Camping Equipment Demystified

Saturday, March 28, 2026 | REI Seattle

Mysteries are meant for books and movies – not camping and backpacking equipment. We’ve got a solution! Camping Equipment Demystified!

You feel drawn to the outdoors. You want the peace. You want the mental reset. You want to see your kids disconnect from screens and connect with the land and water.

But let’s be real: Trying something new – or restarting a favorite activity – can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’ve walked the retail aisles and felt invisible. Maybe you’ve scrolled online and felt confused. Maybe the thought of sleeping outside brings up the real worries: “Will I be warm?” “Will I be safe?” “Where do I use the bathroom?”

If you’ve been standing on the sidelines waiting for a sign, this is it.

We’re swapping “intimidated” for “inspired.” Camping Equipment Demystified is more than a gear check; it’s a courage check. It’s a place to find the encouragement you need to take that first (or next) step. Whether you’re going solo, with friends, or leading your family, we’re here to help you feel safe, comfortable, and undeniably capable.

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🌿 The Experience: Courage, Community & Gear

This isn’t a sales pitch. It’s a Skill Share. Hosted by The Bronze Chapter at REI’s Seattle flagship store, this is a Black-led, high-energy, judgment-free zone. We’re creating a brave space for adults, youth, and families of color to ask ALL the questions without fear.

We’ve curated a massive collection of items for you to touch, test, zip, and click. But more importantly, we’ve gathered a community of skilled volunteers who look like you, who remember what it felt like to be a new camper, and who want you to experience the outdoors in magical ways.

 

SIGN ME UP!

 

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🛠️ Hands-On Learning Stations (Touch It, Try It, Trust It)

Don’t just look at pictures. Get your hands on the equipment that makes the adventures possible.

• ⛺ Station Tents: From solo setups to family favorites. See the difference between 1, 2, and 4-person tents. Compare materials and construction, and learn how to stay dry, cozy, and secure through Pacific Northwest seasons.
• 💤 Station Sleep Systems: Worried about being cold? We got you. Test mats, cots, quilts, and sleeping bags to find your perfect “sleep number” under the stars.
• 🎒 Station Backpacks: Like people, packs have personalities. Get a free fit assessment from REI staff and find the one that hugs you back. Explore the differences between day packs and overnight haulers.
• 🍳 Station Stoves, Fuel & Nutrition: We aren’t just surviving on dinky little granola bars out there. Discover what stoves, fuels, and meals are best for your needs.
• 🚽 Station Hygiene: Featuring Anastasia Allison, founder of Kula Cloth! This is a safe space for everyone to get answers about going to the bathroom outdoors, caring for your menstruation cycle, and ways to feel fresh between showers.
• 💧 Station Freshwater Treatment: Stay hydrated and healthy. Learn how to collect and filter fresh water, understand the difference between filtering and sterilizing, and taste the difference between filtered vs. chemically treated water.
• 🎣 NEW THIS YEAR: The “Get Hooked” Station Water connects us to wellness. We’re teaming up with I’m Hooked Inc. and founder Wilbur Warren! Whether you’re 8 or 80, come check out the sport of freshwater fishing. Chat with Wil about responsible techniques, learn about upcoming events, and play the “Backyard Bass” game (Warning: It’s addictive fun for all ages!).

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🎁 Community Giveaways!

We love to celebrate our community! You’ll receive a free ticket upon entry for our drawings. (Must be present to win). We’re giving away premium equipment from amazing outdoor brands, including Black- and women-owned companies.=

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🗓️ Event Details & Registration

• When: Saturday, March 28, 2026 | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
• Where: REI Seattle (222 Yale Ave N, 2nd Floor)
• Note: No REI membership or purchase required. Just bring your curiosity.

💸 Sliding Scale Contribution: Your financial contribution fuels The Bronze Chapter’s mission to keep these community health events running. Please choose the level that fits your life:

🪺 $1 Egg (for Youth) | 🐟 $10 Salmon | 🦭 $20 Seal | 🐬 $30 Dolphin | 🐋 $40 Orca

 

YES! I Want to Camp with Confidence

 

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🦋 This Day Can Transform Your Summer

Camping season is right around the corner. Don’t find yourself in July wishing you’d started with us today.

Together, let’s turn “I wish I knew how” into “Watch me do this.”

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What the Community is Saying:

Exactly what I needed, a way to learn about all the basic equipment in one place from friendly people who look like me. No mansplaining. No judgment. And I won a dope pair of gloves in the drawing. — G. Jackson

It was great to connect with other people of color and get a lot of information about things that immediately interested me, but also things that I was not expecting. — C. Miranda

The water station was very helpful… I usually just carry a hydration bladder but it was useful to know about how to filter and treat in case I don’t have access to a clean water source. — L. Chen

I didn’t know they had 1-person tents, I only ever saw them for 4 people. — I. Lewis

I’ve never heard of or seen a workshop like this before led by people of color! — A. Martin

 

YES! I Want Confidence