Drop by REI’s Expo Campground for Gear Testing, Clinics, and S’mores
This year’s Great Outdoors & Bike Expo will have plenty of gadgets, gear, demos, and clinics, but one place where you can find it all will be at the REI Expo Campground. They don’t promise real trees, but there will be real s’mores, real gear test time, and real REI gear experts to help you plan your summer excursions.
The REI Expo Campground will have plenty to help you “glamp out” your summer set up. Whether you’re looking to bring a bit of comfort with you after a long hike with an ENO hammock or GCI rocking chair, or looking to upgrade your campsite with a Luci lantern, Yeti cooler, or Hydro Flask wine tumbler, the REI campsite will provide in-person test time.
Aside from the gear, REI will host 20-minute Campfire Clinics, ranging from the Art of Relaxation (Hammocking 101) to a tutorial on essential knots.
“The only things you should be worried about when you’re adventuring outdoors is having fun and staying safe. REI wants to help you choose the right gear to meet your individual needs and elevate your outdoor experience,” says Jenna Bracken, REI Spokane Outreach Coordinator.
Each Campground Clinic will have information on gear with various price points and for varying levels of experience. During the Cooking in the Backcountry clinic, REI will chat about stoves ranging from the Jetboil Flash to the Snow Peak LiteMax. There will be several portable power sources to check out, and water filter options including the Sawyer Mini Filter, Katadyn BeFree Collapsible Filter, and MSR MiniWorks.
“Nothing ruins a trip more than realizing you brought the wrong fuel for your stove, or forgot the under quilt for your hammock,” said Bracken. This winter is the perfect time to prep for summer adventure, and discover new tips for the trail. Even experienced, gear-ready outdoor enthusiasts should find the REI Campground worth a browse.
“Gear is constantly evolving. Newer, lighter, and more durable options are frequently being introduced,” said Bracken. “REI wants to share the latest and greatest tech to introduce to your gear bank.”
REI also understands that your tried-and-true gear may remain your best fit. At the Campground, they’ll offer tips on how to extend the life of the gear you love with gear washes and repair tools.
“Whether you walk the dog in the neighborhood park or head to the Kettle Crest Mountains for an overnight backpacking trip, REI values your commitment to an outdoor life,” says Bracken.
If you don’t have any questions about gear, join the REI crew for a s’more and swap adventure stories, talk trails, or maybe discover a new destination for your travel wish list.
You can buy tickets for the 2018 Expo here, and check out the list of other great vendors. After visiting the Expo REI Campground, you can visit REI.com/Learn to read up on REI’s upcoming classes and events, such as the Bikes & Brews series through River City Brewing or Wednesdays in the Woods, which will kick off this summer in Riverside State Park.
Where: The Spokane Convention Center, 334 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201
When: Saturday, February 24, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, February 25, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Tickets here
More Info here
