotels, and more).
- $95 annual fee but flexible travel rewards.
2. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
- Best for: Hikers, campers, and travelers who book flights and hotels often.
- 2X points on travel and dining.
- Sign-up bonus worth over $750 in travel.
3. Amazon Prime Visa
- Best for: Outdoor gear shoppers who buy from multiple brands.
- 5% cashback at Amazon, 2% at gas stations.
- No annual fee (requires Amazon Prime membership).
🔹 Best alternative: Capital One Venture for flexible rewards and travel perks.
FAQs
Does the REI credit card have an annual fee?
- No, but you must be an REI member ($30 one-time fee).
Can I redeem REI credit card rewards for cash?
- No, rewards are issued as REI gift cards only.
Is the REI Co-op Mastercard a good travel card?
- It has no foreign transaction fees, but other travel cards offer better rewards for flights and hotels.
Can I use the REI credit card outside of REI?
- Yes, it works everywhere Mastercard is accepted, but rewards are best at REI.
How do I apply for the REI credit card?
- You can apply online or in-store at REI. A credit check is required.
Final Thoughts
The REI Co-op Mastercard is worth it for loyal REI shoppers who want 5% cashback on gear and exclusive member perks. However, if you want flexible travel rewards or cashback that can be used anywhere, general rewards cards may be a better choice.
- For frequent REI shoppers: The 5% cashback adds up, making it a solid choice.
- For general outdoor spending & travel: Cards like Capital One Venture offer better flexibility.
Looking for the best outdoor gear for your next adventure? Check out our Best Camping Gear of 2025 for expert recommendations!
