REI is a retail store, no membership required. But... the membership gets you earned credit towards future purchases. You get members only discounts and invitations to members only events! It's worth it.
As everyone else has stated, you don't need a membership. Membership is only $20 for a lifetime membership. You'll get aporox 10% back on most purchases. Also, I think when you get the membership, you'll get a coupon for $20 off first purchase of $100 or more. (Or that special is running a lot, it was when i joined and when a friend joined.)
No. If you sign up for a free account, you get a lot of coupons
No you don't have to be a member at REI to buy
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